Greetings Brethren,

The Bible does not have contradictions. Therefore there is an explanation for any point that seems to contradict another. Those that find fault with the Bible as not consistent in thought should critique themselves. Many have a poor level of comprehension. Others have very little energy to closely read and study the Bible. Nor do they take the time to read any other source of information.

HOWEVER IF YOU STAY WITH GOD AND IN PRAYER THE HOLY SPIRIT WILL LEAD EVEN THE ILLITERATE AND THOSE THAT CANNOT READ.

Peace and Love,

Carl Patton writing for the FreedomJournal June 5, 2002 in the year of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

FREEDOMJOURNAL SPEAKS

The Origin & Reality of the Passover

Part 20: Passover Synoptic Gospels & John

In the name of Jehovah God, Master of the universe, Ruler of the earth.

Brothers' and sisters we come today realizing that there is power in the name of Jesus. Will you repeat the name of Jesus with us right now? If alone or in/at a place where you will not disturb other people shout the name of Jesus. The Spirit of God loves to hear the believers say the name Jesus. Also, the power vested in the name blocks' Satan and his messengers. Say it one more time like you mean it if you truly love the Lord and your brother.

It is written that just saying the name of Jesus brings Joy and Peace. We bear witness to this truth and we are glad about it. Meanwhile we see that Jesus is at the center of our discussion on the Passover. However before we pay heed to the Synoptic Gospels and John we will note as a preface the requirements for the Lord's Supper.

There are basically two requirements for taking the Lord's Supper noted in scripture. First the person must be spiritually reborn and converted by the saving grace of Jesus Christ. The early church required that all people taking the bread and wine also be baptized. Although this is not noted in scripture in a direct fashion, this prerequisite is also noted as a qualification today.

Thus the examination of faith noted in 1 Corinthians 11:27-29 is in regard to one's faith in Christ and why Jesus died.

The second requirement is noted in obedience. One must be walking and talking a life that is Christ like. Thus, he or she must refrain from deliberate sin. He must also make claim to a more intimate fellowship in Christ as he comes to the table. Hence he must realize the full meaning of his act as he commemorates the death of Christ and what it means in his life. (See 1 Corinthians 11:28).

Although there is no saving grace in the Lord's Supper there are great rewards. Thus the nature of Communion acts are secondary to what resides in the heart of the believers.

Now we will attempt to note further clarity in this discussion by a detailed but limited look at the Synoptic Gospels and John. For the record the Bible does not have contradictions. But the various accounts by the Gospel writers and Paul may lead some to believe that there are some contradicting points in the Bible especially in regard to the Lord's Supper. As a preface to the following point we note the following. The Biblical accounts of the Lord's Supper were written by five New Testament writers, Matthew, Mark, Luke, John and Paul. We can also note the Prophecy of the Prophet Isaiah in the 53rd division of Isaiah.

With the written accounts by the Gospel writers and Paul the element of time is of essence. Time meaning what calendar was in use by the writer. Also the chronology of events is noted in a general fashion by some and in detail by others. But what is most important? Also, what is a consistent theme?

It is clear from all accounts that the Lord's Supper was inaugurated at the Passover meal. However, the different Jewish calendars and practices will cause the reader the need to read closely to determine the time of the meal. Also, the time of the arrest of Jesus and the time of his crucifixion. We have already answered these questions in earlier statements in this series. Therefore, we refer you to previous articles.

Meanwhile one of the leading points of seemingly contradiction comes in the time the bread was broken and the cup taken. Here we advise the reader to realize that the Passover has a limited meaning for the converted Christian. For example Paul makes the clear distinction as when he writes of the observance of the Lord's Supper mainly in a Christian context.

Thus when we see the transition of the Passover meal to the Christian Lord's Supper we can move adequately see that we only have to break bread and take the cup in that order. On the last day prior to the crucifixion Jess spent an extended time with His Disciple in what is called the Lord's Supper.

As Jesus acknowledged the Passover for the Hebrew people He also came to establish His saving grace for the Gentiles and all people that will accept Him. He did this by breaking bread and taking the cup this in remembrance of Jesus. We do so and are blessed.

Passover Page

carl@freedomjournalpress.comcastbiz.net