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Luke 22:14–34—The Last Supper and Other Suppers in the Gospel of Luke

In the Gospel of Luke, the Last Supper is the last in a series of suppers at which Jesus has been present throughout the narrative. It has some of the same characteristics as those other meals.

Suppers Are Supposed to Be Inclusive Events

Jews eat with gentiles (4:25–26; 10:7–8).

Saints eat with sinners (5:30; 15:1–2; 19:5–7).

Clean eat with unclean (14:12–13; cf. 11:37–38).

At the Last Supper, Jesus eats with transgressors (22:21, 34).

Suppers Are Occasions for Instruction in Humility and Service

Lack of etiquette reveals lack of love (7:44–47).

Guests should show humility (14:7–11; cf. 20:46).

Hosts should show humility (14:12–14).

People who serve Jesus act as “deacons” (diakoneō), literally “table waiters” (4:39; 8:3; 10:40; cf. 12:37; 17:8; Acts 6:1–6).

At the Last Supper, Jesus teaches about service and humility (22:24–27).

Suppers Are a Symbol of God’s Blessing

Servants are rewarded by eating at the master’s table (12:35–37).

The kingdom of God is like a banquet (13:29; 14:15–24).

Suppers are occasions for forgiveness, repentance, and reconciliation (7:48–50; 19:5–7).

At the Last Supper, Jesus speaks of the blessing to come in the kingdom of God (22:18, 28–30).