Definition: And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave [it] to them, saying, Drink ye all of it;

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important passage from Matthew 26:27. It's a really significant moment in Jesus’s plan for his impending death. Here's what it means, explained simply: The Core Idea: Jesus is giving the cup to his disciples and saying, “Drink all of it.” This isn’t just about drinking a little; it’s about a profound act of sacrifice and offering. Let’s unpack it layer by layer: “And he took the cup…” : Jesus is physically taking a cup – likely a wine-filled chalice – which symbolizes something much bigger than just a drink. It represents his life, his purpose, and what he's about to do. “…and gave thanks…” : This is crucial. Jesus isn’t just doing something; he’s expressing gratitude . He’s acknowledging the good things of his life, his relationship with God, and perhaps even the suffering he endured. It shows humility and appreciation for what he has. “…and gave [it] to them…” : He's offering this cup – and its contents – to his disciples. This isn't a gift to them; it’s a gift to them, as part of his plan. “Saying, Drink ye all of it” : This is the key instruction. He’s telling them to entirely drink. It’s not just a small sip – it's a complete and utter consumption. It’s a statement of intent: he’s giving up his life completely. What does this mean in terms of Jesus’s plan? This is one of the most dramatic passages about Jesus's impending sacrifice. It signifies several things: His offering of Himself: It’s a complete and irreversible act of surrendering his life to God. His obedience to God’s will: He’s willingly submitting to God’s plan, even though it means his death. A sacrifice for sin: It's a way of atonement for humanity’s sins – offering himself as a substitute. In short, this verse is a powerful statement about Jesus's complete and selfless love for humanity and his willingness to pay the price for our sins. Important Note: This passage is deeply symbolic and has been interpreted in many ways throughout history. It’s a cornerstone of Christian theology and understanding of Jesus’s role in salvation. --- Do you want me to explain anything in more detail, perhaps focusing on a specific aspect like the symbolism or historical context? Or would you like me to provide a simpler explanation? For example, are you curious about: The connection to the Passover? The significance of "drink all of it"? How this verse relates to the story of Jesus’s death and resurrection?