Communion is a meaningful practice for Christians. It goes back to the Last Supper when Jesus gave the first communion to his disciples (Luke 22:19-20). It’s a time to remember, reflect, and connect with Jesus. But if you're new to faith, you might wonder what exactly is communion, how to take it, and why it matters.
Let’s break it down so you can better understand its meaning and how to approach communion with the right mindset.
What is communion?
Communion started at the Last Supper. In front of his disciples, Jesus took bread and wine, shared it with them, and declared, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me” (Luke 22:19-20). He gave us communion as a way to remember his sacrifice on the cross and stay connected to him.
Communion is more than just something we do. It’s a form of worship. Paul explains in 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 that each time we take communion, we declare Jesus’ death and we continue to do this until Jesus returns. It’s a reminder of the forgiveness we have received through Jesus’ death.
Who can take communion?
Different churches have different guidelines on who can participate in communion:
- Open communion: many churches welcome all believers in Jesus to take part, regardless of denomination. (At LCBC, we practice open communion! As long as you’re a follower of Jesus, you are welcome to participate.)
- Closed communion: some churches ask that only members of their specific church or denomination participate. This is practiced in the Catholic church, for example.
The Bible doesn’t specify a membership requirement, but it does encourage believers to take communion with reverence. Paul writes, “Everyone ought to examine themselves before they eat of the bread and drink from the cup” (1 Corinthians 11:28). This self-examination ensures that communion is taken with a heart of obedience to God.
Communion is a personal decision
If you’ve placed your faith in Jesus and understand the significance of communion, you are welcome to participate. If you’re unsure, it’s okay to observe and reflect until you feel ready!
How to prepare for communion
Communion should be approached with sincerity, gratitude, and respect for Jesus’ sacrifice. Paul warns against taking communion lightly: “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” (1 Corinthians 11:27-29).
If you’re not in a place spiritually to take communion with the serious posture it requires, it’s okay to simply observe! You can still engage in prayer and self-reflection. Talk to God – bring him your questions or doubts about faith, confess your mistakes, and invite him to do a new work in your heart.
How to take communion
First, you’ll reflect
Before taking communion, the Bible encourages us to check our hearts. “Everyone ought to examine themselves before they eat of the bread and drink from the cup” (1 Corinthians 11:28). This means reflecting on any sin, repenting, and making things right with God (Matthew 5:23-24).
Next, you’ll receive the elements
In most churches, communion is led by pastors or leaders who hand out the bread and cup (usually a fruit juice, but some churches use wine). As you eat, take a moment to remember Jesus’ body broken for you. As you drink, reflect on his blood poured out for your forgiveness (Luke 22:19-20).
Afterward, you’ll talk to God and give him thanks
Communion is a time to pray and show gratitude, thanking Jesus for his sacrifice and reflecting on his grace and forgiveness. It’s also an opportunity to ask for renewal and strength to continue fully following him (though you can ask for this any time!).
You’ll engage in worship
Communion often happens during a worship service with prayer, singing, and reflection. This is just like the early Church used to do it! “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer” (Acts 2:42).
There are different ways to take Communion
Communion has a lot of common elements, like eating and drinking, praying, and reflecting. But there are a few different practices and customs you may see depending on which church you’re at:
- Wine vs. Juice: Some churches use wine, others use juice. Many churches will use bread, but others may use a cracker or wafer – and lots offer a gluten free option! No matter what, the meaning stays the same: remembering Jesus’ sacrifice. (It doesn’t even have to be bread or juice at all! There’s nothing special about the bread or the cup. They were simply traditional parts of a meal during biblical times.)
- How often it's taken: Some churches take communion weekly, others monthly, or on special occasions. The focus is on participating regularly, not how often.
- Different methods: Some churches dip the bread into the juice, while others take them separately.
Why is Communion important?
Communion gives us space to reflect on the magnitude of what Jesus did for us on the cross and reminds us of the hope we have in him. It's also a glimpse of what we have to look forward to: “Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb” (Revelation 19:9).
But until then, we’re called to live with gratitude and obedience to God, and to seek unity and peace with others. Because Communion recenters our hearts on Jesus, we should walk away inspired to share Jesus’ sacrificial love with others (John 13:34-35).
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Who was with Jesus for the Last Supper? Discover more about who his disciples were, including some interesting facts!
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LCBC stands for Lives Changed By Christ. We are one church in multiple locations across Pennsylvania. Find the location closest to you or join us for Church Online. We can’t wait to connect with you!