What is the breaking of bread that the Bible talks about?

TL;DR:

The breaking of bread refers both to sharing communal meals and a symbolic act of remembering Jesus's sacrifice during the Last Supper.

The phrase "breaking of bread" in the Bible typically refers to sharing meals together, a practice common in the early Christian community. It also has a significant symbolic meaning, as Jesus used it during the Last Supper to represent His body, which would be sacrificed for the salvation of believers. This act established the practice of communion, where bread and wine symbolize Jesus's body and blood, remembering His sacrifice and the New Covenant.

from the old testament

The act of breaking bread is connected to communal meals, which were important in Jewish culture. Shared meals often accompanied religious ceremonies and celebrations (Exodus 12:14–20).
Bread itself has spiritual symbolism in the Old Testament, representing God's provision, like the manna provided to the Israelites in the wilderness (Exodus 16:4–15).
In prophetic literature, the breaking of bread can also symbolize sharing in both blessings and sufferings, as seen in Isaiah's prophecies of a future feast (Isaiah 25:6).

from the new testament

In Acts 2:42–47, the early church is described as devoting themselves to "the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers," indicating communal living and shared meals.
Jesus breaks bread with His disciples at the Last Supper and institutes the Lord’s Supper (communion). He states that the bread represents His body given for them (Luke 22:19).
Paul emphasizes the importance of proper attitude and understanding when participating in communion (1 Corinthians 11:23–26).

implications for today

The concept of the "breaking of bread" is not merely an act of sharing a meal but a reminder of unity and fellowship within the body of Christ. When believers participate in communion, they are not only remembering the sacrifice of Jesus but also proclaiming their unity with Him and with each other. This practice helps us reflect on the grace and mercy we receive through Christ's atonement and the New Covenant established by His blood.

Breaking bread also represents hospitality and sharing life's blessings with others, in the same way the early church did. We should cultivate communities marked by generosity and compassion, extending the love of Christ through practical acts of kindness and support.

The symbolic breaking of bread calls for examining our hearts and relationships within the church community. Participation in communion should be done with reverence and a right spirit. The symbolism of Jesus as the "bread of life" (John 6:35) reminds us of our dependence on Him for spiritual nourishment and sustenance.

understand

 Breaking bread builds unity and support within the Christian community through shared meals.
 Breaking bread commemorates Jesus's sacrifice and the establishment of the New Covenant during communion.
 Breaking bread encourages believers to reflect on their faith, relationships, and dependence on Jesus as the "bread of life."

reflect

How does reflecting on Jesus’s sacrifice during communion impact your personal relationship with Him and your daily life?
In what practical ways can you show hospitality and build fellowship in your community?
How can you more consciously depend on Jesus as the "bread of life" in moments of spiritual or personal challenge?

engage

Hospitality and shared meals are crucial for building community because they create opportunities for genuine connection and relationship-building, fostering a sense of belonging and trust. Meals often serve as a natural setting for open and meaningful conversations, strengthening bonds between individuals. Additionally, practicing hospitality reflects generosity and care.
How does breaking bread create opportunities for building community and sharing faith?
What are some practical ways you can create rhythms of intentionally breaking bread with people to build community and share your faith?