Matthew Chapter 26

The Plot to Kill Jesus

(Mark 14:1-2; Luke 22:1-6; John 11:45-57)

1And it came to pass, when Jesus had finished all these sayings, he said unto his disciples, 2Ye know that after two days is the feast of the passover, and the Son of man is betrayed to be crucified.

3Then assembled together the chief priests, and the scribes, and the elders of the people, unto the palace of the high priest, who was called Caiaphas, 4And consulted that they might take Jesus by subtilty, and kill him. 5But they said, Not on the feast day, lest there be an uproar among the people.

Jesus Anointed at Bethany

(Mark 14:3-9; John 12:1-8)

6Now when Jesus was in Bethany, in the house of Simon the leper, 7There came unto him a woman having an alabaster box of very precious ointment, and poured it on his head, as he sat at meat. 8But when his disciples saw it, they had indignation, saying, To what purpose is this waste? 9For this ointment might have been sold for much, and given to the poor. 10When Jesus understood it, he said unto them, Why trouble ye the woman? for she hath wrought a good work upon me. 11For ye have the poor always with you; but me ye have not always. 12For in that she hath poured this ointment on my body, she did it for my burial. 13Verily I say unto you, Wheresoever this gospel shall be preached in the whole world, there shall also this, that this woman hath done, be told for a memorial of her.

Judas Agrees to Betray Jesus

(Zechariah 11:10-17; Matthew 27:3-10; Mark 14:10-11)

14Then one of the twelve, called Judas Iscariot, went unto the chief priests, 15And said unto them, What will ye give me, and I will deliver him unto you? And they covenanted with him for thirty pieces of silver. 16And from that time he sought opportunity to betray him.

The Last Supper

(Psalm 41:1-13; Mark 14:12-21; Luke 22:7-13; John 13:18-30)

17Now the first day of the feast of unleavened bread the disciples came to Jesus, saying unto him, Where wilt thou that we prepare for thee to eat the passover? 18And he said, Go into the city to such a man, and say unto him, The Master saith, My time is at hand; I will keep the passover at thy house with my disciples. 19And the disciples did as Jesus had appointed them; and they made ready the passover.

20Now when the even was come, he sat down with the twelve. 21And as they did eat, he said, Verily I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me. 22And they were exceeding sorrowful, and began every one of them to say unto him, Lord, is it I? 23And he answered and said, He that dippeth his hand with me in the dish, the same shall betray me. 24The Son of man goeth as it is written of him: but woe unto that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed! it had been good for that man if he had not been born. 25Then Judas, which betrayed him, answered and said, Master, is it I? He said unto him, Thou hast said.

The Lord's Supper Instituted

(Mark 14:22-26; Luke 22:14-23; 1 Corinthians 11:17-34)

26And 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. 27And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; 28For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins. 29But I say unto you, I will not drink henceforth of this fruit of the vine, until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father's kingdom.

30And when they had sung an hymn, they went out into the mount of Olives.

Jesus Predicts Peter's Denial

(Mark 14:27-31; Luke 22:31-38; John 13:36-38)

31Then saith Jesus unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered abroad. 32But after I am risen again, I will go before you into Galilee. 33Peter answered and said unto him, Though all men shall be offended because of thee, yet will I never be offended. 34Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, That this night, before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. 35Peter said unto him, Though I should die with thee, yet will I not deny thee. Likewise also said all the disciples.

Jesus Prays at Gethsemane

(Mark 14:32-42; Luke 22:39-46)

36Then cometh Jesus with them unto a place called Gethsemane, and saith unto the disciples, Sit ye here, while I go and pray yonder. 37And he took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and very heavy. 38Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me.

39And he went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt. 40And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them asleep, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with me one hour? 41Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.

42He went away again the second time, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me, except I drink it, thy will be done. 43And he came and found them asleep again: for their eyes were heavy. 44And he left them, and went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same words. 45Then cometh he to his disciples, and saith unto them, Sleep on now, and take your rest: behold, the hour is at hand, and the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. 46Rise, let us be going: behold, he is at hand that doth betray me.

Jesus' Betrayal and Arrest

(Mark 14:43-52; Luke 22:47-53; John 18:1-14)

47And while he yet spake, lo, Judas, one of the twelve, came, and with him a great multitude with swords and staves, from the chief priests and elders of the people. 48Now he that betrayed him gave them a sign, saying, Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is he: hold him fast. 49And forthwith he came to Jesus, and said, Hail, master; and kissed him. 50And Jesus said unto him, Friend, wherefore art thou come? Then came they, and laid hands on Jesus, and took him.

51And, behold, one of them which were with Jesus stretched out his hand, and drew his sword, and struck a servant of the high priest's, and smote off his ear. 52Then said Jesus unto him, Put up again thy sword into his place: for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword. 53Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels? 54But how then shall the scriptures be fulfilled, that thus it must be?

55In that same hour said Jesus to the multitudes, Are ye come out as against a thief with swords and staves for to take me? I sat daily with you teaching in the temple, and ye laid no hold on me. 56But all this was done, that the scriptures of the prophets might be fulfilled. Then all the disciples forsook him, and fled.

Jesus Before the Sanhedrin

(Isaiah 53:1-8; Mark 14:53-65; John 18:19-24; 1 Peter 2:21-25)

57And they that had laid hold on Jesus led him away to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders were assembled. 58But Peter followed him afar off unto the high priest's palace, and went in, and sat with the servants, to see the end.

59Now the chief priests, and elders, and all the council, sought false witness against Jesus, to put him to death; 60But found none: yea, though many false witnesses came, yet found they none. At the last came two false witnesses, 61And said, This fellow said, I am able to destroy the temple of God, and to build it in three days. 62And the high priest arose, and said unto him, Answerest thou nothing? what is it which these witness against thee? 63But Jesus held his peace. And the high priest answered and said unto him, I adjure thee by the living God, that thou tell us whether thou be the Christ, the Son of God. 64Jesus saith unto him, Thou hast said: nevertheless I say unto you, Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven.

65Then the high priest rent his clothes, saying, He hath spoken blasphemy; what further need have we of witnesses? behold, now ye have heard his blasphemy. 66What think ye? They answered and said, He is guilty of death.

67Then did they spit in his face, and buffeted him; and others smote him with the palms of their hands, 68Saying, Prophesy unto us, thou Christ, Who is he that smote thee?

Peter Denies Jesus

(Mark 14:66-72; Luke 22:54-62; John 18:15-18)

69Now Peter sat without in the palace: and a damsel came unto him, saying, Thou also wast with Jesus of Galilee. 70But he denied before them all, saying, I know not what thou sayest. 71And when he was gone out into the porch, another maid saw him, and said unto them that were there, This fellow was also with Jesus of Nazareth. 72And again he denied with an oath, I do not know the man. 73And after a while came unto him they that stood by, and said to Peter, Surely thou also art one of them; for thy speech bewrayeth thee. 74Then began he to curse and to swear, saying, I know not the man. And immediately the cock crew. 75And Peter remembered the word of Jesus, which said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. And he went out, and wept bitterly.

