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Matthew 26:26
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- John Gill
- Tyndale
John Gill Bible Commentary
And he took the cup and gave thanks,.... For the Jews blessed, or gave thanks for their wine, as well as for their food, and generally did it in this form (w): "Blessed art thou, O Lord, our God, the king of the world, who hast created the "fruit of the vine". Hence the phrase, "the fruit of the vine", in Mat 26:29, not that we are to suppose, that Christ used or confined himself to this form of words: and it is to be observed, that they not only gave thanks for their wine before food, and whilst they were eating (x), but also after meat; and as this relates to the blessing of the cup after eating, or as the Apostle Paul says, "when he had supped", Co1 11:25. I shall only transcribe what the Jews say (y) concerning that: "When wine is brought to them after food, if there is but that cup there, the house of Shammai say, , "he blesses", or gives thanks "for the wine", and after that gives thanks for the food: the house of Hillell say, he gives thanks for the food, and after that gives thanks for the wine. And as this was usual at ordinary meals, to bless or give thanks for the wine, so at the passover; and which our Lord continued in his supper, and is to be practised by us. It should be further known, that the wine at the passover, and so what Christ used at his supper, was red, "Says R. Jeremiah (z) it is commanded to perform this duty, "with red wine". And elsewhere it is said (a), "that it is necessary, that there should be in it (the wine) taste and look. The gloss on it is, , "that it should be red": and which, as it most fitly represented the blood sprinkled on the door posts of the Israelites, when the Lord passed over their houses; so the blood of Christ, shed for the remission of the sins of his people. It is scarcely worth observing the measure of one of the cups, that was used at such a time: they say (b), that the four cups which were drank at this feast, held an, Italian quart of wine, so that one cup contained half a pint. More particularly, they ask how much is the measure of a cup? the answer is, two fingers square, and a finger and a half and the third part of a finger deep; or as it is elsewhere (c), the fifth part of a finger: and gave it to them, saying, drink ye all of it; for this is not to be restrained from one sort of communicants, and only partook of by another; but all are to drink of the cup, as well as eat of the bread: whether here is not an allusion to the custom of the Jews at the passover, when they obliged all to drink four cups of wine, men, women, and children, and even the poorest man in Israel, who was maintained out of the alms dish (d), may be considered, (w) Haggadah Shel Pesach. fol. 241. 1. (x) Vid. Misn. Beracot, c. 6. sect. 1. 6. (y) Ib. c. 8. sect. 8. (z) T. Hieros. Pesach. fol. 37. 3. & Sabbat, fol. 11. 1. (a) T. Bab. Pesach. fol. 108. 2. & R. Samuel ben Meir in ib. (b) T. Hieros. Sabbat, fol. 11. 1. (c) T. Bab. Pesach. fol. 109. 1. (d) Misn. Pesach. c. 10. sect. 1. T. Bab. Pesach. fol. 108. 1. Mitzvot Torah, pr. affirm. 41.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
26:26-29 The Last Supper derives its significance in part from the Jewish Passover (see Exod 12). The phases of the Jewish liturgy for Passover are as follows: (1) Festal blessing; (2) first cup (see Luke 22:17-18); (3) eating bitter herbs (see Matt 26:23 and corresponding study note); (4) eating unleavened bread (26:26; Mark 14:22); (5) second cup is mixed; (6) the Passover haggadah (reading) is given (Exod 12); (7) first part of the hallel (Pss 113–114; see study note on Pss 113–118); (8) second cup is taken; (9) blessing and eating of unleavened bread (Matt 26:26; Mark 14:22; Luke 22:19); (10) the Passover lamb is eaten; (11) third cup (Matt 26:27-28; Mark 14:23-24; Luke 22:20); (12) fourth cup (see Matt 26:29[?]; Mark 14:25[?]); (13) time of fellowship; (14) second part of the hallel (Pss 115–118; see Matt 26:30). None of the New Testament accounts of the Last Supper includes every aspect of a typical Jewish Passover. However, the most important aspects of the Passover that gave meaning to the early Christian celebration of the Lord’s Supper are included (see 1 Cor 11:23-25). Jesus, the Lamb of God, is the ultimate Passover lamb and the perfect sacrifice for sin. • this is my body . . . my blood: Ever since the Reformation, there have been three dominant interpretations of Jesus’ statements concerning the bread and the wine: (1) that the bread and wine change into the actual body and blood of Jesus Christ (transubstantiation); (2) that Christ is mysteriously present in the sacrament either spiritually (real presence) or “in, with, and under” the bread and wine (consubstantiation); (3) that the bread and wine symbolize the body and blood of Christ, benefiting the recipient through the Spirit by faith (symbolism). 26:26 The unleavened bread of the Passover (Exod 12:18) is also described as the “bread of suffering” (Deut 16:3), referring to hardships in Egypt. • The customary blessing over the bread in the Passover meal was “Blessed are you, O Lord our God, King of the universe, who brings forth bread from the earth.”
