1 When Jesus had finished all these sayings, he said to his disciples,
2 “You know that after two days the Passover is coming, and the Son of Man will be delivered up to be crucified.”
3 Then the chief priests and the elders of the people gathered in the palace of the high priest, whose name was Caiaphas,
4 and plotted together in order to arrest Jesus by stealth and kill him.
5 But they said, “Not during the feast, lest there be an uproar among the people.”
6 Now when Jesus was at Bethany in the house of Simon the leper,
7 a woman came up to him with an alabaster flask of very expensive ointment, and she poured it on his head as he reclined at table.
8 But when the disciples saw it, they were indignant, saying, “Why this waste?
9 For this ointment could have been sold for a large sum and given to the poor.”
10 But Jesus, aware of this, said to them, “Why do you trouble the woman? For she has done a beautiful thing to me.
11 For you always have the poor with you, but you will not always have me.
12 in pouring this ointment on my body, she has done it to prepare me for burial.
13 Truly, I say to you, wherever this gospel is proclaimed in the whole world, what she has done will also be told in memory of her.
14 Then one of the twelve, whose name was Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests
15 and said, “What will you give me if I deliver him over to you?” And they paid him thirty pieces of silver.
16 And from that moment he sought an opportunity to betray him.
17 Now on the first day of Unleavened Bread the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Where will you have us prepare for you to eat the Passover?”
18 He said, “Go into the city to a certain man and say to him, ‘The Teacher says, My time is at hand. I will keep the Passover at your house with my disciples.’”
19 So the disciples did as Jesus had directed them, and they prepared the Passover.
20 When it was evening, he reclined at table with the twelve.
21 And as they were eating, he said, “Truly, I say to you, one of you will betray me.”
22 And they were very sorrowful and began to say to him one after another, “Is it I, Lord?”
23 He answered, “He who has dipped his hand in the dish with me will betray me.
24 The Son of Man goes as it is written of him, but woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed! It would have been better for that man if he had not been born.
25 Judas, who would betray him, answered, “Is it I, Rabbi?” He said to him, “You have said so.”
26 Now as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to the disciples, and said, “Take, eat; this is my body.”
27 And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, saying, “Drink of it, all of you,
28 for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.
29 I tell you I will not drink again of this fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom.”
30 And when they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.
31 Then Jesus said to them, “You will all fall away because of me this night. For it is written, ‘I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.’
32 But after I am raised up, I will go before you to Galilee.
33 Peter answered him, “Though they all fall away because of you, I will never fall away.”
34 Jesus said to him, “Truly, I tell you, this very night, before the rooster crows, you will deny me three times.”
35 Peter said to him, “Even if I must die with you, I will not deny you!” And all the disciples said the same.
36 Then Jesus went with them to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to his disciples, “Sit here, while I go over there and pray.”
37 And taking with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, he began to be sorrowful and troubled.
38 Then he said to them, “My soul is very sorrowful, even to death; remain here, and watch with me.”
39 And going a little farther he fell on his face and prayed, saying, “My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will.”
40 And he came to the disciples and found them sleeping. And he said to Peter, “So, could you not watch with me one hour?
41 Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.
42 Again, for the second time, he went away and prayed, “My Father, if this cannot pass unless I drink it, your will be done.”
43 And again he came and found them sleeping, for their eyes were heavy.
44 So, leaving them again, he went away and prayed for the third time, saying the same words again.
45 Then he came to the disciples and said to them, “Sleep and take your rest later on. See, the hour is at hand, and the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners.
46 Rise, let us be going; see, my betrayer is at hand.
47 While he was still speaking, Judas came, one of the twelve, and with him a great crowd with swords and clubs, from the chief priests and the elders of the people.
48 Now the betrayer had given them a sign, saying, “The one I will kiss is the man; seize him.”
49 And he came up to Jesus at once and said, “Greetings, Rabbi!” And he kissed him.
50 Jesus said to him, “Friend, do what you came to do.” Then they came up and laid hands on Jesus and seized him.
51 And behold, one of those who were with Jesus stretched out his hand and drew his sword and struck the servant of the high priest and cut off his ear.
52 Then Jesus said to him, “Put your sword back into its place. For all who take the sword will perish by the sword.
53 Do you think that I cannot appeal to my Father, and he will at once send me more than twelve legions of angels?
54 But how then should the Scriptures be fulfilled, that it must be so?”
55 At that hour Jesus said to the crowds, “Have you come out as against a robber, with swords and clubs to capture me? Day after day I sat in the temple teaching, and you did not seize me.
56 But all this has taken place that the Scriptures of the prophets might be fulfilled.” Then all the disciples left him and fled.
57 Then those who had seized Jesus led him to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders had gathered.
58 But Peter was following him at a distance, as far as the courtyard of the high priest, and going inside he sat with the guards to see the end.
59 Now the chief priests and the whole council were seeking false testimony against Jesus that they might put him to death,
60 but they found none, though many false witnesses came forward. At last two came
61 and said, “This man said, ‘I am able to destroy the temple of God, and to rebuild it in three days.’”
62 And the high priest stood up and said, “Have you no answer to make? What is it that these men testify against you?”
63 But Jesus remained silent. And the high priest said to him, “I adjure you by the living God, tell us if you are the Christ, the Son of God.”
64 Jesus said to him, “You have said so. But I tell you, from now on you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of Power and coming on the clouds of heaven.”
65 Then the high priest tore his robes and said, “He has uttered blasphemy. What further witnesses do we need? You have now heard his blasphemy.
66 What is your judgment?” They answered, “He deserves death.”
67 Then they spit in his face and struck him. And some slapped him,
68 saying, “Prophesy to us, you Christ! Who is it that struck you?”
69 Now Peter was sitting outside in the courtyard. And a servant girl came up to him and said, “You also were with Jesus the Galilean.”
70 But he denied it before them all, saying, “I do not know what you mean.”
71 And when he went out to the entrance, another servant girl saw him, and she said to the bystanders, “This man was with Jesus of Nazareth.”
72 And again he denied it with an oath: “I do not know the man.”
73 After a little while the bystanders came up and said to Peter, “Certainly you too are one of them, for your accent betrays you.”
74 Then he began to invoke a curse on himself and to swear, “I do not know the man.” And immediately the rooster crowed.
75 And Peter remembered the saying of Jesus, “Before the rooster crows, you will deny me three times.” And he went out and wept bitterly.
The True Meaning of Matthew 26
The Gospel of Matthew was written by the apostle Matthew, also known as Levi, who was one of the twelve disciples of Jesus. Matthew, a former tax collector, had a unique perspective on the life and ministry of Christ. Jesus prepares for the ultimate sacrifice that will redeem all of humanity as we witness the final days of his earthly life in this chapter. We will see the betrayal of Judas, the Last Supper, Jesus’ anguish in the Garden of Gethsemane, and his arrest by the religious authorities. These events will set the stage for the crucifixion and resurrection, which are the cornerstones of the Christian faith.
Throughout this passage, we will find echoes of prophecies from the Old Testament, such as the betrayal foretold in Zechariah 11:12-13 and the suffering servant described in Isaiah 53. These connections demonstrate the fulfillment of God’s plan for salvation, which has been unfolding since the beginning of time.
Matthew 26:1-5
The important sections in Matthew 26:1-5 are: “When Jesus had finished all these words”
2. “You know that after two days the Passover is coming”
3. “The chief priests and the elders of the people were gathered together”
4. “They planned together to seize Jesus by stealth and kill Him”
When Jesus had finished all these words, referring to the teachings and parables He had shared with His disciples, He is foretelling His imminent arrest, suffering, and crucifixion. This moment signifies the culmination of His earthly ministry, paving the way for the fulfillment of God’s ultimate plan for the redemption of humanity through His sacrifice on the cross. It emphasizes the obedience of Jesus to the Father’s will, even in the face of betrayal and suffering.
The mention of the approaching Passover highlights the significance of the timing of Jesus’ arrest and crucifixion. The Passover was a time when the Israelites commemorated their deliverance from slavery in Egypt through the blood of the lamb spread on their doorposts. Jesus, as the ultimate sacrificial Lamb of God, was about to offer Himself for the deliverance of all people from the bondage of sin. This timing is not a coincidence but a part of God’s perfect plan for salvation.
The gathering of the chief priests and elders underscores the involvement of the religious authorities in plotting against Jesus. These religious leaders, who were expected to uphold justice and righteousness, instead conspired to harm and ultimately kill the Son of God. Their actions reveal the depth of their spiritual blindness and rejection of Jesus as the Messiah, despite the many signs and teachings He had presented.
The sinister plot to seize Jesus by stealth and kill Him sheds light on the extent of the evil intentions of Jesus’ adversaries. Their desire to eliminate Him demonstrates the intensity of their fear of His growing influence and the threat He posed to their status quo. This act of betrayal and violence sets the stage for the unfolding of the events leading to Jesus’ crucifixion, highlighting the clash between worldly powers and the kingdom of God.
This passage in Matthew 26 sets the stage for the dramatic events that will follow, leading to Jesus’ betrayal, trial, and crucifixion. It serves as a stark reminder of the capacity for human hearts to be hardened and blind to the truth, even in the presence of the Son of God. It also emphasizes the overarching theme of God’s sovereignty and His redemptive plan through the sacrifice of Jesus for the salvation of humanity. This narrative echoes the prophecies in the Old Testament, such as Isaiah 53, which foretold the suffering and sacrificial death of the Messiah for the sins of the world.
Matthew 26:6-13
The passage in Matthew 26:6-13 describes a significant event that took place in the house of a man known as Simon the Leper. The story unfolds as Jesus, who is in Bethany at the time, is reclining at the table when a woman approaches Him with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume. She pours this costly perfume on His head as an act of extravagant love and devotion.
This woman is later identified in the other gospel accounts as Mary, the sister of Martha and Lazarus. Mary’s act of anointing Jesus with the expensive perfume symbolizes her deep reverence and worship of Him. The perfume was worth a year’s wages, emphasizing the immense value she placed on Jesus.
The disciples, particularly Judas Iscariot, react in indignation, questioning the wastefulness of using such expensive perfume instead of selling it to give money to the poor. However, Jesus defends Mary’s actions, commending her for understanding the true magnitude of the moment. He explains that she has anointed Him in preparation for His burial, foreshadowing His upcoming crucifixion and burial.
This story carries several timeless messages that resonate throughout the Bible. Firstly, it underscores the importance of sacrificial love and devotion to Jesus. Mary’s willingness to give her most valuable possession as an offering to Him serves as a powerful example for believers to wholeheartedly surrender their most cherished gifts, talents, and resources in service to God.
Additionally, Jesus’ response highlights the significance of recognizing and appreciating acts of worship and love towards Him. While others may criticize or misunderstand our expressions of devotion, Jesus sees and values the sincerity of our hearts and intentions.
Furthermore, this passage foreshadows the impending sacrifice of Jesus on the cross for the sins of humanity. Jesus alludes to His impending death and resurrection by acknowledging Mary’s anointing as a preparation for His burial, emphasizing the redemptive purpose of His mission on earth. Themes of love, sacrifice, devotion, and the ultimate sacrifice of Christ for humanity’s salvation are encapsulated in Matthew 26:6-13. It invites believers to reflect on their own offerings to the Lord and to consider the depth of their commitment and adoration towards Him, following the example set by Mary’s extravagant gesture of worship.
Matthew 26:14-16
Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve, went to the chief priests and said, “What will you give me if I deliver him over to you?”‘ And they paid him thirty pieces of silver. And from that moment he sought an opportunity to betray him.”
This passage marks a crucial moment in the Gospel narrative as it introduces Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve disciples chosen by Jesus. Judas’ act of betrayal is foretold by Jesus himself in earlier verses, fulfilling the prophecies in the Old Testament, particularly in Zechariah 11:12-13 and Psalms 41:9. The mention of thirty pieces of silver as the price for betrayal ties back to the prophecy in the book of Zechariah, symbolizing the price at which the Messiah would be sold out.
The actions of Judas raise profound questions about loyalty, trust, and the consequences of greed. Judas, who had been a close companion of Jesus, succumbs to the temptation of material gain and chooses to betray his master. This betrayal not only leads to the arrest and crucifixion of Jesus but also paints a stark picture of the depths to which human sin and weakness can lead.
Judas’ story serves as a powerful reminder of the dangers of prioritizing worldly possessions over spiritual values and the importance of true repentance and forgiveness. Judas’ remorse and attempt to return the silver in Matthew 27:3-5 acknowledge his wrongdoing but tragically end his own life in despair, highlighting the irreversible consequences of his actions. We reflect on these verses, examining our own hearts and motives, ensuring that our actions are guided by faith, integrity, and love rather than by selfish desires or external influences. Judas’ story stands as a cautionary tale, urging us to remain steadfast in our commitment to God and to resist the temptations that can lead us astray.
