“A chip and a sip” is a derisive term for the manner in which many in churches of Christ eat the Lord's Supper. Not content with a personal decision to choose larger portions, some feel the need ridicule those who take smaller portions. This is a non-prejudicial look at the Lord's Supper and the tradition set forth in the Bible.

First, all that really matters is what the Bible teaches about it. Personal preference has no place in our decision about the order or make up of the Lord’s Supper. Jesus instituted it on the night before His betrayal and Paul sealed the pattern in 1 Corinthians 11:17-34. Instituted during Passover Jesus used unleavened bread and wine (heavily diluted). The order was a piece of bread first, followed by a drink of wine. Portion size was not discussed, so whether one takes small or large portions is entirely irrelevant.

Second, we must examine our hearts to see if our attitude is right before God and take the Lord’s Supper with a clean heart (1 Corinthians 11:28-29). One can’t have a good attitude (spirit, heart) but do it the wrong way. Our attitude won’t excuse rejection of the divine pattern. Since the Bible is explicit about how the Lord's Supper is to be eaten one cannot choose to do it a different way and have the right attitude. Rebellion against God’s will is never OK!

Finally, there are times when portion size can be a problem. One is if we judge another’s heart based on the size of their portion. Another is if we turn the Communion into a common feast. Paul’s teaching started as a rebuke for their making it a common meal (v 17) and ended by telling them to eat those at home (v 34). The Lord’s Supper is about the Lord. Let’s not make it about us.