How to Approach Communion with Reverence
Regardless of denomination—be it Catholic, Protestant, Orthodox, or any branch in between—communion is one of the few universally observed practices within Christianity. It is a sacred ceremony that transcends doctrinal differences and unites believers in a shared act of worship and remembrance. Though methods and understandings of the elements may vary slightly, the core essence of communion remains the same: honoring the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
This act, rooted in the Last Supper, reflects the spiritual unity of the global Church and serves as a profound reminder of Christ’s sacrifice for all humanity. Through communion, Christians affirm their faith, reflect on Christ’s love, and participate in a tradition that has linked generations of believers for over two millennia.
Communion is an integral part of Christian worship, observed not only as a remembrance of Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection but also as a forward-looking proclamation of His promised return. It is a moment of deep spiritual reflection and anticipation, binding past, present, and future into one sacred act. To fully appreciate its depth, we must look back to its origins in Scripture.
The foundation of communion is deeply tied to the Jewish Passover, the most sacred feast of the Jewish religious year. As described in Exodus 12, the Passover commemorates the final plague on Egypt when the firstborn of the Egyptians died, but the Israelites were spared through the blood of a lamb marked on their doorposts. God commanded that this feast be observed for generations, and it was during the Passover meal that Jesus instituted what we now call the Lord’s Supper.
Yet the concept of communion traces even further back to Genesis 14:18, where Melchizedek, king of Salem and priest of God Most High, brought out bread and wine to bless Abram. While this was not literally communion—as Christ had not yet come—it is viewed as a prophetic foreshadowing of the sacred elements Jesus would later use. This thread of bread and wine woven through the Scriptures reveals God’s unfolding plan and invites believers into a continuous, covenantal relationship with Him.
The Last Supper: The Birthplace of Communion
Fast forward roughly 1,500 years from the first Passover in Egypt, and we arrive at one of the most pivotal moments in human history—the Last Supper. On the night before His crucifixion, Jesus gathered with His disciples to share the traditional Passover meal. However, this was no ordinary meal. During this intimate gathering, Jesus instituted what Christians now know as the Lord’s Supper, or Communion.
It was during this sacred moment that He broke the bread, gave thanks, and shared it with His disciples, saying, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” He then took the cup and declared, “This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood” (Luke 22:19-20). This act marked the establishment of a new covenant between God and humanity, fulfilled through Jesus’ sacrificial death. Alongside this powerful institution, Jesus also washed the disciples’ feet—demonstrating humility and servant leadership—and foretold both Judas’ betrayal and Peter’s denial.
It’s important to note that while the Last Supper refers specifically to this final meal, the Lord’s Supper refers to the ongoing practice in the Christian Church where believers continue to remember and proclaim Jesus’ sacrifice. In this way, the sacred tradition of communion was born from that final Passover night, fulfilling ancient prophecy and establishing a new spiritual rhythm for Christ’s followers.
Communion as a Sacred Rite
In Christian theology, Communion—also known as the Lord’s Supper or the Eucharist—is recognized as a sacred rite, a holy practice instituted by Jesus Himself during the Last Supper. This act of partaking in bread and wine (or grape juice, depending on tradition) serves as a profound symbol of the body and blood of Christ. For some denominations, such as Roman Catholicism and Eastern Orthodoxy, the elements are believed to become the actual body and blood of Christ through a mystery known as transubstantiation.
In other traditions, they remain symbolic, yet still deeply meaningful representations of Jesus’ sacrifice. A sacred rite, by definition, is a divinely instituted practice that holds deep spiritual and religious significance. In many branches of Christianity—particularly Catholic, Orthodox, and certain Protestant traditions—these sacred rites are referred to as sacraments. Sacraments are seen as visible signs of inward grace, instituted by Christ to strengthen and affirm the faith of believers. Communion, as one of the central sacraments, serves as a continual reminder of God’s love, Christ’s atoning work, and the unity believers share through Him.
