Self-denial accompanies obedience of every kind, which is why Christianity without self-denial is impossible. Biblical commands are almost always 180 degrees opposite of our natural way of doing things (Tim LaHaye). How true! “There is a way which seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death” (Prov 14:12). Every area of obedience Scripture calls for requires self-denial. No wonder Charles Spurgeon offered this observation, “Superficial religion will always be fashionable because it does not require self-denial.”

Propitiation through Christ’s death is the quenching of God's wrath. Christ’s atoning sacrifice upholds and satisfies God’s righteous justice (Rom 3:24-26). Our Lord’s work of propitiation is the capstone of redemption. And as J. I. Packer states, propitiation is the mountain peak from which we scan the entire landscape of Holy Scripture. The satisfaction of divine justice on Calvary yields a love relationship to the God of the universe (2 Cor 5:18-21). This is the theme and message which permeates the Lord's table. Thus, the believer's meditation as he partakes of the elements symbolizing Christ's flesh and blood ought to turn to the reality of the propitiation Christ has wrought. Here is how one may reflect.