Matthew 26:26
The Last Supper
25Then Judas, who would betray Him, said, “Surely not I, Rabbi?” Jesus answered, “You have said it yourself.”26While they were eating, Jesus took bread, spoke a blessing and broke it, and gave it to the disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is My body.”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Anabaptist History (Day 6) the Early Life of Zwingli and Conrad Grebel
By Dean Taylor1.2K1:12:38MAT 26:26This sermon delves into the intense theological and political debates surrounding the Reformation in Zurich, focusing on the clash between the young radicals led by Conrad Grebel and the reform efforts of Ulrich Zwingli. It explores the challenges of reforming a city deeply entrenched in traditional practices, particularly regarding the Mass and church rituals. The sermon highlights the tension between the zealous desire for immediate change and the cautious approach of established leaders like Zwingli, leading to a significant rift within the reform movement.
Gospel Driven Life - 3: Feasting in a Fast Food Food World
By Michael Horton92250:20Gospel DrivenMAT 26:26LUK 24:30LUK 24:36JHN 20:19ACT 2:42In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of objective facts and experiences grounded in historical events and objective states of affairs. He contrasts these with fleeting and superficial experiences, such as watching movies or riding roller coasters. The speaker also highlights the significance of reports based on objective facts in anchoring us outside of ourselves. He references biblical stories, such as Moses and the Israelites, to illustrate the power of real experiences and the consequences of disregarding God's commands. The sermon concludes with a call to seek true satisfaction and fulfillment by turning to God and embracing His everlasting covenant.
All That Jesus Taught Bible Study - Part 73
By Zac Poonen60124:15MAT 26:26This sermon delves into the events leading up to Jesus' betrayal, focusing on the significance of the Last Supper and the breaking of bread. It emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's commands, even in seemingly small matters, and the seriousness of betraying Jesus for personal gain. The sermon highlights the need for self-examination, commitment to following Christ, and the profound meaning behind the symbols of the bread and the cup in the context of the new covenant and the second coming of Christ.
Broken and Poured Out
By Shane Idleman49723:05MAT 26:26REV 2:2This sermon emphasizes the importance of being both a worshiper and a worker for Christ. It highlights the need for a broken and repentant heart, focusing on the significance of true worship that stems from a transformed heart. The speaker urges the congregation to examine their hearts, repent, and embrace both worship and service in their Christian walk.
A New Covenant
By Paris Reidhead38122:20New CovenantISA 43:18JER 31:31EZK 36:26MAT 26:26HEB 8:5HEB 8:13HEB 9:15In this sermon, the preacher talks about his experience in a village where he encountered people who had been prepared to receive the message of Jesus. He emphasizes the importance of sharing the story of Jesus with those who have not heard it before. The preacher also highlights the pride of the Israelites in their covenant and revelation, but their lack of action. God, however, promises to do a new thing and bring salvation to nations considered unclean and pagan. The preacher connects this promise to the new covenant established by Jesus, as mentioned in 1 Peter chapter 2.
