1 Corinthians 11:26 – “For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.”

Extended Explanation of the Verse

In this verse, Paul explains the significance of the Lord’s Supper. It is not just a tradition or a ritual—it is a proclamation of Jesus’ death. Every time believers take communion, they are publicly declaring the truth that Jesus died for their sins.

The phrase “whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup” shows that communion is meant to be a repeated practice in the Christian life. It is not a one-time event but something believers are to do regularly to remember Christ’s sacrifice.

The phrase “you proclaim the Lord’s death” is powerful. The Lord’s Supper is not just a personal moment between a believer and God; it is also a testimony to the world. It is a declaration that Jesus’ death was necessary for salvation and that His sacrifice has meaning for all people.

The final phrase, “until he comes,” points to the future. The Lord’s Supper not only looks back at Christ’s death but also looks forward to His return. It reminds believers that Jesus is coming again to complete His kingdom and that they should live in expectation of that day.

Historical Context

Paul was writing to a church that had lost sight of the true meaning of communion. The Corinthians were treating the Lord’s Supper as a social event, where some indulged while others went hungry (1 Corinthians 11:20-22). They had turned a sacred act of worship into a display of selfishness and division.

Paul brings them back to the true purpose of the meal: to remember Christ’s sacrifice and to proclaim His death to the world. In the early church, communion was an essential part of worship, often observed when believers gathered together (Acts 2:42, Acts 20:7). It was a way to keep their focus on Jesus, their Savior and King.

By reminding them that the Lord’s Supper is a proclamation of Jesus’ death “until he comes,” Paul is emphasizing that communion is not just about the past—it is about living in anticipation of Christ’s return.

Theological Implications

1. Communion Is a Public Testimony – Every time believers take the Lord’s Supper, they are declaring their faith in Jesus’ death for their salvation.
2. Jesus’ Death Is Central to the Gospel – Communion reminds believers that salvation comes through Christ’s sacrifice, not through human effort.
3. Christ Will Return – The Lord’s Supper is not just about looking back at the cross; it also looks forward to Jesus’ second coming.
4. Faith Must Be Lived Out – If believers proclaim Jesus’ death in communion, they should also live in a way that reflects their faith in Him every day.

This verse teaches that communion is a serious and meaningful practice. It is not just a religious ritual; it is a statement of faith and an act of worship.

Literary Analysis

Paul’s wording in this verse is intentional and carries deep meaning:

• “For whenever” – Indicates that communion is meant to be ongoing, not just a one-time event.
• “You eat this bread and drink this cup” – Refers to the physical act of communion, which represents spiritual truths.
• “You proclaim the Lord’s death” – Communion is not just a personal act; it is a testimony to the world about Jesus’ sacrifice.
• “Until he comes” – Communion is forward-looking, reminding believers of Christ’s promised return.

Paul is using communion as a teaching tool, correcting the Corinthians and reminding them of its true purpose. The Lord’s Supper is not about selfishness or division—it is about remembering, proclaiming, and anticipating Christ.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• Matthew 26:26-29 – Jesus institutes the Lord’s Supper and speaks of drinking it anew in His Father’s kingdom.
• Luke 22:19-20 – Jesus tells His disciples to partake in communion “in remembrance of me.”
• Acts 2:42 – The early church devoted themselves to the breaking of bread.
• John 14:3 – Jesus promises to return for His followers.
• Revelation 19:6-9 – The future “wedding supper of the Lamb,” where Christ and His people will celebrate together.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For Christians today, this verse is a reminder that taking communion is a serious and meaningful act. It is a time to:

• Reflect on Jesus’ sacrifice and what it means personally.
• Declare faith in Christ’s death and resurrection.
• Anticipate His return and live in readiness for that day.

Communion is not just about remembering—it is about responding. If believers proclaim Jesus’ death in the Lord’s Supper, their lives should reflect His grace and truth every day.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is at the heart of this verse. The reason believers proclaim Jesus’ death is because it is the greatest act of love in history. Jesus willingly gave His life so that people could be saved (John 3:16).

God’s love is also seen in the fact that He does not leave His people without hope. The phrase “until he comes” reminds believers that Jesus is coming back, just as He promised. God’s love is not only about the past—it is also about the future. He has prepared a glorious eternity for those who trust in Him.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus is at the center of this verse. Everything about communion points to Him:

• His death – The sacrifice He made to take away sin.
• His resurrection – The proof that He conquered death.
• His return – The promise that He will come again as King.

Jesus Himself said in John 6:51, “I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats this bread will live forever.” Every time believers take the Lord’s Supper, they are proclaiming their trust in Him, their dependence on His sacrifice, and their hope in His return.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How does taking communion remind you of Jesus’ sacrifice?
2. In what ways does the Lord’s Supper help you share your faith with others?
3. Do you think often about Jesus’ return? How should this truth affect your daily life?
4. How can you prepare your heart before taking communion so that it is meaningful?
5. If communion proclaims Jesus’ death, how can you also proclaim Him in your everyday actions?