◄ Matthew 26 ►
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Summary The Last Supper Matthew 26 is a moving exploration of Jesus' journey towards the cross, illustrating His selflessness, love, and submission to the Father's will. It also highlights the human frailty of His disciples, reminding us of our need for grace. In every trial, Jesus remains our perfect example of faithful obedience and surrender to God's will, even as He faces the greatest of sufferings. As we navigate our own trials, may we follow His example, trusting in God's will and seeking His strength in prayer. Verses 1-5: Plot to Kill Jesus The chief priests and elders plot to kill Jesus, but not during the feast to avoid a riot. Verses 6-13: Anointing at Bethany In Bethany, a woman anoints Jesus with expensive perfume. When the disciples protest the waste, Jesus commends her act as preparation for His burial, assuring them that her deed will be remembered. Verses 14-16: Judas Agrees to Betray Jesus Judas Iscariot agrees to betray Jesus to the chief priests in exchange for thirty pieces of silver. Verses 17-30: The Last Supper Jesus and His disciples celebrate the Passover. During the meal, Jesus foretells His betrayal, initiates the Lord's Supper, and predicts Peter's denial. Verses 31-35: Jesus Predicts Peter's Denial Despite Peter's vehement protest, Jesus predicts that Peter will deny Him three times before the rooster crows. Verses 36-46: Jesus Prays in Gethsemane Jesus agonizes in prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane, seeking the Father's will and finding the strength to face the imminent ordeal. Verses 47-56: Arrest of Jesus Judas betrays Jesus with a kiss, leading to His arrest. A disciple cuts off a servant's ear, but Jesus heals it and reprimands the violent act. Verses 57-68: Jesus' Trial before Caiaphas Jesus stands before Caiaphas and the Sanhedrin. Despite false testimonies, Jesus remains silent until He affirms His identity as the Christ, the Son of God, which prompts charges of blasphemy. Verses 69-75: Peter's Denial As predicted, Peter denies knowing Jesus three times and weeps bitterly when he hears the rooster crow. Matthew 26 captures some of the most poignant moments of Jesus' earthly ministry. It begins with the plot against Jesus and His anointing at Bethany, moves to the Last Supper and the prediction of Peter's denial, then shows Jesus' agonizing prayer in Gethsemane, His arrest, trial, and Peter's subsequent denial. It is a chapter filled with betrayal, devotion, prediction, agony, surrender, and denial. Teaching Points The Plot to Kill Jesus When Jesus had finished saying all these things, He told His disciples, 'You know that the Passover is two days away, and the Son of Man will be handed over to be crucified.' (Matthew 26:1-2). Jesus was fully aware of the impending betrayal and crucifixion, yet He willingly submitted to the Father's plan. The Anointing at Bethany A woman came to Him with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, which she poured on His head as He was reclining at the table. (Matthew 26:7). This act of worship and devotion contrasts sharply with the betrayal that follows, highlighting the value of true worship. Judas' Betrayal Then one of the Twelve—the one called Judas Iscariot—went to the chief priests and asked, 'What are you willing to give me if I hand Him over to you?' So they set out for him thirty pieces of silver. (Matthew 26:14-15). Judas' betrayal for a paltry sum underscores the tragic consequences of greed and disloyalty. The Last Supper 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.' (Matthew 26:26). The institution of the Lord's Supper is a powerful reminder of Christ's sacrifice and the new covenant in His blood. Jesus' Prayer in Gethsemane 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.' (Matthew 26:39). Jesus' prayer in the garden reveals His humanity and His submission to God's will, even in the face of immense suffering. Peter's Denial Foretold Jesus said to him, 'Truly I tell you, this very night, before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.' (Matthew 26:34). Despite Peter's confidence, Jesus predicts his denial, teaching us about human frailty and the need for divine strength. Practical Applications Embrace Sacrificial Worship Like the woman with the alabaster jar, we are called to offer our best to Jesus, recognizing His worth above all else. Guard Against Betrayal Reflect on areas in your life where you might be tempted to compromise your faith for worldly gain, and seek God's strength to remain faithful. Remember the New Covenant Regularly partake in the Lord's Supper with a heart of gratitude, remembering the sacrifice of Christ and the promise of eternal life. Submit to God's Will In times of trial, follow Jesus' example in Gethsemane by seeking God's will above your own desires. Acknowledge Human Weakness Recognize your own limitations and rely on God's grace to sustain you, especially in moments of testing. People 1. Jesus Central figure in the chapter, referred to as "Jesus" (Greek: Ἰησοῦς, Iēsous). He is the Messiah and the Son of God, who predicts His own betrayal and crucifixion. 