Matthew 26:17-25
The passage in Matthew 26:17 begins with the disciples coming to Jesus on the first day of the Festival of Unleavened Bread and asking, “Where do you want us to make preparations for you to eat the Passover?”‘” This sets the stage for one of the most significant events in Christian theology, the Last Supper. The Festival of Unleavened Bread was a Jewish feast commemorating the Israelites’ haste in fleeing Egypt, and the Passover was a central part of this festival. Jesus instructs his disciples on where to make preparations for the Passover meal, implying that something of great importance is about to take place. Jesus reveals to his disciples that one of them will betray him as the scene unfolds. He says in Matthew 26:21-22, “Truly I tell you, one of you will betray me.” Deeply grieved, the disciples began to question Jesus, each asking, “Surely you don’t mean me, Lord?” Here, Jesus’ prediction of his betrayal foreshadows the events that are about to unfold, leading to his crucifixion. This moment highlights both the omniscience of Jesus, knowing in advance what would transpire, and the frailty of human nature, as even his closest followers wrestled with the possibility of betrayal.
The narrative then shifts to Judas Iscariot, who plays a central role in the betrayal of Jesus. Judas asks Jesus, “Surely you don’t mean me, Rabbi?” in Matthew 26:23-25.” Jesus responds, “You have said so.” Judas, who was one of the twelve disciples, agrees to betray Jesus for thirty pieces of silver, fulfilling the prophecy foretold in the Old Testament (Zechariah 11:12-13). Judas’ act of betrayal not only signifies the fulfillment of scripture but also demonstrates the pervasiveness of sin and the consequences of greed and deception.
This passage in Matthew 26 underscores the themes of prophetic fulfillment, human weakness, and the ultimate sovereignty of God’s plan. Despite the darkness of betrayal and impending suffering, the events leading up to the crucifixion of Jesus ultimately pave the way for the redemption of mankind. Jesus willingly goes forth to fulfill his sacrificial mission, setting in motion the sequence of events that will lead to his crucifixion and resurrection, offering salvation and forgiveness to all who believe in him (John 3:16). The betrayal of Jesus by Judas serves as a poignant reminder of the cost of sin and the need for repentance and redemption through the grace of Christ.
Matthew 26:26-30
The passage in Matthew 26:26-30 describes the last supper that Jesus shared with his disciples before his crucifixion. Let’s break it down into important sections for a detailed commentary.
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“While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, ‘Take and eat; this is my body. Jesus is using the bread as a symbol of his body that will be broken for the salvation of humanity in this section. He is not only foreshadowing his upcoming crucifixion but also establishing the practice of communion by sharing this bread with his disciples, where believers remember and honor his sacrifice through the sharing of bread and wine. This act signifies the intimate connection believers have with Christ and the importance of remembering his sacrifice for their redemption. This event is significant in Christian theology as it forms the basis for the sacrament of communion in many Christian traditions.
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“Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, ‘Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.’” – Here, Jesus introduces the concept of the new covenant through his blood, which will bring forgiveness of sins for many. Jesus is declaring a new era of salvation through his sacrifice by referencing the Old Testament concept of a covenant. The shedding of his blood on the cross will serve as atonement for the sins of humanity, fulfilling the prophetic promises of the Old Testament regarding a Messiah who would redeem God’s people. This act also symbolizes the inauguration of a new relationship between God and humanity, based on grace and forgiveness through faith in Christ’s sacrifice.
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“I tell you, I will not drink from this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom. Jesus alludes to the future restoration of fellowship and joy in the kingdom of God in this closing statement. Jesus hints at the anticipation of a glorious reunion with his disciples and believers in the heavenly realm by abstaining from drinking the fruit of the vine until the eschatological feast in God’s kingdom. This hopeful proclamation underscores the promise of eternal life and communion with God for those who remain faithful to Christ until the end.
