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In accordance with God's Word
and sound Lutheran practice, we observe “closed”
Communion, that is, we admit to the Lord's
Table only those who are members of our
“communion” or fellowship. This is not
ecclesiastical snobbery or arbitrary
exclusivity, but it expresses what the Bible
itself teaches about the nature, purpose, and
proper use of the Lord's Supper.
The sacrifice of Christ's
body and blood on the tree of the cross was
intended for all mankind as payment-in-full for
their sins (Isaiah 53:4-12; II Corinthians 5:15;
I John 2:2); and in view of His perfect,
all-sufficient vicarious atonement, God
reconciled the world unto Himself, not charging
men's sins against them but forgiving even the
ungodly (Romans 4:5) and declaring them
righteous in His sight (II Corinthians 5:19).
All who cling in faith to this accomplished fact
have for their very own the forgiveness and
righteousness which Christ purchased and won for
them.
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However, the Holy Sacrament
of the Lord's Supper is NOT intended for all,
for St. Paul expressly states that unworthy
communicants partake of the Lord's body and
blood to their damnation (I Corinthians
11:27-29).Therefore we do not admit to the
Lord's Table those who are known to be ungodly
and impenitent, those who have given offense and
have not removed it, those who are unable to
examine themselves (such as young children and
adults who have not been sufficiently
instructed, unconscious persons, and those who
by virtue of infirmity cannot truly examine
themselves and discern the Lord's body), and
those of a different faith, since participation
in the Lord's Supper is a testimony of unity in
faith and profession (I Corinthians 10:17; Acts
2:42; I Corinthians 1:10; Romans 16:17). If you
have questions about this truly Scriptural
practice, please contact our pastor for further
explanation.
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