What are the differences between the Law and the Mystery programs?
This important question, neglected by many believers is answered by Paul’s epistles. Knowing the mystery program (as opposed to the Law) will help us to live according to the plan and will that God administers in the world today, as well as prevent confusion and malpractice of His Word. (Qualifying scriptures: Rom.11:13; 1 Cor.14:37-38; Rom.16:25-26)
The Bread and the Cup (Communion)
Another truth given to Paul was the 'Lord's Supper'. The instructions and purpose of this ordinance that the Body of Christ would hold was different to the Passover that Christ observed while on earth with His disciples. Paul received the truth from Christ that the Lord's supper was not a formal observance and feast as with the Jewish Passover, but that it was given to him by instruction to be a type of memorial; a reminder of the death, burial, resurrection, and soon return of Jesus Christ.
When we gather with fellow Christians and have meals with them, we do so around Christ's finished cross work. The Bible says that we should do this "until He [Christ] comes." (1 Cor.11:26). Partaking of the bread and the cup is not supposed to be a formal affair. In its true context, it can be observed when we meet and eat with fellow Christians, fellowshipping around God's Word whenever it is convenient for us. It is not some mindless ritual, it is not some strict ceremony, it is not the Passover, and it is not a church activity with a wafer and a sip of grape juice, as people commonly assume. It is the assembly of people who value God's Word, believe in Christ's finished cross work, and embrace the liberty of the grace life. Lastly, and in the spirit of the occasion, we should naturally take care regarding how we go about in observing the Lord's Supper and learn from the Corinthians' actions, not abusing the occasion with selfishness and other forms of carnality.
-------------------------------------------
Each item below has contrasting differences between the Law and Grace Programs
1. The Dispensation of Grace, 2. The Gospel of Grace, 3. The Body of Christ, 4. The Catching Away (aka the Rapture), 5. Holy Spirit Baptism, 6. Water Baptism, 7. The Blinding of Israel, 8. The Abolishing of the Law, 9. The Judgement Seat of Christ, 10. The Ministry of the Holy Spirit, 11. Equality of Jews and Gentiles, 12. The Bread and the Cup, 13. Rightly Dividing the Word of Truth, 14. Christ's Resurrection, 15. The Greatness of Salvation, 16. Our Heavenly Destination and Inheritance, 17. The Two Programs of Heaven and Earth, 18. The Count of Apostles, 12-Apostles versus 1-Apostle, 19. The Churches, 20. Signs and Wonders, 21. Prayer, 22. Hope, 23. Forgiveness
Comments
Post a Comment