The significance of the last supper extends beyond a mere historical event; it holds deep theological meaning for Christians. The breaking of bread and sharing of the cup symbolize Christ’s sacrificial death and the establishment of a new covenant founded on his blood. This sacred meal continues to be commemorated in churches worldwide as a remembrance of Christ’s sacrifice and a celebration of the redemption and forgiveness found in him. The elements of bread and wine serve as visible signs of the invisible grace and mercy extended to believers through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
The act of communion also serves as a reminder of believers’ unity with one another as the body of Christ, as mentioned in 1 Corinthians 10:16-17: “Is not the cup of thanksgiving for which we give thanks a participation in the blood of Christ? And is not the bread that we break a participation in the body of Christ? Because there is one loaf, we, who are many, are one body, for we all share the one loaf.” Therefore, the last supper not only points to the individual’s relationship with Christ but also emphasizes the communal aspect of the Christian faith, where believers are united in Christ through the sharing of the symbolic elements.
Matthew 26:31-35
We encounter a poignant moment in the life of Jesus and his disciples in Matthew 26:31-35. Let’s break down this verse into its key sections to gain a deeper understanding.
Verse 31 starts with Jesus foretelling his disciples that they will all fall away because of Him that very night, quoting from the book of Zechariah 13:7. This prediction reflects both Jesus’ impending arrest and the disciples’ subsequent abandonment. The disciples were going to scatter, leaving Jesus alone. This moment underscores the human frailty and the weakness of the disciples, despite their close relationship with Jesus. It also fulfills the scriptures, showing that even the events that seemed like chaos were part of God’s sovereign plan.
Peter’s response in verse 33 is swift and bold, proclaiming that even if all others fall away because of Jesus, he will never do so. This declaration showcases Peter’s confidence in himself and his loyalty to Jesus. However, Jesus promptly predicts Peter’s denial of Him before the rooster crows twice. This interaction highlights Peter’s impending struggle and denial, despite his assertion. It serves as a reminder of the danger of pride and overconfidence, showing that even the most fervent followers are susceptible to falter in their faith during times of trial.
Verse 34 continues with Peter affirming his loyalty, stating that even if he must die with Jesus, he will not deny Him. This declaration reflects Peter’s genuine love and devotion to Jesus, as well as his misconception of his own strength and faithfulness. Peter’s unwavering commitment, although sincere, foreshadows the challenging road that lies ahead for him. This passage reinforces the themes of human weakness and the need for humility in acknowledging our vulnerabilities and dependence on God’s grace. It also showcases Jesus’ omniscience and his deep understanding of human nature, foreseeing the trials that his disciples would face. The disciples echo Peter’s sentiments, vehemently affirming their allegiance to Jesus as the events unfold in verses 34 and 35. This collective assertion sets the stage for the impending trials, demonstrating the disciples’ united front and their shared determination to stand by Jesus. However, the following events in Gethsemane reveal the disciples’ inability to keep their promises, as they succumb to fear and abandon Jesus in his hour of need, just as He had predicted. This narrative sheds light on the challenges of discipleship, emphasizing the importance of humility, self-awareness, and reliance on God’s strength rather than our own. The passage in Matthew 26:31-35 serves as a powerful reminder of the complexities of human nature, the inevitability of trials, and the necessity of humility and dependency on God. It showcases the disciples’ genuine yet flawed devotion, highlighting the contrast between human frailty and God’s unwavering faithfulness. This narrative ultimately points to the redemptive power of Christ’s sacrifice, offering hope and forgiveness for all who falter in their faith. It calls us to reflect on our own vulnerabilities, surrender our pride, and place our trust in the One who is faithful, even in our moments of weakness (1 Corinthians 10:12-13).
Matthew 26:36-46
Jesus is seen in the Garden of Gethsemane with his disciples in the passage of Matthew 26:36-46, leading up to his arrest. Identify the subject: “We”
Active voice: We will break down this powerful passage into important sections and delve into their meaning and implications on the Bible’s timeless messages.
The first section, verses 36-39, portrays a poignant scene where Jesus takes Peter, James, and John with Him to pray while the others remain behind. Jesus, filled with sorrow and distress, reveals His human emotions as He prays to God, asking if it is possible for the cup of suffering to be taken from Him. This display of vulnerability from the Son of God highlights the reality of His humanity and the weight of the sacrifice He is about to make for all of humanity. It also emphasizes the importance of prayer in times of struggle and despair, showing us that even Jesus relied on communion with God in moments of anguish.
Moving on to verses 40-41, we witness the disciples, overcome by sorrow and sleep, failing to support Jesus in His hour of need. Jesus, who had asked them to stay awake and pray, finds them sleeping and questions their inability to stand by Him during this crucial time. This serves as a reminder for us to be vigilant and prayerful, especially in times of trials and tribulations. Despite their shortcomings, Jesus shows compassion towards His disciples, recognizing their weakness, but ultimately preparing Himself for the forthcoming events.
