Matthew 26:28

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

Matthew 26:28 (KJV)

Context

Jesus spoke these words during the Last Supper with His disciples, as they celebrated the Passover meal. This festival commemorated Israel’s liberation from Egypt. During the 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 cup’s meaning.

Meaning

When Jesus says, “For this is my blood,” He identifies the wine in the cup as a symbol of His blood. 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 brings forgiveness and salvation. The phrase “shed for many” points to the sacrificial and substitutionary nature of His death, given voluntarily and completely for others.

Jesus calls the cup “the new testament” or “the new covenant.” In the Old Testament, God established a covenant with Israel through Moses, based on the law. Covenants were ratified with the shedding of blood. The new covenant initiated by Jesus is characterized by grace and forgiveness through faith in Him. His sacrifice on the cross fulfills the requirements of the law, providing a way for humanity to be reconciled to God.

The word “remission” means forgiveness. Sin separates humanity from God, and its consequence is death. Jesus, through His sacrificial death, offers atonement for sins. His blood provides the means for the remission of sins, so that through faith in Him, believers can be reconciled to God and experience forgiveness.

Biblical connections

This verse echoes Old Testament covenant language, where covenants were established with blood. The Greek text reads, “τοῦτο γάρ ἐστιν τὸ αἷμά μου τῆς διαθήκης τὸ περὶ πολλῶν ἐκχυννόμενον εἰς ἄφεσιν ἁμαρτιῶν.” Many translations render “new testament” as “new covenant” and “shed” as “poured out,” emphasizing the complete giving of His life.

Application

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

Reflection

Jesus’ words invite believers to receive the new covenant with gratitude and to live in the freedom of forgiven sins. The cup points to the cost of redemption and the depth of God’s love, calling us to respond with faith, repentance, and a life that honors the One who gave Himself for many.