Discovering the Meaning of Communion
Communion, also known as the Lord’s Supper, the Lord’s Table, or Holy Communion, is one of the two ordinances (or sacraments, depending on Christian tradition) instituted by Jesus Christ for His Church. It is a sacred act of worship in which believers remember the sacrifice of Jesus, celebrate His resurrection, proclaim His death until He returns, and express their unity as the body of Christ.
Communion is far more than a religious ritual. It is a meaningful act of remembrance, thanksgiving, reflection, and fellowship with God and with other believers. Through sharing the bread and the cup, Christians are reminded of God’s love, Christ’s sacrifice, and the hope of His promised return.
The Origin of Communion
Communion was established by Jesus during the Last Supper, when He shared a meal with His disciples on the night before His crucifixion.
During this meal, Jesus gave new significance to the bread and the cup, using them as symbols of His body and His blood. He instructed His followers to continue this practice in remembrance of Him.
Since that time, Christians around the world have gathered to celebrate Communion as an act of worship and obedience.
What Does Communion Symbolise?
Communion is rich in meaning and symbolism.
The bread reminds believers of Christ’s body, willingly given for humanity.
The cup reminds believers of His blood, shed to establish the new covenant between God and His people.
Together, these symbols point to the complete sacrifice of Jesus, through which forgiveness, reconciliation with God, and the hope of eternal life are made possible.
A Time of Remembrance
One of the central purposes of Communion is remembrance.
Believers pause to remember the life, suffering, death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. They reflect on the immeasurable love God demonstrated through the cross and give thanks for the salvation made possible through Christ.
Remembering Christ’s sacrifice helps Christians remain centred on the gospel and encourages renewed gratitude and devotion.
A Celebration of God’s Grace
Although Communion is a solemn occasion, it is also a joyful celebration.
It reminds believers that sin has been forgiven, death has been defeated, and eternal life has been secured through Jesus Christ.
Communion points not only to what Christ accomplished in the past but also to the ongoing grace available to believers every day.
A Time for Self-Examination
Communion provides an opportunity for honest reflection.
Believers are encouraged to examine their hearts, confess sin, seek forgiveness, and restore broken relationships where possible.
This time of self-examination is not intended to produce fear but to encourage humility, repentance, gratitude, and renewed commitment to following Christ.
A Picture of Christian Unity
Communion reminds Christians that they belong to one family.
Regardless of nationality, culture, background, or denomination, every believer shares in the same salvation through Jesus Christ.
Gathering around the Lord’s Table demonstrates the unity of the Church and the fellowship believers enjoy with one another.
Looking Forward with Hope
Communion not only looks back to Christ’s sacrifice but also forward to His return.
Every celebration of the Lord’s Supper reminds believers that Jesus has promised to come again. It strengthens hope in the future resurrection, the fulfilment of God’s kingdom, and the joy of eternal fellowship with Him.
Who Should Participate?
Different Christian traditions have varying practices regarding Communion, but it is generally understood to be for those who have placed their faith in Jesus Christ.
Many churches encourage participants to approach the Lord’s Table with reverence, faith, gratitude, and a willingness to examine their hearts before taking part.
If you are unsure about your church’s practice, speak with a pastor or church leader for guidance.
Living Beyond the Communion Table
Communion is not simply an event that takes place during a church service. Its message should shape the daily lives of believers.
Those who remember Christ’s sacrificial love are called to:
• Live with gratitude.
• Love and forgive others.
• Walk in humility.
• Serve faithfully.
• Pursue holiness.
• Seek unity within the Church.
• Share the hope of the gospel.
• Live in expectation of Christ’s return.
Communion reminds Christians that their faith is to be lived out every day, not only remembered during worship.
Conclusion
Communion is one of the most meaningful acts of Christian worship. It reminds believers of Jesus Christ’s sacrificial love, celebrates God’s grace, encourages self-examination, strengthens the unity of the Church, and points forward to the day when Christ will return.
Each time Christians gather around the Lord’s Table, they proclaim the heart of the gospel: that Jesus gave Himself for the salvation of the world and invites His followers to remember Him with thankful hearts until He comes again.
A Sacred Moment with Jesus
Whether you’re new to faith or have been walking with Jesus for years, communion is a beautiful reminder of God’s grace. It’s a quiet, holy space where we remember, repent, and rejoice — all because of Jesus.
14-Day Bible Reading Plan: What Is Communion?
Day 1: The Passover and God’s Deliverance
Reading: Exodus 12:1–30
Day 2: The Bread from Heaven
Reading: Exodus 16:1–36; John 6:25–40
Day 3: Jesus, the Bread of Life
Reading: John 6:41–71
Day 4: Preparing for the Last Supper
Reading: Luke 22:7–23
Day 5: The Lord’s Supper in Matthew
Reading: Matthew 26:17–30
Day 6: The Lord’s Supper in Mark
Reading: Mark 14:12–26
Day 7: The New Covenant
Reading: Jeremiah 31:31–34; Hebrews 8:6–13
Day 8: Communion in the Early Church
Reading: Acts 2:42–47
Day 9: Worthy Participation
Reading: 1 Corinthians 10:14–22; 1 Corinthians 11:17–34
Day 10: Christ’s Perfect Sacrifice
Reading: Hebrews 9:11–28
Day 11: The Once-for-All Sacrifice
Reading: Hebrews 10:1–25
Day 12: Unity in the Body of Christ
Reading: Ephesians 4:1–16; Colossians 3:12–17
Day 13: Living in Thankfulness
Reading: Philippians 2:1–18; Colossians 2:6–15
Day 14: The Marriage Supper of the Lamb
Reading: Revelation 19:6–10; Revelation 21:1–7
Reflection
As you complete this reading plan, reflect on these questions:
• What does Communion teach me about Jesus’ sacrifice?
• How does the Lord’s Supper strengthen my relationship with Christ?
• Is there anything I need to confess or surrender to God?
• How can I demonstrate unity and love within the body of Christ?
• How does Communion encourage me to live in hope as I await Christ’s return?
This 14-day reading plan explores Communion from its roots in the Passover, through the Last Supper, the teaching of the apostles, and the hope of the coming kingdom, helping believers deepen their understanding of one of the Church’s most treasured acts of worship.
Explore Scripture by Topic.
Select to discover Bible passages that will encourage your faith, deepen your understanding of God’s Word, and help you apply biblical truth to everyday life.
© This website is subject to copyright and belongs to Christian Life Today. If you would like to reuse any of the materials, please contact first via the contact page, thank you.