The Lord's Supper

Scripture

Matthew 26:17-30
Mark 14:12-26
Luke 22:7-30

Similar Passage

Jesus Washes His Disciples' Feet

Commentary

These three accounts all say virtually the same thing except for a few minor details.  John's account includes the washing of the disciples' feet and is commented on separately.

Despite the theological significance of the Lord's Supper, there is little to be commented on.  There are different interpretations as to what takes place in the celebration of the Lord's Supper.  Catholics believe that the bread and wine are literally transformed into the body and blood of Christ.  This is known as transubstantiation.

Martin Luther taught that Christ's body and blood were somehow in the bread and wine.  This is also taught in the Anglican church as well as the Lutheran church.  This is known as consubstantiation.

To many protestants, the Lord's Supper is simply a memorial to remember the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross.  By taking part in the celebration of the Last Supper, Christians use a symbol for the body and blood of Christ in the bread and wine.

It is worth noting that the Lord's Supper is not a new celebration but rather it took place at the celebration of the Passover.  Many Christians will point out the fact that the Passover was symbolic of Christ's sacrifice and therefore it is recommended to see the celebration of the Lord's Supper as a continuation of this symbol.  The sacrifice of the Passover lamb is replaced with the once for all sacrifice of Jesus.  The Last Supper is then done in remembrance of the sacrifice.