Project – Exegesis of 1Corinthians 11:23 – 26 and the implications of Holy communion on growth and unity among members.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background to the Study

The Holy Communion, also known as the Lord’s Supper or the Eucharist, is one of the most profound and sacred ordinances instituted by Jesus Christ. Rooted in the events of the Last Supper (Matthew 26:26–29), this act of partaking in bread and wine symbolizes the body and blood of Christ given for the redemption of humanity. It is more than a ritual—it serves as a means of grace and remembrance, reinforcing the foundational truths of the Christian faith: the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. In many Christian traditions, this ordinance holds both sacramental and covenantal significance, as it reaffirms the believer’s relationship with God and with one another within the body of Christ.

In 1 Corinthians 11:23–26, the Apostle Paul presents a detailed theological framework for understanding and observing the Holy Communion. He states, “For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you…” (1 Corinthians 11:23, NIV), thereby asserting the divine authority behind the practice. Paul’s account not only reiterates Jesus’ words during the Last Supper but also underscores the continuity of this ordinance from the early church to contemporary Christianity. His instruction was aimed at correcting abuses in the Corinthian church and restoring the sanctity and purpose of the Communion. This passage has become central in ecclesiastical doctrine and liturgy across many denominations, including Pentecostal churches like The Apostolic Church.

In The Apostolic Church New Owerri Assembly, the Holy Communion is conducted with deep reverence and a strong emphasis on holiness, spiritual examination, and the celebration of Christ’s sacrifice. It is typically accompanied by prayer, worship, and exhortation, making it a key component of the church’s spiritual life. However, the impact of this practice extends beyond ritualistic observance. The ordinance is intended to be transformative—shaping character, deepening personal faith, and enhancing communal fellowship. Unfortunately, the intended spiritual outcomes are sometimes overshadowed by routine participation or doctrinal misunderstanding.

This raises an important theological and practical question: does the observance of Holy Communion in The Apostolic Church New Owerri Assembly genuinely foster spiritual growth and unity among its members? In an era marked by rising individualism, disunity, and spiritual lukewarmness within churches, this question becomes especially relevant. Paul’s teaching in 1 Corinthians 11 does not only correct external behaviors but penetrates the motives and attitudes of the heart. He warns against partaking “in an unworthy manner,” highlighting the need for self-examination, communal discernment, and love among believers (1 Cor. 11:27–30). Thus, Communion is both a personal and collective spiritual exercise with real consequences.

Furthermore, the implications of the Eucharist for unity are clearly seen in Paul’s broader theology of the church as one body (1 Cor. 10:16–17). The shared participation in one loaf and one cup reflects the shared identity and purpose of believers. Where this unity is absent, the Lord’s Supper becomes empty of its intended meaning and effect. For The Apostolic Church New Owerri Assembly, this presents both a challenge and an opportunity: to ensure that the Holy Communion is rightly understood and practiced as a catalyst for spiritual maturity and deep Christian fellowship. The church must ask whether its current approach aligns with the apostolic model set forth in Scripture.

Therefore, this study aims to provide a critical and exegetical analysis of 1 Corinthians 11:23–26 and its application within the context of The Apostolic Church New Owerri Assembly. By examining how the practice of Holy Communion influences spiritual formation and interpersonal unity, the study will shed light on the depth of Paul’s instruction and the transformative power of this ordinance. It is hoped that this exploration will contribute to a richer, biblically grounded understanding and more impactful practice of Holy Communion among church members and leadership alike.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Despite the central role of Holy Communion in Christian doctrine and worship, there appears to be a disconnect between its theological intent and its practical impact in many congregations today. Within The Apostolic Church New Owerri Assembly, as in other churches, the Lord’s Supper is observed regularly and reverently. However, over time, there is a tendency for the ritual to become mechanical—performed out of obligation rather than from a place of spiritual reflection and intentional communion with Christ and fellow believers. When sacred practices become routine, they often lose their transformative power, resulting in diminished personal conviction and corporate unity.

This issue becomes even more pressing when one considers the clear scriptural purpose of the Holy Communion as articulated in 1 Corinthians 11:23–26. The Apostle Paul, under divine inspiration, presents the Eucharist not only as a remembrance of Christ’s death but also as a public proclamation of His return and a call to examine one’s relationship with God and others in the church community. Communion is meant to serve as a unifying practice that brings believers together in humility, gratitude, and spiritual renewal. Yet, in many assemblies—including the New Owerri Assembly—the anticipated fruits of unity, spiritual growth, and renewed fellowship are not fully evident.