The next section, verses 42-46, reveals Jesus praying the same prayer three times, demonstrating His submission to the will of God. Despite His distress and the knowledge of the suffering that awaits Him, Jesus surrenders to the divine plan, accepting His fate with obedience and faith. This act of obedience to God’s will, even in the face of immense suffering, sets a profound example for believers to trust in God’s plan and submit our own desires to His greater purpose. The events in the Garden of Gethsemane foreshadow Jesus’ impending crucifixion and the ultimate sacrifice He will make for the redemption of humanity’s sins in the larger context of the Bible. It shows the depth of Jesus’ love and the extent of His obedience to the Father, even unto death on the cross. This pivotal moment underscores the importance of prayer, obedience, and submission to God’s will in the life of a believer.
Furthermore, this passage echoes themes found in other parts of the Bible, such as Jesus’ teachings on prayer in the Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13) and the importance of seeking God’s will above our own desires as depicted in the example of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane. It also reflects the concept of sacrifice and redemption seen throughout the Old Testament in the sacrificial system and the prophecies of the coming Messiah who would suffer for the sins of the world. The account of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane in Matthew 26:36-46 serves as a powerful reminder of the depth of Jesus’ humanity, the significance of prayer in times of trial, the importance of vigilance and obedience to God’s will, and the ultimate sacrifice Jesus made for the salvation of mankind. It challenges believers to emulate Jesus’ example of surrendering to God’s will and trusting in His plan, even when faced with adversity and suffering.
Matthew 26:47-56
We can break down and analyze several important sections in Matthew 26:47-56. Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve disciples, arrives with a great crowd armed with swords and clubs in these verses. Judas betrays Jesus with a kiss, a sign to identify Jesus to the soldiers. This moment signifies the ultimate betrayal of Jesus by one of His closest companions. It is a stark reminder of how even those closest to us can turn against us, a theme present in both biblical narratives and human experiences. The act of betrayal by Judas sets in motion the events that lead to Jesus’ crucifixion, in fulfillment of the prophecies of the Old Testament, especially Psalm 41:9: “Even my close friend in whom I trusted, who ate my bread, has lifted his heel against me.”
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Peter’s Sword (Matthew 26:51-54):
Peter, always portrayed as impulsive and passionate, draws his sword and strikes the servant of the high priest, cutting off his ear. Jesus immediately stops Peter, telling him to put his sword back in its place. Jesus rebukes Peter, saying, “for all who draw the sword will die by the sword.” This moment serves as a clear demonstration of Jesus’ teachings on non-violence and the rejection of worldly methods for achieving His kingdom. Jesus emphasizes that His kingdom is not of this world, and it does not rely on violence or force but on love, forgiveness, and sacrifice. -
Matthew notes in verse 56 that all these events were taking place to fulfill the prophecies of the Old Testament Scriptures. This highlights the divine sovereignty at work in the events surrounding Jesus’ arrest and crucifixion. Throughout the Old Testament, there are numerous prophecies that foretell the suffering and death of the Messiah, such as Isaiah 53. Jesus shows that He is the long-awaited Messiah sent by God to redeem humanity by fulfilling these prophecies. These verses show the unfolding of the betrayal, Jesus’s response to violence, and the fulfillment of ancient prophecies. The themes of betrayal, loyalty, violence, and divine sovereignty intersect in this crucial moment leading up to Jesus’ crucifixion. Through these events, we are reminded of the complex interplay between human choices and divine providence, the importance of remaining faithful even in the face of betrayal, and the transformative power of Jesus’ teachings on love and forgiveness. The narrative in Matthew 26 serves as a foundational moment in Jesus’ earthly ministry, leading to His sacrificial death and ultimately, the redemption of humanity.
Matthew 26:57-68
One of the most critical moments in the life of Jesus, the Son of God, is seen in Matthew 26:57-68. This passage describes the events that unfolded as Jesus was brought before the religious leaders for questioning and eventually condemned to death. Let’s break down this verse into important sections for a deeper understanding. Jesus is brought before the chief priests and the whole Sanhedrin in the first part of the passage (Matthew 26:57-59), which was the Jewish religious court. This is a significant moment as it marks the beginning of the series of events that would lead to Jesus’ crucifixion. The religious leaders were seeking false testimony against Jesus to put Him to death. False witnesses came forward in the next section (Matthew 26:60-63), but their testimonies did not agree. Finally, two false witnesses came forward and twisted Jesus’ words, claiming He said He could destroy the temple and rebuild it in three days. This distorted version of Jesus’ words was used against Him, showing the extent to which some were willing to go to see Him condemned.
