Luke 22:17-20 is about Jesus sharing the bread and wine with his disciples during the Last Supper, symbolizing the establishment of the new covenant through his body and blood.
17 And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he said, “Take this, and divide it among yourselves.
18 for I tell you that from now on I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.”
19 And he took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.”
20 And likewise the cup after they had eaten, saying, “This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood.
Setting the Scene for Luke 22:17-20
In Luke chapter 22, we find Jesus sharing a significant moment with his disciples. The scene is set in an upper room in Jerusalem, where Jesus and his twelve disciples have gathered to celebrate the Passover meal. The room is dimly lit by oil lamps, casting a warm glow over the group as they recline around a low table, cushions supporting their bodies as they eat.
Around the table, we see familiar faces such as Peter, John, James, and the rest of the disciples. They have followed Jesus faithfully, witnessing his teachings and miracles. As they partake in the Passover meal, Jesus takes bread, gives thanks, breaks it, and gives it to them, symbolizing his body that will be broken for them. He then takes the cup, gives thanks, and shares it with them, representing his blood that will be shed for the forgiveness of sins.
In this intimate setting, Jesus establishes the foundation of the Christian sacrament of communion, urging his disciples to remember him through the breaking of bread and sharing of the cup. This poignant moment foreshadows the sacrifice Jesus is about to make for humanity, demonstrating his love and the ultimate act of redemption.
What is Luke 22:17-20 about?
Jesus is gathering with his disciples to share a meal together before his crucifixion in this verse. During this time, he takes bread, blesses it, breaks it, and gives it to his disciples, saying, “Take, eat; this is my body.” He then takes a cup of wine, gives thanks, and shares it with his disciples, saying, “Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.” This act of sharing bread and wine is known as the Lord’s Supper or communion.
Through the Lord’s Supper, Jesus establishes a new covenant between God and his people, symbolizing his sacrificial death on the cross. Believers remember Jesus’ sacrifice, express their faith in his atonement for their sins, and experience fellowship with him and other believers by partaking in the bread and wine. The Lord’s Supper is a sacred and meaningful ritual that serves as a reminder of God’s unconditional love and grace, the forgiveness of sins, and the hope of eternal life through Jesus Christ. It is a tangible way for believers to connect with the redemptive work of Christ and strengthen their relationship with him. Have you ever reflected on the significance of the Lord’s Supper and its impact on your faith journey? How does participating in communion deepen your understanding of Jesus’ sacrifice and strengthen your connection to the body of Christ?
Understanding what Luke 22:17-20 really means
The verses in Luke 22:17-20 capture a poignant moment during the Last Supper, where Jesus, knowing His impending sacrifice, institutes a profound ritual that would become central to Christian practice. As Jesus takes a cup, gives thanks, and instructs His disciples to share it among themselves, He is symbolically establishing a new covenant. This act of sharing the cup signifies unity and fellowship among believers, emphasizing the communal aspect of the Christian faith. The significance of the cup as the new covenant in Jesus’ blood points to His sacrificial death on the cross, which would pave the way for a renewed relationship between God and humanity.
These verses find resonance in other biblical passages, such as Matthew 26:26-28 and 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, which also recount the events of the Last Supper and provide instructions for the practice of Communion within the early church. Additionally, Jeremiah 31:31-34 prophesies the new covenant, underscoring the divine promise of a transformed relationship with God. The themes of sacrifice, unity, and renewal echo throughout these interconnected passages, emphasizing the continuity of God’s redemptive plan across the Old and New Testaments.
The relevance of Communion extends beyond historical remembrance to practical application in the lives of believers today. Just as physical food sustains our bodies, the act of Communion serves as spiritual nourishment, sustaining our faith and deepening our connection to God. Moreover, in a world marked by division and discord, Communion reminds us of our shared identity in Christ, fostering a sense of community and unity among believers. It also provides a sacred space for remembrance and reflection, prompting us to contemplate Jesus’ sacrifice and examine our own lives in light of His teachings.
Consider a family gathering around a table for a meal, where the act of sharing food fosters a sense of belonging and love. Similarly, when we partake in Communion, we are reminded of our membership in the larger family of believers—the body of Christ. This sense of belonging can offer solace and strength, especially during times of isolation or adversity. Ultimately, the verses in Luke 22:17-20 invite us to engage with them not merely as historical accounts but as living words that beckon us into a deeper relationship with God and with one another. They call us to remember Jesus’ sacrifice, to give thanks for His grace, and to embody the unity and love that He exemplified during His earthly ministry.
How can we remember and celebrate Jesus’ sacrifice?
We can remember and celebrate Jesus’ sacrifice by participating in the act of communion. Through the taking of bread and wine, we symbolically remember Jesus’ body, which was broken, and his blood, which was shed for us on the cross. Communion serves as a powerful reminder of Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice for our sins and a way for us to express gratitude for the redemption and salvation that he provided through his death and resurrection.
Additionally, we can honor Jesus’ sacrifice by living lives that reflect his teachings and example. We can demonstrate our appreciation for the price he paid for our sins by following his commandments, showing love and compassion towards others, and striving to imitate his humility and service. Through our actions and attitudes, we can continue to spread the message of Jesus’ sacrifice and the hope and salvation that it offers to all who believe in him.
Application
Let’s dive deep into the essence of the Last Supper, where Jesus set the stage for Communion. Let’s not just recollect this meaningful occasion, but let’s embody it in our hearts, giving thanks for the ultimate sacrifice. Will you stand with me in cherishing this sacred ritual as a constant tribute to the love and sacrifice of our Savior?
Reverend Michael Johnson is an experienced Church Minister with a profound expertise in spirituality and guidance. With a serene presence and a compassionate heart, he has faithfully served his congregation for over 20 years, leading them on a spiritual journey towards inner peace and enlightenment. Reverend Johnson’s extensive knowledge of religious philosophies and profound understanding of human nature have made him a trusted confidant and mentor to many, as he seamlessly weaves his profound wisdom into life teachings. Reverend Johnson’s calming demeanor and empathetic nature continue to uplift and heal souls, nurturing a sense of unity and tranquility within his community.