When Should You Not Take Communion?

The act of taking communion connects Christians intimately with Jesus Christ’s sacrifice on the cross. Not merely a symbolic ritual, communion is a significant ecclesiastical tradition with profound spiritual implications. Frequently, believers grapple with the dilemma of when it is inappropriate to partake in this sacred observance. This article will unpack key considerations to bear in mind addressing the quandary: when should you not take communion?

Every believer, at some point in their spiritual journey, has likely found themselves asking this exact question. It reaffirms the thoughtful reflection and respect that Christians hold towards communion, engendering sincerity of heart and genuine worship, as they interact with this revered sacrament. Wisdom from the Bible, an understanding of the significance of communion, and guidance from spiritual leaders will serve as our lamp to light this path of discovery.

Understanding the Significance of Communion

Communion, also known as the Lord’s Supper and Eucharist, is a sacred act of worship that reminds Christians of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Central to this observance is the sharing of bread and wine (or grape juice), signifying Christ’s body and blood, a practice based on the Last Supper Jesus shared with His disciples before his crucifixion.

Taking communion is not merely a casual ritual. Each sip and each bite is a proclamation of faith, a testament to the believer’s trust in Christ’s ultimate sacrifice and victory over sin and death. Therefore, the act of taking communion should not be taken lightly or abused.

Before partaking of communion, Christians are encouraged to engage in self-examination, confessing and seeking forgiveness for their sins. The Apostle Paul admonishes in 1 Corinthians 11:27-29 that anyone who partakes in communion without discerning the body eats and drinks judgment on themselves. Hence, understanding the profundity of communion affords an invaluable compass guiding when one should and should not participate.

Scriptural Guidelines on Taking Communion

The Bible provides guidelines that can help believers decide when it would be inappropriate to partake in communion. It emphasizes the need for believers to be in a right relationship with God and others, free from known and intentional sin.

In Matthew 5:23-24, Jesus advises that if you bring your gift to the altar and there remember your brother has something against you, you should leave your gift there, go and be reconciled with your brother first, then come and offer your gift. This teaching could transpire into the communion context: if a believer has unresolved conflicts or bitterness towards others, it would be advisable to resolve these issues before taking communion.

The Apostle Paul, in 1 Corinthians 11:27-28, cautions against taking communion in an unworthy manner. He prompts believers to examine themselves and their hearts before partaking of the bread and wine, implicitly suggesting there might be occasions when it would be inappropriate to take communion.

Additional Considerations

In addition to the scriptural guidelines, certain personal situations might warrant reconsideration of taking communion. Believers not in a state of grace, those grappling with doubts about their faith, or those not fully understanding the meaning and significance of communion, may choose to abstain until they find resolution.

For non-believers, while some churches welcome everyone to partake in communion, others ask that only Christians partake, underlining the belief that the act of communion is, at its core, a statement of faith in Christ. Therefore, if someone is unsure of their faith, it may be advisable for them not to take communion until their faith issues are resolved.

Conclusion

Determining when not to take communion is a deeply personal decision guided by recognizing communion’s profound significance, careful self-examination, and attentiveness to scripture. It highlights the enduring quest to honor God with sincere hearts, reconciled relationships, and a worthy demeanor.

As you continue your spiritual journey, our pre-filled, pre-packaged communion cups from The Miracle Meal could serve to streamline your communion experience. Impeccably convenient with a shelf life of one year and no preparation needed, these communion cups feature a top film that exposes the wafer and middle foil seal that exposes the juice, making them easy to open, silent, and sustainable, as the plastic cups are recyclable. Cultivate your communion experience with our pre-packaged communion cups ready and available on our online store.