From Passover to the Lord’s Supper (Part 1)

Matthew 26:17-25

In Matthew 26:1-16, we saw four preparations for the death of the Lord Jesus on the cross. His death came by God’s predetermined plan (Matt. 26:1-2); The Jewish leaders plotted to kill Him (Matt. 26:3-5); Mary perfumed by anointed Jesus (Matt. 26:6-13); and Judas prearranged to betray Jesus (Matt. 26:14-16).

In today’s passage, we see how Jesus Himself made some final preparations before the cross. He celebrated the last Passover feast with His disciples, and He instituted the first Lord’s Supper. Each of the Gospel writers emphasize different aspects of this last supper of Jesus with His disciples, but Matthew especially focuses on the plan of God. God was working out His sovereign plan of salvation as Jesus moved toward the cross.

Jesus’ death on the cross was no accident. It was a divine appointment. Our Lord was in absolute control over the events that surrounded His betrayal, arrest, trial and crucifixion. It all occurred under His sovereign authority, and in perfect obedience to His Father’s will.