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Part 9
The Last Supper
The Last Supper is a significant event in the life of Jesus as recorded in the New Testament, particularly in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. It took place on the evening before Jesus' crucifixion.
Jesus and his disciples gathered in an upper room in Jerusalem to share a meal together, which was the traditional Passover feast. As they reclined around the table, Jesus began to reveal the profound significance of this occasion. He took bread, blessed it, broke it, and gave it to the disciples, saying, "Take, eat; this is my body" (Matthew 26:26). He likewise took a cup of wine, gave thanks, and passed it to them, saying, "Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins" (Matthew 26:27-28).
By using these symbols, Jesus inaugurated the sacrament known as the Lord's Supper or Holy Communion. He identified the bread with his own body, soon to be broken in death, and the cup with his blood, to be shed for the forgiveness of sins. Jesus emphasized that these elements were to be taken in remembrance of him.
During the meal, Jesus then made a startling announcement, revealing that one of his disciples would betray him. The disciples were deeply saddened and began questioning among themselves who might be capable of such an act. Jesus identified Judas Iscariot as the betrayer and sorrowfully acknowledged that it would happen according to God's plan.
Apart from the betrayal, Jesus used the Last Supper to teach his disciples about humility and sacrificial love. He washed the feet of the disciples, demonstrating that they were to serve one another with humility, just as he had served them. This act emphasized the importance of love for one another and the need for disciples to follow Jesus' example.
The Last Supper holds profound meaning for Christians. It represents:
1. Sacrificial Atonement: Jesus identified his body and blood with the elements of bread and wine, symbolizing his impending sacrifice on the cross. His death would bring forgiveness of sins and reconciliation between God and humanity.
2. Covenantal Relationship: Jesus referred to his blood as the blood of the covenant, revealing that through his death, a new covenant was being established between God and mankind. This new covenant is characterized by grace, forgiveness, and eternal life for all who believe in Jesus.
3. Remembrance: Jesus instructed his followers to continue partaking in the Lord's Supper in remembrance of him. Through this act, Christians commemorate Jesus' sacrifice, express gratitude, and reaffirm their faith in him.
4. Unity and Love: Jesus emphasized the importance of love and service among his disciples. The Last Supper serves as a reminder of the call for Christians to love one another, humbly serve others, and to be united in fellowship.
The Last Supper encapsulates the central themes of Jesus' ministry—redemption, love, and sacrifice—and it continues to hold deep significance for Christians as they remember and celebrate the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
