Verses About Communion: A Guide to the Lord's Supper
Communion, also known as the Lord's Supper, is a Christian sacrament that symbolizes the body and blood of Jesus Christ. Many verses in the Bible refer to this significant ritual, providing insights into its purpose and meaning. Here are some of the key verses about communion:
Biblical Foundations of Communion
Matthew 26:26-29
"And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body. And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; for this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins."
This passage describes the institution of communion by Jesus during the Last Supper. He instructed his disciples to eat the bread, which represents his body, and drink the wine, which represents his blood.
1 Corinthians 10:16-17
"The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ? For we being many are one bread, and one body: for we are all partakers of that one bread."
Paul emphasizes the unity and fellowship that communion fosters among believers. By sharing in the meal, we become one with Christ and with each other.
Significance of Communion
John 6:53-56
"Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him."
In this passage, Jesus explains the vital significance of communion. By partaking in it, we receive spiritual life and sustenance. We become connected to Christ and experience his indwelling presence.
1 Corinthians 11:23-29
"For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, That the Lord Jesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread: And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me. After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me. For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord's death till he come."
Paul instructs us to remember the sacrifice of Jesus when we partake in communion. It is a time of reflection and thanksgiving for his love and grace.
Concluding Thoughts
Communion is a powerful and meaningful sacrament that connects us to Christ and reminds us of his saving work. By partaking in it, we receive spiritual nourishment, unity with fellow believers, and a glimpse of eternal life. The verses outlined above provide a solid foundation for understanding and appreciating the significance of communion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the verses in the Bible that talk about communion?
1 Corinthians 11:23-26; Matthew 26:26-29; Mark 14:22-25; Luke 22:19-20
What is the significance of communion?
Communion is a remembrance of Jesus' death and resurrection, and a time to reflect on our relationship with Him.
How often should we take communion?
The Bible does not specify how often we should take communion, but many churches observe it weekly or monthly.
Who can take communion?
Anyone who has accepted Jesus as their Savior and been baptized is welcome to take communion.
What are the symbols of communion?
The bread represents Jesus' body, and the wine represents His blood.
What is the importance of taking communion together?
Taking communion together is a way to strengthen our bond with one another and with Christ.