What is Communion?
Today we share in the biblical ordinance known as Communion, the Lord’s Supper and the Eucharist. But what is it?
The night before Jesus was crucified, he shared the traditional Jewish “Passover” meal with his disciples. This was originally intended to remember when God rescued the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. On that night, Jesus infused new meaning into the meal. A new covenant between God and his people.
From that point forward, it would serve to remind us of Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross to save us from the penalty of our sins: separation from God. The bread (wafer) represents Jesus’ broken body; the cup (juice), his shed blood. Both are vivid symbols of his sacrifice for us.
Why we do Communion:
Jesus said to in remembrance of him: 1 Corinthians 11:24-25
To proclaim Jesus’ sacrifice: 1 Corinthians 11:26
To participate in the body and blood of Christ: 1 Corinthians 10:16-17
How we do Communion:
We partake in the “elements” (wafer and juice) in unison. We encourage you to take time to reflect on Jesus’ death and resurrection, and your relationship with him: 1 Corinthians 11:28.
If you have children, you may wish to encourage them to consider their relationship with God. Reading 1 Corinthians 11:17-32 whenever communion is served is a beneficial practice.
It is also okay to not take communion – even if you’ve been following Jesus for as long as you can remember. Sin or unforgiveness can interfere with a worshipful stance towards God in communion.