2. The Chief Priests and Elders Religious leaders of the Jewish people who conspire to arrest Jesus by stealth and kill Him (Matthew 26:3-4). The Greek terms used are "ἀρχιερεῖς" (archiereis) for chief priests and "πρεσβύτεροι" (presbyteroi) for elders. 3. Caiaphas The high priest at the time, mentioned specifically in Matthew 26:3. His name in Greek is Καϊάφας (Kaiaphas), and he plays a key role in the plot against Jesus. 4. Judas Iscariot One of the twelve disciples, who betrays Jesus for thirty pieces of silver (Matthew 26:14-16). His name in Greek is Ἰούδας Ἰσκαριώτης (Ioudas Iskariōtēs). 5. The Disciples The group of Jesus' followers, specifically the twelve apostles, who are with Him during the Last Supper and in the Garden of Gethsemane (Matthew 26:17-46). The Greek term used is μαθηταί (mathētai). 6. Peter One of Jesus' closest disciples, who vows never to deny Him but later does so three times (Matthew 26:33-35, 69-75). His name in Greek is Πέτρος (Petros). 7. A Woman with an Alabaster Jar An unnamed woman who anoints Jesus' head with expensive perfume at the house of Simon the leper (Matthew 26:6-13). Her act is seen as a preparation for Jesus' burial. 8. Simon the Leper The host of the dinner where Jesus is anointed by the woman (Matthew 26:6). His name in Greek is Σίμων (Simōn). 9. The Servant Girl A servant girl who recognizes Peter as one of Jesus' followers during his denial (Matthew 26:69). The Greek term for servant girl is παιδίσκη (paidiskē). 10. The High Priest's Servant A servant of the high priest whose ear is cut off by one of Jesus' disciples during His arrest (Matthew 26:51). The Greek term used is δοῦλος (doulos). Places 1. Bethany In Matthew 26:6, Jesus is at the house of Simon the leper in Bethany. Bethany is a village on the eastern slope of the Mount of Olives, near Jerusalem. It is significant as a place where Jesus often visited and performed miracles, such as raising Lazarus from the dead (John 11). 2. The House of Simon the Leper Also in Matthew 26:6, this is the specific location in Bethany where Jesus is anointed by a woman with expensive perfume. The house of Simon the leper is notable for this act of devotion, which Jesus says will be remembered wherever the gospel is preached. 3. Jerusalem While not explicitly named in Matthew 26, Jerusalem is the implied setting for the events of the Last Supper and Jesus' subsequent arrest. Jerusalem is the central city of Jewish worship and the location of the Temple, making it a significant place for the events leading up to Jesus' crucifixion. 4. Gethsemane In Matthew 26:36, Jesus goes with His disciples to a place called Gethsemane to pray. Gethsemane is a garden located at the foot of the Mount of Olives. The name "Gethsemane" comes from the Aramaic "Gat Shemanim," meaning "oil press," indicating it was likely an olive grove with an oil press. 5. The High Priest's Courtyard In Matthew 26:57-58, Jesus is taken to the house of Caiaphas, the high priest, where the scribes and elders are assembled. This courtyard is where Peter denies Jesus three times, fulfilling Jesus' earlier prophecy. Events 1. The Plot to Kill Jesus (Matthew 26:1-5) Jesus predicts His crucifixion, and the chief priests and elders plot to arrest and kill Him. The Greek term "συνέδριον" (synedrion) refers to the council or assembly plotting against Jesus. 2. The Anointing at Bethany (Matthew 26:6-13) A woman anoints Jesus with expensive perfume, symbolizing preparation for His burial. The Greek word "μύρον" (myron) indicates the costly ointment used. 3. Judas Agrees to Betray Jesus (Matthew 26:14-16) Judas Iscariot agrees to betray Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. The term "παραδιδόναι" (paradidonai) means to hand over or betray. 4. The Last Supper (Matthew 26:17-30) Jesus shares the Passover meal with His disciples, instituting the Lord's Supper. The Greek "εὐχαριστήσας" (eucharistēsas) means "having given thanks," related to the Eucharist. 