Who qualifies to take the Lord's Supper?

The Lord’s Supper, also known as Communion or the Eucharist, is one of the most significant practices in Christianity. It commemorates Jesus’ sacrificial death and celebrates the new covenant between God and believers. However, questions often arise about who is eligible to participate in this sacred meal. What does the Bible say about who qualifies to take the Lord's Supper? Let’s explore the scriptural guidance and the principles that shape Christian practice today.

The Biblical Foundation for the Lord’s Supper

The origins of the Lord’s Supper are found in the Gospels, where Jesus shared a final meal with His disciples before His crucifixion (Matthew 26:26-29, Mark 14:22-25, Luke 22:14-20). Jesus took bread and wine, gave thanks, and gave them to His disciples as symbols of His body and blood. He instructed them to "do this in remembrance of me" (Luke 22:19). This command established the Lord’s Supper as an ongoing practice for His followers.

Believers in Jesus Christ: The Primary Qualification

The New Testament consistently presents the Lord’s Supper as a meal for believers—those who have placed their faith in Jesus Christ. In 1 Corinthians 11, Paul addresses the church about the proper observance of Communion. He writes, “For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes” (1 Corinthians 11:26). The act of proclaiming the Lord’s death assumes a personal faith in Christ’s saving work.

Because Communion is an expression of faith in Jesus and His sacrifice, it is typically reserved for those who have made a conscious decision to follow Him. Most Christian traditions require participants to be baptized believers, viewing baptism as the public declaration of faith that precedes participation in the Lord’s Supper.

Examining the Heart: A Call for Self-Examination

Scripture also emphasizes the importance of examining one’s heart before taking part in the Lord’s Supper. Paul warns the Corinthians not to participate “in an unworthy manner,” urging them to “examine themselves” before eating and drinking (1 Corinthians 11:27-28). This self-examination is not about being perfect, but about approaching the table with reverence, repentance, and a sincere heart.

The warning against unworthy participation is a reminder that the Lord’s Supper is not an empty ritual. It is a holy act that calls for humility, confession, and gratitude for Christ’s sacrifice. Believers are encouraged to confess any known sin, reconcile with others if needed, and come to the table with a spirit of worship and dependence on God’s grace.

The Role of the Church Community

Participation in the Lord’s Supper is not only a personal act but also a communal one. Paul’s instructions in 1 Corinthians were addressed to the gathered church, highlighting the unity of believers in Christ. The Lord’s Supper serves as a sign of fellowship with other Christians, demonstrating that all who partake are members of the body of Christ.

For this reason, the church often provides guidance regarding who may participate. Some churches practice "open communion," inviting all baptized believers to the table, while others require membership or a profession of faith within that specific congregation. Regardless of the approach, the goal is to honor the sacredness of the meal and the unity it represents.

Children and the Lord’s Supper

A common question concerns whether children should take the Lord’s Supper. While the Bible does not explicitly address this, many churches encourage children to participate once they have made a personal profession of faith and, in some traditions, have been baptized. The decision is often made in consultation with parents and church leaders, ensuring that children understand the significance of the meal.

Conclusion: An Invitation with Reverence

The Lord’s Supper is a gracious invitation from Jesus to remember His sacrifice, celebrate His resurrection, and anticipate His return. According to Scripture, those who qualify to take the Lord’s Supper are believers in Jesus Christ who approach the table with faith, self-examination, and reverence. While traditions may vary, the heart of the matter is a sincere relationship with Christ and a desire to honor Him. As believers gather to partake of the bread and the cup, they proclaim together the mystery of faith: “Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.”