The Seven Sacraments in Catholic and Orthodox Tradition
Within the Roman Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Church, Communion—referred to as the Eucharist—is one of seven sacraments recognized as essential to the spiritual journey of a believer. Each sacrament is seen as a means of grace, instituted by Christ and administered through the Church. These sacraments are not merely symbolic acts but sacred encounters with God that mark significant milestones in a Christian’s life. They include:
Baptism, which serves as the entry point into the Christian faith, symbolizing the cleansing of original sin and the rebirth into new life in Christ.
Eucharist (Communion), where believers receive the true body and blood of Christ, uniting them intimately with Him and with the Church body.
Confirmation, which strengthens the grace received in baptism through the Holy Spirit, empowering believers for Christian living and witness.
Confession (also known as Reconciliation or Penance), wherein individuals confess their sins and receive absolution, restoring their relationship with God.
Anointing of the Sick, a sacrament that offers spiritual and sometimes physical healing, comfort, and peace during serious illness or near the end of life.
Holy Orders, through which individuals are ordained into positions of leadership and service within the Church, such as deacons, priests, and bishops.
Matrimony, the sacred and lifelong covenant of marriage between a man and a woman, reflecting the union of Christ and His Church.
These sacraments together shape and sustain the believer's journey from birth through life and into eternal union with God, with the Eucharist remaining central to communal worship and ongoing spiritual nourishment.
The Two Sacraments in Protestant Tradition
While the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Churches recognize seven sacraments, most Protestant denominations hold to two primary sacraments—Baptism and Communion—based on the explicit commands of Jesus Christ. These two practices are deeply rooted in Scripture and serve as foundational expressions of faith and obedience within the Protestant tradition.
Baptism is understood as a public declaration of one’s faith in Jesus and a symbol of the believer’s new life in Christ. It represents a spiritual cleansing and a break from the old life of sin.
Jesus Himself commanded this in Matthew 28:19–20, saying, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” Baptism is seen not as a work that saves, but as an outward sign of inward grace and commitment.
Communion, also referred to as the Lord’s Supper, is observed in remembrance of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross. Protestants typically view it as symbolic rather than literal, commemorating the broken body and shed blood of Jesus and celebrating the grace made available through His death and resurrection.
Luke 22:19 records Jesus saying, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” The Apostle Paul reiterates this in 1 Corinthians 11:23–25, reminding the Church of Jesus’ words on the night He was betrayed, as He broke the bread and passed the cup: “This cup is the new covenant in My blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me.”
Together, these two sacraments serve as both a profession of faith and a continual renewal of it—anchoring the life of the believer in the person and work of Jesus Christ.
The Key Theological Meanings of Communion
Communion is far more than a symbolic ritual—it holds deep theological meaning that shapes the faith and practice of every believer. Within Scripture, we see four essential aspects that give Communion its spiritual depth and enduring significance.
Remembrance – At the heart of Communion is the command of Jesus in Luke 22:19: “Do this in remembrance of me.” When believers partake of the bread and the cup, they are intentionally recalling the sacrifice Jesus made on the cross. This remembrance is not merely intellectual but deeply spiritual—it is a time to reflect on the cost of salvation and the love of Christ that made it possible.
Participation – The Apostle Paul emphasizes in 1 Corinthians 10:16 that Communion is more than remembrance; it is a participation: “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?” In Communion, believers spiritually partake in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, joining in profound fellowship with Him and with each other.
Proclamation – Every time Communion is taken, it becomes a public and communal proclamation of the gospel. As Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 11:26: “For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes.” Communion boldly declares the central truth of Christianity—that Christ died, rose again, and will one day return.
Examination and Unity – Paul also urges believers to approach the Lord’s Table with reverence and introspection. “Let a person examine himself, then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup” (1 Corinthians 11:28). This self-examination is meant to lead to repentance, forgiveness, and a restored sense of unity within the Church. It is a sacred opportunity for spiritual cleansing and reconciliation—not just with God, but with one another.
These four theological truths remind us that Communion is not just a ritual, but a transformative encounter that touches the mind, heart, and soul of every believer.
Differences Among Christian Traditions in Understanding Communion
While Communion is a shared practice among all Christians, the interpretation of what occurs during this sacred rite differs across denominations. These differences are deeply rooted in theological perspectives and church history, shaping how each tradition approaches the Lord’s Table.
