New Testament
Mark 14:22
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While they were eating, Jesus took bread, gave thanks, broke it, and handed it to them. "Take it and eat," he said. "This is my body."
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And as they did eat, Jesus took bread, and blessed, and brake it, and gave to them, and said, Take, eat: this is my body.
What Mark 14:22 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, Jesus is sharing a meal with his disciples during the Last Supper. He takes bread, gives thanks, and breaks it, symbolizing his body that will be sacrificed. By instructing them to eat the bread, he is establishing a new covenant and inviting them to remember his impending sacrifice. This act is foundational for the Christian practice of communion, where believers partake in bread and wine to remember Jesus' death and resurrection. The phrase "This is my body" signifies that the bread represents Jesus himself, emphasizing the deep connection between the physical act of eating and the spiritual significance of his sacrifice. This moment is pivotal as it foreshadows the events of the crucifixion and the establishment of a new relationship between God and humanity through Jesus' sacrifice.
How to apply Mark 14:22 to your life
This passage encourages believers to reflect on the significance of communion in their faith. It serves as a reminder of Jesus' sacrifice and invites individuals to participate in this sacred act with reverence and gratitude, fostering a deeper connection with Christ and the community of believers.
Curated for this public verse page. Mark Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Last Supper (Mark 14:12–26)
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Jesus
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
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Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
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At a Glance — the Book of Mark
- Author
- John Mark
- Written
- Around AD 55-65
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Roman and Gentile Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Jesus mean by 'This is my body' in Mark 14:22?
In Mark 14:22, when Jesus says 'This is my body,' he is symbolically representing the bread as his body, which will be sacrificed for humanity. This statement is central to the Christian understanding of communion, where believers partake in bread to remember Jesus' sacrifice and the new covenant established through his death and resurrection.
Why is the Last Supper significant in Christianity?
The Last Supper is significant because it marks the final meal Jesus shared with his disciples before his crucifixion. During this meal, he instituted the practice of communion, emphasizing the importance of remembering his sacrifice. It represents the establishment of a new covenant between God and humanity, highlighting themes of sacrifice, redemption, and community among believers.
How does Mark 14:22 relate to the practice of communion?
Mark 14:22 is foundational for the practice of communion, also known as the Eucharist. In this verse, Jesus takes bread and breaks it, instructing his disciples to eat it as a representation of his body. This act is commemorated in Christian worship, where believers partake in bread and wine to remember Jesus' sacrifice and to affirm their faith in the new covenant.
What is the significance of giving thanks before breaking bread?
In Mark 14:22, Jesus gives thanks before breaking the bread, which highlights the importance of gratitude in the act of sharing a meal. This practice of giving thanks, or blessing the food, signifies recognition of God's provision and grace. It sets a tone of reverence and acknowledgment of the spiritual significance of the meal, especially as it relates to Jesus' impending sacrifice.
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