Matthew 26

“Drink of it, all of you, for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins” (v28).  Jesus’ disciples struggled to understand how the powerful Messiah could face betrayal and death.  Despite Jesus’ warnings (v2) and sorrowful preparation, one of his disciples still tried to defend him with a sword (v51-52). Yet “the blood of the covenant” – Jesus’ voluntary death – was the only way to bring about forgiveness of sins and new life.

“Tell us if you are the Christ, the Son of God” (v63).  Jesus didn’t use spectacular force to defeat his enemies.  The Son of God defeated sin and death by a greater power: his own sacrificial love.