Verses for Communion: A Deeper Understanding

Communion is a central part of Christian worship, a time for believers to remember and celebrate the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. The Bible offers several verses that speak to the significance and importance of this sacred act.

Meaning of Communion

• 1 Corinthians 11:24-25: "This is my body, which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me... This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me."
• Luke 22:19-20: "And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, 'This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.' In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, 'This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.'"

These verses emphasize the sacrificial nature of Christ's death and the importance of remembering it through communion. The bread and wine represent his broken body and shed blood, poured out for the forgiveness of sins.

Benefits of Communion

• 1 Corinthians 10:16-17: "The cup of blessing that we bless, is it not a participation in the blood of Christ? The bread that we break, is it not a participation in the body of Christ?"
• John 6:54-56: "Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise them up at the last day. For my flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink."

Communion is not merely a symbolic act but a real sharing in the life of Christ. By partaking in it, believers receive spiritual nourishment and strength, and are drawn closer to him.

Proper Preparation

• 1 Corinthians 11:27-29: "Whoever, therefore, eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of profaning the body and blood of the Lord. Let a person examine himself, then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For anyone who eats and drinks without discerning the body eats and drinks judgment on himself."

Communion should be taken with reverence and self-examination. Believers must confess their sins and come before God with a pure heart, seeking forgiveness and renewal.

The Bible verses on communion provide a rich understanding of the meaning, benefits, and proper preparation for this sacred ordinance. By partaking in communion, Christians remember the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, receive spiritual nourishment, and are strengthened in their faith. May these verses inspire us to approach this act with reverence and gratitude, as we celebrate the love and grace of our Savior.