WHY DO HOLY COMMUNION?

A Response to "Just a Thought! Why Do Holy Communion?"

The Center of Communion

The Holy Communion centers around the cross. It is not just a ritual or a tradition; it is a profound act of remembrance and participation in the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. When we come to the table, we are reminded of what Christ did for us—His body broken for our healing, His blood shed for our forgiveness. Communion is a tangible connection to the cross, a moment to reflect, give thanks, and receive the spiritual and physical benefits of His sacrifice. It is a sacred ordinance that brings us into the reality of His death and resurrection.

Abundant Life on Earth

Taking Holy Communion unworthily can cause us to be weak and ill, and even death. But how much more will it bring healing and wholeness to our physical bodies if we do it right! The body of Jesus was broken for us, and by His wounds—by His stripes—we are healed. Isaiah 53:5 declares that He was pierced for our transgressions, crushed for our iniquities, and by His wounds we are healed. Communion is not just a spiritual exercise; it is a means of receiving physical wholeness. When we partake with faith and reverence, we are accessing the healing power of Christ's sacrifice. Abundant life refers to life in its abounding fullness of joy and strength for spirit, soul, and body. This life can die; it has an expiry date. But while we are here on earth, God desires that we live in the fullness of His provision—health, peace, and strength.

Eternal Life in the Afterlife

The blood of Jesus is for the forgiveness of our sins. The shed blood washes away our sins and gives us eternal life. Hebrews 9:22 declares that without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sins. The blood of Jesus is the only sacrifice that can cleanse us from sin and reconcile us to God. First John 5:11 says that God gave us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. John 3:16 reminds us that God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. Communion is a reminder that we have been forgiven and that we have been given the gift of eternal life. It is a declaration that our sins have been paid for and that we have a future beyond the grave.

The Continuation of Life After Death

There is a continuation of life after death. Eternal life traditionally refers to continued life after death. It cannot die and has no expiry date. While our physical bodies will eventually fail, our spirits will live on. For those who are in Christ, death is not the end; it is the beginning of something far greater. Eternal life is not just a future hope; it is a present reality. The life we receive through Christ begins now and continues forever. Communion is a foretaste of that eternal life, a moment when we taste the grace that will sustain us for all eternity.

Remembering the Broken Body and Shed Blood

Jesus wanted us conscious of how His body was broken so we could be made whole, and His blood was shed for the forgiveness of our sins. He did not want us to forget. He did not want us to take His sacrifice for granted. He gave us the Communion as a perpetual reminder of His love, His suffering, and His victory. When we take the bread, we remember His body that was broken for us. When we take the cup, we remember His blood that was shed for us. We do this in remembrance of Him, until He comes again.

The Call to Partake Worthily

Partaking in Communion is not just a routine; it is a solemn act of faith. We are called to examine ourselves, to confess our sins, and to approach the table with reverence. When we do, we receive the benefits of His sacrifice—healing for our bodies, forgiveness for our sins, and strength for our journey. Do not take Communion lightly. Do not come to the table with unconfessed sin or a heart of unbelief. Instead, come with gratitude, with faith, and with a renewed commitment to follow Christ.

Final Reflection

Why do Holy Communion? Because it connects us to the cross. It reminds us of our salvation. It brings healing to our bodies, forgiveness to our souls, and hope for eternity. It is a gift from Jesus to His church, a tangible expression of His love. Do not neglect this gift. Come to the table. Remember His sacrifice. Receive His grace. And live in the fullness of the abundant and eternal life He has given you.

Prayer Before Communion

Lord, I come to Your table with thanksgiving and reverence. Thank You for the body of Jesus that was broken for me and the blood that was shed for my sins. Heal my body, forgive my sins, and strengthen my faith as I partake of this holy meal. Help me to examine myself and to come with a clean heart. Let this Communion be a source of abundant life now and eternal life forever. I remember Your sacrifice, and I await Your return. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.