Introduction
Holy Communion, also known as the Eucharist or the Lord’s Supper, is a significant practice in many Christian traditions. It symbolizes the connection between believers and Jesus Christ. In this article, we will explore the Bible scriptures related to Holy Communion, its meaning, and why it is important for Christians today.
What is Holy Communion?
Holy Communion is a ritual where Christians share bread and wine (or grape juice) to remember Jesus’ sacrifice. It is based on the Last Supper, when Jesus shared a meal with His disciples before His crucifixion. During this meal, Jesus took bread and wine and gave them special meaning.
Key Scriptures on Communion
- Matthew 26:26-28
In this passage, Jesus breaks the bread and says, “Take, eat; this is My body.” He also takes the cup and says, “This is My blood of the new covenant.” This is the foundation of Holy Communion, showing that the bread and wine represent Jesus’ body and blood. - Luke 22:19-20
Here, Jesus instructs His disciples to “do this in remembrance of Me.” This emphasizes the importance of remembering Jesus’ sacrifice every time believers participate in Communion. - 1 Corinthians 11:23-26
The Apostle Paul explains how to practice Communion. He reminds the church that when they eat the bread and drink the cup, they proclaim the Lord’s death until He returns. This passage reinforces the idea that Communion is a way to remember and honor Jesus. - John 6:48-51
“I am the bread of life. Your ancestors ate the manna in the wilderness, and they died. This is the bread that comes down from heaven, so that one may eat of it and not die. I am the living bread that came down from heaven; whoever eats of this bread will live forever.” - 1 Corinthians 10:16-17
“The cup of blessing that we bless, is it not a sharing in the blood of Christ? The bread that we break, is it not a sharing in the body of Christ? Because there is one bread, we who are many are one body, for we all partake of the one bread.” - Mark 14:22-24
“While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, ‘Take it; this is my body.’ Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, and they all drank from it. ‘This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many,’ he said to them.”
7.Acts 2:42
“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.”
(This shows the early church’s practice of sharing meals, including Communion.)
- Hebrews 9:14
“How much more, then, will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences from acts that lead to death, so that we may serve the living God!” - Matthew 26:29
“But I tell you, I will not drink from this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom.” - Revelation 3:20
“Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.”
(This verse highlights the intimate relationship Jesus desires with believers.) - Romans 6:23
“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
(This underscores the significance of Jesus’ sacrifice.) - Colossians 1:20
“And through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross.” - John 15:5
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”
(This illustrates the importance of staying connected to Jesus, which Communion symbolizes.) - Luke 22:15-16
“And he said to them, ‘I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer. For I tell you, I will not eat it again until it finds fulfillment in the kingdom of God.'”
(This emphasizes Jesus’ deep desire to share this meal with His disciples before His sacrifice.) - 1 Peter 2:24
“He himself bore our sins in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed.”
(This verse highlights the healing and redemption that come through Jesus’ sacrifice, which Communion commemorates.)
These scriptures collectively emphasize the profound meaning of Holy Communion and its place in the life of a believer.
Read also: How can I get to know God?
Conclusion
Holy Communion is a powerful and meaningful practice rooted in the Bible. Through scriptures like Matthew 26, Luke 22, and 1 Corinthians 11, Christians can understand its importance. It serves as a reminder of Jesus’ sacrifice, fosters community, offers spiritual nourishment, and anticipates His return. For believers, participating in Holy Communion is a cherished experience that deepens their faith and connection to God.
