What Is Communion in the Bible?

Communion is a sacred Christian practice established by Jesus Christ during the Last Supper to remember His sacrifice, proclaim His death, and celebrate the new covenant. Also called the Lord’s Supper, Holy Communion, or Breaking of Bread, it involves bread and wine (or grape juice in many Protestant churches). Key passages include Matthew 26:26–29, Luke 22:19–20, and 1 Corinthians 11:23–26.

Where Did Communion Originate?

Jesus instituted Communion at the Last Supper with His disciples, in the context of Passover. Luke 22:19 (KJV) says: “And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me.” In Luke 22:20 Jesus describes the cup as the new testament in His blood.

What Do the Bread and Wine Represent?

The bread points to Jesus’ body given for humanity; the cup points to His blood shed for the forgiveness of sins and the new covenant (Matthew 26:28). Protestant, Catholic, Orthodox, and other Christian traditions differ in their understanding of Christ’s presence in the elements, but all connect Communion to His sacrifice.

Five Biblical Purposes of Communion

1. Remembrance: Jesus commanded His followers to remember Him (1 Corinthians 11:24–25). 2. Proclamation: believers proclaim His death until He returns (1 Corinthians 11:26). 3. Fellowship: the Greek word koinonia describes participation and sharing in Christ (1 Corinthians 10:16). 4. Unity: believers share in one body (1 Corinthians 10:17). 5. Self-examination: Christians are told to examine themselves before participating (1 Corinthians 11:28).

What Does Taking Communion Unworthily Mean?

In 1 Corinthians 11:27–30 Paul warns against receiving Communion in an unworthy manner. In Corinth, selfish behavior, divisions, and humiliation of poorer members contradicted the meal’s meaning. Paul’s warning emphasizes reverence and concern for others; it does not demand personal perfection.

Is Communion Necessary for Salvation?

Many Protestant churches teach salvation is by grace through faith, citing Ephesians 2:8–9, and regard Communion as an act of obedience and remembrance rather than something that earns salvation. Catholic and Orthodox traditions regard the Eucharist as a sacrament through which believers receive divine grace.

How Often Should Christians Take Communion?

The Bible does not prescribe a universal frequency. Acts 2:42 describes the early Christians’ devotion to teaching, fellowship, breaking bread, and prayer. Churches observe Communion weekly, monthly, or more frequently according to their traditions.

Who Can Take Communion?

Practices vary. Some Protestant churches welcome professing believers, while others require baptism or other conditions. Catholic and Orthodox churches generally restrict reception according to their sacramental disciplines.

Communion vs. Eucharist vs. Lord’s Supper

Eucharist comes from a Greek word for thanksgiving. Communion emphasizes participation and fellowship, while Lord’s Supper recalls the meal Jesus instituted. The terms often refer to the same observance, though their theological meanings vary by tradition.

Bible Verses About Communion

Matthew 26:26–29; Mark 14:22–25; Luke 22:19–20; Acts 2:42; 1 Corinthians 10:16–17; 1 Corinthians 11:23–30.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main purpose of Communion? To remember Jesus, proclaim His death, and share fellowship in Him. What does Communion symbolize? Christ’s body and blood, the new covenant, and unity among believers. Can Christians take Communion at home? Some Protestant traditions permit it; others require an authorized sacramental setting. Is Communion the same as the Last Supper? The Last Supper was the original meal; Communion is the continuing Christian observance. Must it be taken every Sunday? Scripture gives no universal weekly requirement.

Conclusion

Communion directs Christians to Jesus Christ’s sacrifice, the new covenant, unity in the Church, and the hope of His return. As 1 Corinthians 11:26 teaches, believers proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes.