Mark 14:26 Study Bible: When they had sung the hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.

◄ Mark 14:26 ►

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

And when they had sung a hymn
This phrase marks a significant moment in the Last Supper narrative. The Greek word for "hymn" is "hymneō," which refers to a song of praise. Historically, this would have been part of the Hallel Psalms (Psalms 113-118), traditionally sung during Passover. These psalms celebrate God's deliverance and faithfulness, fitting for the context of Jesus preparing for His ultimate act of deliverance through the crucifixion. The act of singing a hymn together signifies unity and shared faith among Jesus and His disciples, even as they face impending trials.

they went out
The phrase "they went out" indicates a transition from the intimate setting of the Last Supper to the broader narrative of Jesus' passion. The Greek word "exerchomai" implies a purposeful departure. This movement is not just physical but also symbolic, as Jesus steps closer to fulfilling His mission. The disciples, though unaware of the full scope of what is to come, follow Jesus, demonstrating their commitment and the unfolding of divine providence.

to the Mount of Olives
The Mount of Olives holds deep historical and prophetic significance. Located east of Jerusalem, it is a place of prayer and prophecy. In the Old Testament, it is associated with the glory of the Lord (Ezekiel 11:23) and the anticipated return of the Messiah (Zechariah 14:4). For Jesus, it is a place of solace and prayer, as seen in His frequent visits. This location sets the stage for the events of Gethsemane, where Jesus will pray fervently and prepare for His sacrificial death. The Mount of Olives thus becomes a symbol of Jesus' obedience and the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus
Central figure in the Gospel, preparing for His impending crucifixion.

2. The Disciples
Followers of Jesus, present with Him during the Last Supper and the subsequent events.

3. The Hymn
Likely a traditional Passover hymn, possibly from the Hallel (Psalms 113-118), sung after the Passover meal.

4. The Mount of Olives
A significant location east of Jerusalem, often a place of teaching and prayer for Jesus, and the setting for His arrest.

5. The Last Supper
The final meal Jesus shares with His disciples, during which He institutes the Lord's Supper.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Worship in Times of Trial
Even as Jesus faced imminent suffering, He engaged in worship, demonstrating the power and necessity of praise in difficult times.

The Role of Tradition in Faith
The singing of a hymn reflects the continuity of Jewish tradition and its fulfillment in Christ, encouraging believers to appreciate and understand the roots of their faith.

Preparation for Spiritual Battles
Jesus' movement to the Mount of Olives signifies preparation for the spiritual battle ahead, reminding believers to seek solitude and prayer in their own times of trial.

Community in Crisis
Jesus did not face His final hours alone but with His disciples, highlighting the importance of community and support in times of crisis.

Prophetic Fulfillment
The events at the Mount of Olives fulfill Old Testament prophecies, reinforcing the reliability of Scripture and God's sovereign plan.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the act of singing a hymn before facing trials reflect Jesus' approach to worship and reliance on God?

2. In what ways can the tradition of singing hymns or psalms enhance your personal or communal worship experience?

3. What significance does the Mount of Olives hold in both the life of Jesus and in biblical prophecy, and how does this impact your understanding of God's plan?

4. How can you cultivate a supportive community of faith to help you through personal trials, as Jesus did with His disciples?

5. Reflect on a time when you prepared spiritually for a challenging situation. How did prayer and worship play a role in your preparation?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 26:30
Parallel account of the same event, emphasizing the transition from the Last Supper to the Mount of Olives.

Psalm 118
Part of the Hallel, which may have been sung by Jesus and His disciples, reflecting themes of deliverance and thanksgiving.

Zechariah 14:4
Prophetic significance of the Mount of Olives, highlighting its eschatological importance.

John 18:1
Describes Jesus crossing the Kidron Valley to the Mount of Olives, setting the stage for His arrest.

Sermons

Place of Forms in Religion	S. Cox, D. D.	Mark 14:26
Singing in Heaven	Prof. Austin Phelps.	Mark 14:26
Singing in Prospect of Death	A. W. Atwood.	Mark 14:26
Soothing Influence of Hymn Singing	H. W. Beecher.	Mark 14:26
The Best Harmony	N. Macleod, D. D.	Mark 14:26
The Jewish Psalms	J. Baldwin Brown, B. A.	Mark 14:26
The Love of Singing Sanctioned by Jesus		Mark 14:26
The Power of a Hymn		Mark 14:26
The Power of a Hymn		Mark 14:26
Value of Forms of Prayer and Praise	S. Cox, D. D.	Mark 14:26
The Betrayal by Judas	J.J. Given	Mark 14:1-11, 18-21, 43-50
Betrayal	R. Green	Mark 14:10, 11, 17-21, 43-52
The Lord's Supper	R. Green	Mark 14:12-16, 22-26
Warnings	E. Johnson	Mark 14:26-31
The Agony in Gethsemane	J.J. Given	Mark 14:26-42

