What Happened at the Last Supper — Meaning Explained

The Last Supper took place on the eve of Jesus' crucifixion. All four Gospels record it (Matthew 26, Mark 14, Luke 22, John 13-17). Jesus began by washing the disciples' feet — a servant's task — teaching them humility: 'I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you' (John 13:15). He identified Judas as His betrayer: 'He it is, to whom I shall give a sop, when I have dipped it' (John 13:26). He then instituted the Lord's Supper, taking bread ('This is my body, which is given for you,' Luke 22:19) and the cup ('This cup is the new testament in my blood,' Luke 22:20). John 13-17 records Jesus' extended farewell discourse and high-priestly prayer — His most intimate teaching. He promised the Holy Spirit (John 14:16-17), the vine and branches relationship (John 15), and prayed for His disciples' unity and protection (John 17). The evening ended with singing a hymn and going to Gethsemane (Matthew 26:30).