Then, in Matthew 26:64-66, Jesus is directly questioned by the high priest, who asks Him if He is the Messiah, the Son of God. Jesus’ response is powerful as He affirms His identity as the Son of God and the coming Son of Man. This assertion leads to the high priest accusing Him of blasphemy, which was punishable by death under Jewish law. This moment is significant as it highlights Jesus’ willingness to proclaim His true identity, even in the face of severe consequences.
Finally, in Matthew 26:67-68, we see Jesus being physically abused by the people present. They spat on Him, struck Him with their fists, and mocked Him. This horrific treatment of Jesus, the innocent Son of God, is a stark reminder of the cruelty and injustice He endured for the sake of humanity’s salvation.
This passage in Matthew 26 serves as a powerful reminder of the extent of Jesus’ suffering and the injustice He faced during His earthly ministry. It highlights the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies regarding the Messiah’s suffering (Isaiah 53:3-7) and the price Jesus paid for the redemption of mankind (John 3:16). The events leading up to Jesus’ crucifixion demonstrate His unwavering commitment to God’s plan of salvation and His willingness to endure immense suffering for the sake of humanity’s salvation. It also serves as a warning against the dangers of false accusations and the consequences of denying the truth, as seen in the actions of the religious leaders and false witnesses in this passage. Jesus Christ willingly laid down His life for the forgiveness of sins and the reconciliation of humanity with God, underscoring profound love and sacrifice.
Matthew 26:69-75
Peter denies Jesus three times in Matthew 26:69-75, just as Jesus had predicted earlier in the chapter. This passage is a powerful and poignant moment that highlights the fallibility of even Jesus’ closest disciples in a time of great trial. It also serves as a cautionary lesson about the dangers of pride and fear.
The first denial occurs when a servant girl recognizes Peter as one of Jesus’ disciples. Instead of boldly standing by Jesus as he had promised earlier, Peter denies any association with him out of fear of being associated with Jesus and facing potential persecution. This first denial sets the stage for the subsequent denials.
The second denial takes place when another servant girl points out Peter as one of Jesus’ followers. This time, Peter goes even further by not only denying Jesus but also swearing an oath to emphasize his denial. This scene underscores Peter’s increasing desperation to distance himself from Jesus and the consequences of being identified with him during a time of trial.
The third and final denial comes when bystanders confront Peter, accusing him of being with Jesus because of his Galilean accent. At this point, Peter vehemently denies any knowledge of Jesus, cursing and swearing to emphasize his disassociation. The rooster crows just as Jesus had foretold as soon as Peter completes his third denial, leading Peter to remember Jesus’ prediction and regret his actions.
Peter’s denials of Jesus serve as a stark reminder of the frailty of human nature and the importance of staying true to one’s beliefs, especially in the face of adversity. Despite Peter’s shortcomings in this moment, his story is not one of failure but of redemption. After Jesus’ resurrection, He seeks out Peter specifically to reaffirm his love and reinstates him, showing forgiveness and the opportunity for spiritual growth and renewal.
This passage in Matthew 26 echoes other instances in the Bible where individuals falter in their faith but ultimately find redemption through God’s grace and forgiveness. It also encourages believers to learn from Peter’s example, acknowledging their weaknesses, seeking forgiveness when they falter, and ultimately reaffirming their commitment to following Christ, as Peter did after this pivotal moment in his life.
After Matthew 26
Judas Iscariot betrays Jesus in the final moments of Matthew 26. Despite this act of treachery, Jesus remains steadfast in His mission, knowing that His sacrifice is necessary for the salvation of humanity. Jesus showed unwavering love and grace even in the face of betrayal as we reflect on the events of this chapter. Let us hold onto the lessons learned from Matthew 26 as we prepare to delve into the next chapter. Let us remind ourselves of the importance of faith, loyalty, and forgiveness in the face of adversity. May we carry these teachings in our hearts as we continue to follow the path that Jesus has laid out for us.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.