Luke 22:20 is about Jesus instituting the communion during the Last Supper, symbolizing the new covenant with his disciples through his body and blood.
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 22:20
In Luke chapter 22, we find Jesus sharing a significant moment with his disciples during the Last Supper. The scene is set in a dimly lit upper room in Jerusalem, where Jesus and his twelve disciples gather around a simple wooden table. The room is filled with the aroma of freshly baked bread and the flickering light of oil lamps casting shadows on the walls.
The disciples, including Peter, John, James, and the others, are reclining at the table, their faces reflecting a mix of confusion and reverence as Jesus speaks to them about the impending betrayal and his upcoming sacrifice. The atmosphere is heavy with emotion as Jesus takes a cup of wine, blesses it, and passes it around, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.”
As the disciples pass the cup among themselves, they are struck by the weight of Jesus’ words and the gravity of the moment. This intimate gathering becomes a pivotal point in their journey with Jesus, as they begin to grasp the true meaning of his mission and the sacrifice he is about to make for all humanity.
What is Luke 22:20 about?
Jesus is symbolizing the establishment of a new covenant between God and humanity through the shedding of His blood in this verse. This act signifies a new beginning, a fresh start, a chance for redemption and reconciliation with God. Jesus is paving the way for a renewed relationship between God and His people, broken by sin, by offering His blood.
Imagine the depth of love and sacrifice that Jesus demonstrated by willingly shedding His blood for the forgiveness of sins. This act of selflessness is a powerful reminder of God’s unconditional love and grace towards humanity. Through His blood, we are given a chance to be cleansed and made whole, to start anew and walk in a restored relationship with God. This verse highlights the significance of the Last Supper in Christian theology and serves as a constant reminder of the ultimate sacrifice made by Jesus for our salvation.
Understanding what Luke 22:20 really means
In the poignant setting of the Last Supper, a moment pregnant with significance, Jesus utters the words, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood.” Here, in this simple yet profound statement, lies the essence of the Christian faith encapsulated in the symbolism of the cup and the covenant. The cup, representing the wine, becomes a powerful emblem of Jesus’ blood shed for the salvation of humanity. It is in this act of sacrifice that the new covenant, a divine agreement between God and mankind, finds its inception. The covenant, sealed by Jesus’ sacrificial death, heralds a new era of grace and redemption.
Delving deeper into the key phrases of the verse, we unravel a tapestry of theological significance. The notion of the “new covenant” harks back to ancient prophecies, notably Jeremiah 31:31-34, where God promises a covenant not engraved on stone tablets but inscribed on human hearts. This covenant, mediated by Jesus as elucidated in Hebrews 9:15, offers a pathway to redemption, liberating believers from the bondage of sin. Paul’s reaffirmation of Jesus’ words in 1 Corinthians 11:25 underscores the enduring importance of commemorating the sacrificial act that underpins the Christian faith.
The relevance of this verse reverberates through the corridors of time, resonating with contemporary believers. It serves as a cornerstone of Christian theology, emphasizing a relational paradigm with God founded on grace and forgiveness rather than legalistic adherence. The new covenant beckons individuals to embrace a life of gratitude, mindful of the profound sacrifice that secures their spiritual freedom. It is a call to remembrance, a call to live in the shadow of the cross, where grace flows unbounded and forgiveness abounds.
To illustrate the transformative power of the new covenant, consider a debtor burdened by an insurmountable debt. In a moment of grace, a benefactor steps in, settling the debt in full without expectation of repayment. This act of unmerited favor ushers in a new beginning, unshackling the debtor from the weight of indebtedness. Similarly, Jesus’ sacrificial offering extends a lifeline to humanity, wiping clean the slate of sin and offering a fresh start in the embrace of divine grace.
In conclusion, the verse from Luke 22:20 beckons believers to a sacred remembrance of the ultimate sacrifice made on their behalf. It calls for a life lived in the light of the new covenant, basking in the freedom and grace it affords. Regular participation in communion stands as a tangible expression of this remembrance, a solemn celebration of the profound truth encapsulated in Jesus’ words. May we heed this call to remember, to honor, and to live in the fullness of the new covenant, forging a deeper connection with the God who extends boundless grace to all who believe.
How can we partake in the new covenant?
We can partake in the new covenant by understanding that it is a covenant of forgiveness, grace, and salvation through Jesus Christ. We are brought into this new covenant with God by accepting Jesus as our Savior and believing in his sacrifice for our sins. This covenant represents a new relationship with God, where our sins are forgiven, and we are made righteous in His sight.
To partake in the new covenant, we must have faith in Jesus as the mediator of this covenant and acknowledge our need for His sacrifice on the cross. Through Jesus, we have access to God’s redemption and eternal life. This covenant is a gift of God’s love and mercy toward us, and by accepting it, we are called to follow Christ, abide in His teachings, and live according to His will. Walking in faith and obedience to God allows us to experience the fullness of this new covenant and the blessings that come with it.
Application
Think of Luke 22:20 like your most important work contract or a lifelong promise to your family. It’s a powerful bond, cemented by Jesus’s sacrifice. This isn’t just a verse; it’s a call to action. Just like you’d never break a contract or let down your loved ones, let’s deepen our commitment to living out our faith every day. How will you honor this sacred covenant today?
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.