Mark 14:23

Then He took the cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them, and they all drank from it.

Study Bible

Then He took the cup
In this phrase, "He" refers to Jesus Christ, who is central to the narrative of the Last Supper. The "cup" symbolizes the new covenant in His blood, as later explained in verse 24. The Greek word for "cup" is "ποτήριον" (potērion), which can also mean a portion or lot, signifying the destiny Jesus was about to embrace. This act of taking the cup is deeply rooted in Jewish Passover traditions, where the cup of wine is integral to the Seder meal, symbolizing joy and salvation. Jesus' action here foreshadows His sacrificial death, which would bring about a new covenant between God and humanity.

gave thanks
The Greek word used here is "εὐχαριστήσας" (eucharistēsas), from which the term "Eucharist" is derived. This act of giving thanks is not merely a ritualistic blessing but a profound expression of gratitude to God. In the Jewish tradition, giving thanks over the cup was a customary part of the Passover meal, known as the "Kiddush." Jesus' thanksgiving here is significant as it acknowledges God's providence and the unfolding of His redemptive plan through the impending sacrifice of Christ.

and gave it to them
This phrase highlights the communal aspect of the Last Supper. Jesus "gave" the cup to His disciples, signifying the sharing of His life and mission with them. The Greek verb "ἔδωκεν" (edōken) implies a deliberate and generous act of giving. This act of sharing the cup is a precursor to the Christian practice of communion, where believers partake in the body and blood of Christ, symbolizing unity with Him and with one another.

and they all drank from it
The phrase emphasizes the participation of all the disciples in this sacred moment. The Greek word "πάντες" (pantes) means "all," indicating that no one was excluded from this act of fellowship. Drinking from the same cup signifies a shared commitment and acceptance of the new covenant. Historically, this act would have been understood as a sign of deep fellowship and unity, binding the disciples together in the mission and suffering of Christ. It also prefigures the Christian community's unity in the sacrament of the Lord's Supper, where believers are reminded of their shared faith and hope in Christ's redemptive work.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus Christ
The central figure in this passage, Jesus is leading His disciples in what is known as the Last Supper. This event is significant as it precedes His crucifixion and is a pivotal moment in Christian theology regarding the institution of the Lord's Supper or Communion.

2. The Disciples
The followers of Jesus who are present with Him during the Last Supper. They represent the early church and are the recipients of Jesus' teachings and actions during this event.

3. The Cup
Symbolic of the new covenant in Jesus' blood, the cup represents the sacrifice Jesus is about to make. It is a key element in the institution of the Lord's Supper.

4. The Last Supper
The event where Jesus shares a final meal with His disciples before His arrest. It is a foundational moment for the Christian practice of Communion.

5. Jerusalem
The city where the Last Supper takes place, significant as the center of Jewish religious life and the location of Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection.

Teaching Points

The Significance of Thanksgiving
Jesus "gave thanks" before distributing the cup. This act of gratitude, even in the face of impending suffering, teaches us the importance of thankfulness in all circumstances.

Unity in Participation
"They all drank from it" signifies the unity and shared participation in the new covenant. As believers, we are called to unity in Christ, sharing in His sacrifice and mission.

The New Covenant
The cup symbolizes the new covenant, a promise of redemption and relationship with God through Jesus' sacrifice. This covenant calls us to live in obedience and faithfulness to Christ.

Remembrance and Reflection
Partaking in Communion is a time to remember Jesus' sacrifice and reflect on our relationship with Him. It is a call to examine our hearts and renew our commitment to His teachings.

Anticipation of the Kingdom
The Last Supper points forward to the future fulfillment of God's kingdom. As believers, we live in anticipation of Christ's return and the ultimate realization of His promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jesus' act of giving thanks before distributing the cup challenge our perspective on gratitude, especially in difficult times?

2. In what ways does the unity of the disciples in drinking from the same cup reflect the unity we should strive for in the church today?

3. How does understanding the new covenant in Jesus' blood impact your daily walk with Christ?

4. What are some practical ways you can prepare your heart and mind before participating in Communion?

5. How does the anticipation of God's kingdom influence your priorities and decisions in life?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 26:27-28
This passage parallels Mark 14:23 and provides additional context to the Last Supper, emphasizing the new covenant in Jesus' blood.

1 Corinthians 11:25
Paul references the Last Supper, highlighting the importance of Communion as a remembrance of Jesus' sacrifice.

Exodus 24:8
The Old Testament covenant with Israel, sealed with blood, prefigures the new covenant Jesus establishes with His blood.