THE LORD'S SUPPER
Matthew 26:17-30
It is doubtful that any of the experiences of the disciples could match the drama, the emotion, and the terror of this moment. In a familial setting, while all were relaxed and refreshed, Jesus revealed the horrible events which would transpire in the next few hours.
Betrayal
- "To deliver into the hands of an enemy by treachery or fraud, in violation of trust." Webster
The disciples were horrified at what the Lord said. They immediately began to question who could do this terrible thing. "Lord, is it I?" they asked. His response was that the one who dipped in the dish was the guilty one.
An opportunity to change
- Probably several disciples had dipped into the dish with the Lord. Jesus, in using this method covered the guilty person and actually gave opportunity for repentance (change of heart).
He spoke of His betrayal and then instituted a spiritual supper (composed of material substances) which would serve as a reminder to the disciples and all believers of future generations.
THE BREAD AND THE WINE
Consubstantiation
- "The doctrine that the substance of the body and blood of Christ coexist in and with the substance of the bread and wine in the Eucharist.Transubstantiation
- "The conversion of the whole substance of the bread and the wine into the body and blood of Christ only the appearance of bread and wine remaining."Webster
GOD SOVEREIGNLY INAUGURATES THE NEW COVENANT
"Jesus used the Passover meal to introduce the New Covenant. The symbolism of the Passover meal of the Old Covenant was about to be fully satisfied through Christ's crucifixion. In this historic moment, Jesus transformed the meaning of the elements of the Passover meal into New Covenant thought. The bread now represented His body, which would be given, and the cup His blood, which would be shed for the forgiveness of sins. The holy requirements of God and the Old Covenant were about to be forever satisfied. A new and living way into the provision of God was being prepared through Christ, the Lamb of God. A new and eternal bond was being established by the blood of Jesus Christ. God was sovereignly inaugurating the new and ultimate covenant.
Commentary from the Spirit Filled Life Bible