Getting a Spiritual Self-Exam

Getting a Spiritual Self-Exam

July 31, 2015 Year B

1 Corinthians 11:27-34

On a regular basis (usually yearly), one goes to the doctor for what is called a physical. One goes to get “a physical.” A medical professional examines your eyes, ears, nose, and throat. S/He looks over your entire body. S/He tests your heart and your blood. S/He does a variety of tests to see how your body is functioning. When everything is ok, you are given a “clean bill of health.” When something is abnormal, then the doctor advises you to get that checked.

Paul is performing the actions of a doctor during a physical here in these verses. He is writing to a group of people, reminding them how to take communion. After he instructs the congregation how to take communion, he warns them like a doctor.

In this case, he is advising them to take a self-exam. But in this case, it is spiritual, not physical. Here is his checklist:

1. Check for unworthiness when you take Communion (1 Corinthians 11:27).

2. Check to make sure you are taking this meal for the right purpose (1 Corinthians 11:28).

3. Observe where you fit into the Body of Christ to make sure nothing is abnormal. If there is something abnormal, watch out for problems later (1 Corinthians 11:29-30).

4. Remind yourself to get regular check-ups (1 Corinthians 11:31).

5. If there are problems, go see a specialist (1 Corinthians 11:32).

6. Be patient while you wait in the waiting room before you have your examination (1 Corinthians 11:33).

7. Eat a full meal before you come (1 Corinthians 11:34).

Unlike other physical examinations, a spiritual exam requires that you have filled your body before you check your spirit. This is in contrast to fasting when one denies the body so that the spirit can listen. Fasting serves a specific purpose of focusing on nature of God’s will and direction in your life. A spiritual self-exam’s purpose is to check to see if you are obeying God’s ways in your life.

Prayer: God, please help me be reminded of taking a spiritual self-examination from time to time. I need to keep myself spiritually fit. Thank You for Your special work on the cross which healed me from my sins.