Catholic Tradition – In Roman Catholic theology, Communion involves transubstantiation, the belief that the bread and wine literally become the body and blood of Christ, even though their appearance remains unchanged. This change is believed to occur through the words of consecration spoken by the priest. Catholics see this as a continuation of Christ’s once-for-all sacrifice, made present at every Mass. Participation in the Eucharist is both a means of grace and a reaffirmation of unity with the Church.
Orthodox Tradition – The Eastern Orthodox Church holds a similar belief in the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist but does not define it in the precise philosophical terms of transubstantiation. Instead, they emphasize the mystery and sacramental nature of the bread and wine becoming Christ’s body and blood. For the Orthodox, the divine mystery is something to be reverently accepted rather than fully explained.
Lutheran Tradition – Many Lutherans adhere to the doctrine of consubstantiation, which teaches that Christ is truly present “in, with, and under” the elements of bread and wine. While the elements remain physically bread and wine, Christ’s real presence is believed to accompany them. This view upholds the sacredness of Communion while stopping short of declaring a full transformation of substance.
Evangelical and Baptist Traditions – In contrast, many Evangelical and Baptist churches view Communion primarily as a symbolic act. They emphasize remembrance, based on Jesus’ words in Luke 22:19: “Do this in remembrance of me.” The bread and cup are not believed to become or contain Christ’s physical presence but are seen as powerful reminders of His sacrifice and a way to renew personal faith and devotion.
Though these theological nuances vary, each tradition holds Communion in reverence, recognizing its role in deepening the believer’s relationship with Christ and the Church.
A Solemn Warning from the Apostle Paul
While the Gospels emphasize what Jesus said and did during the Last Supper, the Apostle Paul offers deeper theological insight and a solemn warning in his letter to the Corinthians. In 1 Corinthians 11:23–29, Paul writes, “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. A man ought to examine himself before he eats of the bread and drinks of the cup, for anyone who eats and drinks without recognizing the body of the Lord eats and drinks judgment on himself.”
Paul’s words remind believers that Communion is not a casual or empty ritual—it is a sacred act that demands reverence, reflection, and sincerity. Participating in the Lord’s Supper without a proper understanding of its meaning or without a repentant heart can lead to spiritual consequences.
This passage reinforces the importance of self-examination, humility, and awareness of Christ’s presence when approaching the Communion table. Rather than rushing into it thoughtlessly, Christians are called to pause, confess, and renew their commitment to Christ and to one another in the body of faith.
The Corinthian Church and the Call to Examine Ourselves
To fully understand Paul’s warning about taking Communion in an unworthy manner, we need to consider the spiritual climate of the Corinthian church at the time. The early Corinthian church was marked by spiritual chaos—like the “Wild, Wild West” of the faith. Christianity was still in its foundational stages, and many new believers lacked structure, discipline, and spiritual maturity. The church was plagued by issues such as division, immorality, and the misuse of worship. Paul, deeply concerned for the spiritual health of these believers, wrote multiple letters to confront these issues—two of which now make up the New Testament books of 1 and 2 Corinthians.
Corinth itself was a city heavily influenced by surrounding pagan cultures, which created even more pressure on the fledgling Christian community. These outside influences, combined with internal struggles, created a breeding ground for confusion and spiritual compromise. The enemy was no doubt working overtime to derail the church as it was being built.
Within this context, Paul’s rebuke becomes even more powerful. In 1 Corinthians, he addresses the scandalous behaviors taking place during Communion—people treating it like a drunken feast, flaunting their spiritual gifts, engaging in lawsuits among believers, and even tolerating sexual immorality. Against this backdrop, Paul tells them to “examine themselves” before partaking in the Lord’s Supper. This instruction wasn't about being sinless or perfect—Paul knew that no one is truly “worthy” on their own. Instead, he was urging believers to approach the table with humility, sincerity, and reverence, recognizing the sacredness of the moment.
This message has stood the test of time because it still applies today. We too live in a world full of distractions, spiritual compromise, and outside influences. As we come to the Communion table, Paul’s words echo through the ages: examine your heart, acknowledge the Lord’s presence, and approach with the reverence and gratitude that such a sacred act deserves.
