1 After two days was the feast of the passover, and of unleavened bread: and the chief priests and the scribes sought how they might take him by craft, and put him to death.

But they said, Not on the feast day, lest there be an uproar of the people.

And being in Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, as he sat at meat, there came a woman having an alabaster box of ointment of spikenard very precious; and she brake the box, and poured it on his head.

And there were some that had indignation within themselves, and said, Why was this waste of the ointment made?

For it might have been sold for more than three hundred pence, and have been given to the poor. And they murmured against her.

And Jesus said, Let her alone; why trouble ye her? she hath wrought a good work on me.

For ye have the poor with you always, and whensoever ye will ye may do them good: but me ye have not always.

She hath done what she could: she is come aforehand to anoint my body to the burying.

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.

10 And Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve, went unto the chief priests, to betray him unto them.

11 And when they heard it, they were glad, and promised to give him money. And he sought how he might conveniently betray him.

12 And the first day of unleavened bread, when they killed the passover, 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?

15 And he will shew you a large upper room furnished and prepared: there make ready for us.

16 And his disciples went forth, and came into the city, and found as he had said unto them: and they made ready the passover.

17 And in the evening he cometh with the twelve.

18 And as they sat and did eat, Jesus said, Verily I say unto you, One of you which eateth with me shall betray me.

19 And they began to be sorrowful, and to say unto him one by one, Is it I? and another said, Is it I?

20 And he answered and said unto them, It is one of the twelve, that dippeth with me in the dish.

21 The Son of man indeed goeth, as it is written of him: but woe to that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed! good were it for that man if he had never been born.

22 And as they did eat, Jesus took bread, and blessed, and brake it, and gave to them, and said, Take, eat: this is my body.

23 And he took the cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them: and they all drank of it.

24 And he said unto them, This is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many.

25 Verily I say unto you, I will drink no more of the fruit of the vine, until that day that I drink it new in the kingdom of God.

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

27 And Jesus saith unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered.

28 But after that I am risen, I will go before you into Galilee.

29 But Peter said unto him, Although all shall be offended, yet will not I.

30 And Jesus saith unto him, Verily I say unto thee, That this day, even in this night, before the cock crow twice, thou shalt deny me thrice.

31 But he spake the more vehemently, If I should die with thee, I will not deny thee in any wise. Likewise also said they all.

32 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 unto 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 thee; take away this cup from me: nevertheless not what I will, but what thou wilt.

37 And he cometh, and findeth them sleeping, and saith unto Peter, Simon, sleepest thou? couldest not thou watch one hour?

38 Watch ye and pray, lest ye enter into temptation. The spirit truly is ready, but the flesh is weak.

39 And again he went away, and prayed, and spake the same words.

40 And when he returned, he found them asleep again, (for their eyes were heavy,) neither wist they what to answer him.

41 And he cometh the third time, and saith unto them, Sleep on now, and take your rest: it is enough, the hour is come; behold, the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners.

42 Rise up, let us go; lo, he that betrayeth me is at hand.

43 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 stood by drew a sword, and smote a servant of the high priest, and cut off his ear.

48 And Jesus answered and said unto them, Are ye come out, as against a thief, with swords and with staves to take me?

49 I was daily with you in the temple teaching, and ye took me not: but the scriptures must be fulfilled.

50 And they all forsook him, and fled.

51 And there followed him a certain young man, having a linen cloth cast about his naked body; and the young men laid hold on him:

52 And he left the linen cloth, and fled from them naked.

53 And they led Jesus away to the high priest: and with him were assembled all the chief priests and the elders and the scribes.

54 And Peter followed him afar off, even into the palace of the high priest: and he sat with the servants, and warmed himself at the fire.

55 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 the midst, and asked Jesus, saying, Answerest thou nothing? what is it which these witness against thee?

61 But he held his peace, and answered nothing. Again the high priest asked him, and said unto him, Art thou the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?

62 And Jesus said, I am: and ye shall see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven.

63 Then the high priest rent his clothes, and saith, What need we any further witnesses?

64 Ye have heard the blasphemy: what think ye? And they all condemned him to be guilty of death.

65 And some began to spit on him, and to cover his face, and to buffet him, and to say unto him, Prophesy: and the servants did strike him with the palms of their hands.

66 And as Peter was beneath in the palace, there cometh one of the maids of the high priest:

67 And when she saw Peter warming himself, she looked upon him, and said, And thou also wast with Jesus of Nazareth.

68 But he denied, saying, I know not, neither understand I what thou sayest. And he went out into the porch; and the cock crew.

