February 22, 2026
Understanding Communion
Pastor Ricky Smith

Sermon Notes

Mark 14:22-25
And as they were eating, he took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to them, and said, “Take; this is my body.” And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, and they all drank of it. And he said to them, “This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many. Truly, I say to you, I will not drink again of the fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God.”

I. Jesus Fulfills the Symbolism of the Passover

Exodus 13:3
Then Moses said to the people, “Remember this day in which you came out from Egypt, out of the house of slavery, for by a strong hand the Lord brought you out from this place. No leavened bread shall be eaten.

1 Corinthians 5:7
Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed.

II. Jesus Establishes a New Covenant by His Blood

Let Communion be a time not just of reflection, but of renewal—a moment to remember we are a people of promise.

III. Jesus Points to a Future Kingdom Celebration

Next Steps

• I confess my sin and turn to Jesus as King for the first time.
• I commit to reflecting on the faithfulness of God to find strength every day.
• I choose to make Calvary my faith family. Contact me about membership.

Deep Dive

1. In what ways can the practice of Communion become more meaningful and worshipful in your life?
2. Jesus spoke of a future feast in the Kingdom. How does that future hope shape the way you handle current struggles or disappointments?
3. Read 1 Corinthians 5:6-8. What does it mean that Jesus is our Passover Lamb, and how does this emphasize the purity of our worship?

Springboards

1. Read Mark 14:26-52. Why do you think Jesus warned the disciples about their upcoming failure in verse 27?
2. How does Jesus’ response to betrayal and abandonment encourage you in your own spiritual failures?
3. What role does biblical community play in keeping us from spiritual failure or restoration when we do fail?