Am I Holy Enough to Take Communion? The Issue of “Unworthiness”

Brothers and sisters in Christ, many of you may have felt a hesitation at times to join us at the Communion Table. Perhaps a sense of unworthiness has held you back.  This message is for you, a gentle reminder that God's table is a place of love and acceptance, not a place of judgment.

An Invitation of Love, Not a Test of Worth

The invitation to Holy Communion is open to all who love Jesus, who seek repentance for their sins, and who desire peace with their neighbors (UMH; page 7). We come to the Table not to boast of our own goodness, but to express our deep gratitude for Christ's mercy. We are all human, and none of us are truly worthy on our own. Yet, God's love is boundless, and He offers us forgiveness and healing through this sacred meal.

Understanding Your Concerns

We know some may have questions or even anxieties about Holy Communion.  Perhaps you've misinterpreted scripture or have been burdened by misunderstandings.  The United Methodist tradition assures all participants of forgiveness and pardon through the shared prayers of Invitation, Confession, and Pardon.

Clearing Up Confusion: 1 Corinthians 11:27-32

Some may worry about the passage in 1 Corinthians 11:27-32, fearing they might partake "in an unworthy manner."  Here, John Wesley, a leader in our Methodist heritage, offers clarity.  He explains in his sermon "The Duty of Constant Communion" that "unworthiness" doesn't refer to the person themselves, but to a disrespectful way of receiving the elements.  Unworthy consumption refers to behavior that disrupts the sacredness of the meal, not the participant's personal flaws.

Discerning the Body of Christ as a Community

Another passage, 1 Corinthians 11:29, speaks of those who "eat and drink without discerning the body."  This doesn't refer to individual worthiness, but rather to a lack of understanding about the church as a community of love and fellowship (The New Oxford Annotated Bible, NRSV).

Finding Comfort and Guidance

If you have questions or anxieties, please know that you're not alone.  Our pastors and leaders are here to offer patient guidance, clear explanation of scripture, and prayers for healing.  Together, we can explore the meaning of 1 Corinthians 11:27-32 in its historical context, allowing it to speak to us today.

An Invitation to Encounter God's Love

Holy Communion is a powerful gift. It's a chance to experience Christ's real presence, receive forgiveness and renewal, and be strengthened to live according to His teachings.  Let us approach the Table with open hearts, ready to receive God's love and share it with the world.  Remember, dear brothers and sisters, you are always welcome at this Table of grace.

God's Gift of Grace: Experienced Through the Means of Grace

United Methodists hold a deep belief in God's grace – His undeserved love and forgiveness offered freely to us. We recognize our human shortcomings and God's unwavering love that pursues us, calling us into a loving relationship.

Imagine grace as a powerful river, flowing freely towards us. This "prevenient grace" comes before any action on our part, offering us the freedom to respond to God's love.

But sometimes, we need a nudge in the right direction. "Convicting grace" gently awakens us to our imperfections, urging us to seek forgiveness. Thankfully, "justifying grace" steps in, washing away our sins and restoring our relationship with God.

The journey doesn't end there. "Sanctifying grace" empowers us to grow in our faith, shaping us into better versions of ourselves. Finally, "perfecting grace" guides us towards becoming more like Christ.

This incredible gift of grace is made possible through Jesus Christ's life, sacrifice, and resurrection. It's further nurtured by the Holy Spirit's presence within us.

While God's grace can reach us anytime, anywhere, He has also provided special pathways to experience it more fully: the "means of grace." John Wesley, a key figure in Methodism, described these means of grace as outward actions and practices specifically designed to help us receive God's transforming love.

These means of grace include:

Public worship: Gathering with fellow believers to praise God.

Studying scripture: Deepening our understanding of God's word.

Holy Communion: Sharing the sacred meal together, a powerful symbol of Christ's sacrifice.

Prayer: Cultivating a personal conversation with God.

Christian conferencing: Encouraging conversations and fellowship with fellow believers.

These practices aren't ways to earn salvation; it's already a gift from God.  Think of them as tools that help us open ourselves to God's grace, allowing it to flow into our lives, guide our growth, and strengthen our faith.

The Methodist tradition emphasizes the importance of practicing these means of grace throughout our spiritual journey. By embracing them, we position ourselves to receive the fullness of God's love and experience the transformative power of His grace.