People

James, Jesus, John, Judas, Peter, Simon

Places

Bethany, Galilee, Gethsemane, Jerusalem, Mount of Olives

Topics

Forth, Hymn, Mount, Mountain, Olives, Praise, Singing, Song, Sung

Dictionary of Bible Themes

Mark 14:26

     7927   hymn
     7960   singing
     7963   song

Library

July 28 Evening
Let your requests be made known unto God.--PHIL. 4:6. Abba, Father, all things are possible unto thee; take away this cup from me: nevertheless not what I will, but what thou wilt.--There was given to me a thorn in the flesh. For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities. I poured out my complaint before him; I shewed …
Anonymous—Daily Light on the Daily Path

July 18 Evening
She hath done what she could.--MARK 14:8. This poor widow hath cast in more than they all.--Whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink in my name, because ye belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward.--If there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not. Let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.--If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, and one of you …
Anonymous—Daily Light on the Daily Path

February 7 Evening
Jesus . . . was moved with compassion toward them.--MATT. 14:14. Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and for ever.--We have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.--Who can have compassion on the ignorant, and on them that are out of the way.--He cometh, and findeth them sleeping, and saith unto Peter, Simon, sleepest thou? couldest not thou watch one hour? Watch ye and pray, lest ye enter …
Anonymous—Daily Light on the Daily Path

'Is it I?'
'Is it I?'--Mark xiv. 19 The scene shows that Judas had not as yet drawn any suspicion on himself. Here the Apostles seem to be higher than their ordinary stature; for they do not take to questioning one another, or even to protest, 'No!' but to questioning Christ. I. The solemn prophecy. It seems strange at first sight that our Lord should have introduced such thoughts then, disturbing the sweet repose of that hallowed hour. But the terrible fact of the betrayal was naturally suggested by the emblems …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Sleeping Apostle
'Simon, sleepest thou!'--Mark xiv. 37 It is a very old Christian tradition that this Gospel is in some sense the Apostle Peter's. There are not many features in the Gospel itself which can be relied on as confirming this idea. Perhaps one such may be found in this plaintive remonstrance, which is only preserved for us here. Matthew's Gospel, indeed, tells us that the rebuke was addressed to Peter, but blunts the sharp point of it as directed to him, by throwing it into the plural, as if spoken to …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

A Secret Rendezvous
'And the first day of unleavened bread, when they killed the pastorer, His disciples said unto Him, Where wilt Thou that we go and prepare that Thou mayest eat the passover? 13. And He sendeth forth two of His disciples, and saith unto them, Go ye into the city, and there shall meet you a man bearing a pitcher of water: follow him. 14. And wheresoever he shall go in, say ye to the goodman of the house, The Master saith, Where is the guestchamber, where I shall eat the passover with My disciples? …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The New Passover
'And the first day of unleavened bread, when they killed the Passover, the disciples said unto Him, Where wilt Thou that we go and prepare that Thou mayest eat the Passover? 13. And He sendeth forth two of His disciples, and saith unto them, Go ye into the city, and there shall meet you a man bearing a pitcher of water: follow him. 14. And wheresoever he shall go in, say ye to the goodman of the house, The Master saith, Where is the guestchamber, where I shall eat the Passover with My disciples? …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

'Strong Crying and Tears'
'And they came to a place which was named Gethsemane: and He saith to His disciples, Sit ye here, while I shall pray. 33. And He taketh with Him Peter and James and John, and began to be sore amazed, and to be very heavy; 34. And saith onto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful unto death: tarry ye here, and watch. 35. And He went forward a little, and fell on the ground, and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour might pass from Him. 36. And He said, Abba, Father, all things are possible unto …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Captive Christ and the Circle Round Him
'And immediately, while He yet spake, cometh Judas, one of the twelve, and with him a great multitude with swords and staves, from the chief priests and the scribes and the elders. 44. And he that betrayed Him had given them a token, saying, Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is He; take Him, and lead Him away safely. 45. And as soon as he was come, he goeth straightway to Him, and saith, Master, Master; and kissed Him. 46. And they laid their hands on Him, and took Him. 47. And one of them that …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Condemnation which Condemns the Judges
'And the chief priests and all the council sought for witness against Jesus to put Him to death; and found none. 56. For many bare false witness against Him, but their witness agreed not together. 57. And there arose certain, and bare false witness against Him, saying, 58. We heard Him say, I will destroy this temple that is made with hands, and within three days I will build another made without hands. 59. But neither so did their witness agree together. 60. And the high priest stood up in their …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Alabaster Box
'And Jesus said, Let her alone; why trouble ye her? she hath wrought a good work on Me.... 8. She hath done what she could: she is come aforehand to anoint My body to the burying. 9. Verily I say unto you. Wheresoever this gospel shall be preached throughout the whole world, this also that she hath done shall be spoken of for a memorial of her.'--Mark xiv. 6-9. John's Gospel sets this incident in its due framework of time and place, and tells us the names of the actors. The time was within a week …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Questions About the Lord's Supper
THE paper which begins at this page requires a few words of prefatory explanation. It consists of fifty-one questions about the Lord's Supper, with special reference to points which are the subject of much dispute and controversy in the present day. It supplies fifty-one answers to these questions, chiefly drawn from the New Testament, and the Articles, Communion Service, and Catechism of the Church of England. It contains, in addition, some valuable extracts from the writings of standard English …
John Charles Ryle—The Upper Room: Being a Few Truths for the Times

