The phrase "the New Covenant in Jesus' blood"
originates from the Last Supper, a significant
event in Christian tradition described in the New
Testament, particularly in the Gospels of Matthew,
Mark, and Luke. Luke 22:20 records Jesus' words
during this event:
"In the same way, after the
supper he took the cup, saying, 'This cup is the
new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for
you.'"
This statement by Jesus signifies the
establishment of the New Covenant through his
impending sacrificial death. Here's what this
phrase signifies in Christian theology:
- New Covenant: Jesus
presents the cup of wine as a symbol of the New
Covenant. This New Covenant represents a new
agreement between God and humanity, fulfilled
and inaugurated through Jesus Christ. It's a
covenant of grace, forgiveness, and
reconciliation, as opposed to the covenant
established with the Israelites under Moses.
- In My Blood: Jesus refers
to his imminent sacrifice on the cross, where
his blood will be shed for the forgiveness of
sins. His blood symbolizes the atoning sacrifice
that brings about the forgiveness of sins and
the restoration of the broken relationship
between humanity and God.
- Poured Out for You: Jesus
emphasizes the personal nature of his sacrifice.
His death is not only a historical event but
also a deeply personal act of love and
redemption for each individual. It's an act of
selflessness, offering his life for the
salvation of all who would believe in him.
This statement underscores the central
Christian belief in the significance of Jesus'
sacrificial death as the pivotal moment in human
history, bringing about the forgiveness of sins
and the establishment of a new relationship
between God and humanity under the New Covenant.