Though the Old Law was a mere shadow of the New Covenant (Hebrews 10:1), we know that the Old Testament Scriptures were written for our learning (Romans 15:4), and that the things that happened to Israel serve as examples for our admonition. (1 Corinthians 10:11).

We can learn from the account of King Saul sparing Agag and the choice livestock of the Amelekites that which may seem to man to be a mere minor infraction of the law is viewed in the eyes of God as rebellion (1 Samuel 15:1-29).

Consider the severity of punishment for disregarding the Sabbath under the Old Testament Law. A man was found guilty of picking up sticks on the Sabbath, most probably for fire wood, but regardless of the purpose of his act, God commanded that he be stoned to death, and thus it was done. (Numbers 15: 32-36). Hebrews 10:28-29 reminds us that rejection of the Old Law resulted in death without mercy, and the question is asked, “Of how much worse punishment do you suppose, will he be thought worthy who has trampled the Son of God underfoot, counted the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified a common thing, and insulted the spirit of grace?”

Having so said, let us consider the importance of strict observance of what the Scriptures teach concerning the Lord’s Supper. A key verse regarding this subject is Acts 20:7. The early church met on the first day of the week “to break bread.” This memorial service seems to have been the focus of the Lord’s Day meeting. The practice had the sanction of the apostles. Paul was present at the above meeting. Acts 2:42 tells us that “They (the early Christians) continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers.”

Some men will argue, “But the Scripture does not say that they had the Lord’s Supper every first day of the week.” Think again concerning the Old Testament law of the Sabbath. God said, “Remember the Sabbath Day to keep it holy.” (Exodus 20:8). Did God mean just one Sabbath Day? Or just one Sabbath Day every three or four months? Or just an occasional Sabbath Day that men may choose? God expected every Sabbath to be observed, and in like manner, we can be assured that God expects the church to observe the Lord’s Supper every first day of the week.

It is a memorial service that the Lord Himself instituted the night before His crucifixion, and He commanded, “Do this in remembrance of Me.” (Luke 22:19). If there is ever a time to concentrate, to focus our minds, and think, surely it is as we eat the bread and drink the fruit of the vine in remembrance of the Lord’s agonizing death on the cross to make possible our redemption. He died for our sins. We should humble ourselves, recognizing our unworthiness, and truly worship. Without proper reverence, we can be insulting to God and jeopardize our souls. (1 Corinthians 11:29).

In view of these Scriptures, we must conclude that God has ordained that the church reverently observe the Lord’s Supper the first day of each week. To disregard His will can mean tragedy to our souls!