Definition and Importance

Reverence in Communion refers to the deep respect, honor, and solemnity with which believers approach the Lord's Supper, also known as Communion or the Eucharist. This sacred ordinance, instituted by Jesus Christ during the Last Supper, is a central act of Christian worship and remembrance. It commemorates the sacrificial death of Christ and His atoning work on the cross. Reverence in this context involves a heart posture of humility, gratitude, and awe before God, recognizing the profound significance of the elements—the bread and the cup—as symbols of Christ's body and blood.

Biblical Foundation

The practice of Communion is rooted in the New Testament, particularly in the accounts of the Last Supper. In 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 , the Apostle Paul recounts the words of Jesus: "For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night He was betrayed, took bread, and when He had given thanks, He broke it and said, 'This is My body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of Me.' In the same way, after supper He took the cup, saying, 'This cup is the new covenant in My blood; do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me.' For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes."

Attitude and Conduct

Reverence in Communion is not merely about external actions but involves the inner disposition of the heart. Believers are called to examine themselves before partaking in the Lord's Supper. Paul warns in 1 Corinthians 11:27-29 , "Therefore, 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. Each one must examine himself before he eats of the bread and drinks of the cup. For anyone who eats and drinks without recognizing the body eats and drinks judgment on himself."

This self-examination involves confessing sins, seeking forgiveness, and approaching the table with a clear conscience. It is a time for reflection on one's relationship with God and others, ensuring that there is no harboring of sin or unresolved conflict.

Symbolism and Significance

The elements of Communion—the bread and the cup—are rich in symbolism. The bread represents the body of Christ, broken for the sins of humanity, while the cup symbolizes His blood, shed for the forgiveness of sins and the establishment of the new covenant. This sacred meal is a means of grace, a spiritual nourishment that strengthens the believer's faith and unity with Christ.

Communal Aspect

Communion is not only a personal act of devotion but also a communal expression of the body of Christ, the Church. It signifies the unity of believers as they partake together, acknowledging their shared faith and commitment to Christ. In 1 Corinthians 10:16-17 , Paul writes, "Is not the cup of blessing that we bless a participation in the blood of Christ? And is not the bread that we break a participation in the body of Christ? Because there is one loaf, we who are many are one body; for we all partake of the one loaf."

Conclusion

Reverence in Communion is a vital aspect of Christian worship, calling believers to approach the Lord's Table with a heart of humility, gratitude, and awe. It is a time to remember Christ's sacrifice, examine one's heart, and celebrate the unity of the Church. Through this sacred ordinance, believers proclaim the Lord's death and anticipate His return, drawing strength and grace from their participation in the body and blood of Christ.