69 And a maid saw him again, and began to say to them that stood by, This is one of them.

70 And he denied it again. And a little after, they that stood by said again to Peter, Surely thou art one of them: for thou art a Galilaean, and thy speech agreeth thereto.

71 But he began to curse and to swear, saying, I know not this man of whom ye speak.

72 And the second time the cock crew. And Peter called to mind the word that Jesus said unto him, Before the cock crow twice, thou shalt deny me thrice. And when he thought thereon, he wept.

Commentary

Verse 1

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ anointed at Bethany.
Did Christ pour out his soul unto death for us, and shall we think any thing too precious for him? Do we give him the precious ointment of our best affections? Let us love him with all the heart, though it is common for zeal and affection to be misunderstood and blamed; and remember that charity to the poor will not excuse any from particular acts of piety to the Lord Jesus. Christ commended this woman's pious attention to the notice of believers in all ages. Those who honour Christ he will honour. Covetousness was Judas' master lust, and that betrayed him to the sin of betraying his Master; the devil suited his temptation to that, and so conquered him. And see what wicked contrivances many have in their sinful pursuits; but what appears to forward their plans, will prove curses in the end.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Matthew 26:2.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
(Matthew 26:1) ; (Luke 22:1) .
Bible Cross References
Genesis 37:18 Exodus 12:1 Matthew 12:14 Matthew 26:2 Matthew 26:4 Mark 14:2 Mark 14:12 Luke 22:1 Luke 22:2 John 11:55 John 13:1 Acts 12:4

Verse 2

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ anointed at Bethany.
Did Christ pour out his soul unto death for us, and shall we think any thing too precious for him? Do we give him the precious ointment of our best affections? Let us love him with all the heart, though it is common for zeal and affection to be misunderstood and blamed; and remember that charity to the poor will not excuse any from particular acts of piety to the Lord Jesus. Christ commended this woman's pious attention to the notice of believers in all ages. Those who honour Christ he will honour. Covetousness was Judas' master lust, and that betrayed him to the sin of betraying his Master; the devil suited his temptation to that, and so conquered him. And see what wicked contrivances many have in their sinful pursuits; but what appears to forward their plans, will prove curses in the end.
McArther Bible Commentary
Not during the feast. Because the Passover had to be celebrated in Jerusalem, the city would have been overflowing; perhaps as many as two million people were there. Since many would have been from Galilee-an area where Jesus had many followers-and the religious leaders did not want to start a riot, they determined to wait until after the Passover season when the crowds would be diminished (see note on Mat 26:5).
Bible Cross References
Matthew 26:2 Matthew 26:5 Mark 14:1 Mark 14:3 Luke 22:1

Verse 3

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ anointed at Bethany.
Did Christ pour out his soul unto death for us, and shall we think any thing too precious for him? Do we give him the precious ointment of our best affections? Let us love him with all the heart, though it is common for zeal and affection to be misunderstood and blamed; and remember that charity to the poor will not excuse any from particular acts of piety to the Lord Jesus. Christ commended this woman's pious attention to the notice of believers in all ages. Those who honour Christ he will honour. Covetousness was Judas' master lust, and that betrayed him to the sin of betraying his Master; the devil suited his temptation to that, and so conquered him. And see what wicked contrivances many have in their sinful pursuits; but what appears to forward their plans, will prove curses in the end.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Matthew 26:6-13; John 12:3.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
(Matthew 26:6) .
McArther Bible Commentary
The incident recorded here had occurred the previous Saturday (cf. Joh 12:1). It is Mark's account of the anointing of Jesus by Mary in preparation for His crucifixion (cf. Mat 26:6-13; Joh 12:2-8).
Bible Cross References
Song of Solomon 1:12 Matthew 21:17 Matthew 26:6 Matthew 26:7 Mark 14:2 Mark 14:4 Luke 7:37 John 12:1 John 12:3