A Sacred Moment
Communion is not meant to be treated casually or performed mindlessly just because others around us are doing it. It's not a mid-service snack or a ritual to check off the list—it is a sacred and personal moment to remember that Jesus Christ died for you. Every time we take the bread and the cup, we are invited into a holy remembrance of His suffering, His sacrifice, and His victorious resurrection.
When we come to the Lord’s Table, our attitude matters. If we fail to honor Christ’s sacrifice, or if we harbor division, bitterness, or pride toward fellow believers, then we risk mocking what was meant to be holy. In doing so, we dishonor both Christ and the body of believers around us. Paul made it clear that such irreverence invites God's discipline—what he referred to as “judgment” (1 Corinthians 11:29). But that judgment is not condemnation—it’s correction from a holy and loving God who desires purity in worship and unity in His Church.
So next time you take Communion, pause and reflect. Remember what Jesus did. Reconcile with others if needed. Honor the moment. And above all, give thanks—because His body was broken, and His blood was shed, for you.
Isaiah 53:5 – The Prophetic Foundation of Communion
On the topic of Communion, one of the most powerful verses often quoted during this holy ceremony is found in Isaiah 53:5: “He was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.” This verse, written centuries before the birth of Christ, prophetically points to the suffering of the Messiah—Jesus Christ—and the ultimate purpose of His sacrifice.
In the context of Communion, this passage is a reminder of the immense cost of our salvation. Jesus wasn’t just a good man or a wise teacher—He was the suffering servant who took on the punishment that we rightfully deserved. The wounds He endured were not random but were purposefully and sacrificially given, so that through His suffering, we could find healing—healing of our sins, our brokenness, and our relationship with God. As we partake in the bread and wine (or juice), we remember that His body was pierced, His blood shed, and His sacrifice was made for our transgressions.
Isaiah 53:5 beautifully encapsulates why Communion matters—it’s more than just a meal; it’s a moment of remembering the depth of Christ’s love for us and the price He paid for our eternal peace with God.
Understanding Sin, Transgression, and Iniquity
To fully grasp the significance of Jesus’ sacrifice and the meaning of Communion, it’s essential to understand the different aspects of sin that Christ took upon Himself. The Bible uses various terms to describe human wrongdoing, but three of the most significant are sin, transgression, and iniquity. Each term carries its own nuance, but all point to the need for redemption through Christ’s body and blood.
Sin is a broad term. It refers to anything and everything that falls short of God’s perfect standard. In its simplest form, sin is missing the mark. It can include anything from lustful thoughts, pride, and unbelief to ignorance of God’s commands. Sin can be both intentional and unintentional. It encompasses the broader reality of our fallen nature, reflecting the many ways we fail to live up to the holiness of God.
Transgression, however, is more specific. It refers to a willful violation or rebellion against a known law or command. In other words, a transgression involves knowingly crossing a line or breaking a rule. It’s the conscious choice to disregard God’s commands. For example, stealing, lying, or committing adultery—each of these actions involves a clear understanding that they are wrong and yet are done deliberately. Transgression speaks to a more intentional act of disobedience.
Finally, iniquity refers to deeply rooted moral corruption or wickedness. It’s the internal condition of a person that drives sinful behavior. Iniquity is not just about outward actions; it’s about the state of the heart. It speaks to the moral depravity that exists within humanity, which causes people to act in ways that are contrary to God’s righteousness. This internal brokenness is at the root of many sinful behaviors, and it highlights the need for God’s grace to transform us from the inside out.
The difference between these three terms is important. Sin is broad, and it may or may not be intentional. Transgression, on the other hand, is specific, intentional, and conscious—it involves knowing and choosing to break God’s law. Iniquity points to the deeper, moral corruption that leads to sinful actions. Understanding these distinctions helps us better grasp the gravity of Christ’s sacrifice, as He took all of these on Himself so that we could be healed, forgiven, and made whole.