King James Bible

Text courtesy of BibleProtector.com.

The Plot to Kill Jesus
(Mark 14:1–2; Luke 22:1–2; John 11:45–57)

1 It happened, when Jesus had finished all these words, that 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, the scribes, and the elders of the people were gathered together in the court of the high priest, who was called Caiaphas. 4 They took counsel together that they might take Jesus by deceit, and kill him. 5 But they said, “Not during the feast, lest a riot occur among the people.”

Jesus Anointed at Bethany
(Mark 14:3–9; Luke 7:36–50; John 12:1–8)

6 Now when Jesus was in Bethany, in the house of Simon the leper, 7 a woman came to him having an alabaster jar of very expensive ointment, and she poured it on his head as he sat at the table. 8 But when his disciples saw this, they were indignant, saying, “Why this waste? 9 For this ointment might have been sold for much, and given to the poor.” 10 However, knowing this, Jesus said to them, “Why do you trouble the woman? Because she has done a good work for me. 11 For you always have the poor with you; but you don’t always have me. 12 For in pouring this ointment on my body, she did it to prepare me for burial. 13 Most certainly I tell you, wherever this Good News is preached in the whole world, what this woman has done will also be spoken of as a memorial of her.”

Judas Agrees to Betray Jesus
(Mark 14:10–11; Luke 22:3–6)

14 Then one of the twelve, who was called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests, 15 and said, “What are you willing to give me, that I should deliver him to you?” They weighed out for him thirty pieces of silver. 16 From that time he sought opportunity to betray him.

Preparing the Passover
(Mark 14:12–16; Luke 22:7–13)

17 Now on the first day of unleavened bread, the disciples came to Jesus, saying to him, “Where do you want us to prepare for you to eat the Passover?” 18 He said, “Go into the city to a certain person, and tell him, ‘The Teacher says, “My time is at hand. I will keep the Passover at your house with my disciples.”’” 19 The disciples did as Jesus commanded them, and they prepared the Passover.

The Last Supper
(Mark 14:17–26; Luke 22:14–23; 1 Corinthians 11:17–34)

20 Now when evening had come, he was reclining at the table with the twelve disciples. 21 As they were eating, he said, “Most certainly I tell you that one of you will betray me.” 22 They were exceedingly sorrowful, and each began to ask him, “It isn’t me, is it, Lord?” 23 He answered, “He who dipped his hand with me in the dish, the same will betray me. 24 The Son of Man goes, even as it is written of him, but woe to that man through whom the Son of Man is betrayed! It would be better for that man if he had not been born.” 25 Judas, who betrayed him, answered, “It isn’t me, is it, Rabbi?” He said to him, “You said it.”

26 As they were eating, Jesus took bread, gave thanks for it, and broke it. He gave to the disciples, and said, “Take, eat; this is my body.” 27 He took the cup, gave thanks, and gave to them, saying, “All of you drink it, 28 for this is my blood of the new covenant, which is poured out for many for the remission of sins. 29 But I tell you that I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now on, until that day when I drink it anew with you in my Father’s Kingdom.”

30 When they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.

Jesus Predicts Peter’s Denial
(Zechariah 13:7–9; Mark 14:27–31; Luke 22:31–38; John 13:36–38)

31 Then Jesus said to them, “All of you will be made to stumble because of me tonight, 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 into Galilee.” 33 But Peter answered him, “Even if all will be made to stumble because of you, I will never be made to stumble.” 34 Jesus said to him, “Most certainly I tell you that tonight, 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.” All of the disciples also said likewise.

Jesus Prays at Gethsemane
(Mark 14:32–42; Luke 22:39–46)

36 Then Jesus came with them to a place called Gethsemane, and said to his disciples, “Sit here, while I go there and pray.” 37 He took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and severely troubled. 38 Then he said to them, “My soul is exceedingly sorrowful, even to death. Stay here, and watch with me.”

39 He went forward a little, fell on his face, and prayed, saying, “My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass away from me; nevertheless, not what I desire, but what you desire.” 40 He came to the disciples, and found them sleeping, and said to Peter, “What, couldn’t you watch with me for one hour?

41 Watch and pray, that you don’t enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”

42 Again, a second time he went away, and prayed, saying, “My Father, if this cup can’t pass away from me unless I drink it, your desire be done.” 43 He came again and found them sleeping, for their eyes were heavy. 44 He left them again, went away, and prayed a third time, saying the same words. 45 Then he came to his disciples, and said to them, “Sleep on now, and take your rest. Behold, the hour is at hand, and the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. 46 Arise, let’s be going. Behold, he who betrays me is at hand.”

The Betrayal of Jesus
(Mark 14:43–52; Luke 22:47–53; John 18:1–14)

47 While he was still speaking, behold, Judas, one of the twelve, came, and with him a great multitude with swords and clubs, from the chief priest and elders of the people. 48 Now he who betrayed him gave them a sign, saying, “Whoever I kiss, he is the one. Seize him.” 49 Immediately he came to Jesus, and said, “Hail, Rabbi!” and kissed him. 50 Jesus said to him, “Friend, why are you here?” Then they came and laid hands on Jesus, and took him.

51 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 struck off his ear. 52 Then Jesus said to him, “Put your sword back into its place, for all those who take the sword will die by the sword. 53 Or do you think that I couldn’t ask my Father, and he would even now send me more than twelve legions of angels? 54 How then would the Scriptures be fulfilled that it must be so?”

55 In that hour Jesus said to the multitudes, “Have you come out as against a robber with swords and clubs to seize me? I sat daily in the temple teaching, and you didn’t arrest me. 56 But all this has happened, that the Scriptures of the prophets might be fulfilled.” Then all the disciples left him, and fled.

Jesus before the Sanhedrin
(Mark 14:53–65; Luke 22:66–71; John 18:19–24)

57 Those who had taken Jesus led him away to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders were gathered together. 58 But Peter followed him from a distance, to the court of the high priest, and entered in and sat with the officers, to see the end.

59 Now the chief priests, the elders, and the whole council sought false testimony against Jesus, that they might put him to death; 60 and they found none. Even though many false witnesses came forward, they found none. But at last two false witnesses came forward, 61 and said, “This man said, ‘I am able to destroy the temple of God, and to build it in three days.’” 62 The high priest stood up, and said to him, “Have you no answer? What is this that these testify against you?” 63 But Jesus held his peace. The high priest answered him, “I adjure you by the living God, that you tell us whether you are the Christ, the Son of God.” 64 Jesus said to him, “You have said it. Nevertheless, I tell you, after this you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of Power, and coming on the clouds of the sky.”

