Matthew 26:29 (Comments)

Matthew NAC by Craig Blomberg: "Verse 29 anticipates both Jesus’ departure and his return. He warns the disciples that he will not again be drinking (or eating or performing any other part of this Passover liturgy) in the immediate future, but he looks forward to rejoining them for the messianic banquet (recall the imagery of 22:1-14, and cf. Rev 19). The kingdom which is now inaugurated will then be consummated in all its fullness. Jesus’ words may suggest that he refused to drink the fourth and final cup of this particular meal."

Matthew (Baker ECNT by David Turner): "Some MSS read 'blood of the new covenant,' but 'new' may be an interpolation from Luke 22:20 (cf. 1 Cor. 11:25; the additional note on Matt. 26:28). At any rate, in Matt. 26:29 Jesus does speak prophetically of drinking new wine with his disciples in the future kingdom. The institution of the Lord’s Supper is closely tied to the Passover as well as the new covenant (Jer. 31:31–34). It also anticipates the ultimate eschatological feast that inaugurates the future kingdom (Matt. 26:29; cf. 8:11; 22:2; 25:10; Rev. 19:7–9)"

The Gospel of Matthew by R.T. France: "There is a striking contrast between vv. 26-28, with their focus on imminent death, and this final pronouncement which, while it recognizes the end of Jesus’ earthly life (no more drinking of wine), looks forward to a triumphant future for Jesus and his disciples together in “the kingdom of my Father.” Their companionship, which will so soon be broken by death, is to be restored. The wine which is a symbol of death will also be the focus of future rejoicing. New wine is a powerful OT symbol of joyful well-being (e.g., Gen 27:28; Deut 33:28; Prov 3:10; Amos 9:13). Jesus has used it in 9:17 as a symbol of the new life his disciples enjoy in contrast with the old wine-skins of religious tradition. Here it speaks of the life of the kingdom of God, understood perhaps (as in 8:11-12; see comments there) as the messianic banquet. This saying does not specify when this future drinking of wine will take place, but 'new' is a word often used in connection with the messianic fulfillment and ultimate salvation. It is therefore unlikely that Jesus is looking forward only to the forty days during which he will be with them again on earth before his ascension (Acts 1:3; 10:41)."

Dictionary of Biblical Imagery: "Positively, wine becomes an important image of joy, celebration and festivity, often expressive of the abundant blessing of God. The presence of wine at the wedding at Cana in John 4 is well known. The psalmist declares, 'You have filled my heart with greater joy than when their grain and new wine abound' (Ps 4:7 NIV [NIV NIV. New International Version] ). The Preacher of Ecclesiastes encourages his readers, 'Go, eat your food with gladness, and drink your wine with a joyful heart' (Eccles 9:7 NIV [NIV NIV. New International Version] ). Such imagery, along with that of eschatological blessing, informs Jesus’ statement at the Passover meal that 'I will not drink again from the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes' (Lk 22:18 NIV [NIV NIV. New International Version] )."

EF: I encourage you to read the entire entry on wine in the DBI.