The Lord's Supper
The breaking of bread, also called the Lord's Supper or Communion, is one of the most precious practices given to the church. It was instituted by Jesus Himself on the night He was betrayed.
"And he took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to them, saying, 'This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.'" — Luke 22:19
The Origin
Instituted by Christ
On the night before His crucifixion, Jesus gathered with His disciples for the Passover meal. During this meal, He took bread and wine and gave them new significance, pointing to His coming sacrifice.
The bread represents His body, broken for us. The cup represents His blood, poured out for the forgiveness of sins.
A New Covenant
Jesus declared that the cup represents "the new covenant in my blood" (Luke 22:20). Through His death, a new relationship between God and His people was established—one based not on our obedience to the law, but on Christ's perfect work on our behalf.
The Meaning
Remembrance
"Do this in remembrance of me." The Lord's Supper is a time to remember—to reflect on what Christ has done for us. We remember His life, His suffering, His death, and His resurrection.
Proclamation
"For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes" (1 Corinthians 11:26). The Supper is a visible sermon, declaring the gospel to all who witness it.
Anticipation
We look forward to Christ's return. The Lord's Supper points us to the future—to the day when we will feast with Christ in His kingdom.
Communion
The word "communion" means sharing or fellowship. In the Supper, we experience fellowship with Christ and with one another. We are united as one body around one Lord.
The Practice
Who Should Participate?
The Lord's Supper is for believers—those who have trusted in Christ for salvation. Paul warns against partaking "in an unworthy manner" (1 Corinthians 11:27), emphasizing the need for self-examination and genuine faith.
How Often?
Scripture doesn't prescribe a specific frequency, but the early church broke bread regularly—even weekly. "And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes" (Acts 2:46).
At Church at Gachibowli, we observe the Lord's Supper every Sunday as a central part of our worship.
Self-Examination
Before partaking, believers are called to examine themselves. This is not about achieving perfection, but about approaching the table with sincere hearts, confessing known sin, and trusting in Christ's grace.
"Let a person examine himself, then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup." — 1 Corinthians 11:28
The Elements
The Bread
The bread represents Christ's body, given for us. When we eat it, we remember His incarnation—God becoming man—and His physical suffering on the cross.
The Cup
The cup represents Christ's blood, shed for the forgiveness of sins. It points to the cost of our redemption and the reality of the new covenant.
Common Questions
Is Christ physically present in the elements?
We believe the bread and cup are symbols—powerful reminders of Christ's sacrifice, not the actual body and blood of Jesus. Christ is spiritually present with His people when we gather in His name.
What if I'm not sure I'm saved?
If you are uncertain about your relationship with Christ, we encourage you to speak with one of our elders. The Lord's Supper is for those who have trusted in Christ; it's important to settle this most important question.
What if I have unconfessed sin?
Use the time of preparation to examine your heart and confess any known sin. God is faithful to forgive. Don't let guilt keep you from the table, but don't approach it carelessly either.
Conclusion
The breaking of bread is a beautiful gift from our Lord. It reminds us of His love, unites us as His body, and points us to His glorious return. May we never take it for granted, but approach the table with grateful, reverent hearts.
"For I received from the Lord what I also delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when 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.'" — 1 Corinthians 11:23-24