By Charles P. Mosley
When Jesus took bread the night before his death, he declared the devotion of his life to his disciples by saying, “This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me” (Luke 22:19). Years earlier, John the Baptist had identified Jesus as “the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29). A lamb without blemish was required for sin offerings under the Mosaic Law. Jesus explained that he lived fully within the will of God. “I always do what pleases him” (John 8:29). He lived so that his death would not be for his own guilt, but for the guilt of others (Isaiah 53:4-5; 1 Corinthians 15:3). His body was devoted to doing God’s will for our benefit.
That same night Jesus explained the significance of his life. “In the same way, after supper he took the cup, saying, ‘This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me’” (1 Corinthians 11:25). Referring to blood is another way of referring to life (Leviticus 17:11). The prophet Jeremiah spoke of a new covenant between God and people that would supersede the Mosaic covenant with God (Jeremiah 31:31-34). Jesus’ perfect life is the basis of that new relationship with God. A person being joined to Christ means reconciliation to God (2 Corinthians 5:17-18).
Believing, confessing, repenting, being baptized, and obeying Christ are done with an eye toward inclusion in Christ (Acts 2:38; 16:31; Romans 6:1-4; 1 Peter 1:2; 3:21). Jesus has a unique relationship to the Father and God honors him and his (Acts 2:22-36). Salvation comes by God’s merciful inclusion of people in Jesus (Matthew 28:18-20; Ephesians 2:5-10). When taking Communion, examine the orientation of your life. See if you are remaining devoted to Jesus, rather than sin (1 Corinthians 11:27-29; 1 John 1:5-10). Communion affirms our allegiance to Christ. We don’t want to misrepresent that to which he is devoted.
Charles P. Mosley attends Verde Valley Christian Church in Cottonwood, Arizona, where he teaches the Seniors Bible Class on Tuesday mornings.
Thanks for the beautiful devotional
Thank you. Greatly appreciated.