The Communion Truce: Book Launch
Can’t we all just get along?
Christians everywhere recognize the value of Holy Communion as a reminder of what Jesus has done. But author Timothy Shorey believes Jesus intends the meal to do more than simply remind. In these divisive and rancorous days—and as we see the Day of the Lord approaching—The Communion Truce helps us understand that participating in Communion is not for when every believer gets along and shares everything in common, but for when we don’t—so that, by the power of the gospel, we can.
Endorsements
“The church is fractured. Partisan, racial, and cultural divisions in the broader society spill over into the pews. We long for unity and reconciliation, but it sometimes feels unachievable. What if a major tool in the pursuit of church unity is an old practice we perilously neglect? In his short but supremely helpful book, The Communion Truce, Tim Shorey makes the compelling case that the Lord’s Supper—reverently approached and regularly practiced—has great unifying potential for our divided congregations. If communion isn’t already part of your weekly worship rhythms at church, this book will probably convince you to make it so!”
Brett McCracken, senior editor, The Gospel Coalition; author, The Wisdom Pyramid
“Christians share the sacrament of communion in remembrance of Christ giving his body and blood for us. And yet, we tend to forget how his sacrifice isn’t just meant to reconcile us to God but to one another. The Communion Truce is a thought-provoking look at the peace-making purposes and promises of communion. For the church to enjoy the fullness of its blessing, we need to take it more seriously. This little book has a big punch and compelled me to pause in prayer, reflection, and confession as I read—I believe it will do the same for you.”
Amy DiMarcangelo, author, A Hunger for More and Go and Do Likewise
“The Communion Truce is an encouraging reflection on the sweet seriousness of the Lord’s Table. With such a rich ordinance, we can scarcely think too much on its meaning. To that end, Tim has served the church well in this short, edifying book. May we all grow in taking the supper of the Lord in a manner increasingly worthy of him.”
Brian Davis, Church Planter, Exalting Christ Church
“What if we had something that helped divided church members come together? A practice that facilitated brotherly love across ideological aisles? Seasoned Pastor Tim Shorey guides us to the ancient practice of discovering the ‘patch of peace’ Christ has secured—contemplating our sins and sorrows before taking communion in order to reconcile with one another. Here is a glimpse into practicing Jesus’ intention in our coming to his table. Tim has provided us a timely, practical, relationally healing, Christ-adorning way to cultivate peace in the church. Clearly written, thoroughly biblical, and inspiring in its vision, The Communion Truce deserves wide and deep application in our churches.”
Jonathan K. Dodson, founding pastor of City Life Church, author of Gospel-Centered Discipleship, Our Good Crisis and The Unwavering Pastor, founder of Gospel-Centered Discipleship ministry
“I was both inspired and convicted by The Communion Truce. For a short read, Tim powerfully draws the reader back to the power of Holy Communion as a vehicle for uniting believers. I was particularly convicted about what communion has become in my own church since COVID radically altered how and when we partake of the sacred elements. Now a brief ‘tag on’ to our services, tarnished by some unspoken embarrassment at the sealed cracker and pop-top juice—this at a time when like so many congregations we are navigating the many disagreements that threaten our love for each other and the fulfillment of our Gospel mandate—The Communion Truce has inspired me to recover the centrality of the Agape Feast in our gatherings. I pray that Tim’s call to return to this gift, passed down from our Lord, will bring our churches back from division to radical love and unity.”
Tom Sparling, founding and lead pastor, The Journey Community Church (Worcester, MA)
“Jesus made peace through the blood of the cross, though anger, hatred, bitterness, and rejection were thrown at him. So peacemaking should be our first resort, not our last pursuit. This is what Tim Shorey speaks of in this book that is more than just a primer on communion. Every believer should read and apply this! Peace is to be in every part of our lives as followers of Jesus. And the Lord’s Table (not our table!) reminds us that we truly have peace through what we prepare for and remember at the Lord’s Table. Tim Shorey gives us the framework to do just that.”
Joe Dukes, Vice-President of Personnel for Bible Centered Ministries International
Table of Contents
Preface i
Introduction: Irreconcilable Differences 1
1. War and Peace in the Church 11
2. The Communion Truce 21
3. A Sobriety Check 33
4. A Test Case and a Korean Pentecost 43
5. Let Us Break Bread Together 53
Postscript 61
Appendix: Church History References to the Peace-Making Role of Holy Communion 65
About the Author
Tim Shorey is married to Gayline, his wife of 44 years, and has six grown children and 14 grandchildren. After over forty years of pastoral ministry, he recently retired from Risen Hope Church, in Delaware County, Pennsylvania. Among his books are Respect the Image: Reflecting Human Worth in How We Listen and Talk; 30/30 Hindsight: 30 Reflections on a 30-Year Headache; and his recently released, award-winning An ABC Prayer to Jesus: Praise for Hearts Both Young and Old. To find out more, visit timothyshorey.com.