The story of Jesus' Last Supper and His sacrifice is a key part of the Easter Bible story. It is important to understand these events, especially for children learning about their faith. This guide will help you understand the Last Supper and Jesus' sacrifice in a simple and clear way.

The Last Supper

The Last Supper was a special meal Jesus had with His twelve disciples. It took place during the Jewish holiday of Passover. Passover celebrates how God saved the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. Jesus knew that this meal would be His last one with His friends. He wanted to share important messages with them. He also wanted to show them how much He loved them.

Breaking Bread and Sharing Wine

During the meal, Jesus took bread and broke it. He gave it to His disciples and said, "Take and eat; this is my body." Then, He took a cup of wine, gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, "Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins." This moment is very important in the Easter Bible story. It shows that Jesus was ready to give His life for others. The bread and wine symbolized His body and blood, which would soon be sacrificed.

A New Commandment

At the Last Supper, Jesus also gave His disciples a new commandment. He said, "Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another." This commandment teaches us to show love and kindness to everyone.

Jesus Predicts Betrayal

During the meal, Jesus told His disciples that one of them would betray Him. This was a shocking revelation. Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve, would later betray Jesus to the authorities for thirty pieces of silver. This betrayal was a key event leading to Jesus' sacrifice.

Praying in the Garden of Gethsemane

After the Last Supper, Jesus and His disciples went to the Garden of Gethsemane. Jesus prayed there because He knew what was going to happen. He asked God for strength and courage. Jesus' prayer showed His deep connection with God and His willingness to do God's will.

Jesus' Arrest

While Jesus was praying, Judas arrived with soldiers. He identified Jesus with a kiss. The soldiers arrested Jesus and took Him away. This event marked the beginning of Jesus' trials and suffering.

Jesus' Trials

Jesus was taken to the high priest and then to the Roman governor, Pontius Pilate. Many false accusations were made against Him. Even though Pilate found no fault in Jesus, he sentenced Him to be crucified. The crowd demanded it, and Pilate gave in to their wishes.

The Crucifixion

Jesus was forced to carry His cross to the place called Golgotha. There, He was nailed to the cross. This was a painful and humiliating death. Jesus suffered greatly, but He never showed anger or hate. Instead, He prayed for those who hurt Him, saying, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing."

Jesus' Death and Burial

Jesus died on the cross. His body was taken down and placed in a tomb. A large stone was rolled in front of the entrance. This seemed like the end, but it was actually the beginning of something wonderful.

The Resurrection

Three days after Jesus' death, something amazing happened. Jesus rose from the dead! This is known as the Resurrection and is the central part of the Easter Bible story. Jesus' resurrection shows that He has power over death and sin. It gives hope to all believers that they too can have eternal life.

Celebrating the Last Supper and Jesus' Sacrifice

Today, Christians remember the Last Supper and Jesus' sacrifice in different ways. One way is through Communion, also known as the Lord's Supper. During Communion, Christians eat bread and drink wine (or grape juice) to remember Jesus' body and blood. This practice helps believers to feel connected to Jesus and to one another. Easter Sunday is a day of joy and celebration. It is the day when Christians celebrate Jesus' resurrection. Churches are filled with songs of praise and thankfulness. Easter reminds us that Jesus is alive and that He has overcome death.

Final Words

The Last Supper and Jesus' sacrifice are central to the Easter Bible story. They show us the depth of Jesus' love and His commitment to saving humanity. By understanding these events, children can learn important values and grow in their faith. Remembering and celebrating these events helps us to live better lives, filled with love, kindness, and hope.