Why Communion Matters

As a parent, I'm often asked the question, "Why?" Why this? Why that? I wish I could say I'm always thoughtful and patient with my response. But the honest truth is that I'm not. More often than I'd like to admit, my reply goes something like this..."It's just what we do!" Not helpful, I know. Maybe you know the feeling? The irony, of course, is that l'm a lot like my son. I love to ask, "Why?" and "It's just what we do" is rarely an answer I'm satisfied with. I think for many of us, taking communion at church falls into the same category: "It's just what we do." And yet, if we're honest, we might not really know what it is and why we do it. If that's you, you aren't alone! Here are a few questions regarding communion and my answer to them.

Why Is Communion Essential to Our Church?

Jesus Himself instituted the Lord's Supper on the night He was betrayed, telling His disciples, "This do in remembrance of me." (Luke 22:19). This wasn't a mere suggestion- it was a command. Through the bread and the cup, we remember Christ's sacrifice, proclaim His death, and anticipate His return (1 Corinthians 11:26). Communion keeps the gospel at the center of our church's life. It also strengthens our unity as a church. Paul warned the Corinthian church against partaking of Communion in a way that ignored their relationships with one another (1 Corinthians 11:17-22). When we come to the Lord's Table, we do so as a family. This is why Communion is a shared meal, not a private moment. For this reason, I want to start keeping the lights on during Communion- to visually reinforce that this is something we do together, as the gathered body of Christ, rather than as isolated individuals. After all, if the Lord's Supper is a foretaste of the Marriage Supper of the Lamb, that great feast will not be eaten in darkness but in the brilliant light of God's glory.

Why Do We Partake Regularly?

Every church does this differently, as God leads the pastors. While there is no strict biblical command regarding frequency, Scripture does indicate that the early church gathered for the breaking of bread as a regular part of their worship (Acts 2:42, 20:7). By increasing the frequency of Communion, we are emphasizing its importance in our spiritual lives. Just as we need regular reminders of God's grace in His Word, we also need the visible, tangible reminder of the gospel that Communion provides. In partaking often, we do not cheapen its significance; rather, we deepen our appreciation of it.

Why Should Every Member Prioritize It?

Every member of our church should prioritize this ordinance because you need it. Your faith needs it. Your church family needs it. So come to the Table this Sunday night at 6:00 with expectancy, humility, and joy--because here, Christ meets us, strengthens us, and assures us that one day, we will feast with Him in glory.