The Bible Says
Mark 14:22-25 Meaning

Mark explains While they were eating, He took some bread, and after a blessing He broke it, and gave it to them, and said, Take it; this is My body. (v. 22). Here, Jesus is in Jerusalem sharing a final Passover meal with His disciples. Jerusalem was a crucial city for Jewish worship, located in the region of Judea, and it held the central temple where countless pilgrims gathered for festivals. By taking bread and breaking it, Jesus reveals that His own body will be broken and given for the spiritual nourishment of all who put their trust in Him. The act of blessing the bread reflects thanksgiving to God and foreshadows the sacrificial nature of His mission on the cross.

And when He had taken a cup and given thanks, He gave it to them, and they all drank from it.(v. 23) further highlights Jesus’ willingness to share His life with His followers. Cups were often used in Scripture to symbolize one’s life circumstances or destiny. By inviting His disciples to drink, He declares they will partake in what lies ahead, not only observing but actively participating in His new covenant. This same image echoes later teachings that speak of believers sharing in the life and ministry of Christ.

And He said to them, This is My blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many.(v. 24) points to the solemn reality that covenant relationships in Scriptural tradition often required a shedding of blood. Here, Jesus reveals that His blood would solidify a new covenant-one initiated by grace and open to all who believe. The phrase poured out for many indicates the broad extent of salvation Jesus offers, connecting to other passages that describe Christ’s redemptive work for the whole world. By partaking of the cup, the disciples symbolically share in this redemptive promise.

Truly I say to you, I will never again drink of the fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God.(v. 25) underscores Jesus’ anticipation of a future celebration in the fullness of God’s kingdom. Though His imminent suffering is near, His eyes remain fixed on the ultimate plan and the coming restoration. This statement reminds believers that the Lord’s Supper looks both backward-remembering Christ’s sacrifice-and forward-anticipating His return and the establishment of an eternal kingdom where fellowship with God is perfectly restored.

To learn more about the connection of Passover to the Last Supper, click here.