Let the Word Dwell in You Richly

The command to let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly is, as we have seen, a reference to the Word of God, the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments. Yet the command also instructs us concerning the proper reception of the bread and the wine spread before us. The Reformers, particularly Calvin, were found of describing the sacraments as God’s “visible words.” For, whether in the waters of Baptism, or the bread and wine of the Lord’s Table, God’s saving promises are central to the actions performed. In eating the bread and drinking the cup you are receiving God’s promise of covenantal union and communion with Him. Let this promissory Word dwell, or take up residence in you! Conduct your life and maintain your heart in such a way that Christ will be at home in the tent of your body. And let His dwelling in and among you by Word and Sacrament be rich and full, abounding in joy! How will you know if Christ’s sacramental dwelling within and among you is full and rich? Just like we saw in verse 16, you will sing with grace in your hearts to God. A people of whose sacramental reception of Christ is rich will be a joyful people, and joyful people sing! This is not a funeral service. Though the bread and the wine are emblems of death, his body broken and blood shed; they are for us who believe in Jesus Christ, emblems of life and blessing. So as you feed upon the body and blood of Christ by faith, sing out with all your heart. You are feeding upon the means of your salvation. Death has been defeated and this Table is but the foretaste of great feast we will enjoy beyond the grave. And as you sing out you instruct and admonish one another with these truths. That reminds us that this is a corporate event. We are gathered here as God’s chosen people, holy and beloved. Come then, this Table is spread for you!