Matthew 26:26-35
While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and after giving thanks he broke it, gave it to his disciples, and said, “Take, eat, this is my body.” And after taking the cup and giving thanks, he gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you, for this is my blood, the blood of the covenant, that is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. I tell you, from now on I will not drink of this fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom.” After singing a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.
Then Jesus said to them, “This night you will all fall away because of me, for it is written: ‘I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.’
But after I am raised, I will go ahead of you into Galilee.” Peter said to him, “If they all fall away because of you, I will never fall away!” Jesus said to him, “I tell you the truth, on this night, before the rooster crows, you will deny me three times.” Peter said to him, “Even if I must die with you, I will never deny you.” And all the disciples said the same thing.
The Scriptures quoted are from the NET Bible® http://netbible.com copyright ©1996, 2019 used with permission from Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. All rights reserved.
COMMENT & QUESTIONS
What Jewish feast were they celebrating together? (Go back and read yesterday’s reading if you’re not sure)
The Passover or Feast of Unleavened Bread was being held. The Passover festival lasted a week, but it culminated in a feast that was held one night. It is during this feast that some unleavened bread is eaten and some grape juice is drunk.
What was the reason Jesus gave that His blood would be poured out?
For the forgiveness of sins. This was why He was born (Matt 1:21).
Have you ever felt pressure to deny Jesus? Where does this pressure come from in your life?
Perhaps like Peter, confessing your connection with Jesus will lead to persecution and hardship. It may mean that you are not accepted in certain circles of influence. It may mean that you lose some friends or even put you in uncomfortable situations.
PRAYERS
Give thanks for the Lord’s Supper – a weekly reminder of what Jesus has done for us Pray for strength that we will never deny our Saviour