Communion, also known as the Eucharist or the Lord’s Supper, is a foundational practice in the Christian faith. Rooted in the Last Supper that Jesus shared with His disciples, it is a sacred observance that embodies remembrance, community, and the sharing of grace. When we participate in communion, we partake of bread and wine—symbols of the body and blood of Christ. This ritual is more than a mere tradition; it is an act of worship and fellowship, affirming our connection to the church, the body of Christ.
Our understanding of communion is deepened through the exploration of biblical passages. In the New Testament, Jesus establishes this practice, instructing His followers to continue it in remembrance of Him. The Apostle Paul further expounds on its importance, encouraging believers to approach the table with reverence and self-examination. Through these scriptures, we gain insight into the theological significance of communion, acknowledging its role as a testament to Jesus’ sacrifice and a proclamation of His death until He returns.
Key Takeaways
- Communion reflects remembrance, community, and the grace found in Jesus’ sacrifice.
- Scriptures guide our practice and understanding of the Eucharist.
- Proper observance requires reverence and self-examination by participants.
Biblical Foundations of Communion
Communion, a central element of Christian worship, finds its foundation in Scripture, with key moments in the New Testament detailing its institution by Jesus and its practice by the early church.
Institution of the Lord’s Supper
The Lord’s Supper was established by Jesus during the Passover meal. In the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, accounts describe Jesus taking bread, giving thanks, and offering it to His disciples, saying, “This is my body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of me.” Likewise, the cup after supper, He declared, represented the new covenant in His blood. These actions were performed on the eve of His sacrifice, establishing a continuous remembrance for His followers.
- Matthew 26:26: Jesus institutes the Communion.
- Mark 14:22-25: He identifies the bread and wine with His body and blood.
- Luke 22:19-20: Communion is linked to the new covenant.
Jesus’ Teachings on Communion
Jesus’ teachings underscore the Communion as a symbolic act of remembrance of His sacrifice. When we partake in the bread and wine, we are called to remember His body and blood, offered on the cross. This remembrance is not merely a mental recall of Jesus’ death but an invitation into the unity of the body of Christ—where we, as believers, are brought together in His name.
- Luke 22:19: “Do this in remembrance of me” emphasizes memory and reflection.
- 1 Corinthians 11:24-25: Affirms the Communion practices and their significance in the early church.
Old Testament Foreshadowing
The roots of Communion extend back to the Old Testament, where the Passover meal and sacrificial practices foreshadowed the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus. The breaking of bread and the pouring of wine would take on a profound new meaning in light of the new covenant established by Jesus’ sacrifice. The blood of Christ ushers in a new era, fulfilling the promises and types laid down in the earlier covenant.
- Passover: An anticipatory symbol of Jesus as the sacrificial lamb.
- Blood of Christ: Establishes the new covenant, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies.
Theological Significance
As we explore the theological significance of communion, we recognize it as a sacrament anchored in the death of Jesus Christ, a testament to the New Covenant, and a profound mystery of faith. Through communion, we remember Christ’s sacrifice and proclaim His death until He returns.
Remembrance and Proclamation
“Do this in remembrance of me.” These words from Jesus during the Last Supper are a directive to recall and proclaim His sacrificial death. In 1 Corinthians 11:26, we are instructed that each time we partake in taking the bread and wine, we are announcing the Lord’s death. This ongoing remembrance aligns us with the Passover, where blood signified deliverance and preservation of life.
Communion as a Covenant
Communion binds us in a covenant relationship with Jesus Christ, symbolizing blood shed for the forgiveness of sins, just as Isaiah 53:5 details the suffering servant. Entering into this covenant extends not only grace but also a compelling call to live in fellowship with Christ and one another, mirroring the early believers as stated in Acts 2:42.
The Mystery of Faith
This sacrament encompasses the mystery of faith, inviting believers to partake in the body and blood of Christ. The Eucharist defies human logic, as the bread and wine become a means of grace and a spiritual nourishment. Our faith hinges on this divine mystery, strengthening our union with Christ and each other.
Practices and Observations
As we explore the practices and observations surrounding Communion, it’s imperative to consider how often it occurs, what is used during the sacrament, and the demeanor with which believers partake in it. These facets of Communion are foundational to understanding how this tradition is upheld in the church.
Frequency and Administration
Communion, also known as the Lord’s Supper, varies in frequency among different denominations. Traditionally, Acts 20:7 indicates the early Christians broke bread on the “first day of the week,” which some interpret as a weekly practice. Contemporary churches may observe Communion monthly, quarterly, or annually, each acting on their interpretation of scriptural and doctrinal guidance.
The administration of Communion is often presided over by church leaders. In many traditions, the apostles’ example of breaking bread and sharing wine as established by Jesus is followed. Churches such as the Church of God emphasize the importance of participation in Communion as a communal act, reflecting both fellowship within the church and the covenant with the Father.