Verse 4

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ anointed at Bethany.
Did Christ pour out his soul unto death for us, and shall we think any thing too precious for him? Do we give him the precious ointment of our best affections? Let us love him with all the heart, though it is common for zeal and affection to be misunderstood and blamed; and remember that charity to the poor will not excuse any from particular acts of piety to the Lord Jesus. Christ commended this woman's pious attention to the notice of believers in all ages. Those who honour Christ he will honour. Covetousness was Judas' master lust, and that betrayed him to the sin of betraying his Master; the devil suited his temptation to that, and so conquered him. And see what wicked contrivances many have in their sinful pursuits; but what appears to forward their plans, will prove curses in the end.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Matthew 26:6-13; John 12:3.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Some had indignation - Being incited thereto by Judas: and said - Probably to the women.
McArther Bible Commentary
some who were indignant. Joh 12:4-5 says that Judas was the instigator, and Mat 26:8 indicates that all the disciples, following Judas' lead, were angry with Mary's waste of a valuable commodity.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 20:24 Mark 14:3 Mark 14:5

Verse 5

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ anointed at Bethany.
Did Christ pour out his soul unto death for us, and shall we think any thing too precious for him? Do we give him the precious ointment of our best affections? Let us love him with all the heart, though it is common for zeal and affection to be misunderstood and blamed; and remember that charity to the poor will not excuse any from particular acts of piety to the Lord Jesus. Christ commended this woman's pious attention to the notice of believers in all ages. Those who honour Christ he will honour. Covetousness was Judas' master lust, and that betrayed him to the sin of betraying his Master; the devil suited his temptation to that, and so conquered him. And see what wicked contrivances many have in their sinful pursuits; but what appears to forward their plans, will prove curses in the end.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Matthew 26:6-13; John 12:3.
McArther Bible Commentary
three hundred denarii. Since a denarius was a day's wage for a common laborer, it represented almost a year's work for such a person. given to the poor. While eleven of the disciples would have agreed with this use of the money, the fact is that the poor may never have seen it. Since Judas was in reality a thief masquerading as the treasurer of the Ttwelve, he could have embezzled all of it (Joh 12:6).
Bible Cross References
Matthew 18:28 Matthew 20:11 Mark 14:4 Mark 14:6

Verse 6

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ anointed at Bethany.
Did Christ pour out his soul unto death for us, and shall we think any thing too precious for him? Do we give him the precious ointment of our best affections? Let us love him with all the heart, though it is common for zeal and affection to be misunderstood and blamed; and remember that charity to the poor will not excuse any from particular acts of piety to the Lord Jesus. Christ commended this woman's pious attention to the notice of believers in all ages. Those who honour Christ he will honour. Covetousness was Judas' master lust, and that betrayed him to the sin of betraying his Master; the devil suited his temptation to that, and so conquered him. And see what wicked contrivances many have in their sinful pursuits; but what appears to forward their plans, will prove curses in the end.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Matthew 26:6-13; John 12:3.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 26:10 Mark 14:5 Mark 14:7

Verse 7

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ anointed at Bethany.
Did Christ pour out his soul unto death for us, and shall we think any thing too precious for him? Do we give him the precious ointment of our best affections? Let us love him with all the heart, though it is common for zeal and affection to be misunderstood and blamed; and remember that charity to the poor will not excuse any from particular acts of piety to the Lord Jesus. Christ commended this woman's pious attention to the notice of believers in all ages. Those who honour Christ he will honour. Covetousness was Judas' master lust, and that betrayed him to the sin of betraying his Master; the devil suited his temptation to that, and so conquered him. And see what wicked contrivances many have in their sinful pursuits; but what appears to forward their plans, will prove curses in the end.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Matthew 26:6-13; John 12:3.
McArther Bible Commentary
you have the poor with you always. Opportunities to minister to the poor are always available, but Jesus would be in their presence for only a limited time. This was not a time for meeting the needs of the poor and the sick; it was a time for sacrificial worship of the One who would soon suffer and be crucified (see note on Mat 26:11; cf. Mar 2:19).
Bible Cross References
Deuteronomy 15:11 Matthew 26:11 Mark 14:6 John 12:8

Verse 8

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ anointed at Bethany.
Did Christ pour out his soul unto death for us, and shall we think any thing too precious for him? Do we give him the precious ointment of our best affections? Let us love him with all the heart, though it is common for zeal and affection to be misunderstood and blamed; and remember that charity to the poor will not excuse any from particular acts of piety to the Lord Jesus. Christ commended this woman's pious attention to the notice of believers in all ages. Those who honour Christ he will honour. Covetousness was Judas' master lust, and that betrayed him to the sin of betraying his Master; the devil suited his temptation to that, and so conquered him. And see what wicked contrivances many have in their sinful pursuits; but what appears to forward their plans, will prove curses in the end.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Matthew 26:6-13; John 12:3.
McArther Bible Commentary
anoint My body for burial. Mary did so, probably without realizing what she was doing. Her anointing of Jesus became a symbol that anticipated His death and burial (see note on Mat 26:12).
Bible Cross References
Matthew 26:12 John 19:40

