Definition: 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.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 26:26. It’s a really significant and complex passage in the Bible, and it's often misunderstood. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse describes Jesus’ final meal with his disciples before he was arrested. He wasn’t just sharing a normal meal; he was doing something incredibly symbolic and powerful. Here’s what it means, broken down: “As they were eating…” : Jesus is having a private meal with his followers – the twelve apostles. It's a moment of intimacy and fellowship. “…Jesus took bread…” : This isn't just any bread; it’s symbolic bread representing Jesus himself. Bread represents life, sustenance, and even our own bodies. “And blessed [it]” : Jesus is giving the bread a blessing – acknowledging its importance and offering it to his disciples. It’s like saying, "This is significant; this is holy." “…and brake [it]” : This is a bit tricky. “Brake” can mean to cut or break something. In this context, Jesus is breaking the bread – he's taking it apart. It’s a deliberate act of separation and control. “And give [it] to the disciples…” : He hands the broken pieces to his followers. “…and said, Take, eat; this is my body.” This is the most important part. Jesus says: “This is my body.” What does this mean? This isn’t a literal physical body. It's a powerful metaphor. Here are a few possible interpretations: Jesus’ Sacrifice: The bread represents Jesus’ sacrifice for humanity – his death and resurrection. He was offering himself as a gift to us. His Reign of Glory: He is saying that his life, death, and resurrection are beginning a new era - the reign of God. The breaking of the bread signifies the start of this new era. A New Creation: It’s about a transformation – Jesus isn't just dying; he's rising to become our savior and Lord. Important Context: This passage is incredibly important because it’s the last time Jesus was with his disciples before he was arrested. It’s a moment of intense emotion, preparation for his impending death, and a profound declaration of his identity as the Messiah. In short, Matthew 26:26 describes Jesus taking bread, breaking it, and saying it's his body – signifying his sacrifice, his coming reign, and the beginning of a new era. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these points in more detail? Provide different interpretations of this verse? Compare this passage to other Bible stories about Jesus’ death?