Matthew 26
SIBMatthew 26:26-28
Christ conjoined the passover and supper to 117* intimate that the former, having been long a type, should now be fulfilled in his death; and that the other should succeed as a memorial of his finished sufferings till the end of the world. The bread represents him as God-man, chosen, appointed, and furnished by, his Father, and suffering unto death for the redemption of his people. The wine represents his fulfilling all righteousness for the purchasing and securing of all promised new covenant blessings, particularly the full remission of sins to his numerous followers
Matthew 26:29
I will never more feast with you in this manner, never more so indulge you with my bodily presence; but, instead thereof, will hold fellowship with you in a far more spiritual and comfortable manner in the gospel dispensation, and especially in the heavenly state
REFLECTIONS UPON CHAP. XXVI.—Unbounded was the foreknowledge of our Redeemer, and astonishing his delight in the view of his sufferings for his people. Great is his care to vindicate their good conduct, to honour them that honour him, and to direct them to opportunities of doing good to their brethren; and infinite his regard to his Father’s oracles and ordinances, and the salvation of his people. In view of death—a dreadful death—he joins with them in the seals of the covenant, and appoints them a permanent feast for spiritual nourishment; representing all his labours of love, and sealing and applying his person and righteousness to their soul! And faithful and reasonable were his warnings against temptation.—How heavy the weight of our sins lay on him! How fearful his agonies! how fervent his prayers! Yet great was his submission to his Father’s will: marvellous his readiness to suffer, and kind his rebukes ever to the worst!—But, alas, how was he hated by men—plotted against without cause—envied of his honours—betrayed for a trifle—shamefully discredited and contradicted, even by his saints—presumptuously apprehended—despitefully abused—and basely denied, after the most solemn warning! Let me learn to watch and pray against temptation. I know not whither Satan may drag, or my corruptions drive, me. Let me always honour Jesus, whatever be the expense; be liberal to his poor, and always given to embrace his preached gospel. And, on his demand, gladly let me receive him into my house and heart. A deep sense of my sinfulness should make me always ready to suspect the worst of myself. If I indulge self-confidence, if I disregard a Saviour’s warning, I shall quickly fall, fearfully fall, before the slightest temptations. If I indulge one sin, it will quickly plunge me into a worse. If then I have been overtaken in a fault, let me quickly and bitterly repent. It is not the greatness or number of my sins that can ruin me, but my obstinate impenitence and unbelief