Maundy Thursday Service
Maundy Thursday
April 14, 2022
Rev. Tim Sharpe
On Maundy Thursday we remember Jesus' new command to love one another, grounded in Paul's witness to Christ as the image of the invisible God and head of the created order, who goes before us, holds the body together, and renews our love even amid weakness and betrayal.
Summary
The sermon links Paul's description of Jesus as the image of the invisible God and firstborn of all creation with the Maundy Thursday remembrance of the Last Supper and Jesus' new command to love one another. Paul's framing gives the command fresh force: because Christ is the head and creator who goes before us and sustains the body, our call to love is not merely moral exhortation but rooted in his person and power. Loving one another is difficult — often messy and painful like grimy feet or betrayed trust — yet Jesus meets us in that brokenness, renewing our love and bringing new life and glory to his name.
Key Points
- Paul: Jesus is the image of the invisible God and the firstborn of all creation; by him all things were made.
- Maundy Thursday commemorates the Last Supper and Jesus' 'new commandment' to love one another.
- Paul's depiction of Christ gives the command new force: it is grounded in who Jesus is, not just what we should do.
- Jesus renews our love by going before us, holding the church together, and being the head of the body.
- Christians are called to love as they care for their own bodies — earnestly and sacrificially.
- Love is often difficult (grimy feet, betrayal), but Jesus meets us in our weakness and brings renewal, life, and glory.
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