Communion (II) | AGC & Discipleship Training (18th March)

Name: Communion (II) | AGC & Discipleship Training (18th March)
Uploaded: 2025-06-06T09:53:26.000Z
Duration: 2 h 56 min 33 s

Communion and the Mystical Nature of Rituals

Recap of Communion Part One

The speaker introduces the session as a continuation of communion, emphasizing the importance of understanding sacraments and rituals.

Acknowledges that many perceive rituals as boring or mechanical, but aims to reveal their mystical significance.

Understanding Rituals

Highlights that rituals serve to connect the spiritual (unseen) with the physical (seen), likening this connection to harnessing energy.

Discusses different "vessels" for various sacraments, such as communion, marriage, ordination, and confirmation.

Defining Parameters in Faith

Stresses the need for clarity in what one is confirming in faith; understanding one's beliefs is crucial for divine interaction.

Explains that God will manifest according to how individuals define their relationship with Him—whether as punitive or gracious.

The Science of Rituals

Describes the training as akin to a priest's handbook under apostolic grace covering order, aiming to clarify sacramental practices.

Emphasizes that even non-priests partaking in communion should understand its mystical implications and transformative power.

Spiritual Circuitry and Desired Outcomes

Compares each ritual to a spiritual circuit board where God's spirit acts as a power source directing divine force through structured processes.

Outlines that when elements align within rituals, they can create significant realities like union or empowerment.

Harnessing Energy Through Defined Requests

Encourages specificity in prayers or requests during rituals; vague requests may not yield desired outcomes.

Understanding Rituals and Communion

The Importance of Rituals

The speaker emphasizes the significance of rituals in understanding spiritual practices, particularly how they relate to energy harnessing and divine presence.

A recap is provided on communion, clarifying its role as a ritual that invites God to incarnate within believers.

Biblical References: 1 Samuel and Matthew

The discussion references 1 Samuel 21:6, where David receives showbread from priests while fleeing Saul, highlighting the importance of mercy over strict adherence to law.

In contrast, Matthew 12:1-8 depicts Jesus' disciples eating grain on the Sabbath, prompting criticism from Pharisees about breaking the law.

Key Insights from David's Example

Jesus uses David’s example to illustrate that necessity can override ritual law; he notes that David did not force his request for bread but was given it by the priests.

The speaker connects David's actions with foreshadowing Christ's coming—indicating a shift in how divine interaction occurs between God and humanity.

Transition from Old to New Covenant

The text discusses how under the old covenant, only priests could perform certain rituals like making bread on the Sabbath; however, this changes with Jesus declaring himself Lord of the Sabbath (Matthew).

This transition signifies that all believers are now part of a royal priesthood, emphasizing inclusivity in accessing divine grace.

Consecration and Purpose

While everyone is called to be part of this priesthood, there remains an emphasis on consecration for specific roles within spiritual practices.

Disciples were set apart for particular tasks such as baptism and carrying out priestly duties—highlighting ongoing relevance of consecration today.

Harnessing Divine Power Through Unity

Psalm 133 and Its Significance

The speaker refers to Psalm 133 regarding unity among brethren as essential for receiving divine power.

Symbolism of Anointing Oil

Discusses how anointing oil symbolizes divine power flowing down from leaders (Aaron), illustrating order in spiritual practices.

Divine Order and Communion Practices

Understanding Divine Order in Worship

The discussion centers on the concept of divine order, emphasizing that unity within the church can lead to achieving the impossible, as referenced in Acts.

The speaker highlights 1 Corinthians 11, noting that many overlook the head covering section before communion, which is crucial for understanding worship order.

The significance of head coverings is linked to divine order rather than gender dynamics; it illustrates a structured approach to worship.

The Relationship Between Men and Women

Scriptural references indicate an order where man (Adam) was created first, followed by woman (Eve), establishing a hierarchy that reflects divine design.

It’s clarified that both men and women are interdependent; neither is superior or inferior, challenging societal interpretations of power dynamics.

Communion Etiquette and Community Spirit

Emphasis is placed on communal participation during communion; individuals should not act selfishly but wait for one another to partake together.

A warning against divisive spirits is given; those who do not honor communal practices risk judgment regarding their participation in communion.

Christ and the Church: A Unified Purpose

The relationship between Christ and the church is framed as a mother-bride dynamic, with Christ as the bridegroom. This metaphor emphasizes their unified purpose in nurturing new believers.

Leavened vs. Unleavened Bread: Cultural Implications

Unleavened bread symbolizes purity and strict boundaries within community practices, reinforcing cultural identity without outside contamination.

