Some reformed churches pride themselves on their orthodoxy by having a very closed table. I really enjoyed reading in 'The Heidelberg Catechism' from 1563:
Question 81. Who ought to come to the table of the Lord?
Answer: Those who are displeased with themselves for their sins, and who nevertheless trust that these sins have been forgiven them and that their remaining weakness is covered by the passion and death of Christ, and who also desire more and more to strengthen their faith and improve their life. The impenitent and hypocrites, however, eat and drink judgment to themselves.'
How great is that? the table is open to those who recognise 1. their weakness and 2. and realise their need of Christ and trust him to cover their sins.
I also like that it recognises our remaining weaknesses, that we are still sinful even though we are saints.
Shalom
Stephen
2 comments:
Why do we refer to the LORD's supper in terms of coming to the table? I know that Luke 24:30 says, "When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them." But the table in that passage is not given the same status as the symbols. Though it may not be our intention, we often talk (and make songs up) about coming to the table.- Aunty Mabel
Thanks for stopping by Aunt Mable:)
I think we use the word table as opposed to the word altar
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