Matthew 26:26

KJV

¶ And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed [it], and brake [it], and gave [it] to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G1161} as they {G846} were eating {G2068}, Jesus {G2424} took {G2983} bread {G740}, and {G2532} blessed {G2127} it, and brake {G2806} it, and {G2532} gave {G1325} it to the disciples {G3101}, and {G2532} said {G2036}, Take {G2983}, eat {G5315}; this {G5124} is {G2076} my {G3450} body {G4983}.

Complete Jewish Bible

While they were eating, Yeshua took a piece of matzah, made the b'rakhah, broke it, gave it to the talmidim and said, "Take! Eat! This is my body!"

Berean Standard Bible

While they were eating, Jesus took bread, spoke a blessing and broke it, and gave it to the disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is My body.”

American Standard Version

And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed, and brake it; and he gave to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 26:26 records the pivotal moment during the Last Supper when Jesus instituted the Christian ordinance of Communion, often referred to as the Lord's Supper. As He shared the Passover meal with His disciples, Jesus took bread, blessed it, broke it, and distributed it, declaring it to be His body. This act profoundly reinterpreted the ancient Passover ritual, foreshadowing His impending crucifixion and establishing a new covenant meal for His followers, symbolizing His sacrificial death and ongoing presence.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the immediate narrative of Jesus' final days leading up to His crucifixion. It follows the disciples' preparation for the Passover meal ([Matthew 26:17-19](/matthew/26-17-19 "Matthew 26:17-19 - Preparation for Passover")) and the somber announcement of Judas's betrayal ([Matthew 26:20-25](/matthew/26-20-25 "Matthew 26:20-25 - Jesus Predicts His Betrayal")). The institution of the Lord's Supper, therefore, occurs in an atmosphere charged with both solemnity and impending crisis, highlighting Jesus' deliberate actions and words in the face of His imminent suffering. The narrative continues with Jesus offering the cup as His blood of the new covenant ([Matthew 26:27-28](/matthew/26-27-28 "Matthew 26:27-28 - The Cup of the New Covenant")), followed by the prediction of Peter's denial and the journey to Gethsemane.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The event takes place during the Jewish feast of Passover (Pesach), an annual celebration commemorating God's miraculous deliverance of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt, marked by the sacrifice of a lamb and the eating of unleavened bread ([Exodus 12](/exodus/12 "Exodus 12 - The First Passover")). Jesus and His disciples were observing this ancient tradition in an upper room in Jerusalem. This setting is crucial, as Jesus intentionally redefines the symbols of the Passover meal, transforming them from a remembrance of Israel's physical liberation into a profound prefiguration of His own sacrificial death, which would bring spiritual liberation and establish a new covenant. The breaking of bread and sharing of wine were common elements of Jewish meals, but Jesus imbues them with radical new meaning.
* **Key Themes:** Matthew 26:26 contributes significantly to several major themes within the Gospel of Matthew and broader biblical theology. It marks the **Institution of the Lord's Supper**, establishing a new communal rite for believers that would endure through the ages, serving as a constant reminder of Christ's sacrifice. This act is deeply connected to the theme of **Sacrifice and Atonement**, as the broken bread vividly symbolizes Jesus' body, which would be broken on the cross as the ultimate atoning sacrifice for sin, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies of a suffering servant ([Isaiah 53](/isaiah/53 "Isaiah 53 - The Suffering Servant")). The verse also introduces the concept of **Remembrance and Presence**, as Jesus instructs His disciples to "Take, eat," implying that this act is to be repeated in remembrance of Him. Furthermore, while the new covenant is explicitly mentioned with the cup in [Matthew 26:28](/matthew/26-28 "Matthew 26:28 - The Blood of the New Covenant"), the giving of His body is integral to the establishment of this **New Covenant**, replacing the old covenant based on animal sacrifices with one sealed by Christ's own blood ([Jeremiah 31:31-34](/jeremiah/31-31-34 "Jeremiah 31:31-34 - Prophecy of the New Covenant")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **took (Greek, _lambánō_):** This verb signifies Jesus' deliberate and active choice to "take" the bread. It implies authority and intentionality in His actions, not merely a casual gesture. In this context, it highlights His sovereign initiative in instituting this sacred meal.
* **blessed (Greek, _eulogéō_):** Derived from "eu" (well) and "logos" (word), this word means "to speak well of" or "to praise." Here, it indicates that Jesus gave thanks to God for the bread, consecrating it through prayer. This act of blessing aligns with Jewish custom at meals, but in this unique setting, it sanctifies the elements for their new, profound purpose.
* **body (Greek, _sōma_):** This term refers to the physical human body, a "sound whole." In declaring the bread to be "my body," Jesus directly links the physical element to His own person, specifically His physical being that would soon be broken and offered as a sacrifice. It emphasizes the reality and tangibility of His impending suffering and death.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And as they were eating,"**: This phrase sets the scene, indicating that the institution of the Lord's Supper occurred within the context of the ongoing Passover meal. It underscores the continuity with the ancient Jewish tradition while simultaneously preparing for a radical reinterpretation.
* **"Jesus took bread,"**: This simple action signifies Jesus' initiative and authority. He deliberately selects the bread, an essential element of the Passover meal, to become the central symbol of His new covenant.
* **"and blessed [it],"**: Jesus' act of blessing the bread involves giving thanks to God. This prayer of thanksgiving consecrates the bread, setting it apart for a sacred purpose and acknowledging God's provision and sovereignty over the events unfolding.
* **"and brake [it],"**: The breaking of the bread is a practical act for sharing, but in this context, it carries profound symbolic weight. It powerfully foreshadows the breaking of Jesus' own body on the cross—His physical suffering, crucifixion, and death.
* **"and gave [it] to the disciples,"**: This act of distribution emphasizes the communal nature of the meal and the gift Jesus is bestowing upon His followers. It signifies that His sacrifice is for them, to be received and participated in by His community.
* **"and said, 'Take, eat; this is my body.'"**: This is the climactic declaration. The command "Take, eat" invites active participation. The statement "this is my body" is the interpretive key, establishing a profound symbolic identification between the bread and Jesus' physical self, which would be offered as a sacrifice for the redemption of humanity. It is a declaration of substitutionary atonement.