65 Then the high priest tore his clothing, saying, “He has spoken blasphemy! Why do we need any more witnesses? Behold, now you have heard his blasphemy. 66 What do you think?” They answered, “He is worthy of death!”

67 Then they spit in his face and beat him with their fists, and some slapped him, 68 saying, “Prophesy to us, you Christ! Who hit you?”

Peter Denies Jesus
(Mark 14:66–72; Luke 22:54–62; John 18:15–18)

69 Now Peter was sitting outside in the court, and a maid came to him, saying, “You were also with Jesus, the Galilean!” 70 But he denied it before them all, saying, “I don’t know what you are talking about.” 71 When he had gone out onto the porch, someone else saw him, and said to those who were there, “This man also was with Jesus of Nazareth.” 72 Again he denied it with an oath, “I don’t know the man.” 73 After a little while those who stood by came and said to Peter, “Surely you are also one of them, for your speech makes you known.” 74 Then he began to curse and to swear, “I don’t know the man!” Immediately the rooster crowed. 75 Peter remembered the word which Jesus had said to him, “Before the rooster crows, you will deny me three times.” He went out and wept bitterly.

The Plot to Kill Jesus
(Mark 14:1–2; Luke 22:1–2; John 11:45–57)

1 When Jesus had finished saying all these things, He told His disciples, 2 “You know that the Passover is two days away, and the Son of Man will be handed over to be crucified.”

3 At that time the chief priests and elders of the people assembled in the courtyard of the high priest, whose name was Caiaphas, 4 and they conspired to arrest Jesus covertly and kill Him. 5 “But not during the feast,” they said, “or there may be a riot among the people.”

Jesus Anointed at Bethany
(Mark 14:3–9; Luke 7:36–50; John 12:1–8)

6 While Jesus was in Bethany in the home of Simon the Leper, a 7 a woman came to Him with an alabaster jar of expensive perfume, which she poured on His head as He reclined at the table.

8 When the disciples saw this, they were indignant and asked, “Why this waste? 9 This perfume could have been sold at a high price, and the money given to the poor.”

10 Aware of this, Jesus asked, “Why are you bothering this woman? She has done a beautiful deed to Me. 11 The poor you will always have with you, b but you will not always have Me. 12 By pouring this perfume on Me, she has prepared My body for burial. 13 Truly I tell you, wherever this gospel is preached in all the world, what she has done will also be told in memory of her.”

Judas Agrees to Betray Jesus
(Mark 14:10–11; Luke 22:3–6)

14 Then one of the Twelve, the one called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests 15 and asked, “What are you willing to give me if I hand Him over to you?” And they set out for him thirty pieces of silver. 16 So from then on Judas looked for an opportunity to betray Jesus.

Preparing the Passover
(Mark 14:12–16; Luke 22:7–13)

17 On the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, c the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Where do You want us to prepare for You to eat the Passover?”

18 He answered, “Go into the city to a certain man and tell him that the Teacher says, ‘My time is near. I will keep the Passover with My disciples at your house.’ ” 19 So the disciples did as Jesus had directed them and prepared the Passover.

The Last Supper
(Mark 14:17–26; Luke 22:14–23; 1 Corinthians 11:17–34)

20 When evening came, Jesus was reclining with the twelve disciples. d 21 And while they were eating, He said to them, “Truly I tell you, one of you will betray Me.”

22 They were deeply grieved and began to ask Him one after another, “Surely not I, Lord?”

23 Jesus answered, “The one who has dipped his hand into the bowl with Me will betray Me. 24 The Son of Man will go just as it is written about Him, but woe to that man by whom He is betrayed. It would be better for him if he had not been born.”

25 Then Judas, who would betray Him, said, “Surely not I, Rabbi?”

Jesus answered, “You have said it yourself.”

26 While they were eating, Jesus took bread, spoke a blessing and broke it, and gave it to the disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is My body.”

27 Then He took the cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you. 28 This is My blood of the covenant, e which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. 29 I tell you, I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it anew with you in My Father’s kingdom.”

30 And when they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.

Jesus Predicts Peter’s Denial
(Zechariah 13:7–9; Mark 14:27–31; Luke 22:31–38; John 13:36–38)

31 Then Jesus said to them, “This very night you will all fall away on account of Me. For it is written:

‘I will strike the Shepherd,

and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.’ f

32 But after I have risen, I will go ahead of you into Galilee.”

33 Peter said to Him, “Even if all fall away on account of You, I never will.”

34 “Truly I tell you,” Jesus declared, “this very night, before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.”

35 Peter replied, “Even if I have to die with You, I will never deny You.” And all the other disciples said the same thing.

Jesus Prays at Gethsemane
(Mark 14:32–42; Luke 22:39–46)

36 At that time Jesus went with His disciples to a place called Gethsemane, and He told them, “Sit here while I go over there and pray.”

37 He took with Him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee and began to be sorrowful and deeply distressed. 38 Then He said to them, “My soul is consumed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with Me.”

39 Going a little farther, He fell facedown and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me. Yet not as I will, but as You will.”

40 Then Jesus returned to the disciples and found them sleeping. “Were you not able to keep watch with Me for one hour?” He asked Peter. 41 “Watch and pray so that you will not enter into temptation. For the spirit is willing, but the body is weak.”

42 A second time He went away and prayed, “My Father, if this cup cannot pass unless I drink it, may Your will be done.” 43 And again Jesus returned and found them sleeping—for their eyes were heavy.

44 So He left them and went away once more and prayed a third time, saying the same thing. 45 Then He returned to the disciples and said, “Are you still sleeping and resting? Look, the hour is near, and the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. 46 Rise, let us go! See, My betrayer is approaching!”

The Betrayal of Jesus
(Mark 14:43–52; Luke 22:47–53; John 18:1–14)

47 While Jesus was still speaking, Judas, one of the Twelve, arrived, accompanied by a large crowd armed with swords and clubs, sent from the chief priests and elders of the people.

48 Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: “The One I kiss is the man; arrest Him.” 49 Going directly to Jesus, he said, “Greetings, Rabbi!” and kissed Him.

50 “Friend,” Jesus replied, “do what you came for.” g

Then the men stepped forward, seized Jesus, and arrested Him. 51 At this, one of Jesus’ companions drew his sword and struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his ear.

52 “Put your sword back in its place,” Jesus said to him. “For all who draw the sword will die by the sword. 53 Are you not aware that I can call on My Father, and He will at once put at My disposal more than twelve legions of angels? 54 But how then would the Scriptures be fulfilled that say it must happen this way?”

