Topical Encyclopedia Wine holds a significant place within the biblical narrative, serving not only as a common beverage in ancient times but also as a profound symbol within Christian theology. One of the most poignant symbolisms of wine in the New Testament is its representation of the blood of Jesus Christ, particularly in the context of the Last Supper and the institution of the Lord's Supper, or Communion.The Last Supper and the Institution of Communion During the Last Supper, Jesus shared a meal with His disciples, which included bread and wine. This event is recorded in the Synoptic Gospels and is foundational for the Christian practice of Communion. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus takes the cup of wine and gives thanks, saying, "Drink from it, all of you. For this is My blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins" (Matthew 26:27-28). Here, wine is explicitly identified as a symbol of Jesus' blood, which would soon be shed on the cross for the atonement of humanity's sins. The New Covenant The symbolism of wine as the blood of Jesus is deeply connected to the concept of the New Covenant. In the Old Testament, covenants were often ratified with the shedding of blood, as seen in the Mosaic Covenant. Jesus' reference to His blood as the "blood of the covenant" signifies the establishment of a new relationship between God and humanity, one that is based on grace and forgiveness through His sacrificial death. The Apostle Paul reiterates this in his first letter to the Corinthians: "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'" (1 Corinthians 11:25). Theological Implications The use of wine as a symbol of Jesus' blood carries profound theological implications. It underscores the sacrificial nature of Christ's death and the belief in His atoning work for the redemption of sins. The act of drinking the wine during Communion is a tangible expression of faith, a participation in the death and resurrection of Jesus, and a proclamation of His return. As Paul writes, "For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes" (1 Corinthians 11:26). Symbolism in the Book of Revelation The imagery of wine as blood also appears in the apocalyptic visions of the Book of Revelation. In Revelation 19:13, Jesus is depicted as wearing a robe dipped in blood, symbolizing His role as the divine warrior and judge. While this passage does not directly reference wine, the imagery of blood is consistent with the sacrificial and redemptive themes associated with Christ's blood throughout the New Testament. Conclusion Wine, as a symbol of the blood of Jesus, is a central element in Christian liturgy and theology. It serves as a powerful reminder of the New Covenant, the forgiveness of sins, and the hope of eternal life through Jesus Christ. The practice of Communion, with its use of wine, continues to be a vital expression of faith and remembrance for believers around the world. Nave's Topical Index Matthew 26:28For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins. Nave's Topical Index Mark 14:23,24 Luke 22:20 John 6:53-56 Library The Institution of the Eucharist. (Luke, xxii. , 17-20. ) 'Until that Day' The Cross and the Winepress. Meditation viii. Institution of the Holy Eucharist. Five Catechetical Lectures the Same Author, Efforts at Unity and Peace. The Axe at the Root --A Testimony against Puseyite Idolatry Eucharistic Doctrine. The Synoptic Gospels Doctrine and Discipline of the Church Resources Why is the real presence of Christ in the Lord's Supper such a controversial issue? | GotQuestions.orgIs intinction the correct way to do communion? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about underage drinking? | GotQuestions.org Wine: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Wine in Excess: Impairs the Health Wine in Excess: Impairs the Judgment and Memory Wine in Excess: Inflames the Passions Wine in Excess: Infuriates the Temper Wine in Excess: Leads to Remorse Wine in Excess: Leads to Sorrow and Contention Wine in Times of Scarcity, Was Mixed With Water Wine of the Abominations of the Apostasy Wine of the Blessing of the Gospel Wine of the Joys of Spiritual Matters Wine of the Wrath and Judgments of God Wine Press of the Judgments of God Wine Press: General Scriptures Concerning Wine Press: Treading The, of the Sufferings of Christ Wine Press: Trodden With Joy and Shouting Wine was Made of The Juice of the Grape Wine was Made of The Juice of the Pomegranate Wine was Used for Drink offerings in Idolatrous Worship Wine was Used for Drink offerings in the Worship of God Wine was Used: As a Beverage from the Earliest Age Wine was Used: At all Feasts and Entertainments Wine with Corn and Oil, Denoted all Temporal Blessings Wine: Abstinence from of Daniel Wine: Abstinence from of the Courtiers of Ahasuerus Wine: Abstinence from of Timothy Wine: Admonitions Against the Use of Wine: An Article of Extensive Commerce Wine: Cheap Wine (Like Vinegar) Given to Jesus at the Crucifixion Wine: Consequence of Putting (When New), Into Old Bottles Wine: Custom of Giving to Persons in Pain or Suffering, Mixed With Wine: Custom of Presenting to Travellers Wine: First Fruits of, to be offered to God Wine: First Mode of Making, Notice Wine: Forbidden to Nazarites During Their Separation Wine: Forbidden to Priests While on Duty Wine: Forbidden to the Priests While Engaged in the Tabernacle Wine: Generally Made by Treading the Grapes in a Press Wine: Given by Melchizedek to Abraham Wine: Given in Abundance to the Jews when Obedient Wine: Intoxication from the Use of Wine: Intoxication From: Ahasuerus Wine: Intoxication From: Amnon Wine: Intoxication From: Falsely Charged Against the Disciples Wine: Intoxication From: Joseph and his Brothers Wine: Intoxication From: Kings of Israel Wine: Intoxication From: Nabal Wine: Made by Jesus at the Marriage Feast in Cana Wine: Often Spiced to Increase Its Strength Wine: Places Celebrated For: Assyria Wine: Places Celebrated For: Canaan in General Wine: Places Celebrated For: Helbon Wine: Places Celebrated For: Lebanon Wine: Places Celebrated For: Moab Wine: Places Celebrated For: Possessions of Judah Wine: Recommended by Paul to Timothy Wine: Samson's Mother Forbidden to Drink Wine: Sometimes Mixed With Milk As a Beverage Wine: Sweet, Esteemed for Flavour and Strength Wine: Symbolical of the Blood of Jesus Wine: The Jews Frequently Deprived of, As a Punishment Wine: The Jews Frequently Drank, to Excess Wine: The Love of Christ to be Preferred To Wine: The Rechabites Never Drank Wine: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Wine: Water Miraculously Turned Into Related Terms |
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