02-10-2026 PART 1: The Covenant Sealed by the Blood and Received with Gratitude

Section 1

This teaching places us squarely in the tension of the Last Supper in Matthew 26, where Jesus openly declares that one of the Twelve will betray Him. The reaction of every disciple—each asking, “Is it I?”—reveals humility, self-examination, and awareness of human weakness. Even those closest to Jesus recognize their own vulnerability, reminding believers that self-doubt and sober reflection are not signs of weak faith, but of honest discipleship. In this charged moment, Jesus models gratitude by blessing the bread before breaking it, reinforcing that even ordinary meals are gifts from God. Life itself is mercy, not entitlement, and the ability to eat, enjoy, and be sustained is reason enough for thanksgiving. Jesus’ actions establish a pattern for believers: gratitude precedes participation, and humility precedes understanding.

Section 2

As Jesus institutes the Lord’s Supper, He makes unmistakably clear that the bread and cup represent His body and blood, not a repeated physical sacrifice. The focus is not mysticism or ritual performance, but remembrance and meaning. Jesus identifies His blood as what seals the covenant between God and His people, anchoring forgiveness, reconciliation, and salvation entirely in His sacrifice. Scripture consistently affirms that redemption flows from innocent blood willingly shed, not from human merit or effort. The covenant is secured not because humanity is worthy, but because God is generous. This truth dismantles every notion of entitlement before God. Salvation is received, not claimed. Forgiveness is granted, not earned. The proper response is not pride or assumption, but gratitude for a covenant sealed by grace alone.

Section 3

Jesus’ statement that He will not drink the wine again until He does so anew in the Kingdom points forward to future celebration, hope, and fulfillment beyond the cross. The meal ends not in despair, but in worship, as they sing a hymn together and go out to the Mount of Olives. In this simple act, Jesus establishes the essence of the new covenant already at work—received by faith, sustained by grace, and rooted in love. The central question is not whether the covenant applies, but whether it is received with thanksgiving. Believers do not respond with entitlement or obligation, but with humble gratitude, saying thank You for what could never be deserved. The covenant stands secure because of God’s generosity, and the only fitting response is a life marked by faith, worship, and continual thanksgiving for the body given and the blood poured out for many.