Verse 9

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ anointed at Bethany.
Did Christ pour out his soul unto death for us, and shall we think any thing too precious for him? Do we give him the precious ointment of our best affections? Let us love him with all the heart, though it is common for zeal and affection to be misunderstood and blamed; and remember that charity to the poor will not excuse any from particular acts of piety to the Lord Jesus. Christ commended this woman's pious attention to the notice of believers in all ages. Those who honour Christ he will honour. Covetousness was Judas' master lust, and that betrayed him to the sin of betraying his Master; the devil suited his temptation to that, and so conquered him. And see what wicked contrivances many have in their sinful pursuits; but what appears to forward their plans, will prove curses in the end.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Matthew 26:6-13; John 12:3.
McArther Bible Commentary
Assuredly, I say to you. See note on Mar 3:28. gospel. See note on Mar 1:1.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 24:28 Matthew 26:13

Verse 10

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ anointed at Bethany.
Did Christ pour out his soul unto death for us, and shall we think any thing too precious for him? Do we give him the precious ointment of our best affections? Let us love him with all the heart, though it is common for zeal and affection to be misunderstood and blamed; and remember that charity to the poor will not excuse any from particular acts of piety to the Lord Jesus. Christ commended this woman's pious attention to the notice of believers in all ages. Those who honour Christ he will honour. Covetousness was Judas' master lust, and that betrayed him to the sin of betraying his Master; the devil suited his temptation to that, and so conquered him. And see what wicked contrivances many have in their sinful pursuits; but what appears to forward their plans, will prove curses in the end.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Matthew 26:14-16; Luke 22:3-5.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Judas went to the chief priests - Immediately after this reproof, having anger now added to his covetousness. (Matthew 26:14) ; (Luke 22:3) .
McArther Bible Commentary
Judas Iscariot. Standing in sharp contrast to the love and devotion of Mary was the hatred and treachery of Judas. This disciple, who is understandably referred to last in the lists of the Twelve, was the son of Simon, who was also called "Iscariot." The name "Iscariot" means "man of Kerioth," which was a small town in Judea about twenty-three miles south of Jerusalem (cf. Mar 3:19). Thus, Judas was not a Galilean like the other disciples. It is clear that Judas never had any spiritual interest in Jesus. He was attracted to Him because he expected Jesus to become a powerful religious and political leader. He saw great potential for power, wealth, and prestige through his association with Him. But Jesus knew what Judas was like from the start, and that is why He chose him as one of the Twelve. He was the one who would betray Him so that the Scripture and God's plan of salvation would be fulfilled (Psa 41:9; Psa 55:12-15, Psa 55:20-21; Zec 11:12-13; Joh 6:64, Joh 6:70-71; Joh 13:18; Joh 17:12). the twelve. See note on Mar 3:14. chief priests. See note on Mar 8:31.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 26:14 Mark 14:11 Luke 22:3 John 6:71

Verse 11

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ anointed at Bethany.
Did Christ pour out his soul unto death for us, and shall we think any thing too precious for him? Do we give him the precious ointment of our best affections? Let us love him with all the heart, though it is common for zeal and affection to be misunderstood and blamed; and remember that charity to the poor will not excuse any from particular acts of piety to the Lord Jesus. Christ commended this woman's pious attention to the notice of believers in all ages. Those who honour Christ he will honour. Covetousness was Judas' master lust, and that betrayed him to the sin of betraying his Master; the devil suited his temptation to that, and so conquered him. And see what wicked contrivances many have in their sinful pursuits; but what appears to forward their plans, will prove curses in the end.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Matthew 26:14-16; Luke 22:3-5.
McArther Bible Commentary
money. Matthew says the amount Judas agreed to as blood money was thirty pieces of silver (see note on Mat 26:15). sought how he might conveniently. Sought is better translated "began to seek." Conveniently means that Judas was looking for a suitable occasion to carry out his evil plan, which would be when Jesus was away from the crowds (Luk 22:6).
Bible Cross References
Matthew 26:14 Mark 14:10 Mark 14:12 Luke 22:3

