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What did Jesus do at the Last Supper?

The Last Supper is one of the most significant events in the life of Jesus, marking the final meal He shared with His disciples before His crucifixion. The story of the Last Supper is recorded in all four Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John), and it carries deep spiritual meaning for Christians. But what exactly did Jesus do at this famous meal, and why is it so important?

1. Washing the Disciples’ Feet

One of the most striking moments of the Last Supper, recorded in John 13, is when Jesus washed His disciples’ feet. This act of humility shocked the disciples because washing feet was typically the role of a servant, not a teacher or leader. Through this simple act, Jesus demonstrated the importance of serving others. He told His followers, “I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you” (John 13:15, NIV). This was a powerful lesson in humility and love.

2. Instituting the Lord’s Supper

During the meal, Jesus instituted a new tradition that Christians still observe today—what is often called Communion or the Lord’s Supper. According to Matthew 26, Jesus took bread, blessed it, broke it, and gave it to His disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is my body.” He then took a cup of wine and said, “This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins” (Matthew 26:26-28, NIV).

This symbolic action pointed to Jesus’ upcoming sacrifice on the cross, where His body would be broken, and His blood shed for the salvation of humanity. Christians around the world commemorate this event during worship services, remembering Jesus’ sacrifice and His call to unity in faith.

3. Foretelling His Betrayal

At the Last Supper, Jesus also predicted that one of His own disciples would betray Him. He told the group, “Truly I tell you, one of you will betray me” (Matthew 26:21, NIV). The disciples were shocked and began to ask, “Is it I?” Jesus indicated that Judas Iscariot was the one who would betray Him, although the other disciples didn’t fully grasp the significance at the time.

4. A Promise of a New Covenant

Jesus also spoke of a “new covenant” during the meal. This was significant because it referenced the promises God made to His people throughout the Old Testament. Jesus was essentially saying that His sacrifice would establish a new relationship between God and humanity, one based on grace and forgiveness, rather than the old system of animal sacrifices.

5. A Farewell and a New Commandment

Before they left the room, Jesus gave His disciples a new commandment: “Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another” (John 13:34, NIV). This command encapsulated the heart of Jesus’ teachings and would be the defining characteristic of His followers.

The Last Supper wasn’t just a meal—it was a profound moment of teaching, service, and prophecy. Through His actions, Jesus prepared His disciples for His coming death and showed them what it means to live a life of love and humility.