It is shown by these words: "Given and shed for you, for the remission of sins;" namely, that in the sacrament forgiveness of sins, life, and salvation are given us through these words. For where there is forgiveness of sins, there is also life and salvation. _368. But does not the believer have the forgiveness of sins before he partakes of the Lord's Supper?_ Yes; the believer has the forgiveness of sins through Baptism and the Word. _369. How, then, can the forgiveness of sins in a particular sense be connected with this sacrament?_ Because in the Lord's Supper we receive the body and blood of Christ, which were offered up for us, as a sure pledge of the forgiveness of sins. _370. In what way does the believer get life and salvation through this sacrament?_ Through this sacrament the believer is brought into spiritual fellowship with his Lord and Savior, who imparts Himself to him and thus preserves and strengthens him in faith, hope, and love unto eternal life. =John 6: 56. He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him.= _371. Does not the sacrament of the Lord's Supper also bring about a more intimate fellowship between believers?_ Yes; believers are united in a closer fellowship through partaking in common of the Lord Jesus and eternal life in Him. =1 Cor. 10:17. For we being many are one bread, and one body: for we are all partakers of that one bread.= _372. How can bodily eating and drinking do such great things?_ It is not the eating and drinking, indeed, that does it, but the words which stand here: "Given and shed for you, for the remission of sins." These words, together with the bodily eating and drinking, are the chief thing in the sacrament; and He that believes these words, has what they say and mean, namely, the forgiveness of sins. _373. Is it of little importance how we receive the Lord's Supper?_ By no means; we must be prepared when we go to partake of these gifts. It is much worse to go to the Lord's Supper unprepared and unworthily than not to go at all. _374. Who, then, receive this sacrament worthily?_ Fasting and bodily preparation are indeed a good outward practise; But he alone is truly worthy and well prepared, who believes these words: "Given and shed for you, for the remission of sins." But he who believes not these words is unworthy and unprepared. The words, "=for you=" require truly believing hearts. _375. Who, then, is rightly prepared to partake of the Lord's Supper?_ He who believes these words: "Given and shed for you, for the remission of sins." _376. What is meant by "believing" these words?_ Thereby is meant that we heartily feel our sin and unworthiness before God, but also that we confidently accept for ourselves the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. _377. Who partake of the Lord's Supper unworthily?_