February 23, 2011 – 1 Corinthians 10

If it is true that communion is only a symbol and that the bread and wine (or grape juice) is not Jesus’ body and blood, why doesn’t Paul say that in v. 16.  “The cup of blessing that we bless, is it not a participation in the blood of Christ? The bread that we break, is it not a participation in the body of Christ.”  I guess the word that is in question is participation.  King James version says “communion”, Douay-Rheims Bible says “communion” and “partaking”, and there are notes pointing back to the breaking of bread in Acts 2:42.  So, if Paul is talking about the same breaking of bread that they are talking about in Acts, it does not appear to be just a gathering together to share a meal, but this celebration of the cup of blessing that is a participation in the blood of Christ. 

We also have the great verse that should be on everyone’s mind when they are struggling.  No trial has come to you but what is human. God is faithful and will not let you be tried beyond your strength; but with the trial he will also provide a way out, so that you may be able to bear it. V. 13.  Nothing that happens cannot be handled if we rely on God.  He will give us whatever strength we need to manage.  This should mean that we never worry, but we all know that doesn’t happen.