Providence Points: IX Means of Grace

[shawn...@gmail.com]

Providence Points:
Biblical, Devotional & Informational
February, 4 2008 Vol. 3, No. 4
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From the editor:
I have not forgotten the ongoing series on the means of grace. Part
of the purpose of this series is to not only inform but to encourage
us to think and act aright with the public instruments of the New
Covenant. The first step is always proper understanding.

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IX: Understanding the Means of Grace: Maturation Rite: Afterwards

In the previous installment, the meaning of the Supper was explained
in short fashion. Then the necessity of pre-Communion preparation was
explained. Now, the post-Communion examination will be highlighted.
Why? Besides the obvious fact that it is biblical, the concern of the
increase in young children attending this sacrament is at the
forefront.

Q175: What is the duty of Christians, after they have received the
sacrament of the Lord's supper?
A175: The duty of Christians, after they have received the sacrament
of the Lord's supper, is seriously to consider how they have behaved
themselves therein, and with what success;[1] if they find quickening
and comfort, to bless God for it,[2] beg the continuance of it,[3]
watch against relapses,[4] fulfil their vows,[5] and encourage
themselves to a frequent attendance on that ordinance:[6] but if they
find no present benefit, more exactly to review their preparation to,
and carriage at, the sacrament;[7] in both which, if they can approve
themselves to God and their own consciences, they are to wait for the
fruit of it in due time:[8] but, if they see they have failed in
either, they are to be humbled,[9] and to attend upon it afterwards
with more care and diligence.[10]

Although intimidating on the surface of it, this long paragraph can be
reduced to three main points after self-examination:

1) If comfort has occurred, then praise God for it. Pray for more
spiritual growth and help. Avoid relapses of known sins. Fulfill
your vows--of marriage, of church membership and citizenship. Attend
unto the Sacrament when presented.

2) If no present benefit occurs from taking Communion, then examine
why. Upon such an examination, if proper preparation and
participation occurred (perfection is not being sought!), then wait on
the Lord--spiritual growth does not always happen immediately.

3) If no present benefit from the Supper occurs, and proper
examination reveals inadequate preparation and/or participation (no
pre-Communion preparation, indifference, ignorance, gross sins,
schism, etc.), then be humbled into repentance and be more careful for
next time.

The Table of the Lord is a time for focused self-examination
(subjective) and focused participation with Christ (objective). Its
seriousness (witnessed through the sickness and even death of the
Corinthians) points to a corresponding seriousness in preparation.
And the fact that the American church is so weak, even in the Reformed
circles where schism and division transpire too often, may arise from
such ignorance about the Supper and the proper preparations required
to protect us from chastisement of the Lord.

SDG