What does "He took the cup" symbolize in the context of communion?

The Moment Jesus “Took the Cup”

“Then He took a cup, gave thanks, and said, ‘Take this and divide it among yourselves… This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is poured out for you.’” (Luke 22:17, 20)

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Old Testament Echoes in a Simple Action

• Covenant blood: Exodus 24:8 – “Moses then took the blood, sprinkled it on the people and said, ‘This is the blood of the covenant…’”

• The promised New Covenant: Jeremiah 31:31–34

• Life is in the blood: Leviticus 17:11

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Four Interwoven Layers of Symbolism

1. Substitutionary Atonement

• The cup represents Christ’s own blood about to be “poured out” (Luke 22:20).

• Isaiah 53:5 – “He was pierced for our transgressions…”

• By drinking, believers visibly testify that His sacrifice is personally applied to them.

2. Inauguration of the New Covenant

• Jeremiah’s promised covenant becomes reality; the cup seals it.

• Hebrews 9:15—“He is the mediator of a new covenant, so that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance.”

3. Fellowship and Participation

• 1 Corinthians 10:16 – “Is not the cup of blessing which we bless a participation in the blood of Christ?”

• Sharing one cup unites the body of believers in communion with Him and with one another.

4. Anticipation of Future Glory

• Jesus vows not to drink “again of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes” (Luke 22:18).

• Revelation 19:9 pictures the marriage supper of the Lamb; the present cup points forward to that final celebration.

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Practical Takeaways for Today’s Table

• Remember sacrificial love—every sip recalls Calvary.

• Rejoice in secured forgiveness—the covenant stands eternally.

• Renew unity—one cup, one body (Ephesians 4:4–6).

• Refocus hope—each communion service whispers, “He is coming.”

“Blessed be the LORD God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting!” (Psalm 41:13)