Seven Reason the Christian Church Celebrates Communion

 

Christian Communion Overview

Communion, also known as the Lord's Supper, is a sacrament observed by many Christian denominations, symbolizing the body and blood of Jesus Christ as a remembrance of His sacrifice on the cross. The New American Standard Bible (NASB) references the institution and significance of Communion in several key passages. 

Here are the main reasons for Communion in Christian churches as derived from biblical texts, including those found in the NASB:

• Remembrance of Jesus Christ: Communion is observed in memory of Jesus Christ's life, death, and resurrection. Jesus Himself instructed His disciples to partake in the bread and wine "in remembrance of Me" (Luke 22:19-20, 1 Corinthians 11:24-25). This act serves as a memorial of Christ's sacrifice and His love for humanity.
• Proclaiming the Lord's Death: By participating in Communion, believers proclaim the Lord's death until He comes again (1 Corinthians 11:26). It is a public declaration of faith in the redemptive work of Christ on the cross and His eventual return.
• Participation in the Body and Blood of Christ: Communion symbolizes the believer's participation in the body and blood of Christ (1 Corinthians 10:16). It signifies unity with Christ and the nourishment of the believer's spiritual life through Christ's sacrifice.
• Fellowship Among Believers: Communion fosters a sense of unity and fellowship among members of the Christian community, as they share in the body and blood of Christ (1 Corinthians 10:17). It serves as a reminder that believers are part of the body of Christ and are to live in harmony and love.
• Self-Examination and Repentance: Before partaking in Communion, believers are encouraged to examine themselves and confess their sins (1 Corinthians 11:27-32). This self-examination ensures that individuals approach the Lord's Table in a worthy manner, reflecting on their faith and relationship with God.
• A Means of Grace: While the specific theological understanding of how grace is received through Communion may vary among denominations, many Christians view it as a means through which God imparts grace to the believer. It is a spiritual encounter that strengthens and nourishes the believer's faith.
• Anticipation of the Marriage Supper of the Lamb: Communion looks forward to the future feast in the Kingdom of God, often referred to as the Marriage Supper of the Lamb (Revelation 19:9). It is an anticipation of the eternal fellowship believers will enjoy with Christ.

These reasons highlight the multifaceted significance of Communion within the Christian faith. It is a sacrament rich in symbolism, grounded in the teachings of Jesus, and central to Christian worship and doctrine. It is important to note that Communion can be taken anywhere, not just in a church setting.