InstaStudy

A Sacred Ordinance: Understanding Communion

This study explores the biblical foundations and profound significance of the Lord's Supper, examining its institution, meaning, and proper observance for believers.

1. The Foundation of Communion: Christ's Singular Sacrifice

1.1 The Institution by the Lord

Verses: Matthew 26:26-29; Luke 22:19-20; 1 Corinthians 11:23-25
  • Jesus Himself commanded this ordinance on the night He was betrayed.
  • It established a new covenant through His sacrifice.
  • It is a perpetual reminder of His love and redemption.

1.2 The Body Broken for Us

Verses: John 6:51; 1 Corinthians 11:24; Hebrews 10:10
  • The bread represents His physical suffering and the giving of His flesh.
  • His body was completely given as a sacrifice for the life of the world.
  • It signifies His full and perfect atonement.

1.3 The Blood of the New Covenant

Verses: Matthew 26:28; Hebrews 9:22; 1 Peter 1:18-19
  • The cup represents His blood, shed for the remission of sins.
  • It establishes a new and living relationship with God.
  • His blood signifies purification and complete atonement.

2. The Elements and Their Profound Meaning

2.1 The Bread as His Body

Verses: 1 Corinthians 10:16; 1 Corinthians 11:24
  • The bread symbolizes His physical being and humanity.
  • It is a tangible reminder of His sacrifice on the cross.
  • Through it, we remember His complete offering.

2.2 The Cup as His Blood

Verses: 1 Corinthians 10:16; 1 Corinthians 11:25; Hebrews 9:14
  • The cup represents His life poured out for humanity.
  • It signifies the new covenant established in His blood.
  • It is for the forgiveness of sins and spiritual cleansing.

2.3 Participation in His Life

Verses: John 6:53-56; 1 Corinthians 10:16-17
  • Through communion, we partake of His divine nature.
  • We are united with Him in His death and resurrection.
  • It is a means of receiving spiritual nourishment and strength.

3. Proper Participation and Reverent Self-Examination

3.1 Examining One's Heart

Verses: 1 Corinthians 11:28; Psalm 26:2
  • Believers must assess their spiritual state before partaking.
  • Confession of known sins is essential for a right relationship with God.
  • It is a time for personal reflection and spiritual inventory.

3.2 Discerning the Lord's Body

Verses: 1 Corinthians 11:29
  • Understanding the sacredness and profound significance of the ordinance.
  • Recognizing the immense sacrifice it represents.
  • Not treating it as a common meal or ritual.

3.3 Consequences of Unworthy Partaking

Verses: 1 Corinthians 11:27; 1 Corinthians 11:30-32
  • Partaking unworthily brings judgment upon oneself.
  • It can lead to spiritual weakness, sickness, and even physical death.
  • Scripture provides a serious warning against irreverent participation.

4. The Ongoing Significance and Proclamation

4.1 A Remembrance of His Death

Verses: 1 Corinthians 11:24-25; Luke 22:19
  • We recall His ultimate sacrifice and the price paid for our redemption.
  • It serves as a perpetual memorial of His boundless love.
  • We are commanded to do this in remembrance of Him.

4.2 A Proclamation of His Return

Verses: 1 Corinthians 11:26; Revelation 22:20
  • We declare His death until He comes again.
  • The ordinance points to His glorious second coming.
  • It is a hope-filled anticipation of His return.

4.3 Fellowship with Him and Believers

Verses: 1 Corinthians 10:16-17; John 17:20-23
  • Through communion, we share in His divine life and presence.
  • It unites us as one body in Christ with fellow believers.
  • It fosters a deep bond of spiritual communion and unity.