The Meaning Of Communion

Introduction

Today, we gather around the Lord’s Table to partake in Communion. It is a sacred act, one that has been observed by believers for over two thousand years. But why do we do this? What do the bread and the wine mean, and how does this ancient practice speak to us today? As we reflect on the significance of Communion, we will see that it is more than just a ritual; it is a profound reminder of our relationship with God.

1. The Bread: Christ’s Body Given for Us

Jesus, on the night He was betrayed, took bread, gave thanks, broke it, and said, “This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me.” (1 Corinthians 11:24)

The bread represents the body of Christ, given for us on the cross. It reminds us of His suffering, His sacrifice, and the incredible love that led Him to take our place. Just as physical bread sustains our bodies, Christ, the Bread of Life (John 6:35), sustains our souls. In partaking of the bread, we acknowledge our need for Him and our dependence on His grace.

2. The Wine: Christ’s Blood Shed for Us

Likewise, Jesus took the cup and said, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me.” (1 Corinthians 11:25)

The wine represents Christ’s blood, poured out for the forgiveness of sins. Under the Old Covenant, sacrifices were required to atone for sin. But Jesus, the perfect Lamb of God, shed His blood once and for all (Hebrews 9:12-14). The cup reminds us that we are cleansed, forgiven, and brought into a new covenant with God—a relationship based not on our works, but on His grace.

3. Our Relationship with God

Communion is not just a remembrance; it is a renewal of our connection with Christ. When we take the bread and wine, we are invited to:

- Remember what Jesus has done for us. It is a sacred moment where we recall His sacrifice and express gratitude for the salvation we have received.

- Reflect on our own lives and our need for His grace. It is a time for self-examination, where we assess our hearts, confess our sins, and seek to grow in holiness (1 Corinthians 11:28).

- Recommit ourselves to living in His love and truth. Communion is an opportunity to renew our devotion to Christ, allowing His presence to transform us daily.

- Rejoice in the hope we have because of His sacrifice. Through His death and resurrection, we have eternal life, and each time we partake in Communion, we celebrate the victory of Christ over sin and death.

- Recognize our unity as the body of Christ. Communion is not only an individual experience but also a corporate one. As we partake together, we acknowledge that we are part of a greater family of believers, united in faith and love (1 Corinthians 10:16-17).

- Anticipate His Return. Paul reminds us that whenever we eat this bread and drink this cup, we “proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes” (1 Corinthians 11:26). Communion is not just looking back; it also looks forward to the day when Christ will return, and we will feast with Him in His Kingdom (Revelation 19:9).

Conclusion: The Invitation to the Table

Communion is a gift—an invitation to come before God, to be nourished by His presence, and to celebrate the salvation we have in Christ. As we take the bread and the cup today, let us do so with gratitude, humility, and joy, remembering that through Christ, we are made new.

Amen.