1 Corinthians 11:23
For I received from the Lord what I also delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took bread,
English Standard Version (ESV)
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Paul emphasizes that the Lord's Supper isn't just his idea, but a direct transmission from Jesus Himself, rooted in a moment of profound betrayal. This wasn't a peaceful, planned ritual, but something initiated by Jesus while being handed over, highlighting its crucial significance even in His darkest hour.
Paul is addressing the chaotic and disrespectful way the Corinthian church is observing the Lord's Supper. He's reminding them of the sacred origins of this practice, explaining that he's passing on what Jesus himself instituted on the night of his arrest, a stark contrast to their current behavior. This sets the stage for his detailed instructions on how to properly remember Jesus' sacrifice, rather than turning the meal into a party.
Ever wondered how we know what we know about Jesus' last meal? Paul makes it clear it wasn't his idea, but God's.
Paul emphasizes that the practice of the Lord's Supper wasn't a human invention or a church tradition he came up with. He received it directly "from the Lord." This is a powerful statement about the divine origin of Christian practices and beliefs.
A Trustworthy Transmission
Think of it like a sacred relay race. Paul is a faithful runner, passing on a message entrusted to him. This highlights the importance of how teachings and practices are passed down through generations in the church, ensuring they remain true to their divine source.
The Lord's Supper is rooted in a moment of profound betrayal. Why is this dark context so crucial to the meaning of the meal?
The verse pinpoints the exact moment Jesus instituted the meal: "on the night when he was betrayed." This isn't just a random detail; it's foundational.
Love in the Face of Treachery
Jesus chose to share this intimate meal with His disciples, knowing Judas would betray Him and the others would soon abandon Him. This highlights the incredible depth of Jesus' love, commitment, and foresight. Even amidst ultimate betrayal and impending suffering, He established a memorial of His love and sacrifice. The meal is a testament to God's redemptive plan unfolding even in humanity's darkest moments.
Understand the original words
paredideto · Greek Verb
To deliver up, specifically used of Judas handing Jesus over to the authorities; it implies an act of treachery or betrayal within a relationship.
The Lord's Supper, the event described here, was instituted by Jesus himself shortly before his crucifixion. Paul's instruction to the Corinthian church emphasizes that this practice, which he received directly from the Lord, is a foundational element of Christian faith passed down from the very beginning.
c. AD 26-30
Jesus' Ministry and Last Week
Jesus begins his public ministry, teaching, healing, and gathering disciples. His final week in Jerusalem culminates in his crucifixion.
c. AD 30-33
The Early Church Begins
Following Jesus' resurrection and ascension, the Holy Spirit empowers the apostles, leading to rapid growth of the church in Jerusalem and beyond.
c. AD 47-49
Paul's First Missionary Journey
The Apostle Paul, guided by the Holy Spirit, travels through Asia Minor, establishing churches and spreading the gospel.
c. AD 50-52
Paul in Corinth
Paul spends significant time in Corinth, a major Roman city, founding a church there. He faces challenges and opposition but lays a strong foundation.
This passage recounts the same event of Jesus instituting the Lord's Supper, providing a parallel account from another Gospel writer.
Mark 14:22Mark also records Jesus taking bread and giving thanks before breaking it, highlighting the continuity of this sacred act across the Gospels.
John 13:1This passage describes Jesus' actions just before the Last Supper, showing His love for His followers and setting the stage for the institution of communion.
1 Corinthians 10:16Paul further elaborates on the meaning of the Lord's Supper, connecting the cup and bread to fellowship with Christ and with one another.
Paul emphasizes that the Lord's Supper isn't just his idea, but a direct transmission from Jesus Himself, rooted in a moment of profound betrayal. This wasn't a peaceful, planned ritual, but something initiated by Jesus while being handed over, highlighting its crucial significance even in His darkest hour.
Paul is addressing the chaotic and disrespectful way the Corinthian church is observing the Lord's Supper. He's reminding them of the sacred origins of this practice, explaining that he's passing on what Jesus himself instituted on the night of his arrest, a stark contrast to their current behavior. This sets the stage for his detailed instructions on how to properly remember Jesus' sacrifice, rather than turning the meal into a party.
Paul is addressing the chaotic and disrespectful way the Corinthian church is observing the Lord's Supper. He's reminding them of the sacred origins of this practice, explaining that he's passing on what Jesus himself instituted on the night of his arrest, a stark contrast to their current behavior. This sets the stage for his detailed instructions on how to properly remember Jesus' sacrifice, rather than turning the meal into a party.
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c. AD 53-55— this verse
Paul Writes 1 Corinthians
From Ephesus, Paul writes his first letter to the church in Corinth to address various issues, including divisions, immorality, and doctrinal misunderstandings.
"For I received from the Lord what I also delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took bread," — Paul emphasizes that the Lord's Supper isn't just his idea, but a direct transmission from Jesus Himself, rooted in a moment of profound betrayal. This wasn't a peaceful, planned ritual, but somethin…