5. Jesus Predicts Peter’s Denial (Matthew 26:31-35) Jesus foretells that Peter will deny Him three times before the rooster crows. The Greek "ἀπαρνήσῃ" (aparnēsē) means to deny or disown. 6. Jesus Prays in Gethsemane (Matthew 26:36-46) Jesus prays fervently in the Garden of Gethsemane, expressing His anguish. The term "ἀδημονεῖν" (adēmonein) conveys deep distress or trouble. 7. The Betrayal and Arrest of Jesus (Matthew 26:47-56) Judas betrays Jesus with a kiss, and Jesus is arrested. The Greek "φιλήματι" (philēmati) refers to the kiss, a sign of betrayal. 8. Jesus Before the Sanhedrin (Matthew 26:57-68) Jesus is brought before the Sanhedrin, where false witnesses accuse Him. The term "ψευδομαρτυρίαν" (pseudomarturian) means false testimony. 9. Peter’s Denial of Jesus (Matthew 26:69-75) Peter denies knowing Jesus three times, fulfilling Jesus' prediction. The Greek "ἀλέκτωρ" (alektōr) refers to the rooster that crows. Connections to Additional Scriptures Isaiah 53:5 Reflects on the suffering servant, prophesying the sacrifice of Christ. John 13:21-30 Provides additional insight into Judas' betrayal during the Last Supper. 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 Paul's teaching on the Lord's Supper, emphasizing its significance. Hebrews 5:7-9 Describes Jesus' prayers and submission, highlighting His role as our High Priest. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for Christ's Sacrifice Praise God for the gift of His Son and the salvation we have through His sacrifice. Strength to Remain Faithful Ask for the Holy Spirit's guidance to stay true to Christ in all circumstances. Willingness to Submit Pray for a heart that seeks God's will above personal desires, especially in challenging times. Protection from Temptation Request God's protection against the temptations that lead to betrayal and sin. Empowerment to Worship Seek God's help to worship Him with sincerity and devotion, offering your life as a living sacrifice. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the plot to kill Jesus highlight the tension between His Kingdom and the world? 2. What significance do you see in the woman's act of anointing Jesus? 3. How do you interpret Judas' decision to betray Jesus? What motivations might have driven him? 4. How does the Last Supper establish the foundation for the Christian practice of Communion? 5. What can we learn from Jesus' prediction of Peter's denial and Peter's reaction? 6. What insights does Jesus' prayer in Gethsemane offer about dealing with personal agony and surrendering to God's will? 7. How does the arrest of Jesus challenge our understanding of power and Kingdom values? 8. How can we apply the lessons from Jesus' trial before Caiaphas in the face of false accusations or injustices? 9. What does Peter's denial teach us about fear, failure, and grace? 10. How does Matthew 26 inspire you to stay faithful in times of personal trials? 11. How would you relate to Peter's denial in your personal faith journey? 12. What can you learn from Jesus' response to Judas' betrayal, and how can it guide you when dealing with personal betrayals? 13. How does Jesus' time in Gethsemane inform your understanding of prayer in difficult times? 14. What does the woman's anointing of Jesus teach us about worship and devotion? 15. How can you draw strength from Jesus' response to His impending crucifixion? 16. What steps can you take to prevent denial or betrayal of your faith in difficult times? 17. How does Jesus' healing of the servant's ear inform your understanding of forgiveness? 18. How does the prediction of Peter's denial resonate with your own experiences of failure and restoration? 19. How can the events of Matthew 26 increase your understanding of the depth of Jesus' love and sacrifice? 20. How can Jesus' prayer in Gethsemane guide your own prayers when facing trials and decisions? Topics 1. The Plot to Kill Jesus The chapter begins with the religious leaders conspiring to arrest and kill Jesus. This plot highlights the growing tension between Jesus and the Jewish authorities. The Greek term "συμβούλιον" (symboulion) is used, indicating a council or plan. 2. The Anointing at Bethany A woman anoints Jesus with expensive perfume, which He interprets as preparation for His burial. This act of devotion is met with criticism from the disciples, but Jesus defends her actions. The Greek word "μύρον" (myron) refers to the costly ointment used. 3. Judas Agrees to Betray Jesus Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve disciples, agrees to betray Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. This act of betrayal fulfills Old Testament prophecies and sets the stage for the Passion narrative. The term "παραδίδωμι" (paradidomi) is used, meaning to hand over or betray. 