Introduction to Communion
Communion involves the sharing of bread and wine, symbolizing the body and blood of Jesus Christ. This observance not only commemorates the ultimate sacrifice Jesus made on the cross but also fosters a sense of unity among believers. Through this act, participants reflect on the depth of God’s love, the reality of forgiveness, and the bond that ties the church together as one body.
In the New Testament, Jesus instituted this practice during the Last Supper, a moment laden with significance as He prepared His disciples for His impending death. The elements—bread and wine—are not mere food items but carry deep symbolic weight. The bread represents the broken body of Christ, given for humanity’s redemption, while the wine signifies the blood shed for the remission of sins. This sacrament invites believers to pause, examine their hearts, and renew their commitment to following Christ.
As we explore this doctrine, we will delve into its biblical foundations, theological meanings, practical observances, and implications for daily Christian living. By understanding communion, believers can appreciate how it points to the heart of the gospel: Christ’s atoning work and the communal life it inspires.
Biblical Foundations of Communion
The practice of communion finds its roots directly in the teachings and actions of Jesus Christ, as recorded in the Scriptures. Several key passages outline its institution and purpose, providing a clear framework for its observance.
One primary account appears in the Gospel of Matthew, where Jesus gathers with His disciples for the Passover meal. During this time, He takes bread, blesses it, breaks it, and gives it to them, saying,
Take, eat; this is my body.
Matthew 26:26
He then takes the cup, gives thanks, and offers it to them, declaring,
Drink ye all of it; For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.
Matthew 26:27-28
This moment establishes communion as a memorial of His sacrifice, linking it to the new covenant promised in the prophets.
The other synoptic Gospels also contain similar narratives. In Mark, Jesus emphasizes the covenantal aspect:
This is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many.
Mark 14:24
Luke adds a command for ongoing remembrance:
This do in remembrance of me.
Luke 22:19
These instructions underscore that communion is not a one-time event but a repeated ordinance meant to keep the memory of Christ’s death alive in the community of faith.
The Apostle Paul further elaborates on this in his first letter to the Corinthians. He recounts the institution, stating,
The Lord Jesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread: And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me. After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me.
1 Corinthians 11:23-25
Paul stresses the memorial nature, warning that participants must discern the body of the Lord to avoid partaking unworthily (1 Corinthians 11:27-29).
Beyond the institution, the Old Testament provides foreshadowing. The Passover lamb, whose blood protected the Israelites from judgment (Exodus 12:13), prefigures Christ’s sacrificial death. Jesus Himself is called “our passover” who “is sacrificed for us” (1 Corinthians 5:7), connecting the ancient ritual to the new sacrament.
These scriptural references form the bedrock of the doctrine, ensuring that communion remains grounded in divine revelation rather than human invention.
The Symbolic Meaning of the Elements
At the heart of communion lies its symbolic representation. The bread and wine don’t change into something else; they are emblems that point to deeper spiritual truths.
- The Bread as Christ’s Body: The breaking of the bread symbolizes the suffering and death of Jesus. Isaiah prophesied of the Messiah: “He was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed” (Isaiah 53:5).
In communion, believers remember that Christ’s body was given freely for their sake, as He declared, “I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world” (John 6:51). - The Wine as Christ’s Blood: The pouring of the wine represents the shedding of blood necessary for atonement. The book of Hebrews explains, “Without shedding of blood is no remission” (Hebrews 9:22). Jesus’ words affirm this: “This cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you” (Luke 22:20). This element reminds participants of the covenant sealed by His death, offering forgiveness and reconciliation with God.
These symbols are not magical but instructional, designed to stir faith and gratitude. They invite introspection, as Paul urges:
Let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup.
1 Corinthians 11:28
Through this self-examination, believers confront their sin and rejoice in the grace that covers it.
Moreover, the act of sharing these elements highlights the unity of the church. Paul writes,
The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ? For we being many are one bread, and one body: for we are all partakers of that one bread.
1 Corinthians 10:16-17
Here, communion illustrates the interconnectedness of believers, bound together in Christ.
