Introduction to Bible Verses About Communion
In the vast expanse of biblical literature, the Bible verses about Communion constitute a profoundly significant segment, offering an in-depth perspective on a cornerstone of Christian faith and practice. These verses, spanning from the Gospels to the Epistles, not only narrate the historical and spiritual origins of Communion but also delve into its rich symbolic, communal, and introspective dimensions.
At the very core of these teachings lies the momentous event of the Last Supper, as vividly depicted in Matthew 26:26-28. Here, Jesus Christ, in an act of profound foresight and spiritual depth, transforms a simple meal into a lasting sacrament, declaring, “This is my body… This is my blood of the covenant.” This foundational event marks not just the inception of a ritual but the birth of a new covenant, symbolized through bread and wine, encapsulating the essence of Christ’s sacrifice for mankind’s salvation.
The Bible verses about Communion go beyond the mere recounting of this event; they unravel the profound theological and spiritual layers embedded within it. In John 6:53-56, Jesus explicitly emphasizes the necessity of partaking in His body and blood, metaphorically presented as the bread of life and the cup of salvation. These teachings invite believers to a deeper understanding of Communion — not as a mere religious formality, but as a vital act of spiritual nourishment and participation in the life and death of Christ.
Furthermore, the communal aspect of Communion is strikingly illuminated in verses such as Acts 2:42, which chronicles the early Christians’ dedication to breaking bread together. This act of sharing goes beyond the physical consumption of bread and wine; it embodies the unity, fellowship, and collective spiritual journey of the Christian community. It is a testament to the bond that ties believers together, transcending individual experiences to create a shared narrative of faith and devotion.
Integral to the practice of Communion, as highlighted by several verses, is the theme of reflection and self-examination. Paul, in 1 Corinthians 11:28, advises believers to introspect before participating in the Lord’s Supper, underscoring the importance of approaching this sacred practice with a heart attuned to its spiritual significance. This introspection is not just a personal exercise; it’s a communal responsibility, fostering a culture of sincerity, humility, and spiritual authenticity within the church.
In essence, these 40 Bible verses about Communion offer a comprehensive exploration of this sacrament. They invite believers to engage with Communion not just as a ritualistic observance, but as a multi-faceted spiritual practice that encompasses remembrance, participation in the divine, communal unity, and personal and collective spiritual growth. This collection of verses serves as a guide, a reflection, and an invitation to experience the depth and breadth of one of Christianity’s most sacred practices.
Institution of Communion
This selection encompasses the foundational moments in the Christian narrative where Jesus Christ established the sacrament of Communion. It includes detailed accounts from the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, as well as Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians, all depicting the Last Supper. In these passages, Jesus shares bread and wine with His disciples, imbuing these elements with profound spiritual significance. He identifies the bread as His body and the wine as His blood, symbolizing the new covenant between God and humanity. This act not only sets the stage for a central rite in Christian worship but also marks a transformative moment in religious history. These verses serve as a cornerstone for understanding the significance of Communion, highlighting Jesus’ sacrificial love and His promise of redemption. They are fundamental to grasping the essence of Christian faith, embodying the mystery of Christ’s presence and His ongoing spiritual nourishment to believers.
Matthew 26:26-28
Jesus institutes the Lord’s Supper during the Last Supper. NIV
In Other Words: During their final meal, Jesus took bread, gave thanks, broke it, and gave it to His disciples, saying, “Take this, it represents my body.” Then He took a cup, and after giving thanks, He shared it, saying, “This cup is the new promise made in my blood, shed for many for the forgiveness of sins.”
One-Line Summary: Jesus introduces the bread and wine as symbols of His body and blood during the Last Supper.
Mark 14:22-24
Mark’s account of the Last Supper.
In Other Words: In a similar way, Mark describes Jesus at the Last Supper, breaking bread as His body and sharing wine as His blood of the covenant, poured out for many.
One-Line Summary: Mark’s account of the Last Supper, highlighting the symbolism of bread and wine.
Luke 22:19-20
Luke’s narrative of the Last Supper.
In Other Words: Luke tells of Jesus at the Last Supper, breaking bread as His body given for them and the cup as the new covenant in His blood.
One-Line Summary: Luke describes Jesus instituting Communion during the Last Supper.