#### Literary Devices
Matthew 26:26 is rich with literary devices that amplify its theological significance. The most prominent device is **Symbolism**, where the physical bread serves as a powerful symbol for Jesus' physical body. The act of breaking the bread is deeply symbolic of His impending crucifixion and the suffering His body would endure. This symbolism is reinforced by **Metaphor** in the direct declaration, "this is my body," which establishes a direct, albeit non-literal, identification between the bread and Christ's person and sacrificial work. Furthermore, the entire scene functions as **Foreshadowing**, anticipating the events of the cross that would occur just hours later. It also employs **Typology**, as Jesus reinterprets the Passover lamb and unleavened bread, which were types of deliverance, and fulfills them in His own person and sacrifice, establishing Himself as the ultimate Passover Lamb ([1 Corinthians 5:7](/1_corinthians/5-7 "1 Corinthians 5:7 - Christ Our Passover Lamb")).

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 26:26 stands as a foundational text for Christian theology, particularly concerning the nature of atonement, the new covenant, and the sacrament of Communion. It reveals Jesus' deliberate self-offering as the perfect sacrifice, fulfilling the Old Testament sacrificial system and establishing a new means of reconciliation with God. By equating the bread with His body, Jesus institutes a perpetual reminder of His love, His brokenness for humanity's sin, and the new life available through His atoning work. This act inaugurates the New Covenant, sealed not by the blood of animals, but by the very life of God's Son, inviting believers into an intimate fellowship with Him and with one another as they partake.

* [Mark 14:22](/mark/14-22 "Mark 14:22 - The Last Supper in Mark")
* [Luke 22:19](/luke/22-19 "Luke 22:19 - Luke's Account of the Lord's Supper")
* [1 Corinthians 11:23-24](/1_corinthians/11-23-24 "1 Corinthians 11:23-23 - Paul's Account of the Lord's Supper")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 26:26 calls believers to a profound reflection on the immense love and sacrificial obedience of Jesus Christ. Participating in the Lord's Supper is not merely a ritualistic observance but a sacred act of remembrance, thanksgiving, and communion. It powerfully reminds us that our redemption came at an immeasurable cost—the broken body of our Savior. This act fosters unity within the body of Christ, as we share in one bread, symbolizing our common faith and participation in His sacrifice. It compels us to examine our hearts, confess our sins, and renew our commitment to live lives worthy of such a great salvation, all while looking forward to the day when we will share this meal with Christ in His kingdom ([Matthew 26:29](/matthew/26-29 "Matthew 26:29 - Jesus' Promise to Drink Anew")).

