New Testament
Luke 22:20
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In the same way, after supper, he took the cup and said, 'This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is shed for you.'
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Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you.
What Luke 22:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus is sharing a significant moment with his disciples during the Last Supper. He takes a cup of wine and explains that it represents a new covenant, or agreement, between God and humanity, established through his impending sacrifice. The phrase 'in my blood' indicates that his death will be the means by which this new relationship is made possible. This new covenant replaces the old one, which was based on the law and sacrifices. By saying 'which is shed for you,' Jesus emphasizes that his sacrifice is for the benefit of his followers, highlighting the personal nature of his love and the redemption he offers. This moment is foundational for Christian beliefs about communion and the significance of Jesus' sacrifice, as it marks the transition from the old covenant to the new, where faith in Christ becomes the way to salvation.
How to apply Luke 22:20 to your life
This verse encourages believers to remember the significance of Jesus' sacrifice and the new covenant established through it. During communion, Christians reflect on the depth of Christ's love and the personal relationship they have with God, reminding them to live in gratitude and faith.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Last Supper (Luke 22:7–23)
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Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
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At a Glance — the Book of Luke
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 22:20 mean?
Luke 22:20 describes Jesus during the Last Supper, taking a cup of wine and declaring it represents a new covenant established through his blood. This signifies a new agreement between God and humanity, highlighting the importance of Jesus' impending sacrifice for the redemption of his followers.
What is the new covenant mentioned in Luke 22:20?
The new covenant in Luke 22:20 refers to the agreement between God and humanity established through Jesus' sacrifice. It replaces the old covenant based on the law and sacrifices, emphasizing faith in Christ as the path to salvation and a personal relationship with God.
What does 'in my blood' mean in Luke 22:20?
The phrase 'in my blood' in Luke 22:20 indicates that Jesus' death will be the means by which the new covenant is enacted. It signifies the sacrificial nature of his offering, which is essential for the redemption of humanity.
Why is Luke 22:20 important for Christians?
Luke 22:20 is important for Christians as it marks the establishment of the new covenant through Jesus' sacrifice. This verse is foundational for the practice of communion, reminding believers of the significance of Jesus' love and the personal relationship they have with God.
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