55 At that time Jesus said to the crowd, “Have you come out with swords and clubs to arrest Me as you would an outlaw? Every day I sat teaching in the temple courts, h and you did not arrest Me. 56 But this has all happened so that the writings of the prophets would be fulfilled.”

Then all the disciples deserted Him and fled.

Jesus before the Sanhedrin
(Mark 14:53–65; Luke 22:66–71; John 18:19–24)

57 Those who had arrested Jesus led Him away to the house of Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and elders had gathered. 58 But Peter followed Him at a distance, right up to the courtyard of the high priest. And he went in and sat down with the guards to see the outcome.

59 Now the chief priests and the whole Sanhedrin i were seeking false testimony against Jesus in order to put Him to death. 60 But they did not find any, though many false witnesses came forward.

Finally two came forward 61 and declared, “This man said, ‘I am able to destroy the temple of God and rebuild it in three days.’ ”

62 So the high priest stood up and asked Him, “Have You no answer? What are these men testifying against You?”

63 But Jesus remained silent.

Then the high priest said to Him, “I charge You under oath by the living God: Tell us if You are the Christ, the Son of God.”

64 “You have said it yourself,” Jesus answered. “But I say to all of you, from now on you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of Power j and coming on the clouds of heaven.” k

65 At this, the high priest tore his clothes and declared, “He has blasphemed! Why do we need any more witnesses? Look, now you have heard the blasphemy. 66 What do you think?”

“He deserves to die,” they answered.

67 Then they spit in His face and struck Him. Others slapped Him 68 and said, “Prophesy to us, Christ! Who hit You?”

Peter Denies Jesus
(Mark 14:66–72; Luke 22:54–62; John 18:15–18)

69 Meanwhile, Peter was sitting out in the courtyard, and a servant girl came up to him. “You also were with Jesus the Galilean,” she said.

70 But he denied it before them all: “I do not know what you are talking about.”

71 When Peter had gone out to the gateway, another servant girl saw him and said to the people there, “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, those standing nearby came up to Peter. “Surely you are one of them,” they said, “for your accent gives you away.”

74 At that he began to curse and swear to them, “I do not know the man!”

And immediately a rooster crowed.

75 Then Peter remembered the word that Jesus had spoken: “Before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.” And he went outside and wept bitterly.

The Plot to Kill Jesus

(Mark 14:1-2; Luke 22:1-6; John 11:45-57)

1And it came to pass, when Jesus finished all these words, he said to his disciples, 2'Ye have known that after two days the passover cometh, and the Son of Man is delivered up to be crucified.'

3Then were gathered together the chief priests, and the scribes, and the elders of the people, to the court of the chief priest who was called Caiaphas; 4and they consulted together that they might take Jesus by guile, and kill him, 5and they said, 'Not in the feast, that there may not be a tumult among the people.'

Jesus Anointed at Bethany

(Mark 14:3-9; John 12:1-8)

6And Jesus having been in Bethany, in the house of Simon the leper, 7there came to him a woman having an alabaster box of ointment, very precious, and she poured on his head as he is reclining (at meat). 8And having seen it, his disciples were much displeased, saying, 'To what purpose is this waste? 9for this ointment could have been sold for much, and given to the poor.' 10And Jesus having known, said to them, 'Why do ye give trouble to the woman? for a good work she wrought for me; 11for the poor always ye have with you, and me ye have not always; 12for she having put this ointment on my body -- for my burial she did it. 13Verily I say to you, Wherever this good news may be proclaimed in the whole world, what this one did shall also be spoken of -- for a memorial of her.'

Judas Agrees to Betray Jesus

(Zechariah 11:10-17; Matthew 27:3-10; Mark 14:10-11)

14Then one of the twelve, who is called Judas Iscariot, having gone unto the chief priests, said, 15'What are ye willing to give me, and I will deliver him up to you?' and they weighed out to him thirty silverlings, 16and from that time he was seeking a convenient season to deliver him up.

The Last Supper

(Psalm 41:1-13; Mark 14:12-21; Luke 22:7-13; John 13:18-30)

17And on the first day of the unleavened food came the disciples near to Jesus, saying to him, 'Where wilt thou that we may prepare for thee to eat the passover?' 18and he said, 'Go away to the city, unto such a one, and say to him, The Teacher saith, My time is nigh; near thee I keep the passover, with my disciples;' 19and the disciples did as Jesus appointed them, and prepared the passover.

20And evening having come, he was reclining (at meat) with the twelve, 21and while they are eating, he said, 'Verily I say to you, that one of you shall deliver me up.' 22And being grieved exceedingly, they began to say to him, each of them, 'Is it I, Sir?' 23And he answering said, 'He who did dip with me the hand in the dish, he will deliver me up; 24the Son of Man doth indeed go, as it hath been written concerning him, but woe to that man through whom the Son of Man is delivered up! good it were for him if that man had not been born.' 25And Judas -- he who delivered him up -- answering said, 'Is it I, Rabbi?' He saith to him, 'Thou hast said.'

The Lord's Supper Instituted

(Mark 14:22-26; Luke 22:14-23; 1 Corinthians 11:17-34)

26And while they were eating, Jesus having taken the bread, and having blessed, did brake, and was giving to the disciples, and said, 'Take, eat, this is my body;' 27and having taken the cup, and having given thanks, he gave to them, saying, 'Drink ye of it -- all; 28for this is my blood of the new covenant, that for many is being poured out -- to remission of sins; 29and I say to you, that I may not drink henceforth on this produce of the vine, till that day when I may drink it with you new in the reign of my Father.'

30And having sung a hymn, they went forth to the mount of the Olives;

Jesus Predicts Peter's Denial

(Mark 14:27-31; Luke 22:31-38; John 13:36-38)

31then saith Jesus to them, 'All ye shall be stumbled at me this night; for it hath been written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered abroad; 32but, after my having risen, I will go before you to Galilee.' 33And Peter answering said to him, 'Even if all shall be stumbled at thee, I will never be stumbled.' 34Jesus said to him, 'Verily I say to thee, that, this night, before cock-crowing, thrice thou wilt deny me.' 35Peter saith to him, 'Even if it may be necessary for me to die with thee, I will not deny thee;' in like manner also said all the disciples.

Jesus Prays at Gethsemane

(Mark 14:32-42; Luke 22:39-46)

36Then come with them doth Jesus to a place called Gethsemane, and he saith to the disciples, 'Sit ye here, till having gone away, I shall pray yonder.' 37And having taken Peter, and the two sons of Zebedee, he began to be sorrowful, and to be very heavy; 38then saith he to them, 'Exceedingly sorrowful is my soul -- unto death; abide ye here, and watch with me.'

