How is the Last Supper primarily described in the Gospels?

The Last Supper is primarily described in the Gospels as a meal shared with Jesus and His disciples. This significant event takes place during the Passover celebration, where Jesus institutes the practice of communion, emphasizing the sharing of bread and wine as symbols of His body and blood. The accounts in the Gospels focus on the intimate setting of this meal, highlighting the fellowship and the instructions that Jesus provides to His disciples, making it a pivotal moment in Christian tradition.

While the Last Supper may contain elements of teaching and could involve prayer, its primary significance is rooted in the context of a shared meal that marks the establishment of a new covenant. This setting enriches the meaning of the event, offering a visual and communal understanding of Jesus' sacrifice and the unity among His followers. The aspects of teaching and prayer can be seen as integral parts of the overall experience, but they serve to enhance the central focus of the meal itself. Additionally, it is not characterized as a miracle event, as that term typically refers to acts that demonstrate divine power, rather than the communal and commemorative aspect of the gathering.