The Theological Connection Between Passover and the Lord’s Supper

In a recent teaching, Ligonier Ministries explores the historical and theological roots of the Lord’s Supper, tracing its significance back to the Old Testament Passover. The author explains that the early church utilized various terms for the sacrament, including the "agape feast" and the "Eucharist," the latter derived from the Greek word for "to thank," reflecting the congregation's gratitude for Christ’s redemptive work.

The teaching emphasizes that the Lord’s Supper is deeply connected to the final meal Jesus shared with His disciples. By referencing Luke 22, the author notes Jesus' desire to observe the Passover before His passion. This connection is further supported by 1 Corinthians 5:7, where the Apostle Paul identifies Christ as the "Passover lamb." The author encourages believers to understand the institution of the Lord’s Supper by reflecting on the historical narrative of the Israelites' deliverance from Egyptian bondage, framing the sacrifice of Christ as the fulfillment of the Passover tradition.