In the first three Gospels and in Paul's first letter to the Corinthians (chapter 11), simple accounts of the Lord's last supper are given. The Master's offering of bread and wine as a symbol of true spiritual substance and divine inspiration became the basis of a ceremony which Christians have observed ever since. The ancient ritual of the Passover gained new meaning for the disciples, who were soon to see the somber shadow of death pass over their dear Master, leaving him unscathed and free to complete his sacrifice of material selfhood as a sublime example for all mankind.
In our own age, Christian Science brings refreshing illumination in its interpretation of the Lord's supper. In the Christian Science textbook, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" (p. 25), speaking of Jesus' spiritual offering, Mary Baker Eddy makes this declaration regarding the elements of the Eucharist: ''His true flesh and blood were his Life; and they truly eat his flesh and drink his blood, who partake of that divine Life."
In significant contrast to the records mentioned, the Gospel of John omits the descriptive account of the last supper, but sets forth through five glorious chapters (13 to 17) the profound metaphysical teachings of Christ Jesus. In this Gospel no mention is made of the baptism of Christ Jesus, but Jesus is described as "he which baptizeth with the Holy Ghost," which Mrs. Eddy defines as divine Science. John records none of the parables of the other three Gospels, but teaches the lessons of Christianity with profound spiritual directness.
