Receiving communion is a common practice in most churches. But why do we do it? Here are four reasons why communion is an essential part of Christian worship from the 11th chapter in 1st Corinthians:

To obey Christ: 

Communion is an act of obedience to Jesus’ command. Jesus instituted this practice on the night He was betrayed, making it a central tradition for His followers. This obedience goes beyond mere ritual; it’s a meaningful expression of following Christ’s teachings.

1 Corinthians 11:23 (NKJV)

For I received from the Lord that which I also delivered to you: that the Lord Jesus on the same night in which He was betrayed took bread;

To remember Christ’s death:  

Communion serves as a tangible reminder of Jesus’ sacrifice for our sins. The breaking of bread and the drinking of wine symbolize Jesus’ body and blood, given for us. This act of remembrance connects believers to the profound love and grace displayed on the cross.

1 Corinthians 11:24-25 (NKJV)

and when He had given thanks, He broke it and said, “Take, eat; this is My body which is broken for you; do this in remembrance of Me.”  In the same manner He also took the cup after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in My blood. This do, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me.”

To proclaim Christ’s death until He comes:  

Every time Christians partake in communion, they proclaim the central truth of their faith – the death and resurrection of Christ. It’s a form of preaching the Gospel, affirming the hope of Jesus’ return.

1 Corinthians 11:26 (NKJV)

For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death till He comes.

To examine one’s life for unconfessed sin  

Communion encourages believers to approach with reverence and humility, acknowledging their need for grace and forgiveness. The scripture also emphasizes the importance of self-examination, ensuring that participants partake in a worthy manner.

1 Corinthians 11:27-32 (NKJV)

Therefore whoever eats this bread or drinks this cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of the bread and drink of the cup.  For he who eats and drinks in an unworthy manner eats and drinks judgment to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body. For this reason many are weak and sick among you, and many sleep. For if we would judge ourselves, we would not be judged. But when we are judged, we are chastened by the Lord, that we may not be condemned with the world.

In summary, communion is not just a religious observance; it is a profound act that embodies obedience, remembrance, and proclamation of the finished work of Christ on the cross. It’s a regular reminder of what Jesus has done for us and our continual need for Him.