The Purpose and Benefits of Observing Communion
Communion serves multiple purposes, each contributing to the spiritual health of individuals and the church as a whole.
First, it is a proclamation of the gospel. Paul states,
“For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord’s death till he come.
1 Corinthians 11:26
Each observance declares the reality of Christ’s crucifixion and anticipates His return, keeping the hope of resurrection alive.
Second, it promotes unity among believers. In a divided world, communion reminds the church of its shared identity. Ephesians describes the church as
One body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all.
Ephesians 4:4-6
By partaking together, differences fade, and the bond of love strengthens.
Third, it fosters personal renewal. As participants remember Christ’s sacrifice, they are drawn to repentance and faith. The Psalmist captures this spirit:
Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases.
Psalm 103:2-3
Communion encourages believers to lay aside sin and pursue holiness.
Additionally, it points to the future kingdom. Jesus hinted at this:
I will not drink henceforth of this fruit of the vine, until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom.
Matthew 26:29
Thus, each observance is a foretaste of the heavenly banquet, fueling eschatological hope.
Practical Observance in the Church
How communion is practiced varies, but scriptural principles guide its administration.
- Frequency: The Bible does not mandate a specific schedule, only “as oft as ye drink it” (1 Corinthians 11:25). Churches may observe it weekly, monthly, or quarterly, ensuring it remains meaningful without becoming rote.
- Participants: It is intended for believers who have professed faith in Christ. Paul warns against unworthy partaking, which could bring judgment (1 Corinthians 11:27-30). Thus, self-examination is crucial, aligning with the call to “try your own selves, whether ye be in the faith” (2 Corinthians 13:5).
- Elements: Bread (often unleavened to recall the Passover) and wine (or grape juice) are used. The focus is on the symbolism, not the substance itself.
- Manner: It should be conducted with reverence. Jesus modeled prayer and thanksgiving, setting a tone of worship. In corporate settings, leaders distribute the elements, often with readings from Scripture to enhance reflection.
Churches must guard against abuses, as seen in Corinth where divisions marred the observance (1 Corinthians 11:18-22). Instead, it should promote equality and love, reflecting Christ’s humility.
Theological Debates and Clarifications
Throughout history, interpretations of communion have sparked debate. Some views suggest the elements change in essence, but the symbolic understanding aligns closely with the biblical emphasis on remembrance.
Jesus’ words “this is my body” are metaphorical, similar to His statements like “I am the door” (John 10:9) or “I am the vine” (John 15:5). The context of a meal supports this figurative language, avoiding literalism that could lead to misunderstanding.
Paul’s concern for discerning the body (1 Corinthians 11:29) refers not only to Christ’s sacrifice but also to the church as His body, emphasizing communal harmony.
This view preserves the sacrament’s power as a means of grace through faith, not inherent in the elements themselves. As believers partake by faith, the Holy Spirit works to confirm assurance and edify the soul.
Communion in Daily Christian Life
The doctrine extends beyond the church service into everyday living. Remembering Christ’s sacrifice should inspire sacrificial love:
Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.
1 John 3:16
It also encourages fellowship. Just as communion unites believers around the table, daily interactions should reflect that unity:
Be ye kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another.
Romans 12:10
Furthermore, it motivates evangelism. Proclaiming the Lord’s death compels sharing the gospel:
Go ye therefore, and teach all nations.
Matthew 28:19
In times of trial, recalling communion brings comfort: “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me” (Psalm 23:4), knowing Christ’s presence through His broken body and shed blood.
Conclusion: Embracing the Depth of Communion
In summary, communion is a sacred ordinance that encapsulates the essence of Christianity. It represents Christ’s sacrifice—His body broken and blood poured out for sin’s forgiveness—and the unity it creates among believers. Grounded in Scripture, it calls for remembrance, examination, and joyful anticipation of Christ’s return.
By observing communion faithfully, believers honor their Savior and strengthen their community. May each participation deepen faith, foster love, and propel the church toward its mission. As the Apostle writes, “Till he come” (1 Corinthians 11:26), let this sacrament sustain and unite us in the truth of the gospel.
Top
Blog
How to Look up Bible Verses
Recommended Reading
Home