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding the context of the Passover enhance your appreciation for Jesus' institution of the Lord's Supper?**
* **What does the symbolism of the "broken body" of Christ mean for your personal faith and understanding of atonement?**
* **How does participating in Communion strengthen your connection to Christ and to other believers?**
* **In what ways does this verse challenge you to live a life that reflects the sacrifice Jesus made for you?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of Jesus saying, "this is my body"?**

Answer: Jesus' declaration, "this is my body," is central to the meaning of the Lord's Supper. It establishes a profound symbolic identification between the bread and His physical self, which would soon be offered as a sacrifice on the cross. While interpretations vary among Christian traditions (from literal transubstantiation to symbolic representation), the core theological meaning is that the bread represents Jesus' atoning work and His physical suffering for the forgiveness of sins. It is a powerful visual and tangible reminder of His sacrifice and the new covenant established through His death ([Hebrews 9:15](/hebrews/9-15 "Hebrews 9:15 - Christ's Death Inaugurates the New Covenant")).

**Why is the Lord's Supper (Communion) important for Christians today?**

Answer: The Lord's Supper is important for several reasons. First, it is an act of **obedience** to Jesus' command to "do this in remembrance of me" ([Luke 22:19](/luke/22-19 "Luke 22:19 - Do This in Remembrance of Me")). Second, it serves as a powerful **remembrance** of Christ's sacrificial death on the cross for the forgiveness of sins. Third, it fosters **communion**—both with Christ and with fellow believers, symbolizing the unity of the body of Christ ([1 Corinthians 10:16-17](/1_corinthians/10-16-17 "1 Corinthians 10:16-17 - The Cup of Blessing and the Bread")). Finally, it is an **anticipation** of Christ's return, as believers partake "until he comes" ([1 Corinthians 11:26](/1_corinthians/11-26 "1 Corinthians 11:26 - Proclaiming the Lord's Death Until He Comes")), looking forward to the marriage supper of the Lamb ([Revelation 19:9](/revelation/19-9 "Revelation 19:9 - The Marriage Supper of the Lamb")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 26:26 reveals Jesus as the ultimate fulfillment of the Old Testament Passover, transforming its meaning from a remembrance of physical deliverance to a celebration of spiritual redemption. Just as the Passover lamb's blood protected Israel from death, Jesus, the true [Lamb of God](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), offers His body as the perfect, once-for-all sacrifice for sin ([Hebrews 10:10](/hebrews/10-10 "Hebrews 10:10 - Sanctified Through Christ's Sacrifice")). His declaration, "this is my body," establishes a new covenant meal, replacing the old covenant rituals and pointing to His complete and sufficient work on the cross. Through His broken body, Jesus provides access to forgiveness, reconciliation with God, and eternal life, inviting all who believe to partake in the spiritual nourishment that flows from His atoning sacrifice ([John 6:51](/john/6-51 "John 6:51 - Jesus, the Bread of Life")). This act of institution underscores His identity as the Messiah who willingly lays down His life for His sheep ([John 10:11](/john/10-11 "John 10:11 - The Good Shepherd")), establishing the foundation for the Church's ongoing worship and remembrance of His saving work until His glorious return ([1 Corinthians 11:26](/1_corinthians/11-26 "1 Corinthians 11:26 - Proclaiming the Lord's Death Until He Comes")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Corinthians 11:23

¶ For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, That the Lord Jesus the [same] night in which he was betrayed took bread:

1 Corinthians 11:29

For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord's body.

1 Corinthians 10:16

The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ?

1 Corinthians 10:17

For we [being] many are one bread, [and] one body: for we are all partakers of that one bread.

Luke 22:18

For I say unto you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine, until the kingdom of God shall come.

Luke 22:20

Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup [is] the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you.

John 6:33

For the bread of God is he which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world.