Blood Through the Ages

Today we take part in the Lord’s table… It’s one of the two ordinances we’re given to carry out as believers in Jesus Christ. And to truly understand the impact of the Lord’s table, we need to back in time… To look at more of these stories. In fact, today, we’re going to cover more of Rehab’s story as we build-up to the Lord’s Table. As we take a look at these stories today, I want you to seriously consider them. These are not mythical stories like much of the world would have us believe. They are ancient realities that tell us about our creator and how we got to this point. When we understand the stories, we get a better grasp of the current state of the world and what our response should be.

Scripture

Luke 22:14-20 ESV  And when the hour came, he reclined at table, and the apostles with him. And he said to them, “I have earnestly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer. For I tell you I will not eat it until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God.” And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he said, “Take this, and divide it among yourselves. For I tell you that from now on I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.” And he took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” And likewise the cup after they had eaten, saying, “This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood.

Bible Study Questions

What is the main significance of blood in the Bible? (Luke 22:20, Leviticus 17:11)

In verse 22, Luke refers to the new covenant. What was the main previous covenant that would be replaced? (Luke 22:20, Genesis 12:1-3)

Why was there a need for a covenant in the first place? (Luke 22:20, Genesis 3:6)

Where did the Passover originate? (Luke 22:15, Exodus 12:14)

The blood of the lambs in the Passover and subsequent sacrifices is a symbol of a higher blood that is to come. A permanent solution to covering of sin. Where else do we see the symbol of Christ’s blood covering someone in the Old Testament? (Luke 22:15, Joshua 2:18)

How do we know that the Old Testament system of sacrifices and rituals was a temporary solution for the covering of sin? (Jeremiah 31:31-33)

How is Jesus the perfect sacrifice for our sins? (John 1:29)

Prayer

Father, thank you for what you did for us in sending your son to die as the perfect sacrifice for our sins. Thank you that you never turned your back on us as we deserve, but rather sought out a solution for our salvation. Thank you that we can remember you on this day. Help us, Father, wherever we are in our relationship with you, to remember Jesus. Help us to understand the significance of Jesus, who He is and what He’s done for us. Teach us what you want us to do to respond while we’re in this frame of mind. Teach us to learn more about you as a result and to grow closer to you… Please, Father. We ask these things in the name of your perfect son, Jesus.

Worship

Greatness and glory and splendor are Yours
Strength and power are in Your Hands
Lead me to Your Altar above
And take my life as a sacrifice

Lord here I am I praise You
And lift Your Name on high
I give my life completely
Lord receive this sacrifice

Please take my heart and seal it
Your Fire can melt the ice
O never never leave me
Lord receive this sacrifice

Serving

If you love Christ, remembering Him should not be a problem for you. But how will people who don’t know or love Jesus remember Him? What can you do to help someone you know love Jesus? This week, as you remember Jesus, think of a way you can share what Jesus means in your life. Think of people who could be encouraged by your testimony and pray for God to give you the strength and courage to share it with them.