39And having gone forward a little, he fell on his face, praying, and saying, 'My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as Thou.' 40And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them sleeping, and he saith to Peter, 'So! ye were not able one hour to watch with me! 41watch, and pray, that ye may not enter into temptation: the spirit indeed is forward, but the flesh weak.'

42Again, a second time, having gone away, he prayed, saying, 'My Father, if this cup cannot pass away from me except I drink it, Thy will be done;' 43and having come, he findeth them again sleeping, for their eyes were heavy. 44And having left them, having gone away again, he prayed a third time, saying the same word; 45then cometh he unto his disciples, and saith to them, 'Sleep on henceforth, and rest! lo, the hour hath come nigh, and the Son of Man is delivered up to the hands of sinners. 46Rise, let us go; lo, he hath come nigh who is delivering me up.'

Jesus' Betrayal and Arrest

(Mark 14:43-52; Luke 22:47-53; John 18:1-14)

47And while he is yet speaking, lo, Judas, one of the twelve did come, and with him a great multitude, with swords and sticks, from the chief priests and elders of the people. 48And he who did deliver him up did give them a sign, saying, 'Whomsoever I will kiss, it is he: lay hold on him;' 49and immediately, having come to Jesus, he said, 'Hail, Rabbi,' and kissed him; 50and Jesus said to him, 'Comrade, for what art thou present?' Then having come near, they laid hands on Jesus, and took hold on him.

51And lo, one of those with Jesus, having stretched forth the hand, drew his sword, and having struck the servant of the chief priest, he took off his ear. 52Then saith Jesus to him, 'Turn back thy sword to its place; for all who did take the sword, by the sword shall perish; 53dost thou think that I am not able now to call upon my Father, and He will place beside me more than twelve legions of messengers? 54how then may the Writings be fulfilled, that thus it behoveth to happen?'

55In that hour said Jesus to the multitudes, 'As against a robber ye did come forth, with swords and sticks, to take me! daily with you I was sitting teaching in the temple, and ye did not lay hold on me; 56but all this hath come to pass, that the Writings of the prophets may be fulfilled;' then all the disciples, having left him, fled.

Jesus Before the Sanhedrin

(Isaiah 53:1-8; Mark 14:53-65; John 18:19-24; 1 Peter 2:21-25)

57And those laying hold on Jesus led him away unto Caiaphas the chief priest, where the scribes and the elders were gathered together, 58and Peter was following him afar off, unto the court of the chief priest, and having gone in within, he was sitting with the officers, to see the end.

59And the chief priests, and the elders, and all the council, were seeking false witness against Jesus, that they might put him to death, 60and they did not find; and many false witnesses having come near, they did not find; and at last two false witnesses having come near, 61said, 'This one said, I am able to throw down the sanctuary of God, and after three days to build it.' 62And the chief priest having stood up, said to him, 'Nothing thou dost answer! what do these witness against thee? 63and Jesus was silent. And the chief priest answering said to him, 'I adjure thee, by the living God, that thou mayest say to us, if thou art the Christ -- the Son of God.' 64Jesus saith to him, 'Thou hast said; nevertheless I say to you, hereafter ye shall see the Son of Man sitting on the right hand of the power, and coming upon the clouds, of the heaven.'

65Then the chief priest rent his garments, saying, -- 'He hath spoken evil; what need have we yet of witnesses? lo, now ye heard his evil speaking; 66what think ye?' and they answering said, 'He is worthy of death.'

67Then did they spit in his face and buffet him, and others did slap, 68saying, 'Declare to us, O Christ, who he is that struck thee?'

Peter Denies Jesus

(Mark 14:66-72; Luke 22:54-62; John 18:15-18)

69And Peter without was sitting in the court, and there came near to him a certain maid, saying, 'And thou wast with Jesus of Galilee!' 70And he denied before all, saying, 'I have not known what thou sayest.' 71And he having gone forth to the porch, another female saw him, and saith to those there, 'And this one was with Jesus of Nazareth;' 72and again did he deny with an oath -- 'I have not known the man.' 73And after a little those standing near having come, said to Peter, 'Truly thou also art of them, for even thy speech doth make thee manifest.' 74Then began he to anathematise, and to swear -- 'I have not known the man;' and immediately did a cock crow, 75and Peter remembered the saying of Jesus, he having said to him -- 'Before cock-crowing, thrice thou wilt deny me;' and having gone without, he did weep bitterly.

The Plot to Kill Jesus

¹ When Jesus had finished saying all these profound words, He turned to His disciples with gravity in His voice and said, ² "As you know, the Passover festival begins in two days. What you don't yet fully understand is that during this celebration, I, the Son of Man, will be handed over to be crucified."

³ Meanwhile, in the opulent courtyards of Caiaphas the high priest's palace, the religious elite—the chief priests and religious scholars—gathered in secret, their hearts hardened with jealousy and fear. ⁴ In hushed voices, they schemed to capture Jesus through deception, planning His death while maintaining a facade of justice. ⁵ "But not during the Passover festival," they whispered anxiously. "The crowds of pilgrims adore Him. If we move then, they might riot in His defense."

Jesus Anointed at Bethany

⁶ While this dark plot unfolded, Jesus was in Bethany, sharing a meal at the home of Simon, known throughout the village as the man Jesus had healed of leprosy. ⁷ During their intimate gathering, a woman approached Jesus with an alabaster jar of extravagantly expensive perfume. With tears in her eyes and love in her heart, she poured the fragrant oil over His head as He reclined at the table, the sweet aroma filling the entire house. ⁸ The disciples watched this display of devotion with disapproval, their practical minds calculating the waste. "How could she be so careless?" they muttered among themselves. ⁹ "This perfume could have been sold for a year's wages! Think of how many poor families we could have helped with that money."

¹⁰ Jesus, knowing their thoughts, gently rebuked their judgment: "Why are you criticizing this woman? What she has done for Me is beautiful and profound. ¹¹ "You will always have opportunities to help the poor—and you should. But you won't always have Me here with you in person. ¹² "When she poured this perfume on My body, she was preparing Me for burial. Her act of love carries more significance than you understand." ¹³ "I tell you the absolute truth—wherever the Good News of God's Kingdom is proclaimed throughout the world, this woman's act of devotion will be remembered. Her story will be told to inspire generations with the beauty of sacrificial love."

Judas Agrees to Betray Jesus

¹⁴ It was after this that Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve chosen disciples, allowed darkness to overcome his heart. He made his way to the chief priests' quarters. ¹⁵ He asked them, "What will you give me if I help you arrest Jesus?" They counted out thirty silver coins—the price of a common slave—and placed them in his hands. ¹⁶ From that moment, Judas began watching for the perfect opportunity to betray his Master, the weight of those coins a constant reminder of his choice.

