Understanding the Lords Supper: Eucharist and Last Supper

The Lords Supper, also known as the Last Supper and the Eucharist, is a significant Christian ritual that commemorates the last meal Jesus Christ shared with his apostles before his crucifixion. This article will explore the historical context, biblical roots, and theological meanings behind these terms.

The Last Supper and Its Significance

The Last Supper is the name given to the final meal Jesus shared with his disciples before his crucifixion. This event, recorded in the Gospel of John (13:29-30), is particularly significant because it forms the basis for the ritual of the Lords Supper in Christian practice. The meal was a Passover Seder, a Jewish celebration that commemorates the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. Jesus, as the new lamb of sacrifice, fulfills the prophecy in Isaiah 53:7, which speaks of the suffering servant.

The Meaning Behind 'Eucharist'

In Christian theology, the term 'Eucharist' (or 'Eucharistic') has specifically come to mean thanksgiving or gratitude. It is derived from the Greek word ε?χαριστ?α (eucharistia), which literally means 'to give thanks'. This term is particularly apt given the context of the Lords Supper, where Jesus blessed, broke, and shared bread and wine, giving thanks for this much more than just a meal.

The Biblical Context and Memorandum

According to the Bible, during the Last Supper, Jesus explicitly instructed his disciples to remember him through the ritual of the Lords Supper. He said, 'This is my body, which is given for you; do this in remembrance of me' (Luke 22:19). He did the same with the cup:

Then he took the cup, gave thanks and offered it to them, and they all drank from it. 'This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins' (Matthew 26:27-28).

Christ established this ritual as a memorial and a promise of continued presence, reminding believers of his sacrifice and love. The practice of commemoration through the Lords Supper is thus a reenactment of Christ's Last Supper, serving as a reminder of his sacrificial death and the gift of salvation it brings.

From the Last Supper to the Eucharist

Today, the Lords Supper, or Eucharist, is often incorporated into the celebration of the Mass in Christian churches. The term 'Eucharist' is not just a reference to the rituals and the symbolism surrounding the bread and wine, but it is also a profound expression of thanksgiving for the blessings of God and the salvific sacrifice of Christ. From a historical perspective, the Eucharist has been a central component of Christian worship, seen as a tangible sign of the ongoing communion between God and his people.

Conclusion

The Lords Supper, the Last Supper, and the Eucharist are all interrelated terms that serve to comprehend the profound significance of the final meal shared by Jesus and his disciples. The term 'Eucharist' encapsulates the essence of giving thanks and remembering, making it the heart of this sacred practice. This ritual is not merely a historical reenactment but a deeply spiritual act that marks the presence of Christ in our lives and the ongoing forgiveness and grace he offers.

Understanding these terms helps Christians to appreciate the theological, historical, and cultural dimensions of the Lords Supper, and to engage more deeply with the ceremony as a meaningful act of worship and remembrance.