Mark 14:24
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Mark 14:24
24 And he said unto them, This is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many.
Chapter Context
Mark 14 is a action-oriented gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of truth, holiness, faith. Written during the mid first century CE (c. 65-70 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Composed during or just after Nero's persecution when eyewitnesses were disappearing.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-72: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Mark and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Mark 14:24
24 And he said unto them, This is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many.
Analysis
At the Last Supper, Jesus said: 'This is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many' (Τοῦτό ἐστιν τὸ αἷμά μου τῆς διαθήκης τὸ ἐκχυννόμενον ὑπὲρ πολλῶν). The cup represents Christ's blood establishing 'new testament/covenant' (diathēkē, διαθήκη). This echoes Exodus 24:8, where Moses sprinkled blood saying, 'Behold the blood of the covenant.' Jesus' blood ratifies the new covenant prophesied in Jeremiah 31:31-34. The phrase 'shed for many' (ekchynnomenon hyper pollōn, ἐκχυννόμενον ὑπὲρ πολλῶν) indicates substitutionary atonement—His blood poured out on behalf of others. 'Many' doesn't mean few but multitude (Romans 5:15, 19). Christ's blood cleanses from sin (1 John 1:7), purchases the church (Acts 20:28), and mediates the new covenant (Hebrews 9:11-28; 12:24). Communion celebrates this covenant until Christ returns.
Historical Context
The Last Supper occurred on Passover eve (or Passover itself, depending on Gospel chronology). Jesus transformed Passover symbolism: bread and wine became His body and blood. The 'new covenant' fulfilled Jeremiah 31:31-34's prophecy of forgiveness and heart transformation. Old covenant used animal blood (Exodus 24:8; Leviticus 17:11); new covenant uses Christ's blood (Hebrews 9:11-14). Early church celebrated communion/Eucharist regularly (Acts 2:42; 1 Corinthians 11:23-26). Debates arose over real presence versus symbolic memorial. Roman Catholicism teaches transubstantiation (bread/wine become literal body/blood); Luther taught consubstantiation (Christ present with bread/wine); Reformed view emphasizes spiritual presence and commemoration. All agree it's covenant meal celebrating Christ's atoning death.
Reflection
- How does Jesus' blood establishing the 'new covenant' fulfill and supersede the old covenant sealed with animal blood?
- What does the phrase 'shed for many' teach about the extent and sufficiency of Christ's atonement?
Word Studies
- Blood: αἷμα (Haima) G129 - Blood
Cross-References
- Covenant: Exodus 24:8, Zechariah 9:11, 1 Corinthians 11:25
- Blood: John 6:53, 1 Corinthians 10:16
- Parallel theme: Mark 10:45