What does Jesus mean by "not drink of the fruit of the vine"? Setting the Scene in the Upper Room • Luke records: “For I tell you that I will not drink again of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.” (Luke 22:18) • Spoken during the Passover meal where Jesus reoriented the elements toward the New Covenant (vv. 15-20). • The “fruit of the vine” was the fourth Passover cup—traditionally called “the cup of consummation.” A Literal, Time-Bound Statement • Jesus declared a real, physical abstinence from wine. • It began that night and continues until the kingdom arrives in its fullness. • His bodily resurrection and future return make the promise concrete, not symbolic. Layers of Meaning in the Vow 1. Final Passover: He closes the Old Covenant meal and opens the New (Jeremiah 31:31-34; Hebrews 9:15). 2. Anticipation: He points forward to “that day” (Matthew 26:29; Mark 14:25) when He will share the cup anew. 3. Loyalty Vow: Like a Nazarite temporarily abstaining (Numbers 6:2-4), Jesus pledges Himself to the Father’s mission until completion. 4. Wedding Banquet Imagery: Isaiah 25:6-9 and Revelation 19:9 picture a feast with wine, highlighting future joy with His people. 5. Assurance to Disciples: If He reserves the cup, He also reserves a place for them at the table (John 14:2-3). “Until the Kingdom of God Comes” • The kingdom arrived in seed form at the cross and resurrection (Colossians 1:13) but awaits visible consummation when Jesus returns (Acts 1:11; Revelation 11:15). • Only then will the abstinence end, underscoring the certainty of His second coming. Practical Takeaways • Communion looks back to the cross and ahead to the banquet—every sip is a rehearsal for the future feast. • Christ’s self-denial models patient hope; believers likewise wait in holiness (1 Peter 1:13-16). • The promise guarantees a bodily, celebratory reunion with the risen Lord—our hope is tangible, not abstract. Conclusion in a Sentence Jesus’ words in Luke 22:18 are a literal pledge: He will forgo wine until He drinks it again with His redeemed people in the fully manifested kingdom of God, assuring us of His return and the joyful banquet that awaits. |
    |