The final moment of the divine service: we hear the familiar words, and then everyone goes their separate ways. However, the benediction is much more than just a liturgical exhalation.
In a pastoral later featured in the latest edition of community, the Chief Apostle reminds us of the profound significance of this blessing. It is based on the words in 2 Corinthians 13: 14: “The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all.”
More than a devout formula
Superficially, the benediction seems like a good wish expressed at the time of parting, as though the officiant were wishing the congregation a safe journey home. However, this blessing is not a human courtesy, but a divine act.
Pronounced by a minister mandated by God for this purpose, these words constitute a true blessing. It is God Himself who speaks to the congregation and promises His enduring presence.
This promise applies to all who hear the blessing, including those who pronounce it. But, as with every blessing, its effect is not automatic. It requires a response, namely faith and conduct that is guided by God’s will. The benediction is therefore both a promise and an exhortation.
From the midst of the Trinity
The benediction is Trinitarian in nature. It makes reference to God the Father, to Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit, reminding us that God is the One but that His actions are always the actions of three persons. They do not have separate competencies, but are inextricably linked and act together. Grace, love, and communion cannot therefore be strictly divided between them.
Carried despite imperfection
First and foremost is grace. It reminds us that a life of faith is not based on performance. God chose human beings, made them His children, and granted them forgiveness. God reaffirms this promise with the benediction.
But this guarantee also requires that we take responsibility. Those who live under grace remain humble before God and before human beings. They strive to live as children of God and to use the gifts they have received to serve others.
Both goal and motivation
Before the congregation parts and leaves the church, God once again declares His love. Everything He does is aimed at enabling us to be with Him forever. He removes obstacles from our path, offers guidance, and gives us what is necessary for salvation.
This love seeks a response. God asks us to keep His commandments out of love, to serve Him out of love, and to see our neighbour through God’s lens.
We are not alone
The third part of the benediction opens our eyes to the enduring presence of God. The Holy Spirit is active in the hearts of the believers. He brings God’s word to life, comforts, strengthens, and shows the way. God promises that He will continue to speak to us in the sermon and in our conscience, our quiet inner voice.
Communion with Christ goes hand in hand with His suffering. Affliction and misery are part of our life of faith, but the benediction assures us that we are not alone. God hears our prayers, and if words fail us the Holy Spirit will make intercession for us.
And finally, this communion is also a fellowship of love. The Holy Spirit enables us to accept others just as they are, not as we would like them to be.
Communion that becomes visible
The final benediction also directs our attention to the church as a whole. The Holy Spirit will continue to be effective in it. Nothing will prevent the Holy Spirit from leading the bride into perfect fellowship with Christ. This promise takes away fear and imparts confidence.
And finally, the benediction reminds us that communion with God is inseparable from communion with one another. All believers have the same Spirit, the same faith, and the same hope. We all receive the same word and the same bread. And God asks us to overcome our differences and to actively contribute to unity.
Photo: Md – stock.adobe.com