The Last Supper

¹⁷ On the first day of the Festival of Unleavened Bread, the disciples came to Jesus asking, "Where would You like us to prepare the Passover meal for You?" ¹⁸ Jesus gave them specific instructions: "Go into the city and find this particular man. Tell him, 'The Teacher says: My appointed time is near. I will celebrate the Passover with My disciples at your house.'" ¹⁹ The disciples followed Jesus' instructions exactly, marveling at His knowledge as they found everything just as He had said. They began preparing the traditional Passover meal.

²⁰ As evening descended and the city quieted for the holy festival, Jesus reclined at the table with His twelve disciples. ²¹ While they were eating, Jesus' voice carried deep sorrow as He said, "I tell you the truth—one of you will betray Me." ²² Their hearts were pierced with grief and fear. One by one, they began asking Him, "Lord, surely You don't mean me?"

²³ Jesus replied, His voice heavy with emotion, "One who has dipped his bread with Me in the bowl will betray Me. ²⁴ I, the Son of Man, will go to My death just as the ancient Scriptures predicted. But utter sorrow awaits the one who betrays Me—that man will wish he had never been born." ²⁵ Then Judas, his heart racing and palm sweating against the coins hidden in his robe, forced himself to ask, "Rabbi, surely you don't mean me?" Jesus looked at him with eyes full of love and grief: "You have said it yourself."

Jesus Institutes the Lord’s Supper

²⁶ During the meal, Jesus took the bread, gave thanks to His Father, and broke it. He gave pieces to His disciples saying, "Take and eat this—it is My body, broken for you." ²⁷ Then He took the cup of wine, offered a prayer of thanksgiving, and passed it to them. ²⁸ "Drink from it, all of you," He said. "This wine represents My blood, which seals God's new covenant of forgiveness and restoration. My blood will be poured out for many, washing away their sins. ²⁹ "Remember this: I will not drink wine again until that glorious day when I drink it anew with you in My Father's Kingdom."

Jesus Predicts Peter’s Denial

³⁰ After singing a hymn of praise together, with their voices joining in ancient psalms of hope, they walked out into the night toward the Mount of Olives. ³¹ Then Jesus told them, "Tonight all of you will desert Me. As the prophet Zechariah wrote,

'When I, God will strike the Shepherd,
The sheep will scatter.'

³² But take heart—after I have been raised up, I will go ahead of you to Galilee. We will reunite there." ³³ Peter, ever confident, declared passionately, "Even if everyone else deserts You, I never will!" ³⁴ Jesus looked at him with deep compassion and said, "Peter, listen carefully—this very night, before the rooster crows at dawn, you will deny knowing Me three times." ³⁵ Peter protested vehemently, "Even if I have to die with You, I will never deny You!" All the other disciples made the same passionate promise.

Jesus Prays in Gethsemane

³⁶ Jesus led them to an olive grove called Gethsemane. He told most of the disciples, "Sit here while I go over there to pray." ³⁷ But He took Peter and Zebedee's two sons, James and John, with Him. Suddenly, intense anguish and horror filled His soul. ³⁸ He confided in them, "My soul is crushed with grief to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with Me." ³⁹ Going a little farther, Jesus fell face down on the ground. His prayer rose from the depths of agony: "My Father, if there is any way, let this cup of suffering be taken from Me. Yet I want Your will, not Mine."

⁴⁰ When He returned to the three disciples, He found them sleeping. He asked Peter, "Couldn't you stay awake and watch with Me for just one hour? ⁴¹ Keep alert and pray. Otherwise temptation will overpower you. For the spirit is willing, but the human body is weak." ⁴² Again Jesus left them and prayed, "My Father, if this cup of suffering cannot be taken away until I drink it, may Your will be done." ⁴³ When He returned again, He found them sleeping, their eyes heavy with exhaustion and sorrow. ⁴⁴ So He left them and prayed a third time, repeating His surrender to the Father's will. ⁴⁵ Then He returned to the disciples and said, "Still sleeping? Still resting? Look, the time has come. I, the Son of Man, am being betrayed into the hands of sinners. ⁴⁶ Get up! Let's go! Look, My betrayer is here!"

Jesus Arrested

⁴⁷ And even as Jesus said this, Judas, one of the twelve disciples, arrived with a large crowd carrying swords and clubs. They had been sent by the chief priests and elders of the people. ⁴⁸ The betrayer had given them a sign: "The one I greet with a kiss is the man; arrest Him." ⁴⁹ Judas walked straight to Jesus, feigning warmth: "Greetings, Rabbi!" and kissed Him. ⁵⁰ Jesus replied, His voice filled with sorrow rather than anger, "My friend, do what you came for." Then the men grabbed Jesus and arrested Him.

⁵¹ One of Jesus' followers—impulsive, passionate—drew his sword and slashed at the high priest's servant, cutting off his ear. ⁵² Jesus commanded, "Put your sword back in its place! Those who use violence will die by violence. ⁵³ Don't you realize that I could ask My Father, and He would instantly send tens of thousands of angels to protect Me? ⁵⁴ But if I did, how could the Scriptures be fulfilled that describe what must happen now?"

⁵⁵ Then Jesus addressed the mob: "Am I some dangerous revolutionary, that you come with swords and clubs to arrest Me? Why didn't you arrest Me in the Temple? I sat teaching there every day. ⁵⁶ But this is all happening to fulfill the words of the prophets as recorded in the Scriptures." At this point, all the disciples deserted Him and fled into the night.

Jesus Before the Sanhedrin

⁵⁷ Those who had arrested Jesus took Him to Caiaphas, the high priest, where the religious scholars and elders had gathered. ⁵⁸ Peter followed at a distance to the high priest's courtyard. He slipped inside and sat with the guards, hoping to see what would happen. ⁵⁹ Inside, the chief priests and the entire high council were trying to find witnesses who would lie about Jesus, so they could put Him to death. ⁶⁰ But even though many false witnesses came forward, they couldn't find anything usable. Finally, two men stepped forward ⁶¹ who declared, "This man said, 'I can destroy God's Temple and rebuild it in three days.'" ⁶² The high priest stood and demanded, "Well, aren't You going to answer these charges? What do You have to say for Yourself?"

⁶³ But Jesus remained silent. Then the high priest said to Him, "I demand under an oath in the name of the living God—tell us if You are the Messiah, the Son of God." ⁶⁴ Jesus replied, "You have said it. And in the future you will see Me, the Son of Man, seated at God's right hand in the place of power and coming on the clouds of heaven."

