Seeking Jesus - Lecture Notes

Introduction

• Lecture by John Hilton.
• Discussion on the Last Supper and the possibility of women and children being present.

The Last Supper

Traditional Imagery

• Common image: Leonardo da Vinci's depiction.
• Recent depictions include women and children.
• Passover meals traditionally family gatherings.

Scriptural Evidence

• Mark 14:18: Jesus predicts betrayal by one eating with him, suggesting others present.
• Mark 14:28, 16:7: Indications women might have been present.

Differences in Gospel Accounts

• Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke): Focus on the sacrament.
• John: Focus on washing of feet.

Key Events at the Last Supper

The Sacrament

• Jesus institutes the sacrament: bread as his body, wine as his blood.
• References to Old and New Covenants.

Washing of the Feet (John 13)

• Jesus performs a humble act of service.
• Teaches selflessness and service.
• Reflects Christ's willingness to cleanse the dirtiest parts of our lives.

Teachings from the Last Supper

Love and Service

• New commandment to love as Christ loved.
• Service without waiting for requests.

Keeping Commandments

• Importance of keeping Christ's commandments as a demonstration of love.
• Personal story illustrating obedience and its impacts.

The I Am Statements

• John 14:6: "I am the way, the truth, and the life."
• True Vine: Staying connected to Christ.

Christ’s Prayer Before Gethsemane

Focus on Others

• Prays for disciples' unity and sanctification.
• Highlights importance of unity among all believers.

Unity with Christ

• Prayer for believers to be one with Christ and the Father.
• Concept of Christ living within us.

The Agony in Gethsemane

Setting

• Cold night, potential for rain.
• Jesus’s distress and agony.

Christ’s Suffering

• Surrendering to the will of the Father.
• Luke 22:44: "sweat as great drops of blood."
• Modern revelation enhances understanding of suffering for sins.

Symbolism and Lessons

• Gethsemane meaning: "oil press."
• Jesus had agency, chose not to leave via the ancient road.

Synoptic Study of Gethsemane

Different Perspectives

• Matthew & Mark: Human Jesus, betrayal by Judas.
• Luke: Healing Jesus, healing of the servant's ear.
• John: Divine Jesus, in control during arrest.

Conclusion

• All Gospel accounts reveal different facets of Jesus: human, healing, divine.
• Emphasis on deepening understanding and testimony through these perspectives.

Additional Resources

• Pre-class readings, PowerPoints, and quizzes available via course website.