Understanding Luke 22:19

Bible Verse: Luke 22:19 - "And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me."

Overview

This verse occurs during the Last Supper, where Jesus institutes the sacrament of Communion. It is a pivotal moment reflecting His impending sacrifice and establishing a new covenant through His body and blood.

Meaning of Luke 22:19

In analyzing this verse through various public domain commentaries, we gain deeper insights:

• Matthew Henry's Commentary:

  Henry emphasizes the act of Jesus taking bread as a significant moment of gratitude. He notes that this gesture signifies Jesus’ willingness to sacrifice Himself for humanity. The instruction to "do this in remembrance" denotes the importance of commemorating Christ's sacrifice regularly, highlighting the need for believers to focus on the redemption offered through Jesus.

• Albert Barnes' Notes:

  Barnes points out that the bread represents the body of Christ. He stresses that Jesus does not merely speak metaphorically; instead, He designates the bread as a means of establishing a deeper spiritual connection with His followers. The transformative power of this act is portrayed as a vital aspect of Christian fellowship and worship.

• Adam Clarke's Commentary:

  Clarke elaborates on the significance of remembrance, noting that it serves both to honor Christ and to strengthen the faith of His followers. He also discusses the broader implications of Jesus’ words, indicating that this moment foreshadows the suffering He would endure and the covenant that would restore humanity’s relationship with God.

Theological Implications

The implications of Luke 22:19 stretch beyond its immediate context. Here are some key theological points:

• The Institution of Communion: This verse is foundational for the Christian practice of Communion, a key ritual in the faith symbolizing Christ's sacrificial love.
• The New Covenant: By breaking bread, Jesus signifies the establishment of a new covenant, fulfilling and transforming the old sacrificial system. This event is crucial in understanding the transition from the Old Testament sacrifices to the ultimate sacrifice made by Christ.
• Remembrance and Participation: The call to remember entails a participatory faith where believers engage in reflecting on Christ’s sacrifice and its implications for their lives.

Applications for Daily Life

Understanding this verse enriches the believer's life in several ways:

• Personal Reflection: Take time to reflect on what Jesus’ sacrifice means for your personal faith journey.
• Communal Worship: Participate in Communion with a heart of gratitude, recognizing its importance in community worship.
• Living Remembrance: Live out the remembrance of Christ by embodying His teachings and exemplifying His love in everyday interactions.

Cross References

Related Bible verses that enhance the understanding of Luke 22:19 include:

• Matthew 26:26-28 - The account of the Last Supper in the Gospel of Matthew.
• 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 - Paul's instructions about the Lord's Supper.
• John 6:51 - Jesus as the bread of life, emphasizing the spiritual nourishment found in Him.

Conclusion

Luke 22:19 is a profound verse encapsulating the essence of Jesus' sacrifice and the practice of Communion. Through careful study and reflection, believers can draw deeper meanings and applications that extend beyond ritual to a transformative faith that honors Christ's sacrifice and love.