1 Corinthians 11:26

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

Study Bible

For whenever you eat this bread
The phrase "for whenever" indicates a repeated action, suggesting that the practice of communion is not a one-time event but a continual observance. The Greek word "ὁσάκις" (hosakis) implies a regularity and frequency, emphasizing the importance of this ritual in the life of the believer. "This bread" refers specifically to the bread used in the Lord's Supper, symbolizing the body of Christ. Historically, bread was a staple in the ancient diet, and its use here signifies sustenance and life, drawing believers into a deeper understanding of Christ as the Bread of Life (John 6:35).

and drink this cup
The "cup" in this context is a reference to the cup of wine used during the Lord's Supper, symbolizing the blood of Christ shed for the remission of sins. The Greek word "ποτήριον" (potērion) is used, which can also mean a vessel or a means of sharing in something. This highlights the communal aspect of the Lord's Supper, where believers partake together, sharing in the sacrifice of Christ. The cup is a powerful symbol of the New Covenant, as Jesus Himself declared during the Last Supper (Luke 22:20).

you proclaim the Lord’s death
The act of eating the bread and drinking the cup is a proclamation, a public declaration of faith in the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ. The Greek word "καταγγέλλετε" (katangellō) means to announce or declare openly. This proclamation is not just a remembrance but an active declaration of the core of the Gospel message: Christ's atoning death. Historically, this public declaration was a bold statement in a world where Christians were often persecuted for their faith.

until He comes
This phrase introduces an eschatological element, pointing to the future return of Christ. The Greek word "ἄχρι" (achri) means "until," indicating that this practice is to continue until a specific event occurs—Christ's second coming. This forward-looking aspect of the Lord's Supper serves as a reminder of the hope and anticipation of Christ's return, encouraging believers to live in a state of readiness and expectation. The historical context of the early church, which lived with the imminent expectation of Christ's return, adds depth to this phrase, as it calls believers to remain faithful and vigilant.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul the Apostle
The author of 1 Corinthians, addressing the church in Corinth with instructions on the Lord's Supper.

2. The Church in Corinth
A diverse and often divided early Christian community in the city of Corinth, known for its issues with unity and understanding of Christian practices.

3. The Lord’s Supper
A Christian rite instituted by Jesus during the Last Supper, symbolizing His body and blood through bread and wine.

4. Jesus Christ
Central figure of Christianity, whose death and resurrection are proclaimed through the Lord’s Supper.

5. The Second Coming
The anticipated return of Jesus Christ, which believers are reminded of each time they partake in the Lord’s Supper.

Teaching Points

Proclamation of Faith
The act of partaking in the Lord’s Supper is a public declaration of faith in Jesus Christ’s sacrificial death and resurrection.

Remembrance and Reflection
The Lord’s Supper serves as a time to remember Christ’s sacrifice and reflect on its significance in our lives, encouraging self-examination and repentance.

Anticipation of Christ’s Return
Each observance of the Lord’s Supper is a reminder of the hope and anticipation of Jesus’ promised return, encouraging believers to live in readiness.

Unity in the Body of Christ
The communal aspect of the Lord’s Supper emphasizes the unity and fellowship among believers, transcending divisions and fostering a spirit of love and reconciliation.

Continual Practice
Regular participation in the Lord’s Supper is a vital practice for spiritual growth and obedience to Christ’s command, reinforcing the believer’s relationship with Him and the church community.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does participating in the Lord’s Supper help you personally proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes?

2. In what ways can the remembrance of Christ’s sacrifice during the Lord’s Supper lead to personal spiritual growth and transformation?

3. How does the anticipation of Christ’s return, as symbolized in the Lord’s Supper, influence your daily life and decisions?

4. What steps can you take to ensure that the Lord’s Supper is a meaningful and unifying experience within your church community?

5. How can the practice of the Lord’s Supper be integrated into your personal and family worship to enhance your spiritual journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 26:26-29
Jesus institutes the Lord’s Supper, providing the foundation for Paul's teaching in 1 Corinthians 11:26.

Luke 22:19-20
Reinforces the command to "do this in remembrance of Me," highlighting the memorial aspect of the Lord’s Supper.

Acts 2:42
Describes the early church's devotion to the apostles' teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer, showing the communal and continual practice of the Lord’s Supper.

Revelation 19:9
The marriage supper of the Lamb, symbolizing the ultimate fulfillment of communion with Christ at His return.