Elements Used
- Bread: Symbolizes the body of Christ, as referenced in Matthew 26:26-28. Often unleavened to reflect the Passover meal.
- Wine/Cup: Represents the blood of Christ, poured out for the forgiveness of sins. Some churches may use grape juice as an alternative, recognizing it as the fruit of the vine.
The choice of elements holds significant meaning, reinforcing the remembrance of Jesus’ sacrificial act and believers’ unity with Him and one another.
Posture and Attitude During Communion
Our posture and attitude during Communion can vary, yet what remains vital is the reverence and introspection with which we approach this sacred observance. Scripture provides us with specific instances of Jesus’ conduct during the Last Supper:
- Luke 22:19: Jesus gave thanks before breaking the bread, teaching us to approach Communion with gratitude.
- John 6:53: Emphasizes the importance of partaking in Communion to maintain a living connection with Christ.
Thus, we approach Communion with solemnity and reverence, conscious of its significance as a reminder of our covenant with God, through the body and blood of Christ.
Personal Examination and Community
In preparing for Communion, we must approach with a heart of self-reflection and acknowledge the profound communal aspect it embodies. This sacrament isn’t just a personal act; it connects us to the larger body of Christ.
Self-Examination Before Communion
“But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of the bread and drink of the cup.” (1 Corinthians 11:28). Before participating in Communion, it is essential that we conduct a personal examination to avoid partaking in an unworthy manner. This self-examination is a silent introspection where we assess our actions and confess our sins to be in a worthy state to receive Communion.
- Confess sins: Acknowledge and seek forgiveness for our wrongdoings.
- Discern the body: Understand the significance of the bread and wine as symbols of the body and blood of Christ.
Notably, failing to do so may result in being guilty concerning the body and blood of the Lord (1 Corinthians 11:27). Therefore, personal examination is crucial in avoiding judgment and the subsequent repercussions that come with irreverently receiving Communion, which can include becoming spiritually weak, ill, or even facing death.
Role of Communion in the Church Community
Communion also plays a vital role in the life of the church community, fostering unity among believers. “For we, being many, are one bread, and one body: for we are all partakers of that one bread.” (1 Corinthians 10:17). Communion transcends individual participation; it is a corporate act that unites us as one body in Christ.
- Foster unity: Help reduce divisions and build a cohesive community.
- Shared remembrance: Collectively remember the sacrifice of Jesus as the foundation of our faith.
Through Communion, we not only examine our own hearts but also recognize our place within the church community. It requires us to be mindful of others, ensuring that no one is left hungry or feels excluded. We must seek to avoid divisions, and not partake in a manner where some are left feeling metaphorically ‘drunk’ and others ‘hungry’ or ‘sick’ within the congregation, emphasizing the importance of discernment and shared respect.
Common Misconceptions and Clarifications
Throughout our experience with communion, certain misconceptions have surfaced that merit a clear explanation to enhance our understanding. We’ll address these within the topic of communion as presented in the Scriptures.
Body and Blood: When Jesus spoke of His body and blood, many have taken this literally, yet the ritual is symbolic. The bread and wine are elements representing the body and blood of Christ.
Symbolic Nature: A common misconception is that the act of communion itself imparts grace or eternal life directly. In truth, communion serves as a symbolic reminder of Christ’s sacrifice and is a means of grace when paired with genuine faith.
Frequency of Communion: The Bible does not prescribe an exact frequency for taking communion. In Acts, the early church was said to break bread regularly, suggesting a consistent practice rather than a strict schedule.
| Misunderstood Aspect | Clarification |
|---|---|
| Literal vs Symbolic | Bread and wine symbolize Jesus’ body and blood, not a literal transformation. |
| Salvation through Communion | Communion is an act of remembrance and faith, not a transaction for salvation. |
| Frequency | The Bible encourages regular communion but does not define a set interval. |
2 Corinthians 13:14 and Communal Aspects: While some may overlook it, communion is a communal act; as implied in 2 Corinthians 13:14, it is a shared moment of grace, love, and fellowship with the Holy Spirit among believers.
Spiritual Warfare: Some interpret scriptures to suggest communion can ward off demons or evil. This is not the primary purpose; however, communion is an affirmation of our unity with Christ and a declaration of His victory over sin and death.
Eternal Significance: Finally, some might miss the forward-looking aspect of communion. As stated in Revelation, it not only looks back to the cross but also forward to the heavenly banquet table where believers will feast with Christ in eternity.
In summary, our understanding of communion is enriched when we clarify these points—seeing it as a symbolic, communal, and hope-filled ordinance designed to deepen our relationship with Christ and each other.