I am anticipating the Lord’s Supper this Sunday, reflecting on passages of scripture about the first Communion service in the gospels and also Paul’s words about the service in 1 Corinthians. Consider this passage:

“The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ?”

While the doctrine of transubstantiation (that the bread and wine literally transform into Jesus’ body and blood) is certainly an error, we’d be remiss if we reduced the Lord’s Supper to merely being an example. There is a special fellowship with Christ during the communion service. In fact, that word communion above also translates many times into the word fellowship.

Through participating in the Lord’s Supper, we’re spiritually strengthened, assured, and nourished while being reminded of Christ’s suffering for us. There’s certainly a communication of grace to us as we partake. I often pray over the bread and wine that God would bless us to experience all He intends for us through that service.

How important is it to partake! This is why falling under the discipline of the church is so fearful a thing. One might think, “big deal, I can’t take communion.” That attitude reveals such a person has little idea of the importance of keeping this ordinance.

Originally published May 2018