In 1 Corinthians 11:23–26 Paul has reminded the Corinthians of basic truths concerning the Lord’s supper. In 1 Corinthians 11:27–34 he will show what the implications of these truths are for those who abuse the supper.
The first distressing implication is that those who partake in the supper in an unworthy manner
are guilty of Christ’s death (his body and blood
). There is no middle ground. The bread and cup are the bread and cup of the Lord.
In partaking of it, one is either proclaiming him (1 Corinthians 11:26) or siding with his murderers in shaming him (see also Hebrews 6:6).
To celebrate the supper in an unworthy manner
is to celebrate it without regard for its meaning (see also 1 Corinthians 11:29) or for Christ’s holiness. Those who partake in the supper should do so because they know themselves to be in need of Christ, not simply because they want food and drink.
27 Whoever, therefore, eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty concerning the body and blood of the Lord.