Luke 22:19-20 is about Jesus establishing the act of communion, symbolizing the sharing of his body and blood as a covenant with his followers.
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 22:19-20
In Luke chapter 22, we find Jesus gathered with his twelve disciples in an upper room in Jerusalem 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 laden with unleavened bread, bitter herbs, and wine. The disciples, including Peter, John, James, and Judas Iscariot, are dressed in simple robes, their faces reflecting a mix of anticipation and confusion as Jesus begins to speak to them.
As they partake in the traditional Passover meal, Jesus takes the unleavened bread, blesses it, and breaks it, symbolizing his body that will be broken for them. He then takes the cup of wine, gives thanks, and shares it with them, representing his blood that will be shed for the forgiveness of sins. The atmosphere in the room is heavy with the weight of what is to come, as Jesus alludes to his impending betrayal and crucifixion.
The disciples listen intently to Jesus’ words, trying to grasp the significance of what he is telling them. They are unaware of the events that will unfold in the coming days but are filled with a sense of loyalty and devotion to their beloved teacher. In this intimate setting, Jesus establishes the foundation of the Christian sacrament of communion, imparting a profound and lasting legacy to his followers before his ultimate sacrifice on the cross.
What is Luke 22:19-20 about?
Jesus is reenacting the Last Supper with his disciples before his crucifixion in this verse, using bread and wine to symbolize his body and blood. Jesus establishes a sacred ritual for Christians to remember his sacrifice and the new covenant he is about to establish through his death and resurrection by instituting the Lord’s Supper, or communion. This ritual is a powerful and profound way for believers to connect with the essence of the Christian faith and to remember the ultimate act of love and redemption that Jesus undertook for humanity.
Imagine being one of the disciples in that moment, sitting around the table with Jesus, not fully understanding the significance of his words. How would you feel to witness such a solemn and yet deeply symbolic act of sharing bread and wine with the Son of God? We are invited to step into that moment, remember and reenact the sacrifice of Jesus, and reaffirm our faith in him by partaking in the Lord’s Supper today. It is a moment of reflection, gratitude, and communion with God and with one another, as we partake in this sacred meal and proclaim our belief in the life-giving power of Jesus’ body and blood.
Understanding what Luke 22:19-20 really means
In the poignant setting of the Last Supper, Luke 22:19-20 captures a pivotal moment where Jesus institutes the practice of Communion, a cornerstone of Christian faith. As Jesus shares a final meal with His disciples before His crucifixion, He takes bread, gives thanks, and breaks it, symbolizing His impending sacrifice for the sins of humanity. The phrase “This is my body given for you” underscores the sacrificial nature of Jesus’ impending death, emphasizing the profound love and selflessness inherent in His act of atonement. Moreover, His directive to “Do this in remembrance of me” establishes Communion as a sacred ritual for believers to honor and commemorate His ultimate sacrifice.
In parallel with the significance of the bread, Jesus presents the cup as “the new covenant in my blood,” signifying the establishment of a renewed relationship between God and humanity through His sacrificial death. This act of sealing the new covenant with His blood echoes the Old Testament practices of covenant-making, but with a profound and eternal significance. These verses not only point to the imminent sacrifice of Jesus but also foreshadow the redemptive work that would be accomplished through His death and resurrection.
Drawing connections to other biblical passages enriches our understanding of the depth and continuity of this sacred act. In 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, Paul emphasizes the importance of the Lord’s Supper as a means of proclaiming and remembering Jesus’ death until His return. Similarly, in John 6:53-58, Jesus speaks metaphorically about the necessity of partaking in His sacrifice to receive eternal life, laying the groundwork for the symbolism of Communion. The reference to Exodus 24:8 highlights the contrast between the old covenant, sealed with sacrificial blood, and the new covenant, sealed by the blood of Jesus, signifying a transformative shift in the relationship between God and humanity.
The enduring relevance of these verses resonates in the lives of believers today, offering spiritual nourishment, fostering community and unity, and prompting reflection on the significance of Jesus’ sacrifice. Just as physical food sustains the body, Communion serves as a spiritual sustenance, reminding believers of Jesus’ sacrificial love and their identity in Him. Moreover, the act of sharing Communion with fellow believers reinforces a sense of unity and belonging within the body of Christ, transcending individual experiences to emphasize the communal aspect of faith. Regular participation in Communion prompts believers to reflect on Jesus’ sacrifice, inviting them to contemplate the profound implications of His death and resurrection for their lives.
In a poignant analogy, Communion can be likened to a family gathering honoring a departed loved one, where stories are shared, memories cherished, and favorite dishes enjoyed in remembrance. Similarly, Communion serves as a sacred time for Christians to come together, partake in the elements symbolizing Jesus’ body and blood, and collectively remember His love and sacrifice. In conclusion, Luke 22:19-20 stands as a poignant reminder of Jesus’ sacrificial love and the new covenant He established, calling believers to remember His ultimate sacrifice, find spiritual nourishment in His presence, and cultivate unity within the Christian community.
What does it mean to remember Christ’s sacrifice?
Remembering Christ’s sacrifice involves reflecting on the breaking of bread as His body and the sharing of wine as His blood. This act symbolizes the ultimate sacrifice He made for humankind and serves as a reminder of the significance of His death on the cross. Believers are encouraged to remember the love, forgiveness, and redemption that Christ offers through His sacrifice by partaking in these elements.
Additionally, remembering Christ’s sacrifice involves acknowledging the atonement He provided for our sins. It is a time of introspection and gratitude for His selfless act of laying down His life for the salvation of all who believe in Him. Christians partake in communion, which reminds them of the price that was paid for their sins and encourages them to live a life that honors and reflects the sacrifice Christ made on their behalf. Believers ultimately deepen their faith, renew their commitment to following Christ, and experience the power of His sacrifice in their lives by remembering Christ’s sacrifice. It is a solemn yet celebratory act that unites believers in their shared belief in the redemptive work of Christ and serves as a tangible expression of their faith and devotion to Him.
Application
Think of your daily grind and the sacrifices you make for your family. Jesus made the ultimate sacrifice for us, and now it’s our turn. Engage deeply in the act of communion, just as you pour yourself into your work and relationships. By participating, you proclaim a faith that binds us all together. Will you stand with us, honoring this sacred ritual with a heart full of gratitude?
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.