Instances of interpersonal division, unresolved conflicts, and a general lack of deep spiritual maturity among some members indicate that the Communion may not be producing its intended effect. If believers truly “participate in the body and blood of Christ” (1 Cor. 10:16), then they are also called to reflect that shared participation through love, forgiveness, and mutual edification. When members partake of the same bread and cup but remain divided in spirit or stagnant in faith, it raises critical concerns about the depth of their understanding and the authenticity of their participation.

Moreover, the absence of a strong, consistent theological emphasis on the implications of the Lord’s Supper within church teaching and discipleship programs may contribute to this disconnect. Without regular exposition and pastoral guidance, members may fail to grasp the profound implications of the act beyond its symbolic elements. This gap in understanding affects both the attitude with which believers approach the table and the spiritual outcomes that follow. A weak grasp of the theological significance of Communion can ultimately lead to a weak church body—fractured, disengaged, and spiritually dry.

In light of these observations, this study seeks to critically assess whether the current practice and interpretation of Holy Communion in The Apostolic Church New Owerri Assembly align with its scriptural and theological foundation as laid out in 1 Corinthians 11:23–26. It aims to identify any gaps between the ordinance’s intended purpose and its real-life application within the church. Ultimately, the research hopes to provide recommendations that will revitalize the observance of Holy Communion as a means of fostering unity, promoting spiritual growth, and strengthening the overall health of the church community.

1.3 Purpose of the Study

The main purpose of this study is to conduct an exegetical analysis of 1 Corinthians 11:23–26 and to explore the implications of the Holy Communion on the growth and unity of members within The Apostolic Church New Owerri Assembly. Specific objectives include:

1. To analyze the historical and theological context of 1 Corinthians 11:23–26.
2. To examine the current practice and perception of Holy Communion in The Apostolic Church New Owerri Assembly.
3. To evaluate the role of Holy Communion in promoting spiritual growth and doctrinal unity.
4. To offer practical recommendations for enhancing the communal and spiritual impact of the Eucharist in the assembly.

1.4 Research Questions

1. What is the theological and historical context of 1 Corinthians 11:23–26?
2. How is Holy Communion currently observed in The Apostolic Church New Owerri Assembly?
3. In what ways does Holy Communion influence spiritual growth and unity among members?
4. What practical steps can be taken to strengthen the role of the Eucharist in fostering unity and spiritual development?

1.5 Significance of the Study

This study holds substantial significance for both theological scholarship and the practical life of the church. At its core, it offers a robust exegetical analysis of 1 Corinthians 11:23–26, a passage that lies at the heart of Christian sacramental theology. By unpacking the theological depth and apostolic instruction embedded in this text, the study contributes to a deeper biblical understanding of Holy Communion. This is essential at a time when many believers and even church leaders may have a shallow or routine perception of what it means to partake in the Lord’s Supper.

Secondly, the research goes beyond abstract theology by applying biblical insight to the lived experiences of believers within a specific local church—The Apostolic Church New Owerri Assembly. This contextual focus allows the study to explore the real-world implications of Holy Communion within a Nigerian Pentecostal framework. It takes into account the cultural, spiritual, and ecclesiastical dynamics of the local assembly, thus making the research both relatable and practical. Insights derived from this context can serve as a model for other churches in similar settings who may be wrestling with issues of disunity, stagnation in spiritual growth, or the loss of liturgical meaning.

Furthermore, this study sheds light on the importance of intentionality in spiritual practices within the church. In an era where religious rituals can become lifeless routines, it is crucial to reawaken the original purpose and power behind sacred ordinances. By highlighting the relationship between proper Communion observance and the cultivation of unity and spiritual maturity, the research reinforces the idea that true Christian fellowship and growth are not automatic outcomes of church attendance, but fruits of meaningful participation in the body of Christ through rightly understood practices.

In addition, the study serves as a valuable theological and pastoral resource. Pastors, elders, Bible teachers, and lay leaders can benefit from the findings and recommendations of this research as they seek to revitalize the spiritual life of their congregations. The practical applications of the study can be used in sermons, teaching sessions, discipleship materials, and church policies concerning sacramental life. It provides both the theological foundation and practical guidance necessary to help churches return to a more biblical and impactful approach to Holy Communion.

Moreover, the study contributes to academic discussions around contextual theology in Africa, particularly in Pentecostal and Charismatic circles. By grounding theological exploration in a Nigerian local assembly, it affirms the relevance and need for scholarship that addresses indigenous experiences and challenges. In doing so, it opens up pathways for further research on other Christian practices and how they influence or fail to influence church life in various African communities.

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, this research aspires to foster renewal within the body of Christ. In a time when many believers feel spiritually disconnected or isolated, restoring the meaning and communal power of Holy Communion can help restore what is lacking. By reconnecting the sacrament to its biblical purpose—remembrance, proclamation, self-examination, and unity—churches can create an environment where members grow together in Christ, experience genuine fellowship, and become living testimonies of Christ’s love and grace to the world.

1.6 Scope and Delimitation of the Study

This study is limited to an exegetical analysis of 1 Corinthians 11:23–26 and its practical implications for The Apostolic Church New Owerri Assembly. While references will be made to other related scriptures and theological views, the focus remains on the Pauline account and its impact on the specific congregation under review. The research does not cover all Apostolic Church assemblies in Nigeria, nor does it aim to evaluate communion practices in other denominations.

1.7 Methodology

The study employs a qualitative and exegetical approach. Primary data will be sourced from scriptural texts, especially 1 Corinthians 11:23–26, using historical-grammatical and theological methods of interpretation. Secondary data will include church records, communion service liturgies, and interviews with church leaders and members. Observational methods may also be employed during communion services to understand how the ritual is practiced and received.

1.8 Theological Basis of the Study

Theologically, Holy Communion is more than a symbol; it is a sacrament of grace, a proclamation of Christ’s death (1 Cor. 11:26), and a means of participation in the body of Christ (1 Cor. 10:16). Augustine referred to sacraments as “visible signs of invisible grace” (Augustine, Tractates on the Gospel of John). Calvin emphasized the nourishing aspect of the Eucharist as spiritual food (Calvin, Institutes of the Christian Religion IV.17). In the context of Paul’s letter to the Corinthians, communion was both a remembrance and a communal proclamation. When rightly understood and practiced, it leads to self-examination, humility, love, and unity within the body (1 Cor. 11:28–29).

1.9 Definition of Terms

Exegesis: Exegesis refers to the critical and systematic interpretation of a biblical text, seeking to uncover the original meaning intended by the author and inspired by the Holy Spirit. It involves examining the historical, cultural, grammatical, and literary contexts of Scripture in order to arrive at a faithful understanding of the passage. In this study, exegesis focuses specifically on 1 Corinthians 11:23–26, drawing insights from the Apostle Paul’s instructions to the Corinthian church on the proper observance of the Lord’s Supper.

Holy Communion: Holy Communion, also called the Lord’s Supper or the Eucharist, is a Christian ordinance instituted by Jesus Christ during His Last Supper with the disciples (Luke 22:19–20; 1 Cor. 11:23–26). It involves the symbolic partaking of bread and wine (or their equivalents), representing the body and blood of Christ. The ordinance serves as a memorial of Christ’s sacrificial death, a proclamation of His coming return, and a means of grace that deepens the believer’s fellowship with God and the church community.

Unity: Unity refers to the state of being joined together in harmony, purpose, and love within the community of believers. In the context of this study, unity implies a spiritual and relational bond among members of The Apostolic Church New Owerri Assembly, nurtured through shared beliefs, mutual edification, and communal practices such as Holy Communion. It reflects the oneness that Christ prayed for in John 17:21 and which Paul emphasized in 1 Corinthians 10:17, where believers are described as “one body” through their participation in the one bread.

Spiritual Growth: Spiritual growth is the progressive development of a believer’s faith, character, and relationship with God. It involves becoming more like Christ in thought, attitude, and behavior, as well as increasing in knowledge, obedience, and fruitfulness in the Christian life (Ephesians 4:13–15; 2 Peter 3:18). This growth is fostered through disciplines such as prayer, Bible study, fellowship, and participation in sacraments like the Holy Communion. In this study, spiritual growth is examined as one of the key intended outcomes of a biblically grounded observance of the Lord’s Supper.

The Apostolic Church: The Apostolic Church is a Pentecostal Christian denomination that originated in the early 20th century revival movements, particularly in the United Kingdom and Nigeria. Known for its strong emphasis on apostolic leadership, holiness, evangelism, and the operation of spiritual gifts, the church seeks to model its structure and doctrine on the practices of the early New Testament church. In Nigeria, The Apostolic Church has become one of the leading indigenous Pentecostal movements, and the New Owerri Assembly represents one of its many vibrant local congregations.

Project – Exegesis of 1Corinthians 11:23 – 26 and the implications of Holy communion on growth and unity among members