1 Corinthians 11:23-25
Paul recounts the Lord’s Supper.
In Other Words: Paul recounts the Lord’s Supper, emphasizing Jesus’ actions of breaking bread and sharing the cup as His body and new covenant.
One-Line Summary: Paul recounts Jesus’ establishment of Communion during the Last Supper.
Matthew 26:29
Jesus speaks of the future communion in the Father’s kingdom.
In Other Words: esus speaks of a future time when He will drink anew in the kingdom of His Father.
One-Line Summary: Jesus anticipates sharing wine again in God’s kingdom.
Mark 14:25
Jesus mentions not drinking wine until the coming of God’s kingdom.
In Other Words: Jesus mentions His next drink of the fruit of the vine in God’s kingdom.
One-Line Summary: Jesus speaks of not drinking wine until the coming of God’s kingdom.
Luke 22:15-16
Jesus’s desire to eat the Passover before His suffering.
In Other Words: Jesus expresses His eagerness to eat the Passover before He suffers and delays His next feast until it finds fulfillment in God’s kingdom.
One-Line Summary: Jesus expresses His desire to eat the Passover before His suffering.
1 Corinthians 10:16-17
The cup of blessing and the bread we break.
In Other Words: The cup we bless and the bread we break are a sharing in Christ’s body and blood, uniting us as one body.
One-Line Summary: The bread and wine of Communion unite believers in Christ.
Matthew 26:27-28
Jesus blesses the cup as the new covenant.
In Other Words: Jesus blesses the cup, declaring it as the symbol of the new covenant made through His blood.
One-Line Summary: Jesus consecrates the wine as the symbol of the new covenant.
Luke 22:17-18
Jesus shares the cup, speaking of the kingdom of God.
In Other Words: Jesus shares a cup before the meal, speaking of the next time He drinks it in God’s kingdom.
One-Line Summary: Jesus shares the cup, linking it to the kingdom of God.
The Meaning of Communion
The verses in this collection delve deep into the theological and spiritual essence of Communion. They include Christ’s teachings and Pauline doctrine that articulate the symbolic meanings of bread and wine. This section explores how Communion is more than a mere ritual; it’s a profound expression of faith, a commemoration of Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross, and a tangible reminder of the new life offered through His resurrection. These scriptures unpack the layers of meaning in Communion, from being a symbol of Christ’s body and blood to a proclamation of His death and triumphant return. They challenge believers to see beyond the physical act and recognize the deep spiritual connection established with Christ through this sacrament. This understanding is crucial for a holistic approach to Christian worship, where Communion is not only a memorial of Christ’s suffering but also a celebration of the salvation and eternal life He offers.
John 6:53-56
Jesus teaches about eating His flesh and drinking His blood. NIV
In Other Words: Jesus explains the importance of consuming His flesh and blood to possess eternal life and remain in Him.
One-Line Summary: Jesus teaches about the spiritual necessity of partaking in His body and blood.
1 Corinthians 11:26
Proclaiming the Lord’s death until He comes.
In Other Words: By participating in the Lord’s Supper, we declare His death until He returns.
One-Line Summary: Communion as a proclamation of Jesus’ death and second coming.
John 6:35
Jesus as the bread of life.
In Other Words: Jesus identifies Himself as the bread that gives life, satisfying spiritual hunger and thirst.
One-Line Summary: Jesus declares Himself as the spiritual sustenance for eternal life.
1 Corinthians 10:21
You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons.
In Other Words: Paul warns against partaking in both the Lord’s table and that of evil spirits.
One-Line Summary: A warning against participating in both Christian and pagan rituals.
John 6:51
Jesus is the living bread from heaven.
In Other Words: Jesus describes Himself as the living bread from heaven, offering eternal life.
One-Line Summary: Jesus is the heavenly sustenance that offers eternal life.
1 Corinthians 11:27-29
Examining oneself before partaking in the Lord’s Supper.
In Other Words: Believers are advised to self-reflect before partaking in Communion to avoid judgment.
One-Line Summary: The importance of self-examination before receiving Communion.
John 6:57-58
Living because of Jesus, the bread from heaven.
In Other Words: Jesus speaks of living through Him, the bread from heaven, contrasting with perishable manna.
