Text: Hebrews 10:19-25
The Larger Catechism of the Westminster Confession of Faith gives some very clear and helpful instruction on how to prepare for the Lord’s Supper, as well as how to receive it and apply it. Take careful note,
- Q. 171: How are they that receive the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper to prepare themselves before they come into it?
A: They that receive the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper are, before they come, to prepare themselves thereunto, by examining themselves of their being in Christ, of their sins and wants; of the truth and measure of their knowledge, faith, repentance; love to God and the brethren, charity to all men, forgiving those that have done them wrong; of their desires after Christ, and of their new obedience; and by renewing the exercise of these graces, by serious meditation, and fervent prayer.
Q. 174: What is required of them that receive the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper in the time of the administration of it?
A: It is required of them that receive the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper, that, during the time of the administration of it, with all holy reverence and attention they wait upon God in the ordinance, diligently observe the sacramental elements and actions, heedfully discern the Lord’s body, and affectionately meditate on His death and sufferings, and thereby stir up themselves to a vigorous exercise of their graces; in judging themselves, and sorrowing for sin; in earnest hungering and thirsting after Christ, feeding on Him by faith, receiving of His fullness, trusting in His merits, rejoicing in His love, giving thanks for His grace; in renewing of their covenant with God, and love to all the saints.
Q. 175: What is the duty of Christians, after they have received the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper?
A: The duty of Christians, after they have received the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper, is seriously to consider how they have behaved themselves therein, and with what success; if they find quickening and comfort, to bless God for it, beg continuance of it, watch against relapses, fulfill their vows, and encourage themselves to a frequent attendance on that ordinance; but if they find no present benefit, more exactly to review their preparation to, and carriage at, the sacrament; in both which, if they can approve themselves to God and their own consciences, that they are to wait for the fruit of it in due time; but if they see they have failed in either, they are to be humbled, and to attend upon it afterwards with more care and diligence.
I highly commend the study of these questions and answers–and especially your examination of the Scripture proofs that go along with them. They will greatly assist you in your preparation, reception, and application of the Lord’s Supper.
[podcast]http://www.download.covenantfamilychurch.net/2008/mp3/2008_9_28_lords_supper_its_preparation_reception_and_application.mp3[/podcast]
Covenant Family Church is a conservative, Bible-believing, and elder-governed congregation located in Wentzville, MO which seeks to evangelize the lost and equip those who have been converted to walk worthy of their calling in Christ. 
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