Psalm 32:5 offers a beautiful picture of the power of confession and forgiveness. In this verse, David expresses the journey of coming before God with honesty, humility, and repentance. "I acknowledged my sin to you and I did not cover my iniquity; I said, 'I will confess my transgressions to the Lord,' and you forgave the iniquity of my sin." This verse serves as a powerful model for how we should approach God when confronted with our own sin and failures.
The first step David takes is to acknowledge his sin. "I acknowledged my sin to you" signifies a moment of honesty before God. David is no longer trying to hide his wrongs or make excuses for them. Confession begins with truthfulness—admitting to God the ways we have fallen short. When we acknowledge our sin, we are opening our hearts to God and allowing Him to reveal the true condition of our souls.
David then moves to the next step: refusing to cover his iniquity. "I did not cover my iniquity" highlights the rejection of trying to conceal the deep moral corruption within. Iniquity is more than just actions; it represents the twisted, depraved condition of the heart that leads to sinful behavior. David’s refusal to hide it shows a willingness to face the darkness within and bring it into the light of God’s healing presence. It’s a reminder to us that no sin or corruption is too deep for God to address, and no part of us should be kept hidden from His purifying gaze.
"I said, 'I will confess my transgressions to the Lord.'" Here, David names the specific acts of rebellion—his conscious violations of God's commands. Transgressions are willful actions, things we knowingly do despite understanding they are wrong. True confession involves not just acknowledging sin but also confronting the areas where we have intentionally gone against God’s will. It requires us to face the specific ways we’ve chosen rebellion over obedience.
Finally, David rejoices in the outcome of his confession: "And you forgave the iniquity of my sin." God’s response is full forgiveness, even of the root cause of sin—the iniquity in David’s heart. This forgiveness is not just for the outward actions, but also for the twisted inner condition that drives those actions. Through God’s mercy, the deep moral corruption within us can be cleansed, not just the visible manifestations of sin. His grace extends beyond mere external behavior to the very core of who we are, offering complete healing and restoration.
This passage beautifully captures the power of God’s forgiveness. It teaches us that confession involves more than acknowledging our mistakes; it is about bringing all aspects of our sin—sin, transgression, and iniquity—before God, knowing that He has the power to forgive and cleanse us fully.
The Importance of Self-Examination and Prayer
Self-examination is a crucial practice in the life of a believer, especially in preparation for partaking in Communion. It provides an opportunity for introspection, reflection, and seeking God's guidance in addressing personal struggles and sin. A good practice during prayer time is to meditate on our actions and acknowledge the different aspects of our wrongdoing: sins, transgressions, and iniquities. By recognizing and naming these, we open ourselves to the transformative power of God's forgiveness and grace.
Self-examination is not simply a mental exercise; it is an active, prayerful engagement with God. Reflect on your sins—the broad ways in which you have fallen short of God's perfect standard. Examine your transgressions—those conscious and willful acts of disobedience. Finally, consider your iniquities, the deeply rooted conditions of the heart that can drive sinful behavior. When we take time to identify these areas, we are acknowledging the need for God's cleansing touch and transformation.
A vital part of self-examination is considering how to overcome repetitive transgressions and the iniquities that seem ingrained in our character. Sometimes, our actions are cyclical and difficult to break free from. This is where prayer becomes crucial: when you recognize your weakness or lack of solutions for overcoming certain sins, turn to God. Ask Him to work in you, to help you overcome areas of struggle, and to empower you to live in greater obedience to Him. We are not meant to fight these battles alone—God desires to partner with us in our spiritual growth and transformation.
Additionally, prayer time is an opportunity to ask God to reveal secret sins—those hidden areas of our hearts that we may not even be aware of. God is faithful to guide us and expose the areas that need healing and repentance. As we seek His help in this process, He will lead us into deeper intimacy with Him and deeper freedom from sin.
Ultimately, this process of self-examination and prayer is an essential part of our spiritual journey. It aligns us with God's will, fosters repentance, and encourages transformation. By engaging in this practice regularly, we position ourselves for spiritual growth and are reminded of the continual need for God’s grace in our lives. As we reflect on Christ’s sacrifice during Communion, it is vital that we take the time to prepare our hearts, seeking both forgiveness and strength to live in accordance with His will.