Matthew 26:28

“For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.”

This verse is a part of the narrative of Jesus’ Last Supper with His disciples, where He institutes the sacrament of communion. Let’s delve into the context and significance of this verse for a Bible study.

Historical Context:Jesus and His disciples were celebrating the Passover meal, a significant Jewish festival commemorating the liberation of the Israelites from Egypt. During this meal, Jesus took bread, blessed it, broke it, and gave it to His disciples, saying, “Take, eat; this is my body” (Matthew 26:26). He then took the cup, gave thanks, and offered it to them, saying, “Drink ye all of it” (Matthew 26:27). Matthew 26:28 is Jesus’ explanation of the significance of the cup, which represents His blood.

• Symbolism of the Blood:

When Jesus says, “For this is my blood,” He is referring to the red wine in the cup, which symbolizes His blood. The shedding of blood represents sacrifice and the giving of one’s life. In the Old Testament, the blood of sacrificial animals was sprinkled on the altar for the forgiveness of sins. Here, Jesus presents Himself as the ultimate sacrifice whose blood will bring about forgiveness and salvation.

The New Covenant:Jesus refers to the cup as “the new testament” or “the new covenant.” In the Old Testament, God established a covenant with the Israelites through Moses, based on the law. However, the new covenant initiated by Jesus is characterized by grace and forgiveness through faith in Him. Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross would fulfill the requirements of the law, providing a way for humanity to be reconciled with God.

Remission of Sins:Jesus states that His blood is shed “for many for the remission of sins.” Sin creates a separation between God and humanity, and its consequence is death. Jesus, through His sacrificial death, offers forgiveness and atonement for sins. His blood provides the means for the remission, or forgiveness, of sins. Through faith in Jesus and His sacrifice, believers can be reconciled to God and experience the forgiveness of sins.

Application:

• Matthew 26:28 underscores the importance of communion in the Christian faith. When Christians partake in communion, they remember Jesus’ sacrifice and the significance of His shed blood. It serves as a powerful reminder of the forgiveness and salvation made possible through His death and resurrection.

In summary, Matthew 26:28 highlights the redemptive power of Jesus’ blood and its role in the establishment of the new covenant. It emphasizes the forgiveness of sins offered through His sacrifice, and the importance of communion as a way to remember and reflect upon His selfless act.