4. The Last Supper Jesus shares the Passover meal with His disciples, instituting the Lord's Supper. He breaks bread and shares the cup, symbolizing His body and blood. The Greek word "διαθήκη" (diathēkē) is used for covenant, emphasizing the new covenant established through His sacrifice. 5. Jesus Predicts Peter's Denial Jesus foretells that Peter will deny Him three times before the rooster crows. This prediction underscores the weakness of human resolve and the fulfillment of Jesus' foreknowledge. 6. Jesus Prays in Gethsemane In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus prays fervently, expressing His anguish and submission to the Father's will. The Greek term "ἀγωνία" (agonia) captures the intense emotional struggle He experiences. 7. The Arrest of Jesus Judas arrives with a large crowd to arrest Jesus, identifying Him with a kiss. This moment marks the beginning of Jesus' Passion and the fulfillment of His earlier predictions. 8. Jesus Before the Sanhedrin Jesus is brought before the Jewish council, where false witnesses testify against Him. Despite the accusations, Jesus remains mostly silent, fulfilling the prophecy of the suffering servant. 9. Peter's Denial As Jesus predicted, Peter denies knowing Him three times. This event highlights the frailty of human loyalty and the need for divine grace. Each of these topics reflects key moments in the Passion narrative, emphasizing themes of betrayal, sacrifice, and fulfillment of prophecy. Themes 1. The Plot to Kill Jesus The chapter begins with the religious leaders conspiring to arrest and kill Jesus. This theme highlights the growing opposition to Jesus and the fulfillment of prophetic scripture. The Greek word "συμβούλιον" (symboulion) is used, meaning "council" or "plan," indicating the deliberate and calculated nature of their plot (Matthew 26:3-4). 2. The Anointing at Bethany A woman anoints Jesus with expensive perfume, symbolizing honor and preparation for His burial. This act of devotion contrasts with the betrayal that follows. The Greek term "μύρον" (myron) refers to the costly ointment, emphasizing the sacrificial nature of her act (Matthew 26:6-13). 3. Judas' Betrayal Judas Iscariot agrees to betray Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. This theme underscores the fulfillment of prophecy and the tragic choice of Judas. The Greek word "παραδίδωμι" (paradidomi) means "to hand over" or "betray," highlighting the gravity of Judas' actions (Matthew 26:14-16). 4. The Last Supper Jesus shares the Passover meal with His disciples, instituting the Lord's Supper. This theme emphasizes the new covenant and the sacrificial nature of Jesus' impending death. The Greek "διαθήκη" (diathēkē) is used for "covenant," signifying a binding agreement (Matthew 26:26-29). 5. Jesus Predicts Peter's Denial Jesus foretells that Peter will deny Him three times, illustrating human weakness and the need for divine grace. The Greek "ἀπαρνέομαι" (aparneomai) means "to deny," reflecting Peter's forthcoming failure (Matthew 26:31-35). 6. The Agony in Gethsemane Jesus prays in the Garden of Gethsemane, expressing His anguish and submission to the Father's will. This theme highlights Jesus' humanity and obedience. The Greek "ἀδημονέω" (adēmoneō) conveys deep distress, showing the intensity of His emotional struggle (Matthew 26:36-46). 7. The Arrest of Jesus Jesus is arrested by a crowd led by Judas, fulfilling His prediction of betrayal. This theme marks the beginning of His passion and the fulfillment of His mission. The Greek "συλλαμβάνω" (syllambanō) means "to seize" or "arrest," indicating the forceful nature of the event (Matthew 26:47-56). 8. Jesus Before the Sanhedrin Jesus is tried before the Jewish council, where false witnesses accuse Him. This theme highlights the injustice and fulfillment of prophecy regarding His suffering. The Greek "συνέδριον" (synedrion) refers to the council, underscoring the formal yet unjust proceedings (Matthew 26:57-68). 9. Peter's Denial Peter denies knowing Jesus three times, fulfilling Jesus' prediction and illustrating human frailty. The Greek "ἀρνέομαι" (arneomai) is used for "deny," emphasizing Peter's repeated failure (Matthew 26:69-75). Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions