Christ’s Example Forbids Exclusiveness

It is true that open sin excludes the guilty at the Lord’s Supper. See 1 Corinthians 5:11. But beyond this none are to judge. Who can read the heart or distinguish weeds from wheat? “Let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of the bread and drink of the cup.” “Whoever eats this bread or drinks this cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. ... He who eats and drinks in an unworthy manner eats and drinks judgment to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body.” 1 Corinthians 11:28, 27, 29.HH 307.2

When believers assemble to celebrate the ordinances of the Lord’s Supper, there may be a Judas in the group. If so, messengers from the prince of darkness are there, for they accompany all who refuse to be controlled by the Holy Spirit. Heavenly angels are also present. People may come to the meeting who are not servants of truth and holiness, but who want to take part in the service. We should not refuse them. There are witnesses present who were there when Jesus washed the feet of the disciples.HH 307.3

Through the Holy Spirit, Christ is there to convict and soften the heart. Not a thought of sorrow for sin escapes His notice. He is waiting for the repentant, brokenhearted one. He who washed the feet of Judas longs to wash every heart from the stain of sin.HH 307.4

None should exclude themselves from Communion because some who are unworthy may be present. Christ Himself has made these appointments, and He meets His people there and energizes them by His presence. Hearts and hands that are unworthy may even administer the service, yet all who come with their faith set firmly on Christ will be greatly blessed. All who neglect these special times will suffer loss. The administration of the Lord’s Supper was to remind the disciples often of the infinite sacrifice Jesus made for each of them individually as part of the great whole of fallen humanity.HH 307.5