An Easter Sermon: The Last Supper Was Not the Last Supper
The Last Supper
When most people hear the phrase "The Last Supper," they think of it as the final meal Jesus shared with His disciples before going to the cross. It's often seen as a farewell—a closing moment before betrayal, suffering, and death. But what if the Last Supper wasn’t a goodbye at all? What if it was actually an invitation that still stands today?
In this post, we explore what really happened at the Last Supper, what it means for your life right now, and how two men who sat at that table show us the difference between condemnation and restoration.
A Deeper Meaning Behind the Bread and Cup
The Last Supper wasn’t just a symbolic moment—it was a new covenant being established. During the traditional Jewish Passover meal, Jesus broke bread and gave it new meaning:
"Take, eat; this is my body."
"Drink ye all of it; for this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins."
— Matthew 26:26–28
For generations, Passover reminded the Jewish people of God’s deliverance from Egypt. But Jesus revealed that this meal was pointing to something far greater: the deliverance from sin.
He was showing that His body would be broken to bring healing, and His blood would not just cover sin like the old sacrifices—it would wash it away completely (Hebrews 10:4, Romans 5:9).
Two Disciples, Two Different Outcomes
Everyone at the table had a past, but two disciples—Judas and Peter—stand out.
Judas Iscariot betrayed Jesus for silver. When the weight of guilt crushed him, he believed he was beyond forgiveness. He took his own life in despair (Matthew 27:5).
Peter denied Jesus three times. But instead of running from mercy, he ran back to it. After Jesus rose from the dead, He made it a point to restore Peter personally (Mark 16:7, John 21).
What’s the takeaway? Both men failed. But only one believed that grace was still possible.
"It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning." — Lamentations 3:22–23
"But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound." — Romans 5:20
No matter how far you've fallen, there’s still a way back. The same Jesus who welcomed Peter back to the table is still inviting you.
What the Table Really Represents
Communion isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being present. It’s about remembering who Jesus is, what He’s done, and accepting the grace He still offers.
"This do ye... in remembrance of me." — 1 Corinthians 11:25
The table is a place for the bold and the broken, the faithful and the failures. Jesus knew His disciples would struggle, yet He welcomed them anyway. And He still welcomes you.
Whether you’re struggling with guilt, feeling distant from God, or simply looking for a deeper connection with your faith—this invitation remains:
Come back to the table.
A Future Supper Still to Come
Scripture tells us there’s another supper ahead—the marriage supper of the Lamb (Revelation 19:6–9). This is the true final supper, and everyone who has put their trust in Jesus has a seat.
"Behold, I stand at the door, and knock..." — Revelation 3:20
Jesus isn’t finished inviting people to the table. He’s still calling. Still welcoming. Still redeeming.
Final Thoughts
You may feel unworthy. But the truth is, none of us are.
"But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." — Romans 5:8
The Last Supper was never meant to be the end.It was the start of something eternal.
And you’re still invited.
Looking to reconnect with your faith? Begin by opening your heart to the One who still breaks the bread and pours the cup.
There’s a seat at the table. Just for you.