Communion, also known as the Lord’s Supper or Eucharist, is a sacred ritual in Christian tradition. At its core, it commemorates Jesus’ Last Supper with His disciples before His crucifixion. The Bible teaches that during this meal, Jesus took bread and wine, representing His body and blood, and shared them with His followers. By doing so, He established a new covenant between God and mankind, symbolizing forgiveness of sin through His sacrifice. This act serves as a profound reminder for believers of Jesus’ love and the salvation He offers.
Want to know more about the significance, rituals, and God’s view on Communion? Dive in below!
What Does the Bible Say About Communion?
Communion is deeply rooted in the New Testament and serves as an essential component of Christian worship. This ritual signifies a believer’s relationship with Jesus and reminds them of His sacrifice for humanity’s sins. While the bread and wine are symbolic, the underlying message is profound: the grace and redemption offered by God.
Jesus, during the Last Supper, introduced Communion to His disciples. He broke the bread, signifying His body, and poured the wine, symbolizing His blood shed for the forgiveness of sins. This action wasn’t just a casual meal but a profound moment establishing a new relationship with God. Jesus wanted His followers to remember Him, His teachings, and the significance of His sacrifice every time they partook in the ritual.
Over time, various Christian denominations have interpreted Communion differently. Some view it as a symbolic act, while others believe in the real presence of Jesus in the elements. Regardless of these differences, the central theme remains consistent: Communion is a time for self-reflection, repentance, and renewing one’s commitment to God.
When considering God’s view on Communion, it’s evident that it serves as a direct reminder of the new covenant made between God and man. It’s an opportunity for believers to come together, remember Jesus’ sacrifice, and reaffirm their commitment to live according to God’s will.
Bible Verses About Communion
- 1 Corinthians 11:24-25 – “And when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, ‘This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me.’ In the same way, after supper he took the cup, saying, ‘This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me.'” Interpretation: These verses capture the essence of Communion. Jesus emphasizes the importance of remembering His sacrifice and the new covenant it symbolizes.
- Luke 22:19-20 – “And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, ‘This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.’ Similarly, after the supper he took the cup, saying, ‘This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.'” Interpretation: Luke reiterates the significance of Communion, highlighting the importance of recognizing the sacrifice and what it means for believers.
- John 6:53-56 – “Jesus said to them, ‘Very truly I tell you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you. Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise them up at the last day. For my flesh is real food and my blood is real drink. Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me, and I in them.'” Interpretation: While this passage can sound graphic, it underscores the deep spiritual connection between Jesus and believers. Communion isn’t just a ritual but a means to maintain a profound relationship with Christ.
- Acts 2:42 – “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” Interpretation: Early Christians prioritized Communion, showcasing its importance in maintaining community and faithfulness to Jesus’ teachings.