Verse 12

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The passover, Jesus declares that Judas would betray him.
Nothing could be less the result of human foresight than the events here related. But our Lord knows all things about us before they come to pass. If we admit him, he will dwell in our hearts. The Son of man goes, as it is written of him, as a lamb to the slaughter; but woe to that man by whom he is betrayed! God's permitting the sins of men, and bringing glory to himself out of them, does not oblige them to sin; nor will this be any excuse for their guilt, or lessen their punishment.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
(Matthew 26:17) ; (Luke 22:7) .
McArther Bible Commentary
Unleavened Bread. Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread were so closely associated that both terms were used interchangeably to refer to the eight-day celebration that began with the Passover. Although "Unleavened Bread" is used here, Mark's clear intention is the preparation for Passover (see notes on Mar 14:1; Mat 26:17). killed the Passover lamb. The lambs were killed on 14 Nisan at twilight (Exo 12:6), a Hebrew term meaning "between the two evenings," or between 3:00 and 5:00 p.m. After the lamb was slaughtered and some of its blood was sprinkled on the altar, the lamb was taken home, roasted whole, and eaten in the evening meal with unleavened bread, bitter herbs, charoseth (a paste made of crushed apples, dates, pomegranates, and nuts, into which they dipped bread), and wine.
Bible Cross References
Deuteronomy 16:5 Matthew 26:17 Mark 14:1 Mark 14:11 Mark 14:13 Luke 22:7 1 Corinthians 5:7

Verse 13

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The passover, Jesus declares that Judas would betray him.
Nothing could be less the result of human foresight than the events here related. But our Lord knows all things about us before they come to pass. If we admit him, he will dwell in our hearts. The Son of man goes, as it is written of him, as a lamb to the slaughter; but woe to that man by whom he is betrayed! God's permitting the sins of men, and bringing glory to himself out of them, does not oblige them to sin; nor will this be any excuse for their guilt, or lessen their punishment.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Go into the city, and there shall meet you a man - It was highly seasonable for our Lord to give them this additional proof both of his knowing all things, and of his influence over the minds of men.
McArther Bible Commentary
two of His disciples. I.e., Peter and John (Luk 22:8). Only two people were allowed to accompany a lamb to the sacrifice. man … carrying a pitcher of water. This is the only way that Jesus identified the man. He stood out because it was unusual for a man to carry a pitcher of water; women usually performed that chore (see note on Mat 26:18).
Bible Cross References
Matthew 26:18 Mark 14:12 Mark 14:14

Verse 14

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The passover, Jesus declares that Judas would betray him.
Nothing could be less the result of human foresight than the events here related. But our Lord knows all things about us before they come to pass. If we admit him, he will dwell in our hearts. The Son of man goes, as it is written of him, as a lamb to the slaughter; but woe to that man by whom he is betrayed! God's permitting the sins of men, and bringing glory to himself out of them, does not oblige them to sin; nor will this be any excuse for their guilt, or lessen their punishment.
McArther Bible Commentary
guest room. The word is translated "inn" in Luk 2:7. It typically referred to a place where a traveler could spend the night-a place of lodging or a guest room in someone's home, as was the case here (cf. Mat 26:18).
Bible Cross References
Mark 14:13 Mark 14:15 Luke 22:11 John 11:28

Verse 15

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The passover, Jesus declares that Judas would betray him.
Nothing could be less the result of human foresight than the events here related. But our Lord knows all things about us before they come to pass. If we admit him, he will dwell in our hearts. The Son of man goes, as it is written of him, as a lamb to the slaughter; but woe to that man by whom he is betrayed! God's permitting the sins of men, and bringing glory to himself out of them, does not oblige them to sin; nor will this be any excuse for their guilt, or lessen their punishment.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Furnished - The word properly means, spread with carpets.
McArther Bible Commentary
large upper room. This indicates that the room was located upstairs, and may have been a roof chamber built on top of the house. make ready. Peter and John were to prepare the Passover meal for Jesus and the other disciples.
Bible Cross References
Mark 14:14 Mark 14:16 Acts 1:13

Verse 16

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The passover, Jesus declares that Judas would betray him.
Nothing could be less the result of human foresight than the events here related. But our Lord knows all things about us before they come to pass. If we admit him, he will dwell in our hearts. The Son of man goes, as it is written of him, as a lamb to the slaughter; but woe to that man by whom he is betrayed! God's permitting the sins of men, and bringing glory to himself out of them, does not oblige them to sin; nor will this be any excuse for their guilt, or lessen their punishment.
Bible Cross References
Mark 14:15 Mark 14:17

Verse 17

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The passover, Jesus declares that Judas would betray him.
Nothing could be less the result of human foresight than the events here related. But our Lord knows all things about us before they come to pass. If we admit him, he will dwell in our hearts. The Son of man goes, as it is written of him, as a lamb to the slaughter; but woe to that man by whom he is betrayed! God's permitting the sins of men, and bringing glory to himself out of them, does not oblige them to sin; nor will this be any excuse for their guilt, or lessen their punishment.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
(Matthew 26:20) ; (Luke 22:14) .
McArther Bible Commentary
In the evening. The Passover meal was to be eaten at night after sunset, but it had to be completed before midnight (Exo 12:8-14). with the twelve. Peter and John may have rejoined Jesus and the other disciples and led them to the upper room. This may also be a general reference to the Twelve, meaning that Jesus came with the other ten disciples to meet Peter and John.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 26:20 Mark 14:16 Mark 14:18 Luke 22:14 Luke 22:21 John 13:18

Verse 18

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The passover, Jesus declares that Judas would betray him.
Nothing could be less the result of human foresight than the events here related. But our Lord knows all things about us before they come to pass. If we admit him, he will dwell in our hearts. The Son of man goes, as it is written of him, as a lamb to the slaughter; but woe to that man by whom he is betrayed! God's permitting the sins of men, and bringing glory to himself out of them, does not oblige them to sin; nor will this be any excuse for their guilt, or lessen their punishment.
McArther Bible Commentary
sat and ate. The order of the Passover meal was as follows: (1) drinking a cup of red wine mixed with water (cf. Luk 22:17); (2) the ceremonial washing of hands symbolizing the need for spiritual and moral cleansing; (3) eating the bitter herbs, symbolic of the bondage in Egypt; (4) drinking the second cup of wine, at which time the head of the household explained the meaning of Passover; (5) singing of the Hallel (Pss. 113-118)-at this point they sang the first two; (6) serving the lamb, with the head of the household distributing pieces of it with the unleavened bread; (7) drinking the third cup of wine (see notes on 1Co 10:16).
Bible Cross References
Mark 14:17 Mark 14:19 Luke 22:21 John 13:18 John 13:21 John 13:22

Verse 19

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The passover, Jesus declares that Judas would betray him.
Nothing could be less the result of human foresight than the events here related. But our Lord knows all things about us before they come to pass. If we admit him, he will dwell in our hearts. The Son of man goes, as it is written of him, as a lamb to the slaughter; but woe to that man by whom he is betrayed! God's permitting the sins of men, and bringing glory to himself out of them, does not oblige them to sin; nor will this be any excuse for their guilt, or lessen their punishment.
Bible Cross References
Mark 14:18 Mark 14:20

Verse 20

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The passover, Jesus declares that Judas would betray him.
Nothing could be less the result of human foresight than the events here related. But our Lord knows all things about us before they come to pass. If we admit him, he will dwell in our hearts. The Son of man goes, as it is written of him, as a lamb to the slaughter; but woe to that man by whom he is betrayed! God's permitting the sins of men, and bringing glory to himself out of them, does not oblige them to sin; nor will this be any excuse for their guilt, or lessen their punishment.
McArther Bible Commentary
dips with Me in the dish. There were likely several dishes around the table. Judas was probably one of several sitting near Jesus and, thus, would have dipped in the same bowl with Him.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 19:24 Matthew 26:23 Mark 14:19 Mark 14:21

Verse 21

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The passover, Jesus declares that Judas would betray him.
Nothing could be less the result of human foresight than the events here related. But our Lord knows all things about us before they come to pass. If we admit him, he will dwell in our hearts. The Son of man goes, as it is written of him, as a lamb to the slaughter; but woe to that man by whom he is betrayed! God's permitting the sins of men, and bringing glory to himself out of them, does not oblige them to sin; nor will this be any excuse for their guilt, or lessen their punishment.
McArther Bible Commentary
Son of Man. See note on Mar 2:10. as it is written. Jesus was no victim; His betrayal by Judas was prophesied in the OT (Ps. 22; Is. 53), and was part of God's predetermined plan to provide salvation (Act 2:23). good … if he had never been born. Cf. Joh 8:21-24; Joh 16:8-11. This was because the terror Judas would experience in hell would be so great. The most severe punishment is reserved for Judas and others like him (Heb 10:29). This statement is one of the strongest statements in Scripture on human responsibility for believing in Jesus Christ, coupled with the consequences of unbelief.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 26:24 Mark 14:20 Mark 14:22

