Do this in remembrance of me is one of the most impactful phrases spoken by Jesus Christ during the Last Supper. These words echo through the centuries and continue to be repeated by millions of Christians around the world during the celebration of the Lord’s Supper.
But what does do this in remembrance of me really mean? Why did Jesus leave us this command? What is the spiritual value behind this practice? In this article, we will deeply explore the context, meaning, symbolism, and practical application of this powerful expression.
The Biblical Context of “Do This in Remembrance of Me”
The phrase do this in remembrance of me is found in the Gospels and also in Paul’s letter to the Corinthians. In Luke 22:19, we read:
“And he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and gave it to them, saying, This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.”
This moment takes place during the Last Supper, on the eve of Jesus’ crucifixion. He institutes the Supper as a permanent memorial of the new covenant between God and humanity.
Jesus Institutes a Living Memorial
By saying do this in remembrance of me, Jesus is not merely asking us to remember Him intellectually. He is instituting a profound spiritual practice to be lived with reverence, faith, and communion.
The Deep Symbolism of the Lord’s Supper
The Lord’s Supper is filled with symbols that point to the sacrifice of Jesus. The phrase do this in remembrance of me reminds us that this is not an empty ritual, but an encounter with the living sacrifice.
The Bread: Body Broken
The bread represents the body of Christ, broken on the cross. As we eat the bread, we remember the physical suffering He endured out of love for humanity.
The Cup: Blood Poured Out
The wine (or grape juice) represents the blood of the new covenant. The shedding of blood was the price paid so that we might have redemption from sins.
“Do This in Remembrance of Me” and Communion
The Lord’s Supper is also an act of fellowship. The expression do this in remembrance of me invites every Christian to participate with awareness, reflecting on the body and blood of Christ.
A Time for Self-Examination
As we partake of the Supper, we are called to examine our hearts. Are we living in obedience to the Gospel? Is there anything we need to confess or forgive?
An Act of Unity
The Supper unites us as the body of Christ. Do this in remembrance of me reminds us that we belong to one spiritual family, regardless of our differences.
The Importance of Memory in the Christian Life
Memory is a powerful spiritual tool. Jesus knew that human beings tend to forget. That’s why He said do this in remembrance of me, so we would never forget the price of our salvation.
Remembering Brings Gratitude
When we remember Jesus’ sacrifice, we are moved to gratitude. This renews our faith and inspires us to live with greater purpose.
Remembering Strengthens Faith
Recounting God’s deeds in the past gives us strength to face present challenges. The Supper is a practice that rekindles our trust in God’s promises.
The Difference Between Ritual and Relationship
Unfortunately, many Christians partake of the Supper mechanically, without reflecting on what do this in remembrance of me means. When that happens, the memorial becomes an empty ritual.
When the Rite Loses Its Meaning
Participating in the Supper without discernment can draw us away from its true essence. Paul warns about this in 1 Corinthians 11, saying that many become weak and ill for partaking in an unworthy manner.
Recovering the Meaning
Returning to the heart of the command do this in remembrance of me is to recover the value of the Supper as a holy, transformative, and deeply meaningful moment.
How to Apply “Do This in Remembrance of Me” in Daily Life
Although the Lord’s Supper is a specific event, the principle of do this in remembrance of me can be applied to our everyday lives.
Living with the Memory of Christ
Remembering Jesus in our daily actions helps us make wiser decisions and live with integrity.
Cultivating a Grateful Heart
Gratitude is a practical way to live in remembrance of Christ. Thanking Him for His work on the cross keeps us grounded in the faith.
Sharing the Gospel
Living the message of the cross is obeying the call to do this in remembrance of me. Sharing God’s love with others is a way to keep this memory alive.
“Do This in Remembrance of Me” and the New Covenant
Jesus inaugurates a new covenant through His death and resurrection. Do this in remembrance of me marks the beginning of an era in which salvation is by grace and not by works.
The End of Ancient Sacrifices
Before Christ, animal sacrifices were required for the atonement of sins. Jesus, the perfect Lamb, offered a single, eternal sacrifice.
A Covenant of Grace and Love
The new covenant is based on grace, forgiveness, and reconciliation with God. Each time we partake of the Supper, we reaffirm this covenant.
Verses Related to “Do This in Remembrance of Me”
Several biblical passages reinforce the meaning and importance of this command.
- 1 Corinthians 11:24–26: “This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me.”
- Matthew 26:26–28: “Take and eat; this is my body…”
- John 6:53–56: “Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me, and I in them.”
The Spiritual Impact of “Do This in Remembrance of Me”
This phrase not only points to a liturgical moment; it challenges us to live a life of surrender and devotion.
Ongoing Sanctification
Partaking of the Supper regularly and consciously leads us into a continual process of purification and spiritual growth.
Renewed Commitment
Each time we respond to the call do this in remembrance of me, we reaffirm our commitment to Jesus and to His mission.
Testimonies of Transformed Lives
Many Christians testify that understanding the true meaning of do this in remembrance of me was a turning point in their spiritual journey. It brought greater depth, reverence, and purpose to their lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is “do this in remembrance of me” written?
The expression “do this in remembrance of me” is recorded in the Gospels and in Paul’s letter to the Corinthians. The main verses are:
Luke 22:19 – “And he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and gave it to them, saying: This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.”
1 Corinthians 11:24–25 – Paul recalls this command when teaching the church in Corinth about the Lord’s Supper.
What does “do this in remembrance of me” mean?
Do this in remembrance of me means that Jesus commanded us to celebrate the Lord’s Supper as an ongoing act of remembrance of His sacrifice on the cross. It is not merely a mental recollection, but a spiritual memorial that involves faith, fellowship, and reflection.
Is it necessary to be baptized to take the Supper?
Each Christian community has its own rules. Many require baptism as a sign of commitment before participating in the Supper.
What happens if I take the Supper in an unworthy manner?
Paul teaches that we should examine our hearts before participating. Taking it carelessly can bring spiritual consequences.
READ ALSO:
- Psalm 23 and 91: Trust, Protection, and Eternal Promises
- What Is Resilience According to the Bible: Meaning
- Jeremiah 29:11: Discover the Power of a Promise of Hope
- Word of God: The Transforming Power
FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK
I hope you enjoyed it.
Leave your message of faith below!