The Lord’s Supper—A Table of Grace

Key Passage: 1 Corinthians 11:23-26

Devotional:

On the night before His crucifixion, Jesus gathered with His disciples and instituted what we now call the Lord’s Supper. Taking the bread, He broke it, saying, “’This is my body, which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me’” (1 Corinthians 11:24).

This moment was layered with meaning. The bread and the cup were not just symbols; they pointed to the suffering Jesus was about to endure. His body would be broken. His blood would be poured out. But notice something striking–the disciples did not take the bread for themselves; Jesus broke it and gave it to them. He offered it freely to a table full of sinners.

Judas would soon betray Him. The rest of the disciples would scatter in fear. Peter would flat-out deny even knowing Him. And yet, Jesus still offered them the bread of His body. He still poured the wine, a symbol of His perfect life, and told them it could be counted as their own. The cross was not an accident; it was the plan of redemption unfolding.

Communion is a time of remembrance, but it is also a moment of renewal. Paul warns the Corinthians to examine themselves before partaking in the Lord’s Supper, reminding them that this is not just another meal—it is a declaration of Christ’s death until He returns (See 1 Corinthians 11:26.). This sacred act forces us to pause, reflect, and remember that Jesus has made a way for us to be in communion—friendship —with Him.

When we take the Lord’s Supper, we look back and remember that our salvation was costly. Our friendship with Christ cost Him His life. But we also look ahead, His death is not the end of the story. He rose again, conquering sin and the grave. And now, our Savior and our Friend prepares another table, a greater feast, the wedding supper of the Lamb, where the Church will enter into glory and dine with Him forever (See Revelation 19:9.).

Song Reflection: “Your body broken/You offered me the bread and poured the wine/Your holiness imparted there as mine”

Application Question: How does The Lord’s Supper deepen your understanding of Christ’s sacrifice and your anticipation of His return?

Further Reading: 1 Corinthians 11:23-26; Revelation 19

Written by Jordan West