One-Line Summary: Jesus as the source of eternal life, contrasting with perishable manna.
1 Corinthians 11:30-32
Discerning the body of the Lord.
In Other Words: Discerning the body of Christ in Communion can spare us from divine judgment.
One-Line Summary: The consequences of partaking in Communion unworthily.
John 6:47-50
Believing in Jesus for eternal life.
In Other Words: Jesus promises eternal life to those who believe in Him, unlike the perishable manna eaten by ancestors.
One-Line Summary: Belief in Jesus as the pathway to eternal life.
1 Corinthians 10:17
Being one body because we share one bread.
In Other Words: Though many, we form one body as we all partake of the one bread.
One-Line Summary: The unity of believers symbolized through sharing one bread.
Communion as Fellowship
In this category, the focus shifts to the communal and relational aspects of Communion. These verses highlight how the practice of breaking bread together in the early Christian communities was not just a ritualistic observance but a powerful expression of fellowship and unity among believers. The passages from Acts and the epistles illustrate how Communion fosters a deep sense of belonging and shared spiritual journey within the Christian community. They underscore the concept of the Church as the Body of Christ, where each member is interconnected and nourished by the same spiritual food. This section emphasizes the communal table as a place of reconciliation, mutual support, and collective celebration of faith. It serves as a reminder that in Communion, Christians not only remember Christ’s sacrifice but also affirm their commitment to live out His teachings in a supportive and loving community.
Acts 2:42
Devotion to the breaking of bread and to prayer.
In Other Words: The early believers steadfastly continued in breaking bread and prayers.
One-Line Summary: Early Christians’ dedication to breaking bread and prayer.
1 John 1:3
Fellowship with the Father and the Son.
In Other Words: Our fellowship is not only with one another but also with God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ.
One-Line Summary: Fellowship with God and His Son through shared faith.
1 Corinthians 10:18
Israel’s participation in the altar.
In Other Words: Consider Israel’s example of sharing in the altar’s offerings.
One-Line Summary: Israel’s spiritual participation through sacrificial offerings.
Acts 2:46
Breaking bread in homes with glad and sincere hearts.
In Other Words: They regularly broke bread in their homes, eating with joyful and sincere hearts.
One-Line Summary: Early believers regularly shared meals and fellowship.
1 John 1:7
Fellowship with one another through the blood of Jesus.
In Other Words: Walking in the light allows fellowship among us, cleansed by Jesus’ blood.
One-Line Summary: Fellowship and cleansing through Christ’s sacrifice.
1 Corinthians 10:20
Fellowship with demons is forbidden.
In Other Words: Participation in idol feasts is participation with demons, not to be mixed with the Lord’s table.
One-Line Summary: The incompatibility of Christian worship with pagan practices.
Acts 20:7
Breaking bread on the first day of the week.
In Other Words: Early Christians broke bread on the first day of the week, gathered to listen to Paul.
One-Line Summary: Early Christians practiced breaking bread on Sundays.
1 Corinthians 1:9
Fellowship with Jesus Christ.
In Other Words: God has invited us into fellowship with His Son, Jesus Christ.
One-Line Summary: Invitation to fellowship with Jesus Christ.
Acts 2:44-45
Sharing possessions among believers.
In Other Words: The early believers were united, sharing all they had with one another.
One-Line Summary: The communal sharing among the early Christians.
1 Corinthians 5:8
Keeping the festival with sincerity and truth.
In Other Words: Let us celebrate our faith with sincerity and truth, embodying the essence of Christ’s teachings.
One-Line Summary: Celebrating with sincerity and truth in Christian life.
Reflection and Self-Examination
The verses in this listing underscore the importance of personal introspection and spiritual preparedness in relation to Communion. This collection, drawing from a diverse array of biblical books, emphasizes the necessity for believers to approach the Lord’s Table with a heart that is introspective, repentant, and aligned with God’s will. These scriptures serve as a guide for self-examination, urging believers to reflect on their faith, conduct, and relationships with others. They highlight the profound reverence and seriousness with which one should approach Communion, recognizing it as a sacred moment of encountering Christ’s presence. This introspection is not meant to be burdensome but rather a pathway to deeper spiritual growth and authenticity in one’s relationship with God. It encourages believers to continually assess and align their lives with Christ’s teachings, ensuring that their participation in Communion is a true reflection of their devotion and commitment to their faith journey.
