April 9, 2010
LET US BREAK, TORTILLAS?
Matthew 26:17-29
Sarah Franks
Central Truth
Communion is more than just bread and juice; it’s about the freedom we received through Jesus’ work on the Cross to live in true fellowship.
Key Verse | Matthew 26:27–28
And when He had taken a cup and given thanks, He gave it to them, saying, "Drink from it, all of you; for this is My blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for forgiveness of sins.” (Matthew 26:27-28)
Matthew 26:17-29
The Passover with the Disciples
17 Now on the first day of Unleavened Bread the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Where will you have us prepare for you to eat the Passover?” 18 He said, “Go into the city to a certain man and say to him, ‘The Teacher says, My time is at hand. I will keep the Passover at your house with my disciples.’” 19 And the disciples did as Jesus had directed them, and they prepared the Passover.
20 When it was evening, he reclined at table with the twelve. 1 26:20 Some manuscripts add disciples 21 And as they were eating, he said, “Truly, I say to you, one of you will betray me.” 22 And they were very sorrowful and began to say to him one after another, “Is it I, Lord?” 23 He answered, “He who has dipped his hand in the dish with me will betray me. 24 The Son of Man goes as it is written of him, but woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed! It would have been better for that man if he had not been born.” 25 Judas, who would betray him, answered, “Is it I, Rabbi?” He said to him, “You have said so.”
Institution of the Lord's Supper
26 Now as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to the disciples, and said, “Take, eat; this is my body.” 27 And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, saying, “Drink of it, all of you, 28 for this is my blood of the 2 26:28 Some manuscripts insert new covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. 29 I tell you I will not drink again of this fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father's kingdom.”
Dive Deeper | Matthew 26:17-29
All I wanted for my birthday one year was a Rocker Barbie. I was convinced she would grant me access into the “popular” girls’ group. Sadly, I was just stuck with a hideously ugly doll and my first memory of feeling rejected. As I grew up and encountered greater issues than buying dolls, I engaged in relationships with guys, comparison with other girls, and telling myself I wasn't worthy of acceptance. I began my walk with God in middle school, but still could not seem to shake the struggle of feeling rejected, alone, and unworthy.
Almost three years ago, God brought a group of like-hearted women into community. After a year together, we had several weeks of informal dinner “meetings” at Gloria’s on Greenville. This time of fellowship led to the destruction of walls we each had built around our hearts as we shared deep hurts, fears, and praises, and as we enjoyed each other. What we thought were simple dinners turned into sweet memories for each of us and were the jumping-off point for unfathomable, intentional community.
Jesus exemplified fellowship in the truest sense of the word and paid the price through His death and resurrection so that we may be in communion with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. In 26:27, He not only shared the cup with the disciples, He commanded them all to drink from it together. We are not called to walk this life alone or in secret. We have the perfect Trinity and fellow believers to commune with daily.
Last year, God revealed to me the depths of my fears of rejection and feelings of unworthiness. It was an excruciating year as I encountered things I never thought possible and battled depression. Praise God, He did not leave me to struggle alone. My community linked arms, pursued me, loved me, and encouraged me in Christ. I am not perfect, but they know me well and point out when I am not trusting God’s Truth.
What may have started as just breaking tortillas together led to intentionally sharing life. To Him be the glory.
Discussion Questions
1. Have you accepted Jesus’ gift of salvation through grace? If so, are you living in its fullness? If not, what is your hesitation; are you willing to talk with someone and pursue God for answers?
2. Do you view communion as simply eating a piece of bread and drinking a mini cup of grape juice or as a time of remembrance and precious fellowship with our Creator and other believers?
3. Do you have a group of believers who know you well, even your scariest sins/fears, and can walk alongside you in Christ? If not, are you willing to find it or lead out in authenticity within your current group?
4. What is your biggest fear about sharing your sins and struggles? I pray you see the beauty and freedom in sharing to grow closer to our God.
FAMILY DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. Betray: to turn against a friend and cause them harm. Have you ever betrayed or been betrayed by someone?
2. How did your story of betrayal end?
3. How do you think Jesus’ story of betrayal will end?