Sermon Summary

Revisiting the Sacredness of Communion

Francis Chan's sermon on communion has sparked a renewed emphasis on the sacred nature of this sacrament. By examining the Old Testament and New Testament perspectives, we are reminded of the gravity and intensity of communing with God.

**The Holy of Holies: A Shadow or Reality?**

In Hebrews 8:5, Moses was instructed to make everything according to the pattern shown him on the mountain. This emphasized the importance of precision and attention to detail in creating a sanctuary that reflected the heavenly reality. However, Christ's ministry is described as "much more excellent" than the old (Hebrews 9:23). This implies that the intensity and accessibility of God have increased with Christ.

**The Body and Blood of Jesus**

When we take communion, we are not merely participating in a shadow or copy of an Old Testament experience. We are engaging with the actual body and blood of Jesus, which has torn open the curtain to heaven (Hebrews 10:20). This is not a lesser experience; it is a more intense one.

**A Fearful Expectation**

The New Testament emphasizes the importance of taking communion seriously. In Hebrews 10:26-31, we are warned that deliberately sinning after receiving knowledge of truth will result in a fearful expectation of judgment and a fury of fire. This is not a message of relaxation or ease; it is a call to reverence and awe.

**A Call to Repentance**

Francis Chan's sermon serves as a call to repentance for those who have taken communion lightly. By acknowledging the sacred nature of this sacrament, we are reminded of our responsibility to approach God with reverence and humility.

**Reflection Questions:**

1. Do you believe that taking communion could result in physical harm or death (1 Corinthians 11:27-30)?

2. Have you ever approached communion with a sense of playfulness or irreverence?

3. How can you cultivate a deeper sense of reverence and awe when participating in communion?

**Scripture References:**

* Hebrews 8:5

* Hebrews 9:23

* Hebrews 10:20

* Hebrews 10:26-31

* 1 Corinthians 11:27-30

**Prayer:**

Dear God, we come before you with a sense of reverence and awe. We acknowledge the sacred nature of communion and ask for your guidance in approaching this sacrament with the intensity and seriousness it deserves. Help us to cultivate a deeper understanding of your holiness and our need for your mercy. Amen.