This short exploration delves into key Bible verses that illuminate the theological depth and communal significance of communion. Each verse is accompanied by a commentary, offering insights into the spiritual principles encapsulated in the Lord’s Supper.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Pregnancy (with Explanation)
Bible Verses For Communion
1 Corinthians 11:23-26 (NIV)
“For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, ‘This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me.'”
This foundational passage from Paul’s letter to the Corinthians recounts the words of Jesus during the Last Supper, where He instituted the practice of communion. The breaking of the bread symbolizes Christ’s sacrificial death, and the act itself is an invitation to remember and reflect on the redemptive work accomplished through His body.
Matthew 26:26-28 (NIV)
“While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, ‘Take and eat; this is my body.’ Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, ‘Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.'”
In Matthew’s Gospel, the account of the Last Supper emphasizes the dual symbolism of the bread and wine. Jesus associates the bread with His body and the wine with His blood, establishing a profound connection between communion and the forgiveness of sins through His atoning sacrifice.
John 6:53-58 (NIV)
“Jesus said to them, ‘Very truly I tell you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you. Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise them up at the last day.'”
In John’s Gospel, Jesus delivers a discourse on the spiritual significance of eating His flesh and drinking His blood. This metaphorical language underscores the intimate connection believers have with Christ through communion, signifying participation in His redemptive work and the promise of eternal life.
Luke 22:19-20 (NIV)
“And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, ‘This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.’ In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, ‘This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.'”
Luke’s account mirrors the institution of the Lord’s Supper, highlighting Jesus’ words and actions as He establishes the symbolic representation of His body and blood through the elements of bread and wine. Communion becomes a powerful act of remembrance and a proclamation of the new covenant in Christ.
1 Corinthians 10:16-17 (NIV)
“Is not the cup of thanksgiving for which we give thanks a participation in the blood of Christ? And is not the bread that we break a participation in the body of Christ? Because there is one loaf, we, who are many, are one body, for we all share the one loaf.”
Paul, in addressing the Corinthians, emphasizes the communal aspect of communion. The shared participation in the bread and the cup symbolizes the unity of believers as one body in Christ. It underscores the relational and communal dimension of partaking in the Lord’s Supper, highlighting the interconnectedness of the body of Christ.
Acts 2:42 (NIV)
“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.”
This verse from the early days of the Christian community in Acts underscores the importance of breaking bread in fellowship. Communion, as a communal act, is woven into the fabric of believers’ devotion, emphasizing the shared experience of partaking in the Lord’s Supper as a community of faith.
1 Corinthians 11:27-29 (NIV)
“So then, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord. Everyone ought to examine themselves before they eat of the bread and drink from the cup. For those who eat and drink without discerning the body of Christ eat and drink judgment on themselves.”
Paul’s cautionary words in 1 Corinthians highlight the solemnity of communion. Believers are urged to approach the Lord’s Table with reverence and self-examination, recognizing the gravity of partaking in the symbols of Christ’s body and blood. It serves as a reminder of the sacred nature of communion and the need for a discerning heart.
Colossians 3:15-17 (NIV)
“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”
In Colossians, the call to peace and gratitude is intricately connected to the message of Christ dwelling among believers. Communion, as a central expression of worship, is woven into the fabric of the Christian life, influencing every aspect of believers’ interactions and actions.
Malachi 1:11 (NIV)
“My name will be great among the nations, from where the sun rises to where it sets. In every place incense and pure offerings will be brought to me because my name will be great among the nations,” says the Lord Almighty.”
While not a direct reference to communion, this verse from Malachi hints at a global worship and offering of pure sacrifices. In the context of communion, it resonates with the idea that the Lord’s Supper is a universal practice, uniting believers across nations in the worship of the great name of the Lord.
Luke 24:30-31 (NIV)
“When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. Then their eyes were opened, and they recognized him, and he disappeared from their sight.”
In the post-resurrection appearance of Jesus to disciples on the road to Emmaus, the act of breaking bread becomes a moment of revelation. Communion, with its deep spiritual significance, has the potential to open eyes and hearts, allowing believers to recognize the presence of the resurrected Christ in their midst.
John 6:35 (NIV)
“Then Jesus declared, ‘I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.'”
Jesus’ proclamation in John emphasizes the spiritual sustenance and satisfaction that believers find in Him. This verse aligns with the symbolic nourishment experienced through communion, where partaking in the elements represents a continual coming to Christ for spiritual sustenance and
1 Corinthians 11:26 (NIV)
“For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.”
Paul’s statement underscores the forward-looking nature of communion. It is not only a reflection on Christ’s sacrifice but also a proclamation of His death and a anticipation of His return. Communion serves as a continual reminder and declaration of the redemptive work of Christ and the hope of His glorious return.
Mark 14:22-24 (NIV)
“While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, ‘Take it; this is my body.’ Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, and they all drank from it.”
Mark’s account of the Last Supper provides a concise yet powerful depiction of the institution of communion. Jesus’ intentional actions with the bread and cup establish a timeless tradition for believers, inviting them to partake in the remembrance of His sacrifice.
Hebrews 9:14 (NIV)
“How much more, then, will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences from acts that lead to death, so that we may serve the living God!”
This verse from Hebrews accentuates the cleansing power of Christ’s blood. In the context of communion, partaking in the cup represents a profound acknowledgment of the redemptive work of Christ, purifying the conscience and enabling believers to serve the living God with gratitude.
Romans 12:5 (NIV)
“so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.”
Paul’s statement in Romans reflects the unity and interconnectedness of believers as one body in Christ. Communion, with its communal aspect, aligns with this concept, reinforcing the idea that though individuals partake, they do so as members of a larger, unified body of Christ.
1 Corinthians 11:30 (NIV)
“That is why many among you are weak and sick, and a number of you have fallen asleep.”
This verse follows Paul’s cautionary words about partaking in communion in an unworthy manner. It highlights the seriousness of the act, indicating that failure to discern the body of Christ can have consequences. This emphasizes the need for sincere reflection and repentance before approaching the Lord’s Table.
Matthew 26:29 (NIV)
“I tell you, I will not drink from this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom.”
In this verse, Jesus looks forward to a future celebration of communion in the kingdom of God. It adds a dimension of anticipation to the practice, reminding believers of the ongoing fellowship with Christ that extends beyond the present age.
1 Corinthians 10:21 (NIV)
“You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons too; you cannot have a part in both the Lord’s table and the table of demons.”
This verse underscores the exclusivity and commitment involved in partaking in the Lord’s Table. Communion is not merely a ritual; it signifies a covenantal relationship with the Lord, and participating in it requires a conscious decision to align with Christ and separate from anything contrary to His nature.
John 6:51 (NIV)
“I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats this bread will live forever. This bread is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.”
In this profound statement, Jesus connects the idea of eating the bread with eternal life. Communion, therefore, becomes a symbolic act of partaking in the life-giving nature of Christ’s sacrifice, offering a transformative and everlasting impact on those who partake in faith.
1 Corinthians 12:13 (NIV)
“For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink.”
While not explicitly about communion, this verse speaks to the unity brought about by the Holy Spirit. Communion, as a shared practice among believers, aligns with the concept of forming one body through the indwelling of the Spirit. It emphasizes the communal and spiritual bond experienced in the act of partaking together.
Acts 20:7 (NIV)
“On the first day of the week, we came together to break bread. Paul spoke to the people and, because he intended to leave the next day, kept on talking until midnight.”
This verse from Acts provides a glimpse into the early Christian practice of breaking bread on the first day of the week. While not explicitly stated as a communion gathering, the act of breaking bread in the context of Paul’s teaching suggests a regular gathering that likely included a form of communal meal, possibly incorporating elements of the Lord’s Supper.
1 Corinthians 11:33-34 (NIV)
“So then, my brothers and sisters, when you gather to eat, you should all eat together. Anyone who is hungry should eat something at home, so that when you meet together it may not result in judgment.”
Following Paul’s instructions on communion in 1 Corinthians 11, these verses emphasize the communal aspect of the gathering. It encourages believers to share in the Lord’s Supper together, ensuring that the focus remains on the sacred act of remembrance and avoids divisions or distractions.
1 Corinthians 10:16 (NIV)
“Is not the cup of thanksgiving for which we give thanks a participation in the blood of Christ? And is not the bread that we break a participation in the body of Christ?”
This verse reinforces the idea of participation in the body and blood of Christ through the cup and the bread. Communion is not a passive observance but an active and participatory engagement with the redemptive work of Christ, fostering a deeper connection between the believer and the Lord.
1 Corinthians 11:31-32 (NIV)
“But if we were more discerning with regard to ourselves, we would not come under such judgment. Nevertheless, when we are judged in this way by the Lord, we are being disciplined so that we will not be finally condemned with the world.”
Continuing Paul’s discourse on communion, these verses stress the importance of self-discernment. The act of partaking in the Lord’s Supper requires a sincere examination of one’s heart and motives, as it represents a sacred covenant with Christ that, when approached with reverence, leads to spiritual discipline and growth.
Philippians 3:10 (NIV)
“I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death.”
Though not directly addressing communion, this verse captures the essence of communion’s spiritual significance. The desire to know Christ and participate in His sufferings aligns with the symbolic nature of partaking in the bread and cup, representing a profound identification with the crucified and risen Lord.
1 Peter 2:24 (NIV)
“He himself bore our sins in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; ‘by his wounds, you have been healed.'”
This verse, while not explicitly about communion, encapsulates the foundational truth that communion symbolizes—the atoning sacrifice of Christ. The bread and wine serve as tangible reminders of Christ bearing our sins, leading to healing and the opportunity to live in righteousness.
Luke 22:19 (NIV)
“And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, ‘This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.'”
In this succinct repetition of the institution of the Lord’s Supper, Jesus emphasizes the crucial element of remembrance. Communion is not a mere ritual but a deliberate act of recalling and reflecting on the significance of Christ’s sacrificial offering.
1 Corinthians 11:28 (NIV)
“Everyone ought to examine themselves before they eat of the bread and drink from the cup.”
Paul’s instruction underscores the personal responsibility of every believer to engage in self-examination before partaking in communion. This introspective aspect contributes to the depth and sincerity of the communion experience.
Matthew 26:27-28 (NIV)
“Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, ‘Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.'”
In Matthew’s account of the Last Supper, Jesus establishes a profound connection between the cup and the forgiveness of sins. Communion, through the shared cup, becomes a powerful expression of the covenantal relationship between Christ and believers, symbolizing the forgiveness secured through His shed blood.
Romans 6:4 (NIV)
“We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.”
While addressing baptism, this verse resonates with the transformative symbolism inherent in communion. The act of partaking reflects a participation in Christ’s death and resurrection, signifying a new life and identity in Him.
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Prayer About the Communion Table
Heavenly Father,
As we gather at Your table, we come with hearts full of gratitude for the precious gift of communion. In this sacred moment, we recognize the significance of partaking in the symbols of Christ’s body and blood—the bread and the cup. We humbly acknowledge the depth of Your love displayed on the cross, where Jesus bore our sins and secured our redemption.
Lord, grant us the grace to approach this sacred act with reverence and self-examination. May our hearts be attuned to the solemnity of the covenant we share with Christ, understanding that, in the breaking of bread and the sharing of the cup, we declare His death until He comes again. Help us to truly discern the body of Christ, fostering unity and love within Your family.
We thank You for the opportunity to remember and reflect on the profound sacrifice of our Savior. May this communion deepen our intimacy with You and strengthen our bond with fellow believers. Let it be a source of healing, renewal, and transformation as we partake in faith.
Lord, as we leave this table, may the impact of this communion experience resonate in our lives. Empower us to live out the truths symbolized in these elements, walking in the newness of life that Your grace provides.
In Jesus’ name, we pray.
Amen.