When We Meet in Sweet Communion

A Sermon based on the hymn by Tillitt S. Teddlie

Introduction

“When We Meet in Sweet Communion” is a tender and reverent hymn written by Tillitt S. Teddlie, a faithful member of the church of Christ and one of the most beloved hymn writers in our tradition. This song has been sung in countless assemblies as Christians gather around the Lord’s table each Lord’s Day (Acts 20:7). Its message is not only doctrinally rich—it is deeply emotional, reminding us of the sacredness of communion, the unity of the church, and the love of Christ who gave Himself for us.

The hymn draws its message from New Testament teachings such as 1 Corinthians 11:23–29 and Matthew 26:26–30. It emphasizes the Lord’s Supper as a spiritual memorial where we remember the body and blood of Jesus, proclaim His death, and renew our fellowship with one another in Him. The phrase “sweet communion” captures the fellowship shared not just among believers, but between the worshiper and Christ Himself.

More than a ritual, communion is a moment of reflection, unity, and proclamation. It is sacred. It is personal. It is shared. And this hymn teaches us how to approach that moment: with reverence, remembrance, gratitude, and love. As we partake, we must examine our hearts, honor Christ’s sacrifice, and recommit to living in the light of His love.

Stanza 1

“When we meet in sweet communion,
Where the feast divine is spread,
Hearts are brought in closer union
While partaking of the bread.”

This stanza immediately establishes the setting—the Lord’s Supper. The “feast divine” refers to the memorial Jesus instituted with His disciples in Matthew 26:26. As we break the bread, representing His body, we are reminded that communion is not just with bread—it is with the Savior and with one another (1 Corinthians 10:16–17). This sacred meal draws us into “closer union” as members of one body (Ephesians 4:4–6). It’s not merely a tradition—it’s a communion of hearts, held together by love and truth.

Stanza 2

“Precious feast, all else surpassing,
Wondrous love for you and me,
While we feast, Christ gently whispers,
‘Do this in my memory.’”

Here, the Supper is called a “precious feast”—and indeed it is. No other meal compares. The value lies not in the elements themselves, but in what they represent: the wondrous love of Christ who died for us (Romans 5:8). As we eat, the words of Christ echo in our minds: “This do in remembrance of Me” (Luke 22:19). This is not a silent meal. In the quiet of reflection, Christ still speaks—calling us to remember His sacrifice and to let that memory shape our lives. This is how we proclaim His death until He comes again (1 Corinthians 11:26).

Stanza 3

“Feast divine, all else surpassing,
Precious blood for you and me,
While we sup, Christ gently whispers,
‘Do this in my memory.’”

This stanza parallels the second, but now the focus shifts from the bread to the cup—the fruit of the vine, symbolizing Christ’s shed blood (Matthew 26:27–28). It is His blood that purchased the church (Acts 20:28), established the new covenant (Hebrews 9:15), and cleanses us from all sin (1 John 1:7). As we “sup,” we are reminded again of His command to remember. This is not a time to be distracted or casual—it is a holy moment, marked by reverence and awe. We are partaking in memory of the blood that saved us.

When We Meet in Sweet Communion Sermon Outline:

Introduction

Written by Tillitt S. Teddlie, member of the church of Christ
Focus: The Lord’s Supper as taught in the New Testament
A hymn of reverence, unity, and remembrance

Stanza 1 – Closer Union at the Table

The Lord’s Supper was instituted by Christ (Matthew 26:26)
Communion with the body of Christ and with one another (1 Corinthians 10:16–17)
Hearts united through shared remembrance (Ephesians 4:4–6)

Stanza 2 – Remembering His Body

Christ gave His body for us (Luke 22:19)
The Supper proclaims His death and calls us to gratitude (1 Corinthians 11:26)
“Do this in my memory” is Christ’s loving whisper to the soul

Stanza 3 – Remembering His Blood

The cup represents the blood of the covenant (Matthew 26:27–28)
We remember His sacrifice for our sins (1 John 1:7)
A time of reverence and solemnity (1 Corinthians 11:28–29)

Call to Action

As we gather each Lord’s Day, are we partaking with reverence and self-examination? The Lord’s Supper is not a routine—it is a remembrance. If your heart has drifted, return. If you’ve never obeyed the gospel, believe in Christ, repent of your sins, confess His name, and be baptized for the forgiveness of sins (Acts 2:38). Then, each Lord’s Day, come to the table—not just as a spectator, but as a participant in the communion of the saints and the memory of the Savior. “Do this in My memory,” He whispers. Will you listen?

Scripture Reference List

Acts 20:7 – Disciples gathered on the first day of the week to break bread
Matthew 26:26–28 – Jesus institutes the Lord’s Supper
1 Corinthians 10:16–17 – Communion with the body and blood of Christ
Ephesians 4:4–6 – Unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace
Luke 22:19 – “Do this in remembrance of Me”
1 Corinthians 11:23–29 – Instructions and warnings regarding the Lord’s Supper
Romans 5:8 – God demonstrates His love in Christ’s death
Acts 20:28 – Church purchased with His blood
Hebrews 9:15 – Christ is mediator of the new covenant
1 John 1:7 – The blood of Jesus cleanses us from sin
Acts 2:38 – Repent and be baptized for the forgiveness of sins

Song History

Tillitt S. Teddlie (1885–1987), a devoted member of the church of Christ, composed “When We Meet in Sweet Communion” to enhance the reverence and meaning of the Lord’s Supper. Teddlie was a prolific hymn writer, music teacher, and preacher. His works are known for theological depth and lyrical beauty, especially among congregations that sing a cappella. This hymn remains a standard in church of Christ hymnals and continues to prepare worshipers to remember the death of Christ with focus and gratitude. It teaches, exhorts, and honors the heart of the Christian faith—the cross.

Prepared by David Hersey of the church of Christ at Granby, MO