Communion and the Coming of the Lord

The NT church practice of communion has its roots in the Passover observance of Jehovah passing over the households in Egypt and not slaying the firstborn, when the blood of a lamb was applied to the door posts. Jesus celebrated the Passover meal with His disciples and directed them to continue the practice with the focus upon His substitution as the sacrifice for our sins. 

“And He took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, This is My body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of Me. Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in My blood, which is shed for you” (Luke 22:19-20 KJV). 

Why the need for an ongoing repetition of the ceremony? 

His glory. 

“For My sake alone I will act, for how can I allow My name to be defiled? I will not share My glory with anyone else!” (Isaiah 48:11 NET). 

He is worthy.

We need to be very jealous about the name of our LORD, even as He is jealous. If the Church takes lightly God’s honor and glory in not remembering the Lord’s atoning death on the Cross, how can we expect the world to take seriously the love of God for a sinning world? 

What is the connection with our Lord’s Coming for His Church?

“For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord’s death till He come” (1Corinthians 11:26 KJV). 

Once the Lord returns, we shall see Him as He is, and we won’t need ceremonies to remember Him. So, when we participate in the Lord’s Supper, we are both remembering His sacrifice for us and looking forward to His return. 

“Them that honour Me I will honour” (1Samuel 2:30). 

Father, we desire to glorify You now and forever, for You are worthy. Thank You for the sacrifice of Your Dear Son. May it echo throughout eternity the good and great God You are. Lord Jesus, return quickly. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen and amen.