The Communion 1 - Breaking of Bread
By G.W. North1581:00:48CommunionMAT 26:26LUK 22:19JHN 6:35ACT 2:41ACT 2:461CO 11:23In this sermon, the speaker discusses the four essential elements of a true church as described in the book of Acts. These elements are receiving the word, being baptized in water and the Holy Spirit, steadfastly following the Apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and engaging in the breaking of bread and prayers. The speaker emphasizes the importance of these elements and how they were immediately embraced by the early church after being baptized in the Holy Spirit. The sermon also highlights the role of Luke, the author of the book of Acts, as a traveling companion of Paul and a reliable source of information about the early church.
The Table of the Lord
By Paris Reidhead11516:53CommunionMAT 26:26REV 12:11In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of partaking in the Lord's table and the significance of the bread and cup as symbols of repentance and acceptance of Jesus Christ as the sovereign Lord. The speaker highlights that the power and virtue are not in the bread or wine themselves, but in the act of repentance and faith in Jesus' shed blood for the forgiveness of sins. The sermon also references Psalm 23, particularly focusing on the fifth verse, to illustrate the role of the Lord as a shepherd who prepares a table before us in the presence of our enemies. The speaker concludes by urging the congregation to rejoice in their acceptance of Jesus as their reigning Lord and to pray in gratitude for the new way of approaching God through Him.
Food for the New Man
By G.W. North0Self-DenialSpiritual NourishmentMAT 26:26JHN 6:351CO 12:12G.W. North emphasizes the significance of the Lord's Supper as a spiritual nourishment for the new man rather than a physical meal. He explains that in the Eastern context, supper represents the beginning of a new day, symbolizing the new life in Christ. The elements of bread and wine are mere symbols pointing to the deeper spiritual reality that believers must feed on. North stresses that participation in this feast is a lifelong commitment to self-denial and living for the body of Christ, reflecting Jesus' sacrificial love. Ultimately, the supper serves as a reminder of our call to nourish our spiritual selves and serve one another in love.
We ..... Being Many ..... One Bread
By G.W. North0CommunionUnity in ChristMAT 26:26MRK 14:22LUK 22:19JHN 6:51ACT 2:42ROM 12:51CO 10:171CO 11:24EPH 4:4COL 1:18G.W. North emphasizes the significance of the breaking of bread as a representation of Christ's body, which He broke for humanity. He highlights that Jesus instructed His disciples to remember Him through this act, and Paul further elaborates that as many individuals partake in this communion, they become one body in Christ. This unity in the act of communion symbolizes the sacrificial nature of their faith, reminding believers that they are called to embody Christ's love and sacrifice in their lives. The sermon underscores the importance of community and shared faith in the practice of communion, reflecting on how believers can perpetuate Christ's sacrifice through their actions.
One Body
By G.W. North0CommunionUnity in ChristMAT 26:26MRK 14:22LUK 22:19JHN 6:51JHN 6:53ROM 12:51CO 10:161CO 11:24EPH 4:12HEB 10:20G.W. North emphasizes the significance of communion, illustrating how Jesus, in the upper room, broke bread to symbolize His broken body given for humanity. He highlights that while the body is broken, it is still wholly given to us, and through communion, we partake in this sacred act of remembrance. North insists that to truly remember Jesus, we must actively engage in this practice, as it allows us to connect with the essence of His sacrifice. The act of eating the broken body signifies our acceptance of His gift and the unity of the Church as His body. Ultimately, through this communion, we find wholeness in Christ despite the brokenness of His body.
Of the Lord's Supper.
