How is the "Last Supper" significant to the understanding of Jesus’ mission?

The "Last Supper" is significant to the understanding of Jesus’ mission primarily because it symbolizes betrayal and sacrifice. During this pivotal moment, Jesus shares a final meal with his disciples, where he reveals that one of them will betray him, which directly points to the themes of trust and treachery that permeate his story. This act of betrayal triggers the chain of events leading to Jesus' crucifixion, underscoring the profound sacrifice he makes for humanity's salvation. The institution of the Eucharist during the Last Supper also highlights the idea of Jesus’ body and blood being offered as a sacrifice, reinforcing the concept of selflessness that defines his mission.

While the other choices present aspects tied to the narrative surrounding the Last Supper, they do not encapsulate the core significance as effectively as the themes of betrayal and sacrifice. For example, while it can be argued that the meal marks the end of his public ministry, this interpretation misses the depth of interpersonal dynamics and theological implications presented during that moment. Additionally, though the Last Supper indeed foreshadows his resurrection, the immediate context centers more around the somber acknowledgment of sacrifice. Lastly, divine judgment may emerge as a broader theme throughout the Gospels, but it is not