When you partake of communion is it like going to a funeral...?

Question

or a sacred celebration?

I've noticed that many communion services very introspective, almost to point of depression and groveling, while a few, very few others gratefully celebrate the cross. Personally, I think many have taken Paul's instructions to the Corinthians to examine themselves out of context to the point where now people think that confessing their sins is a means of salvation within itself. I've heard pastors say, "Now get right with God before you partake of His body and blood" but doesn't the gospel say we ARE right with God through faith in His Son? If that is so, then shouldn't communion be a celebration of His gift of justification and redemption through the cross and not a time of trying to get what we already have? What do you think?

Answer 1

I celebrate the Risen Christ! Come ,Lord Jesus!

Pastors should warn people to repent and turn to the Lord's grace before Communion partaking (! Cor11)

Answer 2

Paul scolded some first century believers for taking communion without being sure they were 'fessed up. He said some of them had partaken in such sinful conditions that God had even allowed some of them to be sick and some to die. I am not sure Paul wrote this in first Corinthians or in second Corinthians. It's worth a re-read.

There is a time for reflection and making things right before we celebrate what Christ did for us and then it is time to be filled with joy and gratefulness to Jesus for His sacrifice and gift to us.

The real deal as a believer is to stay in harmony with God and fully confessed regularly to sustain your righteousness in God's eyes so you never need be concerned about taking communion.

Answer 3

I agree with the first person.  A very sacred event

Answer 4

I view it as more of a sacred celebration. I feel close to God during Communion, and view it as a gift. Although the event that we're memorializing is somber, there is also great hope in the Resurrection. I tend to feel joyous during Communion. And I do agree with you about it not being a "time of trying to get what we already have".

Answer 5

It's not what is right.

It's what is left.