Leviticus 13 Matthew 26:26-50

“Then Jesus took a cup and thanked God for it and gave it to the followers. He said, ‘Every one of you drink this. This is my blood which is the new agreement that God makes with his people. This blood is poured out for many to forgive their sins. I tell you this: I will not drink of this fruit of the vine again until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom.’” (Matthew 26:27-29)

It was what the disciples thought was a normal Passover supper. Perhaps the anticipation was high after Jesus’s triumphal entry into Jerusalem earlier in the week. They were expecting Jesus’s triumphal ascent to His throne. Then, Jesus jolted them by telling them that one of them would betray Him. After that, this somber commentary on the bread and the wine which wasn’t normally part of the ceremony of the Passover. Later, Jesus predicted Peter’s denial. It wasn’t the supper they expected, the first to bring in the Messiah’s Kingdom; instead, it was the Last Supper, that would begin the process of His kingdom.

This section is a pivotal picture of the gospel. The new covenant began because Jesus shed His blood to pay the penalty for our sins. The wine was a symbol of the blood Jesus would soon shed. The blood itself brings forgiveness. It isn’t the blood AND anything else. I’m forgiven because Jesus paid the penalty and shed His blood for me, and for all who would accept His sacrifice, on the cross. He didn’t give us a half-price coupon for sin forgiveness that we had to find a way to finish paying; Jesus paid it all.

Lord, I bring nothing to You that’s worthy. I claim the forgiveness You offered through the blood of Jesus. Remind me that I can come before You because Jesus paid my debt. Help me to show others Your great love.

Scripture taken from the New Century Version®. Copyright © 2005 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.