The Last Supper

The Last Supper is a pivotal event in the New Testament, marking the final meal Jesus shared with His disciples before His crucifixion. This event is recorded in the Synoptic Gospels—Matthew, Mark, and Luke—and is also referenced in Paul's First Epistle to the Corinthians. The Last Supper is traditionally understood to have taken place during the Jewish festival of Passover, symbolizing Jesus as the sacrificial Lamb.

In the Gospel of Matthew, the account begins with Jesus instructing His disciples to prepare for the Passover meal: "Go into the city to a certain man and tell him, ‘The Teacher says: My time is near. I will keep the Passover with My disciples at your house’" (Matthew 26:18). During the meal, Jesus institutes the Lord's Supper, a sacrament commemorating His sacrifice. He takes bread, gives thanks, breaks it, and gives it to His disciples, saying, "Take and eat; this is My body" (Matthew 26:26). Similarly, He takes the cup, gives thanks, and offers 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).

The Gospel of Luke adds that Jesus earnestly desired to eat this Passover with His disciples before His suffering (Luke 22:15). The Apostle Paul, in 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, reiterates the significance of this meal, emphasizing the proclamation of the Lord's death until He comes.

Foot Washing

The Gospel of John provides a unique account of the events surrounding the Last Supper, focusing on the act of foot washing. This event is not mentioned in the Synoptic Gospels but holds profound theological significance. In John 13:1-17, Jesus, knowing that His hour had come, demonstrates servanthood and humility by washing His disciples' feet. This act was traditionally performed by the lowest servant, yet Jesus, the Master, takes on this role.

John records, "He poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to dry them with the towel that was wrapped around Him" (John 13:5). When Peter initially resists, Jesus responds, "Unless I wash you, you have no part with Me" (John 13:8). This act symbolizes spiritual cleansing and sets an example of humility and service for His followers. Jesus explains, "If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet" (John 13:14).

The foot washing serves as a powerful lesson in humility and love, illustrating the servant leadership that Jesus exemplified throughout His ministry. It underscores the call for believers to serve one another selflessly, following the example of Christ.

Theological Significance

The Last Supper and the act of foot washing are rich in theological meaning. The Last Supper establishes the New Covenant, with Jesus as the Passover Lamb, whose sacrifice brings redemption and forgiveness of sins. The bread and wine symbolize His body and blood, central elements in Christian worship and remembrance.

Foot washing, on the other hand, emphasizes the call to humility and service. It reflects the heart of Jesus' ministry and His commandment to love one another as He has loved us (John 13:34). Together, these events encapsulate the essence of Jesus' mission and the transformative power of His love and sacrifice.