“For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.”– Matthew 26:28 (KJV)
“For this is my blood, which confirms the covenant between God and his people. It is poured out as a sacrifice to forgive the sins of many.”– Matthew 26:28 (NLT)
“This is my blood, my covenant with you, poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.”– Matthew 26:28 (MSG)
What Does Matthew 26:28 Mean?
In Matthew 26:28, we encounter a significant moment during the Last Supper, where Jesus shares a profound message with his disciples. This verse emphasizes Jesus’ intention to establish a new covenant through his blood. The significance of this moment cannot be overstated; it marks a turning point in our spiritual journey and relationship with God. When Jesus refers to his blood as the blood of the new covenant, he is invoking the deep roots of Jewish tradition, reminding the disciples of God’s promises throughout history.
The concept of blood in biblical terms has always been tied to sacrifice and atonement. In the Old Testament, blood was used in sacrifices to atone for sins. Jesus’ usage of blood in this passage is reflective of that practice, but he takes it a step further. Instead of an animal sacrifice, Jesus is presenting himself as the ultimate sacrifice for sins. He is showing that this new covenant replaces the older covenant established through the Law, thus radicalizing the disciples’ understanding of God’s relationship with humanity.
Matthew 26:28 Explanation and Commentary
Understanding this verse requires us to examine the context in which it was spoken. During the Last Supper, Jesus was sharing a meal with his closest friends, and he knew that his crucifixion was imminent. The words he chose were carefully selected, filled with meaning and implication. When he speaks of “my blood,” he identifies himself as both the high priest and the sacrificial lamb, drawing his disciples into a deeper understanding of his mission. This is an invitation not just for them but for all of us to partake in a relationship with him that is based on grace rather than the law.
It’s essential to realize that through this new covenant, Jesus assures us of forgiveness and reconciliation with God. The term “remission of sins” indicates that through faith in Christ, we can be cleansed of our wrongdoing and receive eternal life. This gives us hope and a new beginning. The significance of this moment is far-reaching because it allows believers today to partake in this covenant through practices such as communion, where we remember Christ’s sacrifice regularly.
We can draw connections between Matthew 26:28 and other scriptures in the New Testament, like Luke 22:20 and 1 Corinthians 11:25. In these verses, similar themes surface, reaffirming the importance of Jesus’ blood in the establishment of the new covenant. The new promise gives us comfort that we are part of God’s family and that our sins are forgiven through faith in Jesus Christ.
Through the lens of Matthew 26:28, we can see that all of this is an act of love. God desires for us to have a relationship with Him that is restored and filled with grace. We are encouraged to reflect on the magnitude of Christ’s sacrifice as we grow in our faith and understanding of His Word. This encourages us to share this good news with others, inviting them into the promise of forgiveness as well.
Context of Matthew 26:28
To better grasp the meaning of Matthew 26:28, we need to recognize the larger narrative surrounding it. This verse is situated at the climax of Jesus’ earthly ministry. The Last Supper took place just before Jesus’ crucifixion and the events leading up to it. At this meal, Jesus was instituting the sacrament of communion—a practice that would become central to Christian worship.
Jesus was celebrating Passover with his disciples during the Last Supper, further deepening the context of the covenant. The Passover meal was a significant event for the Jewish people as it commemorated their deliverance from slavery in Egypt. By connecting the new covenant with this historical moment, Jesus transforms the understanding of freedom. It’s not merely about escaping physical bondage but about liberation from sin and spiritual death.
The context also includes the recognition that betrayal loomed nearby, as Judas Iscariot had already decided to betray Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. This foreboding atmosphere makes Jesus’ words of establishing a new covenant even more poignant. He knew full well the suffering he was about to endure, yet he chose to focus on the hope that comes from this sacrificial love.
In this light, Matthew 26:28 becomes more than a call to remember Jesus’ sacrifice; it is an encouragement for all believers to enter into this new relationship with God. His blood symbolizes completeness and a fresh start for mankind, something the disciples—and we—should cherish and share.
Breaking Down the Key Parts of Matthew 26:28
Let’s break down significant phrases from Matthew 26:28 to further comprehend its implications.
The phrase “this is my blood” signifies Jesus’ full commitment to the task at hand. He is not speaking in mere metaphors but making a direct declaration about who he is and what he is about to do. This moment is powerful as it connects the disciples’ current situation with the lasting effects of Jesus’ sacrifice.
As we reflect on “of the new testament,” we must engage with the idea of newness. This is not merely an update to the old laws; it represents a transformative change in our relationship with God. With the new covenant, we are invited into a spirited engagement with God, rather than a burdensome adherence to the law. It shifts the focus from strict rules to loving, personal engagement with our Creator.
The phrase “poured out for many” offers a glimpse into the inclusive nature of Jesus’ offering. He did not limit his sacrifice to a select few individuals; instead, it extends to all “many” who choose to follow him. This generous nature doesn’t leave anyone out, fostering a sense of community and belonging among believers today.
Finally, the term “for the remission of sins” ties together the whole message. Understanding that through Jesus’ blood, our sins are forgiven provides a sense of peace and reconciliation. It emphasizes God’s grace, which is both unconditional and available to anyone willing to believe.
Lessons to Learn From Matthew 26:28
There is much for us to learn from the profound message in Matthew 26:28. One key lesson revolves around the importance of remembrance. When we partake in communion, we are not simply following a ritual but actively remembering the significance of Jesus’ sacrifice. This brings us closer to God, reminding us of His love and mercy.
The sense of community is another lesson we can glean from this verse. In sharing communion, we participate as a family of believers, reinforcing our unity in Christ. This shared remembrance creates a bond among us, encouraging fellowship and mutual growth in faith.
Moreover, we learn the importance of being open to the newness of God’s covenant. Embracing a relationship with God that goes beyond the law invites us to experience his grace fully. It urges us to step out of our comfort zones to love and serve others, reflecting the same love Jesus demonstrated through his sacrifice.
One lesson is also about forgiveness. Understanding that we are forgiven through Jesus’ blood encourages us to forgive others in our lives. We become messengers of grace, extending love and mercy just as we received it from Christ. This prompts us to live without the burden of past grievances and foster a spirit of reconciliation wherever we go.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the rich meaning found in Matthew 26:28 reverberates through the corridors of time, inviting each of us into a profound relationship with God. It’s a reminder that we are loved and cherished, and that our sins do not define us. Jesus’ blood symbolizes hope, redemption, and the promise of eternal life. As we strive to walk in this life, may we continue to share this good news and encourage others to partake in this new covenant of love and forgiveness.
We encourage you to explore other related passages, like Matthew 11 and the foundation laid in Genesis 1. These scriptures can deepen our understanding as we continue on this journey of faith together.