Understanding Communion
Chris Cahill · 4 min read · First published 2024-10-27
Communion, also known as the Lord's Supper, is a powerful practice that holds great significance in the life of a believer. It’s more than just a ritual; it’s a sacred moment of connection with Jesus and a celebration of the new covenant established through His sacrifice. Here, we will explore the Last Supper, the symbolism of the bread and wine, and the how and why of taking communion.
The Last Supper and Jesus' Command
The Last Supper was a significant event in Jesus’ life. It was the final meal He shared with His disciples before His crucifixion. During this meal, He instituted the practice of communion, providing His followers with a tangible way to remember His sacrifice.
"And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying, 'This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.' In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, 'This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.'" — Luke 22:19-20
In these moments, Jesus commanded His disciples to continue this practice as a way to remember Him and the incredible love He demonstrated through His death and resurrection. Each time we participate in communion, we are obeying this command, drawing closer to Jesus, and affirming our faith in His redemptive work.
Symbolism of the Bread and Wine
The elements of communion—the bread and the wine (or juice)—carry deep symbolism. The bread represents the body of Christ, which was broken for us. It serves as a reminder of the physical suffering He endured on the cross for our sins.
"He was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed." — Isaiah 53:5
The wine symbolizes the blood of Christ, which was shed for the forgiveness of our sins. In the Old Testament, blood was a powerful symbol of atonement, representing the price paid for sin. Jesus’ blood establishes a new covenant, assuring us of our relationship with God through faith.
"In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace." — Ephesians 1:7
When we take communion, we are reminded of the sacrifice Jesus made for us. It is a moment to reflect on His love, grace, and the new life we have in Him.
How and Why We Take Communion
Communion can be taken in various settings, such as during a church service, in small groups, or even at home with family. While the specifics may vary, the essence of communion remains the same: to remember Jesus and what He has done for us.
Preparation: Before taking communion, it’s important to examine your heart. Paul advises us in 1 Corinthians 11:28 to examine ourselves to ensure we approach the table with reverence and a right relationship with God and others. This is a time to confess any sin and seek forgiveness.
"Everyone ought to examine themselves before they eat of the bread and drink from the cup." — 1 Corinthians 11:28
2. Participation: When you partake in communion, do so with a heart full of gratitude. Reflect on the meaning of the bread and wine as you eat and drink. This is a sacred moment, where you connect with Christ and the community of believers around you.
"Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song." — Psalm 95:2
As you engage in this act of worship, remember that you are participating in a divine moment, honoring Jesus’ sacrifice and affirming your unity with fellow believers. Embrace the opportunity to express your thankfulness for the grace and mercy extended to you through Christ.
Proclamation: Communion is also a proclamation of faith. When we take communion, we are declaring the truth of Jesus’ death and resurrection. Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 11:26, "For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes."
In taking communion, we not only remember Jesus’ sacrifice, but we also anticipate His return. It’s a powerful reminder of the hope we have in Him.
Carrying this into lifeConclusion
As you embrace the practice of communion, remember that it’s a precious opportunity to grow in your relationship with Christ and to celebrate the community of believers. Each time you partake, reflect on the incredible love and grace that Jesus offers, and let it transform your heart and life.
A Prayer for Understanding Communion
Heavenly Father,Thank You for the incredible gift of communion, a sacred practice that reminds us of the depth of Your love for us. As I reflect on the Last Supper and the symbolism of the bread and wine, help me to truly understand the sacrifice Jesus made for my sins. May this act of remembrance strengthen my faith and draw me closer to You. I pray for a heart that is prepared and grateful as I partake in communion, and that I may proclaim Your death and resurrection until You come again.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
As we keep reading, may wisdom help us distinguish the passage from our interpretation, unity keep the conversation open, and grace shape the way we treat one another.
Wisdom · Unity · Grace