⁶⁵ Then the high priest tore his clothing to show his horror and shouted, "Blasphemy! Why do we need other witnesses? You have all heard His blasphemy! ⁶⁶ What is your verdict?" They shouted back, "Guilty! He deserves to die!" ⁶⁷ Then they began to spit in Jesus' face and beat Him with their fists. Others slapped Him, ⁶⁸ jeering, "Prophesy to us, You Messiah! Who hit You that time?"

Peter Disowns Jesus

⁶⁹ Meanwhile, Peter was sitting outside in the courtyard. A servant girl came over and said to him, "You were one of those with Jesus the Galilean." ⁷⁰ But Peter denied it in front of everyone. "I don't know what you're talking about," he said. ⁷¹ Later, out by the gate, another servant girl noticed him and said to those standing around, "This man was with Jesus of Nazareth." ⁷² Again Peter denied it, this time with an oath. "I don't even know the man," he declared. ⁷³ A little later some of the other bystanders came over to Peter and said, "You must be one of them; we can tell by your Galilean accent." ⁷⁴ Peter began to curse, then swore a solemn oath: "I don't know the man!" And immediately the rooster crowed. ⁷⁵ Suddenly, Peter remembered what Jesus had said: "Before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times." He rushed out, his heart breaking, and wept bitterly.

Footnotes:

Verse 6 (a) Aramaic Simon the Potter  or Simon the Jar Maker
Verse 11 (b) See Deuteronomy 15:11.
Verse 17 (c) Literally On the first of the Unleavened ; see Exodus 12:14–20.
Verse 20 (d) BYZ and TR the Twelve
Verse 28 (e) BYZ and TR the new covenant
Verse 31 (f) Zechariah 13:7
Verse 50 (g) Or “Friend,” Jesus replied, “for what have you come?”
Verse 55 (h) Literally the temple
Verse 59 (i) Or the whole Council
Verse 64 (j) Or the right hand of the Mighty One
Verse 64 (k) See Psalm 110:1 and Daniel 7:13.

Special thanks to the BSB Translation for the above footnotes.

The F.O.G Commentary:

1What is the meaning of Matthew 26?

1.1Context of Matthew 26

1.2Ancient Key Word Study

1.3Question the Text:

1.4Matthew 26 Unique Insights

1.5Matthew 26 Connections to Yeshua

1.6Matthew 26 Scriptural Echoes

1.7Matthew 26 Devotional

1.8Did You Know

What is the meaning of Matthew 26?

Imagine knowing that in just a few hours, you would be betrayed by a close friend, abandoned by those who swore loyalty, and condemned to die unjustly. How would you respond? Would you run? Fight back? Or would you surrender to a higher purpose?

Matthew 26 isn’t just another chapter in the Bible—it’s the turning point of history. It invites us into the raw emotions of Yeshua’s (Jesus’) final hours before the crucifixion, where love and betrayal, anguish and obedience, collide in a breathtaking sequence of events. A woman breaks open an alabaster jar of extravagantly expensive perfume, pouring out her love on Jesus in an act of pure worship and devotion. And immediately afterwards, in ‘self-righteous’ disgust, Judas plots to betray Him for a mere thirty pieces of silver. Then we see the last Passover meal which becomes the first Lord’s Supper, the intense ‘crushing’ prayers in Gethsemane, and the moment of arrest—all unfold with divine precision, fulfilling ancient prophecies and revealing God’s ultimate plan of redemption.

This chapter is more than history; it speaks directly to us today. It exposes human frailty, yet magnifies the unwavering love of our Messiah. It challenges us to examine our own hearts—where do we stand when tested? As we explore Matthew 26, let’s step into the story and discover what it means for our faith, our struggles, and our walk with God.

Context of Matthew 26

Within the immediate context of Matthew’s Gospel, chapter 26 marks the beginning of the passion narrative, following Yeshua’s extensive teaching ministry and His final discourse about the end times in chapters 24-25. This positioning is crucial as it shows how the Messiah’s teachings about His kingdom culminate in His sacrificial death, which establishes that very kingdom.

The larger biblical context reveals how this chapter serves as a fulcrum point where numerous Old Testament prophecies converge. The Passover context recalls the exodus from Egypt, while the betrayal price of thirty pieces of silver echoes Zechariah 11:12-13. The suffering servant passages from Isaiah 53 find their vivid fulfillment in these events, demonstrating how the entire Hebrew Bible points to this decisive moment.

This chapter also bridges the old and new covenants, as Yeshua transforms the Passover meal into the New Covenant celebration, fulfilling Jeremiah 31:31-34. The events described here set the stage for the crucifixion, resurrection, and the birth of the early church, making it a crucial transition point in salvation history.

Ancient Key Word Study

παραδίδωμι (paradidōmi) – “to hand over” or “betray” (v. 2, 15, 16, 21, 23, 24, 25, 45, 46, 48): This word appears repeatedly throughout the chapter, emphasizing the theme of betrayal. In the Septuagint, it was used for delivering someone into enemy hands, carrying both legal and covenantal implications. Its frequent use creates a stark contrast between human treachery and divine purpose.
διαθήκη (diathēkē) – “covenant” (v. 28): This powerful term carries the weight of both testament and covenant, representing a binding agreement just like marriage. In the context of the Last Supper, Yeshua uses it to establish the New Covenant, fulfilling and transforming the old covenant represented by the Passover meal.
Γεθσημανί (Gethsēmani) – “Gethsemane” (v. 36): Derived from the Hebrew words for “oil press,” this location name carries deep symbolism. Just as olives were crushed to produce oil, the Messiah was pressed with the weight of responsibility for the world’s sins in this garden.
ἀγρυπνέω (agrypneō) – “to keep watch” (v. 38, 40, 41): This verb literally means “to be sleepless” and was used in military contexts for staying alert on guard duty. Its use here emphasizes both the spiritual warfare aspect of the moment and the disciples’ human weakness.
ποτήριον (potērion) – “cup” (v. 39, 42): In Hebrew thought, the cup was a metaphor for one’s portion or lot in life, particularly divine judgment. Yeshua’s willingness to drink this cup shows His acceptance of the Father’s will and the judgment that should have been ours.
ψευδομαρτυρία (pseudomartyria) – “false testimony” (v. 59): This compound word literally means “false witness” and carries strong legal connotations. It points to the corruption of justice and the fulfillment of Psalm 35:11 regarding false witnesses rising up.
προφήτευσον (prophēteuson) – “prophesy” (v. 68): Used mockingly by Yeshua’s tormentors, this word ironically highlights His true prophetic role while fulfilling Isaiah 50:6 about the suffering servant.
ἀλέκτωρ (alektōr) – “rooster or cock-crow” (v. 74): This ordinary word takes on extraordinary significance as the timekeeper of Peter’s denial, showing how God uses common elements to mark pivotal spiritual moments. See ‘Did you Know’ below for an alternative reading.