2 Corinthians 13:5
Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith.
In Other Words: Reflect on your faith to ensure you are living in accordance with Christ’s teachings.
One-Line Summary: Encouraging self-examination of faith and Christ’s presence within.
Lamentations 3:40
Let us examine and test our ways.
In Other Words: Let us look inward and assess our actions and turn back to God.
One-Line Summary: An exhortation to introspection and repentance.
Psalm 139:23-24
Search me, O God, and know my heart.
In Other Words: A prayer for God to explore one’s thoughts and lead them along a righteous path.
One-Line Summary: A prayer for God to search and know one’s heart.
1 Corinthians 11:28
Let a person examine themselves before eating the bread and drinking the cup.
In Other Words: Individuals should introspect before partaking in Communion.
One-Line Summary: The necessity of self-examination before Communion.
Galatians 6:4
Each one should test their own actions.
In Other Words: Everyone should evaluate their own actions to uphold their personal integrity.
One-Line Summary: The importance of personal accountability in one’s actions.
Psalm 26:2
Test me, LORD, and try me, examine my heart and mind.
In Other Words: A plea for God to examine one’s heart and mind for sincerity and faithfulness.
One-Line Summary: A request for God to test one’s sincerity and righteousness.
1 Corinthians 11:31
If we judged ourselves, we would not come under judgment.
In Other Words: By judging ourselves, we can avoid God’s judgment.
One-Line Summary: Self-judgment to avoid divine judgment.
Jeremiah 17:10
The LORD searches the heart and examines the mind.
In Other Words: God examines the heart and rewards individuals according to their conduct.
One-Line Summary: God’s role in examining human hearts and minds.
Psalm 119:59-60
I have considered my ways and have turned my steps to your statutes.
In Other Words: Reflecting on one’s life choices and committing to following God’s commandments.
One-Line Summary: Reflecting on one’s ways and committing to God’s statutes.
2 Corinthians 13:5 (again for emphasis)
Test yourselves to see if you are in the faith.
In Other Words: Test your own faith and verify your adherence to Christ’s teachings.
One-Line Summary: Emphasizing the importance of testing one’s faith in Christ.
Conclusion
In summarizing the profound insights gleaned from the Bible verses about Communion, it becomes clear that this sacrament is much more than a ritual; it is a vital spiritual practice that encapsulates the core tenets of Christian faith. These verses provide a comprehensive lens through which the mystery, unity, and transformative power of Communion are vividly illuminated.
At its heart, Communion is a profound act of remembrance and proclamation, as echoed in 1 Corinthians 11:24-25, where Jesus says, “Do this in remembrance of me… Whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me.” This directive from Christ is not merely a call to recall a historical event; it is an invitation to actively participate in the redemptive narrative of Christ’s sacrifice, to internalize His grace and extend it in our lives.
The Bible verses about Communion also reveal the sacrament’s profound impact on the Christian community. In 1 Corinthians 12:13, Paul writes, “For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body… and we were all given the one Spirit to drink.” This emphasizes the unifying aspect of Communion, where disparate individuals are brought together under the banner of Christ’s love and sacrifice, forging a spiritual kinship that transcends earthly divisions.
Moreover, these scriptures underscore the importance of self-examination and spiritual readiness, as noted in 2 Corinthians 13:5: “Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves.” This reflection is not just an individual endeavor but a collective responsibility that enhances the integrity and depth of the communal worship experience.
In essence, the Bible verses about Communion offer a multi-dimensional view that challenges believers to approach this sacred practice with a deep sense of reverence, communal responsibility, and personal transformation. As we engage with these scriptures, we are called to a deeper understanding and a more authentic expression of our faith. Communion, thus, becomes not just a moment in our worship services but a defining aspect of our spiritual journey, continually shaping and refining us as followers of Christ.
5 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Communion Bible Verses
What Does Communion Symbolize in Christianity?
Communion symbolizes the body and blood of Jesus Christ, representing His sacrifice for humanity’s sins. This is based on Jesus’ words during the Last Supper, as recorded in Luke 22:19-20, where He took bread, gave thanks, broke it, and said, “This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me,” and similarly referred to the wine as the “new covenant in my blood.”
