The Last Supper: A Table Of Grace Series

"The Last Supper: A Table of Grace"

Introduction:

Today, we gather around God's Word to explore the profound significance of the Last Supper, a meal that transcends time and culture.

Matthew 26:17–29 recounts the poignant moments when Jesus shared His final meal with His disciples before His crucifixion. It's a meal filled with deep symbolism and a message of grace.

Point 1: The Preparation of Passover (Matthew 26:17-19)

Scripture: Matthew 26:17-19 (NLT) - "On the first day of the Festival of Unleavened Bread, the disciples came to Jesus and asked, 'Where do you want us to prepare the Passover meal for you?'"

Illustration:

Think of the meticulous preparations made for a special family gathering. In the same way, the disciples prepared for this significant Passover meal with Jesus. It was a reminder of God's deliverance from slavery in Egypt.

Point 2: The Proclamation of a New Covenant (Matthew 26:26-28)

Scripture: Matthew 26:26-28 (NLT) - "As they were eating, Jesus took some bread and blessed it. Then he broke it in pieces and gave it to the disciples, saying, 'Take this and eat it, for this is my body.' And he took a cup of wine and gave thanks to God for it. He gave it to them and said, 'Each of you drink from it, for this is my blood, which confirms the covenant between God and his people. It is poured out as a sacrifice to forgive the sins of many.'"

Illustration:

Imagine a legal contract being signed, sealed with blood, and ratified with great solemnity. Jesus, on that night, established a new covenant with His followers, one sealed not with ink but with His own blood. This covenant offered forgiveness and a restored relationship with God.

Point 3: The Promise of His Return (Matthew 26:29)

Scripture: Matthew 26:29 (NLT) - "Mark my words—I will not drink wine again until the day I drink it new with you in my Father's Kingdom."

Illustration:

Think of a loved one who leaves on a long journey, promising to return one day. Jesus, in His final words during the Last Supper, promised His disciples that they would share a meal together again in the Father's Kingdom, a future reunion filled with hope.

Point 4: The Grace-Filled Table

The Last Supper is not just a historical event but an enduring symbol of God's grace.

Illustration:

Picture a beautifully set table, where an empty seat is always reserved for a loved one who might return. At the Lord's Table, there is always a place set for us, a reminder that His grace is always available, no matter how far we may have strayed.

Conclusion:

The Last Supper teaches us that God's grace is abundant, His covenant is unbreakable, and His promise of eternal fellowship is unwavering.

As we partake in the Lord's Supper today, let us remember that this meal is a table of grace where forgiveness, renewal, and hope are found.

May we leave this place with hearts filled with gratitude for the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, who invites us to His table, promising a future reunion in His Father's Kingdom.

Closing Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the profound symbolism of the Last Supper. We are grateful for the grace that flows from this table, for the new covenant sealed with the precious blood of Jesus, and for the promise of His return. May we always approach Your table with humility and gratitude. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.