Communion, also known as the Lord’s Supper, is a profound ordinance that reflects the essence of Christian faith. Instituted by Jesus Christ Himself, it holds deep meaning and spiritual significance. To grasp the true purpose of communion, we must explore its origins, scriptural teachings, and dispel misconceptions surrounding its practice.

The First Instance of Bread and Wine

The roots of communion can be traced back to Genesis 14:18 when Melchizedek, the king of Salem and priest of God Most High, brought out bread and wine and blessed Abram. This act was a symbolic precursor to the greater fulfillment found in Christ. Melchizedek’s mysterious role as both king and priest points forward to Jesus, our eternal High Priest (Hebrews 7:1-3).

The Institution of the Lord’s Supper

The true significance of communion is unveiled during Jesus’ last Passover meal with His disciples. In Matthew 26:26-28, Jesus broke bread and gave it to His disciples, saying, “Take, eat; this is My body.” Then He took the cup, gave thanks, and said, “Drink from it, all of you. For this is My blood of the new covenant, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.” This powerful moment was not only the institution of a new covenant but an invitation to remember His sacrifice.

Who Should Partake in Communion?

It is essential to understand that communion is meant solely for believers—those who have accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. Paul’s warning in 1 Corinthians 11:27-29 underscores this, cautioning believers not to partake “in an unworthy manner.” Taking communion without discerning its meaning or while living in unrepented sin brings judgment upon oneself. The purpose is to approach the table with reverence, examining our hearts and remembering the grace extended to us through Christ’s sacrifice.

The Symbolic Nature of Communion

Communion is symbolic, intended as an act of remembrance. Jesus’ words, “Do this in remembrance of Me” (Luke 22:19), emphasize that the bread and wine serve as reminders of His broken body and shed blood. Paul reiterates this in 1 Corinthians 11:24-25, confirming that the practice is a memorial of Christ’s work on the cross.

Disputing Transubstantiation and Other Views

The doctrine of transubstantiation, held by the Catholic Church, teaches that the bread and wine transform into the actual body and blood of Christ. This interpretation goes beyond what Scripture teaches. Jesus’ statement, “This is My body,” should be understood figuratively, much like when He said, “I am the door” (John 10:9) or “I am the vine” (John 15:5). The bread and wine do not become Christ’s literal flesh and blood but represent His body and blood.

The Lutheran belief of consubstantiation proposes that the body and blood of Christ are present “in, with, and under” the forms of bread and wine. While different from transubstantiation, it also adds a level of mystery not explicitly taught in Scripture. Instead, communion should be viewed as symbolic, focusing on remembrance rather than mystical transformation.

The Seriousness of Taking Communion Unworthily

Paul’s instruction in 1 Corinthians 11:29—“For he who eats and drinks in an unworthy manner eats and drinks judgment to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body”—serves as a sobering reminder. This teaching warns against casual or unrepentant participation. To take communion unworthily is to treat the sacred remembrance with irreverence, missing its true purpose of gratitude, self-examination, and renewal.

Relevant Scriptures and Reflections

• John 6:53-58: While this passage, where Jesus speaks of eating His flesh and drinking His blood, is often cited in defense of transubstantiation, context reveals that He was speaking metaphorically about the necessity of fully partaking in His sacrifice by faith.
• Acts 2:42: Early Christians “continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers,” showing the communal and sacred practice of remembering Christ’s sacrifice.
• Hebrews 10:10: “By that will we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.” The once-and-for-all nature of Jesus’ sacrifice affirms that communion is a reminder of His completed work, not a repetitive sacrifice.

My Final Thoughts: Communion is Remembrance

Communion is a beautiful act of worship that calls believers to remember Christ’s sacrifice and proclaim His death until He comes (1 Corinthians 11:26). It is not a mystical transformation of elements but a holy symbol—a reminder of the salvation He purchased for us with His body and blood. By partaking in this sacred act, we declare our unity with Him and with each other as members of His body.

As we come to the Lord’s table, may we do so with hearts full of gratitude, understanding the depth of what it signifies. Communion is a gift for believers, a time to reflect, remember, and rejoice in the eternal hope we have through Jesus Christ.