Matthew 26:27
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 26:27
27 And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it;
Chapter Context
Matthew 26 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of truth, mercy, creation. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-90 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christianity was separating from Judaism following Jerusalem's destruction.
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 21-75: 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 Matthew and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Matthew 26:27
27 And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it;
Analysis
And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it. After the bread, Jesus took 'the cup' (τὸ ποτήριον/to potērion), likely the third cup of the Passover Seder, called the 'cup of redemption.' How fitting that Jesus used this cup to institute the sacrament of His redeeming blood.
'And gave thanks' (εὐχαριστήσας/eucharistēsas)—from which we get 'Eucharist,' a name for the Lord's Supper. Again, even facing the cross, Jesus gave thanks. This demonstrates perfect submission to the Father's will and confidence in redemption's accomplishment.
'Drink ye all of it' (πίετε ἐξ αὐτοῦ πάντες/piete ex autou pantes)—all disciples are to partake. Unlike medieval practice that restricted the cup to clergy while laity received only bread, Jesus commanded all believers to drink. This egalitarian instruction emphasizes the priesthood of all believers; we all equally need Christ's blood and equally share in its benefits.
Historical Context
The Passover meal included four cups of wine, each with symbolic meaning. The third cup, taken after the meal, was the 'cup of redemption' or 'cup of blessing' (1 Corinthians 10:16). Jesus imbued this with new meaning: redemption not from Egypt but from sin; blessing not of temporal deliverance but eternal salvation.
Early church practice included both bread and wine for all communicants. The medieval restriction of the cup to priests contradicted Jesus's command and was corrected during the Reformation, which restored the cup to all believers.
Reflection
- Why is it significant that Jesus commanded all disciples to drink from the cup, and what does this teach about equality in the body of Christ?
- How does Jesus giving thanks before instituting the Lord's Supper challenge us to approach Communion with gratitude rather than casual familiarity?
- What does it mean that the cup is specifically called the 'cup of redemption' in Jewish tradition, and how does this illuminate Christ's use of it?
Cross-References
- Related: Song of Solomon 5:1, 7:9
- Parallel theme: Psalms 116:13, Isaiah 25:6, 55:1, Luke 22:20, 1 Corinthians 10:16, 11:28