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2005 Lenten Study Series: Matthew's Passion of Christ

The Sacrament of Christ

Read: Matthew 26:17-30

“Take and eat; this is my body.” ~ Matthew 26:26

1. Why does Jesus wait for the disciples to inquire about where they were going to eat the Passover? How does Matthew emphasize authority and obedience in this passage? How do Jesus’ directions apply to our worship today?

2. What is the significance of the phrase, “My appointed time (kairos) is near”? Consider other Matthew passages on this subject of timing (4:17; 8:29; 13:30; 26:45-46).

3. What was the reaction of the disciples to Jesus saying, “I tell you the truth, one of you will betray me”? Are you moved to say, “You don’t mean me, do you, Lord?”

4. How important is self-examination before Communion (see 1 Corinthians 11:27-32)?

5. Why was Jesus willing to “ruin the meal”? Why didn’t he expose Judas earlier? What were Judas’ options? In what sense was Jesus’ confrontation with Judas part of the preparation of the meal?

6. John Calvin wrote, “In the person of Judas the Lord wished His people in all ages to be warned.” How should Judas make us feel? If a traitor could be among the core group of disciples, what does that say about the Household of Faith today?

7. What is your reaction to Jesus’ verbal and visual definition of what his death means?

8. Dale Brunner writes, “We all want our churches to be both more evangelistic and more worshipful. The Lord’s Supper, rightly administered, offers both.” How is this so?

9. Who should participate in Communion? Was Judas there for the final hymn (John 13:30)?