Luke 22:20 20And in the same way, after the eating, saying, “This cup that is being poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood.
The cup possibly mentioned in verse 20 had particular significance. The third cup of the Passover Seder, the Cup of Redemption, is drank after the meal, as seems to have happened in this account. In Jewish tradition, it is called the cup of Elijah. Elijah did not see death but was taken to heaven in a chariot of fire. The Jews hoped that Elijah would come at Passover, to announce the coming of the Messiah, the son of David. As the prophet Malachi said: “See, I will send you Elijah the prophet before that great and dreadful day of the Lord comes” (Malachi 4:5). This cup has traditionally been left untouched, awaiting the time when Elijah would appear to share the Passover.
This cup reminds us of the blood of our Lord Jesus Christ that was spilled on our behalf. For you (hyper hymōn) is a significant theological phrase because it shows the reason Jesus suffered and went to the cross. He did this for our redemption from sin and death (Isaiah 53:12; Romans 5:6; 8:32; 2 Corinthians 5:14; Galatians 3:13; 1 Peter 2:21).
Drinking the wine from the cup is a reminder of the blood Jesus shed on the cross. Clearly, the image of blood is metaphorical since Jews were forbidden from drinking or eating blood (Leviticus 3:17; 7:26–27; 17:14). Jesus’ death was the inauguration of the new covenant in fulfillment of Jeremiah 31:31-34. Covenants in the Old Testament were sealed by the shedding of blood, usually of an animal. When we drink of the shared cup today, we remember that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself. As we participate with believers throughout the ages and around the world, we accept the grace that transforms us and brings us from darkness into his marvelous light. We are brought together as one people, united in common faith.
The symbolism of the cup brings together many theological themes, including atonement, reconciliation, and redemption. Jesus’ death was vicarious for our sins. Through him, we have hope of eternal life. When we participate together in the Lord’s Supper, we keep alive our faith in his redeeming sacrifice to bring spiritual and eternal freedom to us.
For older posts, click here.