By John Gill0Spiritual NourishmentThe Lord's SupperMAT 26:26John Gill emphasizes the significance of the Lord's Supper as a vital ordinance instituted by Christ, which serves as spiritual nourishment for believers. He explains that this sacrament is a continual reminder of Christ's sacrifice, where the bread symbolizes His body and the wine represents His blood, both essential for the sustenance of spiritual life. Gill stresses that only those who have been baptized and are in a right relationship with God should partake in this sacred meal, as it is meant for true believers who can discern its meaning. The Lord's Supper is not only a commemoration of Christ's death but also a means to foster unity among believers and express gratitude for God's grace. Ultimately, this ordinance is to be observed until Christ's return, reinforcing the ongoing relationship between the church and its Savior.
A Demonstration of the Errors of a Late Book.
By William Law0Understanding the SacramentSpiritual BlindnessMAT 26:26William Law addresses the fundamental errors in a recent theological treatise, emphasizing that the author's interpretation of the sacrament undermines core Christian doctrines. He argues that understanding the sacrament requires more than just the literal words of Christ; it necessitates a deeper comprehension of the entire scripture and the nature of Christ as our savior. Law warns that adhering to the author's simplistic view leads to spiritual blindness and a misunderstanding of the gospel's essence. He asserts that the apostles themselves did not grasp the full meaning of the sacrament at the time of its institution, highlighting the need for further revelation and understanding through the Holy Spirit.
Bishop Cosin on the Doctrine of the Eucharist
By J.H. Newman0MAT 26:26LUK 22:19JHN 6:551CO 10:161CO 11:27John Cosin, Bishop of Durham, preaches about the spiritual presence of Christ in the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper, emphasizing the true and infallible nature of Christ's words in instituting the Eucharist. He explains that the Bread and Wine are consecrated by Christ's words to communicate His blessed Body and Blood to believers in a sacramental and mystic sense, not in a gross and carnal manner. Cosin contrasts the Protestant belief in a spiritual and true presence of Christ in the Sacrament with the Roman Catholic doctrine of Transubstantiation, highlighting the Protestants' reverence for the mystery of the Sacrament and their refusal to inquire into the manner of Christ's presence with perplexing inquiries.
Bishop Cosin on the Doctrine of the Eucharist. (Continued).
By J.H. Newman0MAT 26:26LUK 22:19JHN 6:631CO 10:161CO 11:23John Cosin, Bishop of Durham, refutes the doctrine of Transubstantiation, showing it to be a novelty not found in Scripture or the writings of the Fathers. He argues that the words of institution clearly indicate that the Bread is given as the Body of Christ, not that it is substantially changed into it. Cosin highlights the spiritual and mystic presence of Christ's Body in the Eucharist, as affirmed by the early Church Fathers like Justin Martyr, Irenaeus, Tertullian, and Origen. He emphasizes that the Bread and Wine remain in their substance, becoming sacramental signs of the Body and Blood of Christ, not transformed into them. Cosin's defense of the orthodox doctrine against the rise of Transubstantiation is a testament to the faithfulness to Scripture and tradition.
On the Antiquity of the Existing Liturgies
By J.H. Newman0LEV 17:11MAT 26:26JHN 6:53ACT 2:421CO 11:23EPH 5:2COL 1:20HEB 9:141PE 1:18REV 5:12J.H. Newman delves into the history and significance of Liturgies, highlighting the potential interpolations and corruptions that have occurred over time. Despite these challenges, learned individuals have found value in examining these ancient Liturgies, some of which have been traced back to the Apostolic age. Newman discusses the remarkable similarities and differences among various Liturgies, suggesting a common origin and shared sentiments among the early Christian communities. He emphasizes the Eucharistic sacrifice and mystery present in the Liturgies, pointing out key elements such as the consecration prayers and the commemoration of Christ's actions. Newman's sermon underscores the importance of these ancient forms in understanding the early Christian worship practices and traditions.