Leavened bread represents openness to influence from others; however, this can be positive or negative depending on community strength and clarity of purpose.

Caution Against Negative Influences

The speaker warns about negative influences represented by "the leaven of Pharisees" (religious spirit) and "the leaven of Herod" (political spirit), which can sway communities lacking strong foundations.

If individuals are not actively influencing others positively, they risk being influenced negatively themselves—a call for proactive engagement in faith.

Historical Context of Bread Usage in Churches

Breaking Away from the Orthodox: The Importance of Unleavened Bread

The Need for Separation

Emphasizes the necessity of breaking away from established orthodox practices to create something new, highlighting that without closure, confusion arises about differences between old and new.

References a past decision to close doors until a strong community was formed, indicating the importance of faith strength before allowing external influences.

Understanding Communion's Mystical Nature

Discusses the deeper significance of communion beyond symbolism, asserting its mystical power and role in reinforcing community identity within specific churches.

Describes individuals as vessels receiving spiritual power through communion, emphasizing their commitment to their church's teachings and leadership.

Historical Context of Leavened vs. Unleavened Bread

Explains that early churches used leavened bread for unity but transitioned to unleavened bread when separating from Catholicism to avoid contamination by old beliefs.

Highlights the challenge of creating something new while dealing with persistent influences from previous traditions.

Ritual Significance and Contamination Concerns

Clarifies that unleavened bread symbolizes purity and separation from outside influences, ensuring that only those aligned with current beliefs partake in communion.

Warns against contamination by outside beliefs during communion rituals, stressing the need for careful adherence to practices that maintain group integrity.

The Duality of Bread Practices

Discusses how different denominations use unleavened bread as a protective measure against contamination while also recognizing times when leavened bread is appropriate for spreading messages.

Understanding the Ritual of Communion

The Concept of Ritual as a Container

Every ritual is described as a "container" that holds spiritual significance, similar to how water takes the shape of its container.

The specific form of rituals, such as holy communion, shapes the spirit involved in the practice, emphasizing the importance of understanding what occurs during these rituals.

The Significance of Betrayal in Communion

Each communion service begins with the phrase "on the night that he was betrayed," highlighting its foundational role in understanding communion's meaning.

The term "paradidomi" (betrayal) is introduced, linking it to Jesus' offering during communion and suggesting a deeper sacrificial context.

Offering vs. Betrayal

The word "didomi," meaning to offer or give up, is crucial; it indicates that Jesus’ act during communion was an offering rather than just a gift.

This contrasts with Judas' betrayal (paradidomi), which also involves giving up but carries negative connotations associated with sacrifice and abandonment.

The Nature of Sacrifice

Both offerings and betrayals are framed as sacrifices; one can give up something valuable either positively (as an offering) or negatively (as betrayal).

Communion serves as a reminder of those who have given up on us, reflecting on personal experiences where individuals may feel abandoned by loved ones or community.

Covenant Through Communion

The act of taking communion symbolizes entering into a covenant characterized by loyalty and friendship among believers.

It emphasizes unity within the community ("the unleavened family") despite past betrayals or sacrifices made by others.

Structure and Leadership in Spiritual Community

The church's structure is likened to layers where apostles lay down their lives for others, followed by prophets who endure more pain to capture spiritual power.

Apostolic Sacrifice and Church Structure

The Role of Apostolic Leadership

The apostolic leaders are seen as sacrificial figures, enduring hardships for the church's sake. Their depth allows them to receive spiritual insights.

Prophetic teams also share in this sacrificial nature, emphasizing the need for pastoral teams to embody similar selflessness in their service.

Building a Strong Church Foundation

A well-structured church can effectively hold and transmit spiritual power, making it a formidable force in the world.

The church is described as a vehicle for world dominion, operating under the principles of servant leadership and love.

Communion and Community Connection

Participation in communion requires discernment of the body; failure to do so can lead to sickness or spiritual lethargy among congregants.

Eating unleavened bread symbolizes unity with the church body, allowing individuals to partake in its victories and blessings.

Importance of Spiritual Covering

Spiritual covering is crucial; engaging with contaminated leadership can hinder personal growth and strength.

Ritualistic aspects of communion are emphasized, highlighting that unworthy leadership can lead to negative experiences within the congregation.

Accountability Among Leaders

Leaders must be held accountable for their actions; this accountability ensures they live lives worthy of their calling.

Paul’s analogy of building on rock emphasizes careful construction within church leadership, ensuring stability amidst challenges.

Navigating Leadership Challenges

As leaders rise in responsibility, they face greater scrutiny; this narrow path demands integrity and commitment.

