“The Story of Easter: The Last Supper” is a captivating video by Saddleback Kids that explores the significance of the Last Supper in the story of Easter. This video, which is part of a series of three videos, draws upon the biblical passages from Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John to tell the story of Jesus and his disciples as they gather for the Passover meal. In this scene, Jesus instructs his disciples on how to find the location for the meal and then proceeds to bless bread and wine, symbolizing his body and blood. The video also highlights the moment when Jesus reveals that one of his disciples will betray him, causing great sadness and confusion among the group. Overall, “The Story of Easter: The Last Supper” provides a powerful retelling of this significant event in the Easter narrative.
The Last Supper
Introduction
The Last Supper is a significant event that took place in the life of Jesus Christ. It was a meal shared with his disciples on the eve of his crucifixion. This event holds great importance in Christian theology and is often depicted in religious art. In this article, we will delve into the details of the Last Supper, exploring Jesus’ teachings and miracles, the celebration of Passover, and the events that unfolded during the meal.
Jesus’ Teachings and Miracles
Throughout his time on Earth, Jesus taught people about God’s love and performed numerous miracles. He healed the sick, calmed storms, and even raised people from the dead. These acts of compassion and power were a testament to his divinity and a demonstration of his mission to bring salvation to humanity.
Celebration of Passover
During the time of the Last Supper, the Jewish people were observing the festival of Passover. Passover had been celebrated since the time of Moses and marked the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. It was a time of remembrance and gratitude for God’s deliverance. Jesus, being a devout Jew, was preparing to celebrate Passover in Jerusalem.
Preparing for the Passover Meal
As Jesus and his disciples made preparations for the Passover meal, they encountered a specific set of instructions from Jesus. He instructed them to look for a man carrying a pitcher of water in the city. They were to follow him to a house, where they would find a large room already set up for their meal. This suggestion from Jesus showcased his supernatural knowledge and further affirmed his divinity.
The Meal with the Disciples
Arrival of Jesus with the Twelve Disciples
As the evening arrived, Jesus and his twelve disciples gathered to partake in the Passover meal. This moment was significant as it marked the last meal shared by Jesus with his closest followers before his crucifixion.
Jesus’ Blessing and Sharing of Bread
During the meal, Jesus took bread and blessed it. He then distributed it among the disciples and said, “Take it, for this is my body which is given for you.” This act of sharing the bread symbolized Jesus’ impending sacrifice on the cross and his desire for his disciples to remember him through this act.
Jesus’ Blessing and Sharing of Wine
Likewise, Jesus took a cup of wine, gave thanks to God, and passed it around to the disciples. He said to them, “This is my blood, poured out as a sacrifice to forgive the sins of many.” This act of sharing the wine symbolized the new covenant Jesus was establishing through his sacrifice, where his blood would cleanse humanity’s sins.
Prediction of Betrayal
During the meal, Jesus made a shocking revelation to his disciples. He stated that one of them would betray him. This revelation caused great distress among the disciples, and each one questioned if they were the one. Judas, one of the twelve disciples, asked Jesus directly, and Jesus confirmed that he was indeed the one who would betray him. Judas left the gathering to fulfill his role in the betrayal of Jesus.
Betrayal and Departure of Judas
Revelation of the Betrayer
Following Judas’ departure, Jesus comforted and encouraged the remaining disciples. He reminded them that what was happening was part of God’s plan. While it was a time of great sadness and disappointment, Jesus assured them that it was necessary for the fulfillment of God’s redemptive purpose.
Judas’ Departure and Jesus’ Encouragement
Judas’ departure marked a turning point in the events leading to Jesus’ crucifixion. Jesus used this moment to offer words of comfort and hope to his disciples. He assured them that they would not be alone or abandoned but promised the coming of a Helper to guide and strengthen them.
Promised Helper
Promise of a Helper
After the departure of Judas, Jesus promised his disciples that they would receive a Helper. This Helper, the Holy Spirit, would come after Jesus’ departure and would provide guidance, comfort, and empowerment to the disciples as they continued their mission of spreading the Gospel.
Singing a Song of Praise
Following the promise of the Helper, Jesus and the remaining disciples ended the Last Supper by singing a song of praise to God. This act of worship symbolized their trust in God’s plan and their gratitude for the time they had spent with Jesus.
Conclusion
The Last Supper holds immense significance in Christian theology as it commemorates Jesus’ final meal with his disciples and the establishment of the new covenant through his body and blood. The events leading up to and during the meal revealed Jesus’ divinity, his sacrificial mission, and his unwavering love for his disciples. As we reflect on the Last Supper, we are reminded of the depth of God’s love and the importance of community and fellowship in our faith journey.
