Communion [also called the Lord’s Supper] is one of God’s means of grace for Christians where he gives them himself for the forgiveness of sins, new life, and salvation. Receiving the Lord’s Supper strengthens their faith and empowers them to resist the daily sinful temptations of the devil, the world, and their own sinful flesh. God knows that the devil is constantly working like a roaring lion to devour anyone he can. God also knows that we need nourishment to fend off the devil. We get this nourishment through the Lord’s Supper as we remember what Jesus went through in order to complete the work of salvation for all people. Christians receive the forgiveness of their sins when the Lord’s Supper is given and received according to Jesus’ directions. This is why communion is so important for Christians. When Christian’s prepare for communion, they confess all their sins- the sins they are aware of and the sins they are not aware of. These are sins of thought, word, and deed. When Christians approach the table to receive the Lord’s Supper they remember the great sacrifice Jesus made when he left his glory in heaven to die a gruesome death on the cross to give them the gift of eternal life unconditionally. Jesus then gives them his own body and blood together with bread and wine with his words “given for you for the forgiveness of your sins.” How can it be that God gives us himself in his Supper? Human reason cannot explain it. Christians simply trust Jesus when he says, “This is my body…this is my blood.” They believe him because he has the power to do anything. What an awesome blessing the Lord’s Supper is! Christians want to take it as directed by Jesus and treat it sacred; rather than something viewed as just an activity done in church. In the Lord’s Supper sins are forgiven, souls receive incredible nourishment, and one’s heart is uplifted knowing that eternal life has been won. Thank God for this wonderful blessing!
God’s Word on Communion: NIV:
Matthew 26: 26-28 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.”