Close relationships with leaders may bring discomfort due to necessary corrections aimed at maintaining community health.

Conclusion: Grace in Leadership Dynamics

Understanding Community and Stress Management

The Importance of Community in the Church

The speaker emphasizes the necessity for individuals to align their actions with their words for the benefit of the church, highlighting that control is not the goal but rather a structured support system.

Introduction of cognitive baseline theory from neuroscience, explaining how an individual's nervous system reacts to problems, leading to increased stress levels when alone.

When facing challenges like climbing a steep mountain, having friends reduces stress levels significantly compared to being alone, as social support mitigates cortisol production.

Cognitive Baseline Theory Explained

The anterior cingulate cortex plays a crucial role in assessing tasks; it calculates energy needs based on perceived challenges, influencing hunger and cravings under stress.

During isolation (e.g., COVID), people experienced weight gain due to heightened stress responses; their bodies interpreted isolation as a war scenario requiring energy reserves.

Social Support's Role in Stress Reduction

If an individual has friends while tackling a daunting task (like cleaning land), their body responds differently—less fat retention and healthier dietary choices are observed due to reduced stress signals.

The presence of an expert among friends further alleviates anxiety; cognitive baseline theory suggests that having knowledgeable support can enhance relaxation and confidence during stressful situations.

Building Safe Spaces within the Church

The speaker connects these scientific insights back to church dynamics: community provides safety and reassurance, allowing members to feel secure amidst life's storms.

Biblical references reinforce that solitude is detrimental; community fosters strength and resilience against challenges faced by individuals within the church environment.

Creating a Welcoming Environment

Notable figures within the church create a sense of safety for others; visibility of respected members contributes positively to communal feelings of security.

Understanding Communion and Divine Energy

The Concept of Shared Burdens and Victories

The speaker explains that when one person experiences hardship, the burden is shared among all, making it feel lighter. Conversely, victories are also shared, creating a sense of communal success.

This sharing of burdens and victories is likened to the communion table, where individuals partake in a collective experience symbolized by bread.

Historical Perspectives on Divine Energy

Reference to 1 Corinthians 11 highlights historical understanding of divine energy. Early thinkers recognized that while humans cannot touch God's essence, they can access His energy.

St. Maximus the Confessor states that humans can embody God's attributes through grace but not His essence, emphasizing the distinction between essence and energy.

Differentiating Essence from Energies

St. Basil the Great asserts that knowledge of God comes through His operations (energies), not His essence, which remains beyond human comprehension.

Sir Alexandria emphasizes the need to differentiate between God's essence and energies for a deeper understanding of spirituality.

Understanding Divine Operations

Gregory Nisa notes that while divine nature surpasses comprehension, its operations reveal its goodness and existence through creation.

The discussion transitions into liturgical practices regarding communion and how different denominations perceive it.

Catholic vs. Protestant Views on Communion

Roman Catholics believe in transubstantiation during communion; they view bread as literally becoming Christ's body based on John 6: "This is my blood... this is my flesh."

Martin Luther maintained this belief upon breaking away from Catholicism but Protestants have expanded on it with their interpretations.

Insights from Justin Martyr on Communion

Justin Martyr articulates that communion elements are not merely common bread or drink but become Christ’s flesh and blood through prayer.

He emphasizes the transformative aspect of communion—believers receive nourishment from what has been blessed by prayer.

Conclusion: Miraculous Beliefs in Communion Practices

Understanding the Catholic and Protestant Views on Communion

The Nature of Belief in Communion

The speaker challenges the audience's understanding of communion, emphasizing that for Catholics, it is not merely symbolic but a miraculous event occurring during each service.

The belief in miracles is central to this faith; participants have experienced these miracles firsthand, which shapes their mindset regarding communion.

Historical Perspectives on Communion

The speaker discusses how different reformers approached the concept of communion: Luther emphasized consubstantiation while Calvin sought a middle ground, and Zwingli viewed it as purely symbolic.

Luther’s explanation of consubstantiation suggests that while bread remains bread, it also embodies the real presence of Christ.

Faith and Perception in Communion

The speaker prompts reflection on whether individuals can truly convince themselves that they are consuming Christ's body and blood during communion.

Acknowledging upbringing influences belief, the speaker encourages Protestants to consider the power inherent in Catholic beliefs about communion.

Sacramental Union Explained

Luther referred to his view as sacramental union rather than consubstantiation; he believed both elements coexist—bread retains its nature while embodying Christ’s essence.