How Is Communion a Practice of Fellowship Among Believers?
Communion fosters unity and fellowship among believers, as illustrated in 1 Corinthians 10:17, which states, “Because there is one loaf, we, who are many, are one body, for we all share the one loaf.” This verse emphasizes the communal aspect of sharing in Christ’s body, reinforcing the spiritual connection among members of the Christian community.
What Is the Significance of the Bread and Wine in Communion?
In Communion, bread represents Jesus’ body, and wine symbolizes His blood, as per His instructions during the Last Supper. These elements are central to the practice, as seen in Matthew 26:26-28, where Jesus identifies the bread and wine as His body and blood, establishing a new covenant through His sacrifice.
What Does the Bible Say About the Frequency of Communion?
The Bible does not specify a required frequency for Communion. Acts 2:46 describes the early church breaking bread daily, while 1 Corinthians 11:25-26 indicates that it should be done as a regular remembrance of Christ, leaving the frequency to the discretion of individual churches and believers.
Does Communion Have a Role in Spiritual Growth?
Yes, Communion can be a significant part of spiritual growth. It’s a time for believers to reflect on Christ’s teachings, repent, and reaffirm their commitment to Him. As noted in 1 Corinthians 10:16, “The cup of blessing that we bless, is it not a participation in the blood of Christ? The bread that we break, is it not a participation in the body of Christ?” This illustrates that Communion is a means of deepening one’s connection with Christ and the broader Christian community.
What Does the Bible Say About Communion?
The Bible addresses Communion as a significant Christian practice, instituted by Jesus during the Last Supper. In verses like Matthew 26:26-28 and Luke 22:19-20, Jesus presents bread and wine as symbols of His body and blood, establishing a new covenant and instructing His disciples to partake in remembrance of Him. This act symbolizes Jesus’ sacrifice for humanity’s redemption and is a central element in Christian worship. Paul’s letters, especially 1 Corinthians 10:16-17 and 11:23-29, emphasize the importance of recognizing the body and blood of Christ in the elements of Communion, and the necessity of self-examination and discernment among participants.
These passages highlight Communion as a means of proclaiming Jesus’ death until His return, a practice that fosters unity among believers, and a profound expression of faith. The Bible’s teachings on Communion offer deep insights into its spiritual significance, serving as a reminder of Christ’s sacrifice and an affirmation of Christian fellowship.
A Prayer Inspired by Communion Bible Verses
In the light of the profound teachings found in the Bible verses about Communion, let us approach this prayer with a heart open to the deeper meanings of this sacred practice. As we reflect on the words of Christ and the apostles, we are reminded of the unity, sacrifice, and deep spiritual connection that Communion symbolizes. Let this prayer be a testament to our faith, a reaffirmation of our bond in Christ, and a moment of introspection and gratitude for the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus.
Our Prayer Inspired by Our Selection of Bible Verses About Communion
Heavenly Father,
We come before You in reverence and humility, hearts filled with gratitude as we remember the profound gift of Communion. In this sacred moment, we recall the words of Your Son, Jesus Christ, who said, “This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me” (1 Corinthians 11:24). We are in awe of Your love and sacrifice, symbolized through the breaking of bread and the sharing of the cup.
Lord, as we partake in this holy sacrament, let us be united as one body in Christ, just as the bread we break is a sharing in the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 10:16-17). May this act of Communion not only remind us of Your grace but also strengthen the bonds of fellowship among us, Your church. Help us to embody the unity and love that You have called us to, reflecting Your light and love in our communities.
We ask for Your guidance in examining our hearts, as we heed the call of scripture to self-reflect. “Let a person examine themselves, then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup” (1 Corinthians 11:28). In this time of introspection, cleanse us of our transgressions, and renew our spirits, that we may approach Your table with pure hearts and minds.
Thank You, O Lord, for the new covenant in Christ’s blood, a covenant of forgiveness and eternal life. As we drink from the cup, we are reminded of Your promise and the hope we have in Jesus. May this Communion deepen our faith, enrich our souls, and draw us ever closer to You.
In Jesus’ name, we pray,
Amen.