That He who is About to Communicate with Christ Ought to Prepare Himself with Great Diligence
The Voice of the Beloved I am the Lover of purity, and Giver of sanctity. I seek a pure heart, and there is the place of My rest. Prepare for Me the larger upper room furnished, and I will keep the Passover at thy house with my disciples.(1) If thou wilt that I come unto thee and abide with thee, purge out the old leaven,(2) and cleanse the habitation of thy heart. Shut out the whole world, and all the throng of sins; sit as a sparrow alone upon the house-top,(3) and think upon thy transgressions …
Thomas A Kempis—Imitation of Christ

Twenty-Eighth Lesson. Father! not what I Will;'
Father! Not what I will;' Or, Christ the Sacrifice. And He said, Abba, Father, all things are possible unto Thee; remove this cup from me: howbeit not what I will, but what Thou wilt.'--Mark xiv. 36. WHAT a contrast within the space of a few hours! What a transition from the quiet elevation of that, He lifted up His eyes to heaven, and said, FATHER I WILL,' to that falling on the ground and crying in agony. My Father! Not what I will.' In the one we see the High Priest within the veil in His …
Andrew Murray—With Christ in the School of Prayer

Letter xiii. Christian Activity.
"She hath done what she could."--MARK 14:8. MY DEAR SISTER, You doubtless feel a deep interest in the great benevolent enterprises of the present day. No one who possesses the spirit of our Master can be indifferent towards them. It is important, then, that you should know what you can do towards moving forward these enterprises. For, remember that your obligation is as extensive as your ability. Christ commended the woman, referred to in the passage above quoted for doing "what she could." …
Harvey Newcomb—A Practical Directory for Young Christian Females

Mark.
Commentaries. George Petter (the largest Com. on M., London, 1661, 2 vols. fol.); C. Fr. A. Fritzsche (Evangelium Marci, Lips., 1830); A. Klostermann (Das Marcusevangelium nach seinem Quellenwerthe für die evang. Gesch., Göttingen, 1867); B. Weiss (Das Marcusevangelium und seine synopt. Parallelen, Berlin, 1872); Meyer (6th ed. by Weiss, Gött., 1878); Joseph A. Alexander (New York, 1858, and London, 1866); Harvey Goodwin (London, 1860); John H. Godwin (London, 1869); James Morison …
Philip Schaff—History of the Christian Church, Volume I

"She Hath done what She Could. " Mark 14:8.
"She hath done what she could." Mark 14:8. 1 Bless, O bless, Almighty Father, Woman's mission with our race,-- Her fond strivings here to gather Fruits of thy redeeming grace. 2 Though her way be not where honor Wins the gazing world's acclaim, Yet we bless thee that upon her Rests the power of Jesus' name. 3 In that name, O Father, strengthen Her full heart and ready hands; May her efforts serve to lengthen Christian love's encircling bands. 4 Where the mourning and the needy And the suffering …
J.G. Adams—Hymns for Christian Devotion

Jerusalem
For the history of the disciples after the death of Jesus we are dependent upon a single source, the Acts of the Apostles, which can, however, be controlled, and to some extent corrected, by the gospels and by the epistles of Paul. It is now generally recognised that if any one wishes to write a life of Christ he ought to base his work not on the gospels as we have them now, but rather on the information provided by the critical analysis of the gospels as to their sources. These sources, or at least …
Kirsopp Lake—Landmarks in the History of Early Christianity

Watch and Pray. --Mark. xiv. 38
Watch and Pray.--Mark. xiv. 38. Our Saviour's words are "Watch and Pray:" Lord, make us willing to obey; Lord, make us able to fulfil Thy counsel--give both power and will. The wisdom from above impart, To keep our hand, and tongue, and heart, In thought, word, deed,--that so we may Pray whilst we watch, watch while we pray. Lest while we watch, and fear no snare, We fall into neglect of prayer; Or, while we pray, and watch not, sin Creep like a subtil serpent in. When by an evil world beset, …
James Montgomery—Sacred Poems and Hymns

As the Rind of a Pomegranate are Thy Cheeks, Besides that which is Hidden Within.
As the rind of the pomegranate is the least part of it, and includes all its excellence, so with this soul, its exterior appears of small account in comparison with what is concealed within. [42] The interior is filled with, the purest charity and the most advanced graces, but hidden under a very common exterior; for God takes pleasure in hiding away the souls He destines for Himself. Men are not worthy to know them, though the angels admire and respect them even under the humblest external form …
Madame Guyon—Song of Songs of Solomon

Links

Mark 14:26 NIV
Mark 14:26 NLT
Mark 14:26 ESV
Mark 14:26 NASB
Mark 14:26 KJV

Mark 14:26 Commentaries

Bible Hub