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23 And when He had taken a cup and given thanks, He gave it to them, and they all drank from it.
24 And He said to them, “This is My blood of the covenant, which is being poured out for many.
25 Truly I say to you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine again, until that day when I drink it, new, in the kingdom of God.”
What is referred to as the “Last Supper” actually is the Passover meal. It is highly important to understand the order of this meal. (1) The first cup (Cup of Thanksgiving) was distributed. (2) Jesus washed the feet of the disciples. (3) The second cup (Cup of Judgment) was distributed. (4) Parsley was dipped in saltwater and eaten. (5) Unleavened bread was distributed, which symbolizes Jesus’ body. (6) Next, a food called “Charoset” is distributed. It is a mix of apples, nuts, honey, cinnamon, and wine, that looks like a kneaded mud. This symbolizes the bricks the Israelites were forced to make during the time in Egypt. The custom of that time was that the head of the household would distribute bread with Charoset to the guests. In John 13:26, Jesus is giving a piece of bread to Judas Iscariot, which is the bread with Charoset. At this point, Judas leaves the table. (7) Following this, the main course is served. (8) After the main course, the third cup (Cup of Redemption) is distributed. The cup Jesus is distributing in today’s passage is the “Cup of Redemption.”
Jesus said, “This is My blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many.” (1) Here it is revealed that the blood shed by Jesus on the cross is to be for the redemption of sins. It is not coincidental that Jesus used the third cup called the “Cup of Redemption” for the covenant. (2) This cup also signifies Jesus’ return. Jesus stated, “Truly I say to you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine again, until that day when I drink it, new, in the kingdom of God.” The “kingdom of God” is the Messianic kingdom (the Millennial kingdom), indicating a prophecy that Jesus will celebrate the Passover with His disciples in the Millennial kingdom. When we partake of the bread and the cup in the communion, we confess that our sins have been forgiven and that the Lord Jesus will surely return. Those who believe in Jesus have entered into a covenant with God the Father. Let’s offer our thanks to the Lord, for the divine protection that is upon us.
Today's prayer
Father God of Jesus Christ, I believe and confess that Jesus is my Savior and the Lord of my life. Through the blood of your Son Jesus, my sins are cleansed. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.