Last Supper (Luke 22:7-38)
The Last Supper coincides with the celebration of the Passover, a Jewish festival commemorating God's deliverance of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. Jesus is often referred to as the "Lamb of God," symbolizing His role as a sacrifice for humanity's sins. By connecting Jesus to the Passover, the passage underscores the importance of His death and resurrection in the broader story of God's plan for salvation.
During the Last Supper, Jesus institutes the practice of the Eucharist, which has become a central part of Christian worship. He breaks bread and shares wine with his disciples, saying, "This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me" (Luke 22:19). The Lord's Supper serves as a reminder of Jesus' sacrifice and the new covenant between God and humanity, through which sins are forgiven and believers are united with Christ.
In Luke 22:24-27, Jesus teaches His disciples about the importance of humility and service. He encourages them to adopt an attitude of selflessness, emphasizing that true greatness comes from serving others rather than seeking power or authority. This message is still relevant to Christians today, reminding to follow Jesus' example of sacrificial love and service.
In the text Luke 22:31-34, Jesus predicts Peter's denial, demonstrating human weakness and the inability to remain faithful without divine assistance. Despite Peter's insistence that he would never deny Jesus, he ultimately fails to remain steadfast. This episode highlights the importance of relying on God's strength to overcome personal weaknesses and resist temptation.