Matthew 26:27 – “Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, ‘Drink from it, all of you.’”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse captures another crucial moment at the Last Supper, where Jesus takes a cup of wine, gives thanks, and shares it with His disciples. The act of passing the cup signifies unity and fellowship among those who partake. Jesus invites all His disciples to drink from the cup, symbolizing their participation in the new covenant He is establishing through His upcoming sacrifice.
By giving thanks before sharing the cup, Jesus acknowledges God’s sovereignty and provision, even as He faces the suffering that lies ahead. His invitation, “Drink from it, all of you,” emphasizes inclusivity, showing that His sacrifice is for all who would follow Him.
Historical Context
The Last Supper took place during the Passover, a meal rich in symbolism. Traditionally, several cups of wine were shared throughout the meal, each representing different aspects of God’s deliverance of Israel from Egypt. Jesus repurposes this tradition, using the cup to point to His own role in providing ultimate deliverance from sin and death.
In Jewish culture, sharing a cup was a significant act of fellowship and trust. By inviting His disciples to drink, Jesus was extending an invitation to partake in the blessings and responsibilities of the new covenant He was about to establish.
Theological Implications
This verse points to the new covenant Jesus was inaugurating through His blood, which would be poured out for the forgiveness of sins (Matthew 26:28). The cup represents His sacrificial death, making it a symbol of both redemption and relationship.
It also highlights the communal nature of faith. By sharing the cup, Jesus unites His disciples in a common purpose and commitment. This unity extends to all believers who partake in Communion, reminding us that we are one body in Christ.
Literary Analysis
The act of taking, giving thanks, and sharing the cup mirrors the earlier actions with the bread (Matthew 26:26). This repetition emphasizes the parallel between Jesus’ body and blood, both of which are offered for the salvation of humanity.
The phrase “all of you” is significant, underscoring the inclusivity of Jesus’ invitation. It foreshadows the global reach of His sacrifice, which would extend beyond the disciples to people from all nations and generations.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Luke 22:20: Luke’s account includes Jesus’ statement, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood.”
- 1 Corinthians 11:25-26: Paul recounts the Lord’s Supper and emphasizes proclaiming Jesus’ death until He comes.
- Jeremiah 31:31-34: The prophecy of a new covenant where God’s law is written on hearts, fulfilled in Jesus.
- John 6:53-56: Jesus speaks of the need to “eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood” to have eternal life.
- Isaiah 53:12: A prophecy about the Messiah pouring out His life for sinners.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse invites reflection on the significance of Communion and the new covenant Jesus established. Partaking in the cup reminds believers of the cost of their salvation and the deep fellowship they share with Christ and one another.
It also challenges believers to approach Communion with gratitude and reverence, recognizing it as both a personal act of worship and a communal declaration of faith.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is evident in Jesus’ willingness to pour out His life for the forgiveness of sins. By sharing the cup, Jesus invites His disciples—and all who follow Him—into a relationship grounded in grace and redemption. This verse reflects God’s desire to restore and unite His people through the sacrifice of His Son.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse highlights Jesus as the mediator of the new covenant. The cup symbolizes His blood, which would be shed to establish a relationship between God and humanity. Jesus’ invitation to “drink from it” points to the personal nature of salvation, requiring each believer to accept His sacrifice and commit to following Him.
The sharing of the cup also foreshadows the unity of the church, which is built on the foundation of Christ’s sacrifice. It reminds us that Jesus’ mission was not only to redeem individuals but to create a community of faith bound together by His love.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does this verse deepen your understanding of the significance of Communion?
- What does it mean to you personally to “drink from the cup” and participate in the new covenant?
- How can you approach Communion with greater gratitude and reverence for Jesus’ sacrifice?
- How does the communal nature of sharing the cup challenge you to live in unity with other believers?
- What steps can you take to reflect the love and sacrifice of Jesus in your daily life?