Before you partake…
Communion, mentioned primarily in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and Paul’s first recorded letter to the Corinthians, is an important part of faithful Christians’ walk with Christ. Jesus used a meal to institute one of the most universal and unforgettable ordinances of the church. Communion (sometimes referred to as the Lord’s Supper or the Eucharist) is based on the Passover, a ritual meal in which the Jews ate a lamb, which served to remind them of the lamb sacrificed so that they could be delivered from Egyptian bondage (Ex 12:1–13). While observing the Passover meal prior to his crucifixion, Jesus used the broken bread, and the full cup, as symbols of his life, which would soon be sacrificed for the sins of the whole world, (I John 2:2). Through the breaking of the bread, his disciples saw Christ’s brokenness and suffering. Drinking from the cup, they were shown his blood was being shed for their sins. It is little wonder that some call this the Eucharist, which means the cup of blessing or thanksgiving. Truly, in taking Communion, we unite in giving thanks to God.
In this aspect, Communion serves to express our unity in Christ. Through his brokenness, we have become one. Through his death, we have received life. As the family of God, we are part of a family made up of believers, of all races, tribes, and tongues, as we unite in obedience to the calling and teaching of Christ: “Do this in remembrance of me” (1 Cor 11:25–26). This time together helps us to remember the price that was paid for our sins, and illustrates the forgiveness we have experienced. Some Christians partake in Communion each week, while others observe it once each quarter, still others partake at other significant celebrations in the life of the church. The Word of God merely states, “for as often” as you do this, not including a specific command.
Communion also reminds us that we cannot save ourselves. Therefore, when Communion is served, it is a good time to examine ourselves (1 Cor 11:28) and make certain that we are able to give thanks for this great salvation, that we have a true repentance for our sins, that we have a visible faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, and that we have a sincere desire to live the life of a Christian by the merits of His shed blood, until our Savior returns!
(Adapted in part, or in whole, from A. Newell & A. Barnes)
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