What did Jesus mean by "Do this in remembrance of me"? Definition and Scriptural Context “Do this in remembrance of Me” appears in Luke 22:19 and 1 Corinthians 11:24–25, where Jesus instructs His disciples during what is commonly known as the Last Supper. This directive is closely associated with the bread and the wine, signifying His body and blood given for humanity. In Luke 22:19, the text reads: “And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, ‘This is My body, given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.’” Likewise, in 1 Corinthians 11:24–25, the apostle Paul reiterates: “…And when He had given thanks, He broke it and said, ‘This is My body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of Me.’ In the same way, after supper He took the cup, saying, ‘This cup is the new covenant in My blood; do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me.’” These passages highlight the importance Jesus placed on believers intentionally recalling His sacrificial death and anticipating His promised resurrection and eventual return. Historical and Cultural Background In the biblical timeline, these statements were made during the Passover Feast (Luke 22:7–8), an annual celebration where Jewish families remembered their deliverance from slavery in Egypt (Exodus 12). Jesus used the setting of this Passover meal to usher in a new covenant. The act of breaking bread and sharing wine was a common cultural practice. By associating it with His body and blood, He provided a way for His followers to connect with His redemptive work. Early Christian documents (such as the Didache, an early Christian writing dated to the late first or early second century) show that believers from the first generations continued this practice as a central part of their worship. Significance of “Remembrance” (Anamnesis) The Greek word often translated as “remembrance” in these passages is “anamnesis,” which conveys more than mere mental recollection. It implies a profound, active participation in recalling and proclaiming a reality that has ongoing spiritual impact. It is a recognition that the sacrifice of Christ remains powerfully relevant. By employing this term, Scripture imparts the idea that believers do not only remember Jesus’ sacrifice as a distant historical act but also enter into the true meaning of that sacrifice every time they obey this command. It encompasses both looking back to the cross and looking forward to His return (cf. 1 Corinthians 11:26). Connection to the Passover Lamb In Exodus 12:3–14, the Israelites were instructed to sacrifice a spotless lamb as part of the Passover, symbolizing their release from Egypt’s bondage and the sparing of the firstborn. In the New Testament, Jesus is presented as the ultimate Passover Lamb (1 Corinthians 5:7). When Jesus said, “Do this in remembrance of Me,” He pointed to Himself as the fulfillment of all that the Passover foreshadowed. His body and blood replaced the symbol of the lamb’s sacrifice, signifying the far more profound deliverance from sin’s bondage and the inauguration of a better covenant (Hebrews 8:6). Theological Meaning and New Covenant Emphasis Christ’s instruction underscores the establishment of a new covenant (Luke 22:20; 1 Corinthians 11:25). Under the old covenant, repeated animal sacrifices were offered for atonement. Under the new covenant, Jesus’ one perfect sacrifice grants complete forgiveness and atonement once and for all (Hebrews 10:10–14). Partaking in this act of remembrance thus reinforces the truth that salvation was accomplished through Jesus’ atoning death, resurrection, and ascension. It symbolizes unity among believers, who share in the same covenant promises and proclaim collectively the saving work of the crucified and risen Christ. Unity and Fellowship Within the Church From the earliest gatherings, the Lord’s Supper—also referred to as Communion or the Eucharist—was a unifying celebration among believers. Acts 2:42 notes: “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” When believers gather to break bread and drink from the cup, they affirm their common faith, shared salvation, and relationship with one another. Paul exhorts Christians to approach this remembrance with reverence, self-examination, and love, emphasizing unity and forgiveness (1 Corinthians 10:16–17; 1 Corinthians 11:27–29). Practical Application and Worship Throughout church history, traditions differ in how often the ordinance or sacrament is observed, but the essence remains in its purpose: to recall and proclaim Christ’s saving work. This practice continually reminds believers: 1. Of Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection as the foundation of faith. 2. Of their unity with other believers as one body. 3. Of the hope and assurance of Christ’s future return (1 Corinthians 11:26). Whether observed weekly or periodically, believers are instructed to perform this act of remembrance with a heart of gratitude, humility, and obedience. Relevance for Personal Spiritual Growth Reflecting on Jesus’ words “Do this in remembrance of Me” nurtures gratitude and faith. Each time believers partake of the bread and cup, they recommit to living in alignment with Christ’s teachings, recalling the grace and forgiveness that cost Him His blood. This consistent practice fosters spiritual maturity and draws attention to the core message of the gospel: the redemption made available only through Jesus. By faithfully observing this Christ-given instruction, believers acknowledge the Lord’s presence and the ongoing work of His Spirit, uniting them cross-generationally with believers throughout the world and throughout history. Summary 1. Context: Jesus spoke these words at the Last Supper during the Passover meal, creating a powerful link between the symbolic elements of Passover and His forthcoming sacrifice. 2. Scriptural Foundation: Luke 22:19 and 1 Corinthians 11:24–25 record Christ’s mandate to break bread and share the cup in memory of Him. 3. Theological Implication: “Remembrance” (anamnesis) involves both reflective commemoration and an active, ongoing participation in the reality of Christ’s atonement and resurrection. 4. Fulfillment of the Passover: Jesus presented Himself as the true Passover Lamb, providing eternal deliverance from sin. 5. New Covenant: This practice marks the believer’s acceptance of grace under a better covenant, grounded in Jesus’ once-for-all sacrifice. 6. Spiritual Unity: It unites believers in shared worship, reinforcing their bond in the Body of Christ. 7. Practical Worship: Observed in obedience, reverence, and communal fellowship, it remains a defining feature of Christian devotion. In sum, when Jesus said, “Do this in remembrance of Me,” He called His followers to a perpetual, communal, and deeply meaningful proclamation of His redemptive sacrifice—both commemorating His death and proclaiming the hope of His resurrection and promised return. |
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