The Unity of Communion | Francis Chan

Sermon Summary

Main Message

This message emphasizes the importance of unity among believers, particularly when it comes to observing the Lord's Supper. The speaker encourages listeners to move beyond individualistic thinking and instead submit themselves to the collective wisdom of the elders and early church fathers. By doing so, we can experience a deeper understanding of God's presence and blessing in our lives.

Key Scripture References

• Psalms 133:1-3 - This passage highlights the beauty of unity among brothers dwelling together in harmony, with the Lord commanding his blessing upon them. The speaker notes that this is a key principle for understanding the power of unity in the church.
• Acts 2:42-47 - In this passage, we see the early believers living in harmony and unity, sharing their possessions and breaking bread together. This serves as an example of what it means to live out our faith in community.
• 1 Corinthians 10:16-17 - Paul writes about the Lord's Supper as a participation in the body and blood of Christ, emphasizing that we are called to guard this mystery with reverence. The speaker notes that this passage underscores the importance of humility and submission in understanding God's presence.
• 1 Corinthians 12:4-11 - This passage emphasizes the diversity of spiritual gifts within the body of Christ, but also highlights the importance of unity and cooperation among believers. The speaker uses this passage to illustrate the dangers of individualistic thinking and the benefits of submitting to the collective wisdom of others.
• Hebrews 13:4 - This verse reminds us that marriage is a sacred institution, but it also serves as an example of what it means to submit ourselves to one another in love. The speaker notes that this principle can be applied to our relationships within the church as well.

Key Principles

• The importance of unity among believers, particularly when observing the Lord's Supper.
• The danger of individualistic thinking and the benefits of submitting to the collective wisdom of others.
• The value of humility and reverence in understanding God's presence.
• The importance of cooperation and diversity within the body of Christ.

Application

This message encourages listeners to reevaluate their approach to observing the Lord's Supper. Rather than relying solely on individualistic thinking, we are encouraged to submit ourselves to the collective wisdom of the elders and early church fathers. By doing so, we can experience a deeper understanding of God's presence and blessing in our lives.

Conclusion

The speaker concludes by emphasizing that unity is essential for experiencing God's power and blessing in our lives. By submitting ourselves to one another and seeking wisdom from the collective body of Christ, we can move beyond individualistic thinking and experience a deeper understanding of God's presence.