What Does the Bible Say About Communion (the Lord's Supper) — In Biblical Context
Communion is the practice of eating bread and drinking from the cup in remembrance of Christ's body broken and blood shed for the forgiveness of sins.
Communion is the practice of eating bread and drinking from the cup in remembrance of Christ's body broken and blood shed for the forgiveness of sins.
"This is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me... This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me." — 1 Corinthians 11:24-25 (KJV)
The Biblical Context
Jesus instituted communion at the Last Supper (Luke 22:19-20), commanding His disciples to eat bread and drink the cup 'in remembrance of me.' Paul expands on its meaning in 1 Corinthians 11:23-29, emphasizing that participants should examine themselves beforehand and recognize the Lord's body. Communion proclaims Jesus' death until He comes again. It is both a memorial looking back to the cross and a proclamation looking forward to His return. The early church practiced it regularly as part of their fellowship (Acts 2:42). Christians hold varying views on the nature of Christ's presence in the elements, but all agree it is a sacred ordinance commanded by Jesus Himself.
Where It Sits in Scripture
The core passage for this question, 1 Corinthians 11:24-25, sits inside 1 Corinthians 11. To grasp the full meaning, read the surrounding paragraph — the verses before set up the thought, the verses after carry it forward.
"This is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me... This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me."
Supporting Passages
"For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord's death till he come."
"And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers."
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This do in remembrance of me — the bread, the cup, and the communion of the body
Matthew 6:9-10 Commentary
In-depth study • Prayer
Communion (κοινωνία (Koinōnia))
Intimate fellowship and sharing; also the Lord's Supper
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