This duality reflects human nature: being both common and divine. It emphasizes that when partaking in communion, one engages with both physical bread and spiritual significance.

Timing and Symbolism of Jesus' Sacrifice

The timing of Jesus’ crucifixion coincides with Passover lamb sacrifices, highlighting a deep connection between His sacrifice and Jewish tradition.

During communion, believers remember this significant moment when Jesus offered Himself as the ultimate Passover lamb at the same time traditional sacrifices were made.

Preparing for Communion

Understanding the Betrayal of Judas and Communion

Context of 1 Corinthians 11

The speaker emphasizes the importance of remembering specific words from 1 Corinthians 11, particularly focusing on verse 18, which addresses divisions within the church during communion.

Paul highlights that there are divisions among church members, indicating a lack of unity as they come together for communion, reminiscent of Jesus' betrayal.

Issues in the Corinthian Church

The speaker notes that people in the Corinthian church are abandoning one another, leading to disunity and disorder during communion. This reflects a broader issue of division within the community.

Paul expresses concern over how individuals partake in communion without respect or order, suggesting that everyone is acting independently rather than collectively.

The Parallel with Judas' Betrayal

The speaker draws parallels between the current issues in the Corinthian church and Judas’ betrayal during Jesus' last supper. Both situations involve a lack of commitment and loyalty among individuals.

Paul’s message includes a reminder that on the night Jesus was betrayed, he still offered his body (the bread), highlighting commitment amidst betrayal.

Addressing Divisions and Commitment

Paul questions whether congregants have homes to eat at instead of despising God's church by taking part in communion selfishly. He refuses to praise their actions due to this lack of consideration for others.

The concept of Judas’ betrayal is defined as seeking intimacy without commitment—an analogy for relationships lacking loyalty or responsibility.

Healthy Relationships and Loyalty

The speaker stresses that healthy relationships require commitment; otherwise, they risk becoming superficial like Judas’ relationship with Jesus.

Emphasizing loyalty is crucial; without it, relationships can lead to disappointment or betrayal similar to what occurred with Judas.

Spiritual Significance During Communion

In discussing communion practices today, there’s an emphasis on avoiding mixed motives among participants—symbolized by unleavened bread representing purity.

As Paul recounts receiving instructions from Jesus about communion on the night he was betrayed, it serves as a reminder for believers to reflect on their own commitments when participating in such sacred acts.

Conclusion: Commitment Amidst Betrayal

Understanding the Ritual of Communion

The Significance of Time in Communion

The act of communion is described as invoking the same day from 2,000 years ago, emphasizing that it is not a new event but a re-presentation of the original moment.

All three significant days (crucifixion, resurrection) are said to occur simultaneously during this ritual, highlighting its profound spiritual implications.

Visualization and Intensity in Ritual

The speaker encourages participants to visualize the lamb being sacrificed while breaking bread, creating a mental connection to the bloodshed involved. This visualization is intended to deepen the experience.

There’s an intense focus on how breaking bread symbolizes Christ's body broken for believers, with an emphasis on feeling this energy throughout the congregation during communion.

Blood and Body: Different Traditions

A distinction is made between Catholic practices and those of Muslims and Jews regarding blood; Catholics mix bread with wine (blood), while others require blood to be completely drained before consumption.

The importance of allowing blood to pour out completely before eating is highlighted as part of Jewish dietary laws (halal/haram distinctions). This contrasts with Catholic practice where both elements are mingled.

The Role of Offering in Communion

The concept of offering during communion involves presenting what is referred to as "the host," which represents Christ's body after his death and signifies life coming into it post-sacrifice. This transformation occurs when lifting up the bread after breaking it.

Participants are encouraged to approach communion with a mindset of self-crucifixion or fasting, symbolizing their own death before receiving new life through Christ’s resurrection represented by the host.

Transformation Through Ritual

The speaker emphasizes that if rituals are not performed correctly or understood deeply, they may lack real significance; thus preparation and intention are crucial for meaningful participation in communion.

Understanding the Power of Communion

The Role of Communion in Spiritual Renewal

Communion serves as a means to become recharged and renewed, embodying the resurrected power of Christ rather than remaining in a state of spiritual debt.

By participating in communion, individuals declare themselves as the living body of Christ, engaging in a transfer that emphasizes their role within the church community.

The church is described as the real presence of Christ on earth, continuously renewed through this ritual, empowering believers against adversities.

The Significance of Ritual and Presence

The church's strength lies in its rituals; they create an environment where no enemy can prevail against it due to the presence of Christ among believers.

Engaging with communion allows individuals to experience Jesus' resurrected power, which can lead to transformative changes in their lives by dispelling negativity and challenges.

Understanding Consubstantiation

During communion, participants are not consuming the Father or Holy Spirit directly but are partaking in the essence (the soul) of Jesus Christ.

This understanding highlights that communion connects believers with Jesus’ mind and soul, facilitating personal transformation and character development.

Becoming One with Christ

Through communion, individuals engage with Jesus' soul—this interaction fosters growth towards becoming more like Him.

It is emphasized that this ritual is about connecting with Jesus as a man who had a soul, allowing for deeper spiritual engagement.

Identity and Inheritance through Communion

Communion reinforces unity among believers; it acts as a shield against life's betrayals and hardships by integrating them into God's divine family.

Understanding one's identity as a son or daughter of God becomes clearer through participation in communion; it affirms their inheritance within God's family.

Practical Application at Home

Understanding the Significance of Unleavened Bread

The Role of Unleavened Bread in Spiritual Practices

The act of consuming unleavened bread is linked to spiritual cleansing, driving away bitterness, offense, demons, and poverty. It symbolizes unity among believers as the body of Christ.

Emphasis on participating as part of a larger community; understanding the order and significance behind rituals is crucial.

Foreshadowing in Jesus' Actions

A question arises about whether Jesus was invoking the act of giving his body during the Last Supper before his crucifixion. The response confirms that this act exists outside time as a foreshadowing.

Jesus’ life serves as a foreshadowing for what believers experience today. His actions during communion were preparatory for the ultimate sacrifice he would make on the cross.

Understanding Ritualistic Practices

Discussion on whether using alternative forms like biscuits instead of unleavened bread is acceptable in communion practices. The importance lies in understanding both the ritual's power and intention behind it.

Clarification that while some may unknowingly consume leavened bread, true unleavened bread should be used for effective spiritual cleansing at home.

Intentions Behind Rituals

The intention behind rituals plays a significant role; if one seeks to resolve domestic issues or spiritual problems, using unleavened bread is recommended for its purifying properties.

Highlighting that rituals must be performed with an understanding of their significance to harness their full power; otherwise, they become "dead work."

Exploring the Soul and Mind of Christ

Discussion on consuming not just Jesus' physical form but also his immortal soul. This includes engaging with both his mind and essence which are vital for humanity’s spiritual journey.

Understanding Communion and Its Significance in Faith

The Role of Jesus in Communion

The speaker emphasizes the importance of approaching God through Jesus, suggesting that many problems are resolved when one engages with Jesus as the Son of God rather than going directly to the Father.

A good Christian is encouraged to approach the Father through the Son, highlighting a structured relationship within Christian faith.

Teaching and Sharing Insights

The speaker insists that teachings shared should be disseminated among others, indicating a responsibility for leaders to educate their communities about these insights.

There is a discussion on whether communion can be taken on behalf of someone else, affirming that it can be done if they are part of the church community.

Power and Impact of Communion

Taking communion for someone who believes but does not attend church is questioned; it raises concerns about their intention and discernment regarding communion's significance.

The speaker asserts that taking communion leads to judgment against one's enemies, suggesting a spiritual warfare aspect where divine intervention occurs after participating in this sacrament.

Maledictions and Their Connection to Communion

Upcoming discussions will focus on maledictions, linking them with communion services scheduled for April 1st. This connection suggests deeper theological implications during these events.

The act of taking communion is framed as a means of separation from those who oppose believers, drawing parallels with biblical narratives such as the Exodus story.

Intention Behind Communion Practices

Questions arise regarding the intention behind taking communion—whether it holds power regardless of specific practices (like leavened or unleavened bread).

The complexity surrounding healing or miracles associated with communion is acknowledged; nuances in belief and practice play significant roles in its effectiveness.

Inclusivity in Communion Practices

Children attending Catholic schools are mentioned; despite their background, they are welcomed at an open table for communion within this community.

The speaker discusses inclusivity at their table compared to Catholic practices which may restrict participation based on perceived contamination by differing beliefs.

Communion and Children: Perspectives on Participation

The Role of Children in Communion

The speaker discusses the concept of children participating in communion, likening it to familial respect, suggesting that children can be viewed as part of a spiritual family.

The speaker expresses support for children taking communion and being baptized, emphasizing that through prayer, they receive grace and power which aids their spiritual growth.

It is highlighted that as children grow in their understanding of God, they will learn more about the significance of the communion table.

Understanding Communion's Symbolism

A discussion arises regarding the nature of Jesus represented during communion; whether it reflects Jesus before crucifixion or after resurrection.