Question the Text:

Matthew 26:7 – Why did the woman choose to pour such expensive ointment on the Messiah rather than selling it and giving to the poor, as some objected? What does this reveal about different perspectives on devotion and generosity?
Matthew 26:14-16 – What was Judas’ motivation for betraying the Messiah? Was it purely financial, or was there a deeper disappointment or misunderstanding about His mission?
Matthew 26:23-25 – Why does the Messiah reveal that one of the Twelve will betray Him without directly stopping Judas? What does this teach about free will and divine foreknowledge?
Matthew 26:26-28 – How would the disciples have understood the Messiah’s words about His body and blood at the Last Supper? Would they have recognized this as a fulfillment of covenant imagery, or would it have seemed confusing at the time?
Matthew 26:36-39 – Why does the Messiah ask the Father to let the cup pass from Him if He came for this purpose? What does this reveal about the tension between His human experience and divine mission?
Matthew 26:47-50 – Why does Judas betray the Messiah with a kiss, an act typically associated with affection? What does this say about the nature of deception and hypocrisy?
Matthew 26:51-54 – Why does the Messiah tell Peter to put away his sword, yet also say He could call down twelve legions of angels? How does this challenge expectations of how divine power should be used?
Matthew 26:59-61 – Why were false witnesses needed if the religious leaders were determined to put the Messiah to death? What does this suggest about their own fears of legitimacy?
Matthew 26:63-64 – Why does the Messiah remain silent until directly asked if He is the Son of God? What is the significance of His response referencing Daniel’s vision of the Son of Man?
Matthew 26:69-75 – Why does Peter, one of the Messiah’s closest disciples, deny Him so vehemently even after declaring he would never fall away? What does this reveal about fear and human weakness?

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Matthew 26 Unique Insights

The chapter contains several layers of meaning that become apparent when viewed through ancient Jewish eyes. The timing of events corresponds to the preparation of the Passover lamb in the Temple, where thousands of lambs were being examined for blemishes while the true Lamb of God was being questioned by the Sanhedrin. The Mishnah (Pesachim 5:3) details the precise timing of these Temple activities, providing a profound backdrop to the gospel narrative.

Rabbi Gamaliel’s school taught that four cups of wine were required at the Passover Seder, each representing one of the four promises in Exodus 6:6-7. When Yeshua took the cup after supper, it was likely the third cup, known as the “Cup of Redemption.” This timing adds deeper significance to His words about the New Covenant, as it connected His coming sacrifice with God’s promise of redemption.

The early church father Origen noted that the garden of Gethsemane served as a reversal of the Garden of Eden. In Eden, the first Adam chose his own will over God’s; in Gethsemane, the last Adam submitted His will to the Father. The Hebrew word “Gethsemane” (גת שמנים – “oil press”) suggests the crushing weight of this moment, where our Messiah was pressed like olives to produce the oil of joyful salvation.

The Talmud (Sanhedrin 43a) preserves a fascinating detail that for forty days before the execution of a criminal, a herald would go out and cry, “He is going forth to be stoned… whoever knows anything in his favor, let him come and plead it.” Matthew’s account shows how this legal requirement was corrupted in Yeshua’s trial, with the authorities seeking false testimony instead of truth.

Matthew 26 Connections to Yeshua

This chapter presents Yeshua as both the ultimate Passover Lamb and the inaugurator of the New Covenant. His actions at the Last Supper transform the ancient Exodus narrative into a new exodus, where liberation comes not from political bondage but from sin itself. The bread and wine become powerful symbols of His body and blood, establishing a new covenant relationship between God and humanity.

The chapter also reveals Yeshua’s dual nature as fully God and fully man. In Gethsemane, we see His human struggle with the impending cup of suffering, while His perfect submission to the Father’s will demonstrates His divine nature. This tension reaches its climax in His declaration before the Sanhedrin, where He openly claims divine identity by referencing Daniel 7:13-14, leading to the charge of blasphemy.

Matthew 26 Scriptural Echoes

The chapter resonates with numerous Old Testament passages:

The betrayal price echoes Zechariah 11:12-13
The scattered sheep fulfill Zechariah 13:7
The false witnesses recall Psalm 27:12
The cup of suffering connects to Psalm 75:8
The Son of Man reference draws from Daniel 7:13-14

These connections demonstrate how the Hebrew Scriptures anticipated and illuminated the Messiah’s suffering and glory, hundreds of years in advance. No other ‘holy’ book has this claim.

Matthew 26 Devotional

This chapter challenges us to examine our own faithfulness in the face of pressure. Like Peter, we may confidently proclaim our loyalty to Yeshua, only to falter when testing comes. Yet the chapter also shows us the path to restoration through honest repentance and renewed commitment to God’s will over our own.

The Messiah’s example in Gethsemane teaches us how to face our own “cups” of suffering. His words, “Not as I will, but as You will,” provide a model for submitting our desires to God’s greater purpose. This submission isn’t passive resignation but active trust in the Father’s perfect plan.

We’re also reminded that even in our moments of greatest failure, God’s sovereign purpose prevails. Just as the disciples’ abandonment and Peter’s denial couldn’t thwart God’s redemptive plan, our failures don’t ultimately defeat God’s purpose for our lives when we return to Him in repentance.

Did You Know

The “cock-crow” mentioned in Peter’s denial could refer to the Roman military trumpet that sounded the watch changes, as chickens were not permitted within Jerusalem’s city limits according to rabbinical law. Whether the Romans cared for this rule is another matter.
The kiss of betrayal by Judas would have been especially painful in Jewish culture, where a kiss from a disciple to their rabbi was a sign of deep respect and submission to their teaching.
The specific mention of “two days before Passover” places these events on what we would call Wednesday, as Jews counted partial days as full days in their reckoning.
The alabaster flask broken by the woman contained spikenard, an expensive Persian perfume that would have cost about a year’s wages for a common laborer.
The arrangement of guests at the Last Supper would have followed strict Jewish customs, with the most honored position being to the host’s left – likely where Judas was seated, making his betrayal even more poignant.
The “hymn” sung after the Last Supper would have been the Hallel (Psalms 113-118), traditionally sung at Passover, making Yeshua’s final act of worship a proclamation of God’s faithfulness.
The high priest’s tearing of his garments violated the biblical command in Leviticus 21:10, showing how the religious leadership was breaking their own laws in their zeal to condemn Yeshua.
The servants who struck Yeshua were likely Temple guards, making their mockery of His prophetic office particularly ironic as they served in the very house of God.

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Bible Themes

Jean Paul Joseph

After a dramatic early morning encounter with King Jesus, I just couldn’t put my Bible down. The F.O.G took a hold of me and this website was born. What is the F.O.G?

Articles: 46871

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