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Understanding the Meaning of Communion in the Bible – Viral Believer
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Understanding the Meaning of Communion in the Bible

Introduction

The practice of communion is an integral part of the Christian faith. Christians across the world participate in this sacred ritual, which involves the sharing of bread and wine. However, the meaning of communion extends far beyond the physical act of eating and drinking. The ritual has deep roots in the Bible, with both the Old and New Testaments providing valuable insights into its significance. Understanding the theological and practical implications of communion can help us appreciate its importance and approach the practice with reverence and humility.

In this blog post, we will explore the meaning of communion in the Bible and its theological significance. We will delve into the Old Testament roots of communion, the New Testament origins of the practice, and its practical implications for Christians. Through this exploration, we hope to provide a comprehensive understanding of the importance of communion in the Christian faith.

Whether you have participated in communion many times or are new to the practice, this blog post will provide valuable insights and information. By understanding the deep significance of communion in the Christian faith, we can approach the practice with greater reverence, gratitude, and humility. So let us delve into the rich history and meaning of communion in the Bible and explore its theological and practical implications for Christians.

communion in the Bible

Old Testament Roots of Communion

The practice of communion has its roots in the Old Testament. Understanding these roots can help us appreciate the full significance of the practice. Here are some of the Old Testament practices that later influenced the practice of communion in Christianity:

The Passover Meal

The Passover meal was a commemoration of God’s deliverance of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. During this meal, the people would eat unleavened bread and drink wine, which symbolized the blood of the lamb that was used to mark the doorposts of their homes, so the Angel of Death would pass over them (Exodus 12:1-14).

The Feast of Unleavened Bread

The Feast of Unleavened Bread was a week-long celebration that followed the Passover. During this feast, the people would eat unleavened bread, which symbolized the haste with which they had to leave Egypt (Exodus 12:15-20).

The Covenant Meal

The covenant meal was a sacrificial meal shared between God and his people, which was part of the covenant-making ceremony. The meal was a symbol of the participants’ shared commitment to the covenant (Exodus 24:1-11).

The New Testament Communion

The practice of communion was further developed in the New Testament. Jesus Christ’s last supper with his disciples became the basis for the Christian celebration of communion.

The Last Supper

During the last supper, Jesus took bread, blessed it, broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying, “This is my body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of me” (Luke 22:19 NKJV). He then took the cup, gave thanks, and gave it to his disciples, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is shed for you” (Luke 22:20 NKJV).

The Institution of the Lord’s Supper

After the last supper, Jesus instructed his disciples to continue the practice of breaking bread and drinking wine in remembrance of him (1 Corinthians 11:23-26). The early Christian church followed this practice and celebrated the Lord’s Supper as part of their worship services.

The Meaning of the Bread and Wine

The bread and wine used in communion symbolize the body and blood of Jesus Christ, which he sacrificed on the cross for the forgiveness of sins (1 Corinthians 11:24-25). The act of partaking in communion is a symbol of our participation in Christ’s sacrifice and our commitment to follow him.

The Theological Significance of Communion

The practice of communion has significant theological implications for Christians.

Communion as a Symbol of Union with Christ

Through the act of partaking in communion, Christians symbolically unite themselves with Christ and his sacrifice. It is a reminder that Christ’s death and resurrection are the cornerstones of the Christian faith, and our salvation depends on his sacrifice.

Communion as a Symbol of Union with the Church

Communion is also a symbol of our union with other Christians and the Church as a whole. By participating in communion

together, we express our shared faith and commitment to Christ. In 1 Corinthians 10:17, the apostle Paul wrote, “For we, though many, are one bread and one body; for we all partake of that one bread.” Communion reminds us that we are not alone in our faith and that we are part of a larger community of believers.

Communion as a Symbol of Remembrance

Communion is a way to remember Christ’s sacrifice and its significance in our lives. It is a reminder that Jesus gave his life for us, so we could be forgiven and reconciled with God. As we partake in the bread and wine, we remember Christ’s sacrifice and express our gratitude for his love and grace.

Communion as a Symbol of Anticipation

Finally, communion is a symbol of our anticipation of Christ’s return. It is a reminder that Christ will return to establish his kingdom, and we will share in the eternal banquet with him. In this sense, communion is both a symbol of our past redemption and our future hope.

Communion and Christian Practice

The practice of communion has practical implications for Christians, including:

Frequency and Celebration of Communion

The frequency of communion varies among different Christian denominations, ranging from weekly to several times a year. However, the central importance of the practice is emphasized across all denominations. Some churches celebrate communion as part of every worship service, while others do so on specific occasions such as Easter or Christmas.

Preparation for Communion

Preparing for communion involves examining oneself and confessing any sins to God. This act of self-reflection ensures that we partake in communion with a clear conscience and an open heart. In 1 Corinthians 11:28, Paul wrote, “But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of the bread and drink of the cup.” This self-examination is a vital part of the communion practice and helps us to approach the act with reverence and humility.

Who Can Participate in Communion

Some churches restrict communion to members who have been baptized, while others extend the invitation to all believers. Regardless of the specific church’s practice, the invitation to partake in the Lord’s Supper is extended to all who have professed faith in Jesus Christ. In 1 Corinthians 11:27, Paul wrote, “Therefore whoever eats this bread or drinks this cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord.” This warning reminds us of the seriousness of the communion practice and the importance of approaching it with the proper attitude and respect.

Communion in Ecumenical and Interfaith Contexts

The practice of communion can also raise questions about the relationship between different denominations and faiths. While some churches may choose to limit the practice to members of their own denomination, others see it as an opportunity for ecumenical and interfaith dialogue and understanding. Protestant churches, for example, recognize the validity of the sacraments of other Christian denominations, including communion. This recognition is a step towards greater unity among Christians of different traditions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the practice of communion is a sacred ritual that has deep roots in the Bible and significant theological and practical implications for Christians. From the Passover meal in the Old Testament to Jesus’ last supper in the New Testament, the meaning of communion has evolved over time. Today, Christians around the world continue to participate in this practice as a symbol of their union with Christ, the Church, and their anticipation of Christ’s return.

Through the act of partaking in communion, Christians symbolically unite themselves with Christ and his sacrifice. It is a reminder that Christ’s death and resurrection are the cornerstones of the Christian faith, and our salvation depends on his sacrifice. Communion is also a symbol of our union with other Christians and the Church as a whole. By participating in communion together, we express our shared faith and commitment to Christ.

In today’s world, where so much seems uncertain and chaotic, the practice of communion provides a powerful reminder of the stability and hope that Christ offers us. Whether we partake in communion on a weekly or infrequent basis, the significance of the practice remains the same. Communion reminds us of the love and grace that Christ has bestowed upon us, and it encourages us to live our lives in a way that honors his sacrifice. By approaching the practice of communion with reverence and humility, we can deepen our relationship with Christ and live our lives with greater purpose and meaning.

Pastor Duke Taber
Pastor Duke Taber

Pastor Duke Taber

All articles have been written or reviewed by Pastor Duke Taber.
Pastor Duke Taber is an alumnus of Life Pacific University and Multnomah Biblical Seminary.
He has been in pastoral ministry since 1988.
Today he is the owner and managing editor of 3 successful Christian websites that support missionaries around the world.
He is currently starting a brand new church in Mesquite NV called Mesquite Worship Center, a Non-Denominational Spirit Filled Christian church in Mesquite Nevada.