The Last Supper stands as one of the most pivotal events in Christian theology, symbolizing the institution of the Eucharist and the beginning of the Passion of Jesus Christ. This significant moment, depicted in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, and the First Epistle to the Corinthians, holds profound theological and symbolic implications for Christians worldwide. In examining what Jesus did during the Last Supper, it is crucial to delve into the historical context, the actions of Jesus, and the theological significance attributed to this event within Christian tradition.
Historical Context
To comprehend the significance of the Last Supper, it is imperative to understand its historical context within the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. The Last Supper occurred during the Jewish Passover, a sacred festival commemorating the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. Jesus, a devout Jew, gathered with his disciples in Jerusalem to observe this tradition, signifying the cultural and religious background against which the events unfolded.
The Actions of Jesus
During the Last Supper, Jesus engaged in several significant actions that hold theological importance for Christians:
1. Institution of the Eucharist: Perhaps the most prominent action of Jesus during the Last Supper was the institution of the Eucharist. As recounted in the Gospels of Matthew (26:26-29), Mark (14:22-25), and Luke (22:14-20), Jesus took bread, blessed it, broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take, eat; this is my body.” He then took the cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you; for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.” This act of consecrating bread and wine as symbols of his body and blood forms the foundation of the Christian sacrament of Holy Communion or the Eucharist.
2. Washing of the Disciples’ Feet: Another significant action of Jesus during the Last Supper was the washing of his disciples’ feet, as recounted in the Gospel of John (13:1-17). In a profound act of humility and servitude, Jesus took on the role of a servant and washed the feet of his disciples, teaching them about the importance of humility, love, and service to others.
3. Prediction of Betrayal and Denial: During the Last Supper, Jesus made prophetic statements regarding his impending betrayal by Judas Iscariot and Peter’s denial. He foretold that one of his disciples would betray him and that Peter would deny him three times before the rooster crowed. These predictions foreshadowed the events that would unfold in the hours following the Last Supper, leading to Jesus’ arrest, trial, and crucifixion.
4. Establishment of the New Commandment: Jesus imparted a new commandment to his disciples during the Last Supper, as recorded in the Gospel of John (13:34-35): “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples if you love one another.” This commandment emphasizes the centrality of love in Christian discipleship and community.
5. Institution of the Lord’s Supper: In addition to the institution of the Eucharist, Jesus established the practice of sharing bread and wine in remembrance of him. He instructed his disciples to continue this practice in remembrance of him until his return, symbolizing the ongoing fellowship with Christ and the anticipation of his second coming.
Theological Significance
The actions of Jesus during the Last Supper hold profound theological significance within Christian tradition:
1. Sacramental Theology: The institution of the Eucharist during the Last Supper forms the basis of sacramental theology in Christianity. Through the consecration of bread and wine, Christians believe in the real presence of Christ, where the elements become spiritually transformed into his body and blood. This belief underscores the intimate union between Christ and the faithful through the sacrament of Holy Communion.
2. Soteriology: The words spoken by Jesus during the Last Supper, particularly regarding the shedding of his blood for the forgiveness of sins, are central to Christian soteriology—the doctrine of salvation. Christians interpret Jesus’ sacrificial death as atoning for the sins of humanity, reconciling them with God and offering the promise of eternal life.
3. Ecclesiology: The Last Supper also holds significance for ecclesiology—the doctrine of the Church. Jesus’ establishment of the new commandment to love one another and his instruction to continue the practice of sharing bread and wine in remembrance of him underscore the importance of Christian community and fellowship. The Last Supper serves as a model for communal worship and the unity of believers in Christ.
4. Eschatology: Jesus’ instructions to his disciples to continue the practice of the Lord’s Supper until his return point to eschatological themes—the study of the end times and the second coming of Christ. The Last Supper thus carries a sense of anticipation and hope for the fulfillment of God’s kingdom and the ultimate consummation of history.
Conclusion
The Last Supper represents a pivotal moment in Christian theology, where Jesus engaged in significant actions with profound theological implications. From the institution of the Eucharist to the washing of the disciples’ feet, Jesus’ words and deeds during this event continue to shape Christian belief and practice. As Christians reflect on the Last Supper, they are reminded of the sacrificial love of Christ, the call to humble service, and the promise of redemption and eternal life.
FAQs:
What did Jesus sacrifice in the Last Supper?
In the Last Supper, Jesus symbolically sacrificed his body and blood, foreshadowing his upcoming crucifixion.
Why did Jesus break the bread at the Last Supper?
Jesus broke the bread at the Last Supper to symbolize the breaking of his body for the salvation of humanity.
What did Jesus say at the Last Supper when he broke the bread?
When Jesus broke the bread at the Last Supper, he said, “Take, eat; this is my body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of me.”
Who is the girl in the Last Supper?
There is no girl depicted in Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper.” It features Jesus and his twelve disciples.
Why is the Last Supper so important?
The Last Supper is important in Christianity as it is the event where Jesus instituted the sacrament of the Eucharist, symbolizing his sacrifice for the redemption of humanity, and it serves as a central moment in Christian theology and practice.