The Last Supper is a significant event in the life of Jesus Christ. It was during this meal that Jesus made some shocking revelations to His disciples, and the course of history changed forever.
But why did Jesus have the Last Supper with His disciples? Let’s explore this question further.
What is the Last Supper?
The Last Supper was a Passover meal that Jesus shared with His twelve disciples in an upper room in Jerusalem. During this meal, Jesus took bread and wine and gave it to His disciples, telling them that it represented His body and blood which would be sacrificed for them. He also washed their feet, teaching them humility and service.
Why Did Jesus Have the Last Supper?
There are several reasons why Jesus had the Last Supper with His disciples:
1. To Fulfill Prophecy
The Old Testament prophesied that a Messiah would come and suffer for the sins of humanity. The Passover meal was a significant event in Jewish tradition, commemorating God’s deliverance of Israel from slavery in Egypt. It was during this meal that Jesus fulfilled prophecy by revealing Himself as the true Passover Lamb who would take away the sins of the world.
“For even Christ our Passover is sacrificed for us.” – 1 Corinthians 5:7
2. To Establish Communion
Jesus used bread and wine to establish communion with His followers, representing His body and blood which would be sacrificed for their sins. This act symbolized unity among believers who share in Christ’s sacrifice.
“And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me.” – 1 Corinthians 11:24
3. To Prepare His Disciples for His Death
Jesus knew that His time on earth was coming to an end, and He used the Last Supper to prepare His disciples for His death. He told them that one of them would betray Him and that He would be crucified, but also assured them that He would rise again.
“And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body. And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.” – Matthew 26:26-28
Conclusion
The Last Supper was a significant event in the life of Jesus Christ. It fulfilled prophecy by revealing Jesus as the true Passover Lamb who would take away the sins of humanity.
It established communion among believers who share in Christ’s sacrifice. And it prepared His disciples for His death by revealing His betrayal and crucifixion but also assuring them of His resurrection.
As we remember the Last Supper today through communion or other means, let us reflect on the sacrifice that Jesus made for us and strive to live our lives in a way that honors Him.