The Approach to the Institution
By W.H. Griffith Thomas0MAT 26:26JHN 6:27ACT 2:421CO 10:16W.H. Griffith Thomas delves into the distinct treatment of the Lord's Supper in five passages in the Bible, emphasizing the importance of understanding the historical context and spiritual significance of this ordinance. The discourse at Capernaum, a year before the institution of the Supper, reveals the necessity of all men participating in the Atoning Death of Christ to possess eternal life. The Lord's Supper is closely associated with the Passover, symbolizing a great deliverance and redemption from sin, with Jesus as the ultimate sacrificial Lamb.
The Lord's Supper in the Prayer Book
By W.H. Griffith Thomas0MAT 26:26JHN 6:531CO 10:161CO 11:23EPH 2:8W.H. Griffith Thomas emphasizes the importance of understanding the teachings of the Church of England regarding the Lord's Supper, as outlined in the Prayer Book and Articles, to grasp its spiritual significance in worship and life. The sermon delves into the spiritual purpose, gift, effect, and blessing of the Lord's Supper as highlighted in the Catechism and the Service of Holy Communion. It also explores the theological statements in the Articles, emphasizing the Sacraments as signs of grace, badges of Christian profession, and means of redemption by Christ's death, while stressing the necessity of worthy reception and faith for spiritual benefits.
Homily 82 on Matthew
By St. John Chrysostom0EZK 33:8MAT 26:26LUK 22:31CO 10:161CO 11:27John Chrysostom preaches on the significance of the Last Supper, emphasizing the solemnity and importance of partaking in the body and blood of Christ. He highlights the betrayal of Judas, the need for humility and faith, and the warning against partaking unworthily. Chrysostom stresses the unity believers have with Christ through the sacrament, urging vigilance, purity, and reverence during communion. He addresses both recipients and ministers, emphasizing the responsibility to discern and safeguard the sanctity of the Eucharist, urging the exclusion of those living in open sin from partaking in the mysteries.
(Reformers and Their Stepchildren) Sacramentschwarmer! - Part 1
By Leonard Verduin0MAT 26:26JHN 4:23JHN 6:53ACT 2:47ROM 10:171CO 10:20EPH 2:8COL 2:81TI 2:51PE 3:21Leonard Verduin delves into the clash between the Stepchildren of the Reformation and the Reformers, known as 'Sacramentarians,' highlighting the fundamental difference in conviction regarding the delineation of the Christian Church. The early Church emphasized preaching the Gospel and baptism for salvation, contrasting with the pre-Christian world's lack of religious dialogue. Verduin explores the early Church's belief in responding to God's controverting speech, emphasizing the importance of faith as saying yes to God's yes and no to His no. He discusses the shift towards 'Christian sacralism,' where salvation by sacramental manipulation replaced salvation by the preached Word, leading to the emphasis on acts over personal faith.
It Is Profitable to Receive Communion Often
By Thomas a Kempis0PSA 63:1MAT 26:26JHN 6:351CO 10:161JN 1:9Thomas a Kempis preaches about the deep longing of the soul for communion with God, expressing the desire to be united with Jesus through the sacrament. He emphasizes the necessity of frequent prayer, confession, and receiving the Holy Communion to renew, cleanse, and strengthen the soul against the temptations of the world. Kempis highlights the incredible condescension of God to come to humanity in the Eucharist, offering spiritual joy and companionship to those who partake in faith and devotion.
Communion
By Hattie Hammond0MAT 26:26LUK 22:19JHN 12:24JHN 15:51CO 11:25Hattie Hammond preaches on the profound significance of communion, emphasizing that as we partake, we are called to surrender ourselves to be broken and poured out like Jesus did for us. Jesus, in giving thanks for the bread and the cup, was acknowledging the privilege of becoming the broken bread and poured out wine for our salvation. By drinking 'all of it,' we align ourselves with God's will, even in the midst of trials and suffering, knowing that these experiences shape us into what will satisfy His heart in eternity. Jesus' statement about not drinking the fruit of the vine until the Father's kingdom signifies a spiritual transformation where we, as branches of the vine, are crushed and refined to become new wine that He will partake of in eternity.
The Lord's Supper
By Thomas Watson0ISA 53:5HOS 13:14MAT 26:26ROM 5:81CO 11:27COL 3:22TH 1:9HEB 9:17Thomas Watson preaches about the significance of the Lord's Supper, emphasizing the deep meaning behind Jesus' sacrifice of His body and blood for the forgiveness of sins. He delves into the bitter, lingering, painful, shameful, and cursed aspects of Christ's death on the cross, highlighting the immense love displayed by God the Father and Jesus Christ in giving Himself for humanity. Watson urges believers to surrender to God with self-examination, seriousness, intelligence, longing, penitence, sincerity, humility, heavenly-mindedness, zeal, and universal subjection to Christ, reflecting the gratitude for Christ's sacrifice through courage, fruitfulness, zeal, and heavenly living.
The Eucharist, or Mass
By Ian Paisley0MAT 26:26JHN 6:531CO 10:161CO 11:23HEB 10:10Ian Paisley preaches against the Romish Sacrament of the Eucharist, highlighting the perversion of the Lord's Supper through the doctrine of Transubstantiation and the sacrificial practices of the Romish Church. He condemns the teachings of Popery that set aside the perfect sacrifice of Christ and promote the worship of the bread and wine as the body and blood of Christ. Paisley emphasizes the importance of scriptural instruction on the Lord's Supper to combat the influence of Popery and ensure that Communion is a source of hope and consolation for believers.
Good or Bad at the Table?
By E.A. Adeboye0MAT 26:26JHN 13:271CO 11:271CO 11:31HEB 10:25E.A. Adeboye emphasizes the importance of partaking in Holy Communion regularly as a way to dine with the King of Glory and prepare for heaven by examining ourselves and making necessary adjustments. Communion serves as a reminder of Jesus' sacrifice, granting us victory over life's challenges. Adeboye highlights the significance of taking the Lord's Supper in the right manner, free from strife, unforgiveness, or sinful habits, to avoid desecrating the sacred act and instead receive blessings and preparation for heaven.
How the World Got Wrong on Baptism
By John R. Rice0MAT 26:26JHN 3:5ACT 8:38ACT 9:18ACT 16:33ROM 6:4EPH 5:26COL 2:121TI 3:2TIT 1:6TIT 3:5REV 17:5John R. Rice delivers a sermon focusing on Revelation 17:5, interpreting the evil woman as a representation of Roman Catholicism, highlighting the false doctrines, heresies, and religious abominations that have come into Christianity through this institution. Rice discusses how Roman Catholics officially changed practices like baptism to sprinkling, claiming the authority of the church over the Word of God. He provides historical evidence of the shift from baptism by immersion to sprinkling within Roman Catholicism, Anglicanism, and other denominations, emphasizing the departure from the Bible's teachings. Rice urges listeners to study the Bible diligently, encouraging a return to the scriptural practice of baptism by immersion.
- John Gill
- Tyndale
John Gill Bible Commentary
And he took the cup and gave thanks,.... For the Jews blessed, or gave thanks for their wine, as well as for their food, and generally did it in this form (w): "Blessed art thou, O Lord, our God, the king of the world, who hast created the "fruit of the vine". Hence the phrase, "the fruit of the vine", in Mat 26:29, not that we are to suppose, that Christ used or confined himself to this form of words: and it is to be observed, that they not only gave thanks for their wine before food, and whilst they were eating (x), but also after meat; and as this relates to the blessing of the cup after eating, or as the Apostle Paul says, "when he had supped", Co1 11:25. I shall only transcribe what the Jews say (y) concerning that: "When wine is brought to them after food, if there is but that cup there, the house of Shammai say, , "he blesses", or gives thanks "for the wine", and after that gives thanks for the food: the house of Hillell say, he gives thanks for the food, and after that gives thanks for the wine. And as this was usual at ordinary meals, to bless or give thanks for the wine, so at the passover; and which our Lord continued in his supper, and is to be practised by us. It should be further known, that the wine at the passover, and so what Christ used at his supper, was red, "Says R. Jeremiah (z) it is commanded to perform this duty, "with red wine". And elsewhere it is said (a), "that it is necessary, that there should be in it (the wine) taste and look. The gloss on it is, , "that it should be red": and which, as it most fitly represented the blood sprinkled on the door posts of the Israelites, when the Lord passed over their houses; so the blood of Christ, shed for the remission of the sins of his people. It is scarcely worth observing the measure of one of the cups, that was used at such a time: they say (b), that the four cups which were drank at this feast, held an, Italian quart of wine, so that one cup contained half a pint. More particularly, they ask how much is the measure of a cup? the answer is, two fingers square, and a finger and a half and the third part of a finger deep; or as it is elsewhere (c), the fifth part of a finger: and gave it to them, saying, drink ye all of it; for this is not to be restrained from one sort of communicants, and only partook of by another; but all are to drink of the cup, as well as eat of the bread: whether here is not an allusion to the custom of the Jews at the passover, when they obliged all to drink four cups of wine, men, women, and children, and even the poorest man in Israel, who was maintained out of the alms dish (d), may be considered, (w) Haggadah Shel Pesach. fol. 241. 1. (x) Vid. Misn. Beracot, c. 6. sect. 1. 6. (y) Ib. c. 8. sect. 8. (z) T. Hieros. Pesach. fol. 37. 3. & Sabbat, fol. 11. 1. (a) T. Bab. Pesach. fol. 108. 2. & R. Samuel ben Meir in ib. (b) T. Hieros. Sabbat, fol. 11. 1. (c) T. Bab. Pesach. fol. 109. 1. (d) Misn. Pesach. c. 10. sect. 1. T. Bab. Pesach. fol. 108. 1. Mitzvot Torah, pr. affirm. 41.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
26:26-29 The Last Supper derives its significance in part from the Jewish Passover (see Exod 12). The phases of the Jewish liturgy for Passover are as follows: (1) Festal blessing; (2) first cup (see Luke 22:17-18); (3) eating bitter herbs (see Matt 26:23 and corresponding study note); (4) eating unleavened bread (26:26; Mark 14:22); (5) second cup is mixed; (6) the Passover haggadah (reading) is given (Exod 12); (7) first part of the hallel (Pss 113–114; see study note on Pss 113–118); (8) second cup is taken; (9) blessing and eating of unleavened bread (Matt 26:26; Mark 14:22; Luke 22:19); (10) the Passover lamb is eaten; (11) third cup (Matt 26:27-28; Mark 14:23-24; Luke 22:20); (12) fourth cup (see Matt 26:29[?]; Mark 14:25[?]); (13) time of fellowship; (14) second part of the hallel (Pss 115–118; see Matt 26:30). None of the New Testament accounts of the Last Supper includes every aspect of a typical Jewish Passover. However, the most important aspects of the Passover that gave meaning to the early Christian celebration of the Lord’s Supper are included (see 1 Cor 11:23-25). Jesus, the Lamb of God, is the ultimate Passover lamb and the perfect sacrifice for sin. • this is my body . . . my blood: Ever since the Reformation, there have been three dominant interpretations of Jesus’ statements concerning the bread and the wine: (1) that the bread and wine change into the actual body and blood of Jesus Christ (transubstantiation); (2) that Christ is mysteriously present in the sacrament either spiritually (real presence) or “in, with, and under” the bread and wine (consubstantiation); (3) that the bread and wine symbolize the body and blood of Christ, benefiting the recipient through the Spirit by faith (symbolism). 26:26 The unleavened bread of the Passover (Exod 12:18) is also described as the “bread of suffering” (Deut 16:3), referring to hardships in Egypt. • The customary blessing over the bread in the Passover meal was “Blessed are you, O Lord our God, King of the universe, who brings forth bread from the earth.”