Mark 14:24

He said to them, "This is My blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many.

Study Bible

This is My blood
In this phrase, Jesus is speaking during the Last Supper, instituting the New Covenant. The Greek word for "blood" is "αἷμα" (haima), which is used throughout the New Testament to signify life and sacrifice. Blood, in the Jewish sacrificial system, was essential for atonement (Leviticus 17:11). Here, Jesus is indicating that His blood will be the ultimate sacrifice, fulfilling and surpassing the Old Testament sacrifices. This statement is profound, as it signifies the transition from the old covenant of the law to the new covenant of grace through His impending sacrifice on the cross.

of the covenant
The term "covenant" comes from the Greek word "διαθήκη" (diathēkē), which can mean a testament or agreement. In the biblical context, a covenant is a solemn agreement between God and humanity. The Old Covenant, given through Moses, was based on the law and required the blood of animals. Jesus is declaring a New Covenant, prophesied in Jeremiah 31:31-34, which promises a new relationship with God, written on the hearts of believers, and made possible through His sacrifice. This New Covenant is foundational to Christian theology, emphasizing grace and faith over works.

which is poured out
The phrase "poured out" is translated from the Greek "ἐκχέω" (ekcheō), meaning to spill or shed. This imagery is vivid, evoking the sacrificial system where the blood of animals was poured out at the altar. Jesus' use of this term foreshadows His imminent crucifixion, where His blood would be shed for the remission of sins. It underscores the voluntary nature of His sacrifice, as He willingly offers Himself for humanity's redemption.

for many
The word "many" in Greek is "πολλῶν" (pollōn), indicating a large number but not necessarily all. This phrase echoes Isaiah 53:12, where the Suffering Servant "bore the sin of many." It highlights the inclusivity of Jesus' sacrifice, available to all who believe, yet also acknowledges the reality that not all will accept this gift. Theologically, it speaks to the doctrine of atonement, where Christ's sacrifice is sufficient for all, but effective for those who receive Him by faith. This phrase invites reflection on the vastness of God's grace and the personal responsibility to respond to His call.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus Christ
The central figure in this passage, Jesus is speaking to His disciples during the Last Supper, instituting the New Covenant through His impending sacrifice.

2. The Disciples
The immediate audience of Jesus' words, representing the early followers of Christ who would later spread His teachings.

3. The Last Supper
The setting of this event, a pivotal moment where Jesus shares a final meal with His disciples before His crucifixion, symbolizing the establishment of the New Covenant.

4. The Covenant
Refers to the New Covenant Jesus establishes through His sacrifice, fulfilling and surpassing the Old Covenant made with Israel.

5. The Blood
Symbolizes Jesus' sacrificial death, which is essential for the forgiveness of sins and the establishment of the New Covenant.

Teaching Points

The Significance of the Blood
Jesus' blood is central to the New Covenant, symbolizing the ultimate sacrifice for the forgiveness of sins. Believers are called to remember and honor this sacrifice through the practice of communion.

The New Covenant
Unlike the Old Covenant, which was based on the law, the New Covenant is based on grace and faith in Jesus Christ. It offers a personal relationship with God and internal transformation.

The Inclusivity of the Covenant
Jesus states that His blood is poured out "for many," indicating the universal offer of salvation to all who believe, transcending ethnic and cultural boundaries.

The Call to Remembrance
The practice of communion serves as a continual reminder of Jesus' sacrifice and the New Covenant, encouraging believers to live in gratitude and obedience.

Living Under the New Covenant
Believers are called to live in the reality of the New Covenant, characterized by a transformed heart, forgiveness, and a commitment to follow Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the Old Covenant help us appreciate the significance of the New Covenant established by Jesus?

2. In what ways does the practice of communion serve as a reminder of Jesus' sacrifice and the New Covenant?

3. How can we live out the inclusivity of the New Covenant in our daily interactions with others?

4. What are some practical ways to cultivate a heart that reflects the internal transformation promised in the New Covenant?

5. How does the concept of Jesus' blood being "poured out for many" challenge or encourage you in your faith journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 24:8
This verse describes Moses sprinkling blood on the people as a sign of the Old Covenant. Jesus' words in Mark 14:24 echo this, signifying the establishment of a New Covenant through His blood.

Jeremiah 31:31-34
This prophecy speaks of a New Covenant that God will make with His people, characterized by internal transformation and forgiveness, which Jesus fulfills.

Hebrews 9:15
This passage explains that Jesus is the mediator of the New Covenant, emphasizing the necessity of His death for the redemption of transgressions under the first covenant.

1 Corinthians 11:25
Paul recounts the institution of the Lord's Supper, reinforcing the significance of Jesus' blood as the New Covenant.