Verse 22

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The Lord's supper instituted.
The Lord's supper is food for the soul, therefore a very little of that which is for the body, as much as will serve for a sign, is enough. It was instituted by the example and the practice of our Master, to remain in force till his second coming. It was instituted with blessing and giving of thanks, to be a memorial of Christ's death. Frequent mention is made of his precious blood, as the price of our redemption. How comfortable is this to poor repenting sinners, that the blood of Christ is shed for many! If for many, why not for me? It was a sign of the conveyance of the benefits purchased for us by his death. Apply the doctrine of Christ crucified to yourselves; let it be meat and drink to your souls, strengthening and refreshing your spiritual life. It was to be an earnest and foretaste of the happiness of heaven, and thereby to put us out of taste for the pleasures and delights of sense. Every one that has tasted spiritual delights, straightway desires eternal ones. Though the great Shepherd passed through his sufferings without one false step, yet his followers often have been scattered by the small measure of sufferings allotted to them. How very apt we are to think well of ourselves, and to trust our own hearts! It was ill done of Peter thus to answer his Master, and not with fear and trembling. Lord, give me grace to keep me from denying thee.
McArther Bible Commentary
as they were eating. Nothing from any of the Gospel accounts indicates which part of the meal they were eating, but it is likely that this occurred just prior to eating the roasted lamb or concurrently with it. It is significant that Jesus established the truth of the new covenant while in the midst of eating the Passover. this is My body. Jesus gave new meaning to eating the bread. The unleavened bread symbolized the severing of the Israelites from the old life in Egypt. It represented a separation from worldliness, sin, and false religion and the beginning of a new life of holiness and godliness. From then on, in the Lord's Supper, the bread would symbolize Christ's body, which He sacrificed for the salvation of humankind (see note on Mat 26:26).
Bible Cross References
Matthew 14:19 Matthew 26:26 Mark 10:16 Mark 14:21 Mark 14:23 Luke 22:17 1 Corinthians 11:23

Verse 23

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The Lord's supper instituted.
The Lord's supper is food for the soul, therefore a very little of that which is for the body, as much as will serve for a sign, is enough. It was instituted by the example and the practice of our Master, to remain in force till his second coming. It was instituted with blessing and giving of thanks, to be a memorial of Christ's death. Frequent mention is made of his precious blood, as the price of our redemption. How comfortable is this to poor repenting sinners, that the blood of Christ is shed for many! If for many, why not for me? It was a sign of the conveyance of the benefits purchased for us by his death. Apply the doctrine of Christ crucified to yourselves; let it be meat and drink to your souls, strengthening and refreshing your spiritual life. It was to be an earnest and foretaste of the happiness of heaven, and thereby to put us out of taste for the pleasures and delights of sense. Every one that has tasted spiritual delights, straightway desires eternal ones. Though the great Shepherd passed through his sufferings without one false step, yet his followers often have been scattered by the small measure of sufferings allotted to them. How very apt we are to think well of ourselves, and to trust our own hearts! It was ill done of Peter thus to answer his Master, and not with fear and trembling. Lord, give me grace to keep me from denying thee.
McArther Bible Commentary
the cup. The third cup of wine in the ceremony (see note on 1Co 10:16).
Bible Cross References
Mark 14:22 Mark 14:24 1 Corinthians 10:16

Verse 24

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The Lord's supper instituted.
The Lord's supper is food for the soul, therefore a very little of that which is for the body, as much as will serve for a sign, is enough. It was instituted by the example and the practice of our Master, to remain in force till his second coming. It was instituted with blessing and giving of thanks, to be a memorial of Christ's death. Frequent mention is made of his precious blood, as the price of our redemption. How comfortable is this to poor repenting sinners, that the blood of Christ is shed for many! If for many, why not for me? It was a sign of the conveyance of the benefits purchased for us by his death. Apply the doctrine of Christ crucified to yourselves; let it be meat and drink to your souls, strengthening and refreshing your spiritual life. It was to be an earnest and foretaste of the happiness of heaven, and thereby to put us out of taste for the pleasures and delights of sense. Every one that has tasted spiritual delights, straightway desires eternal ones. Though the great Shepherd passed through his sufferings without one false step, yet his followers often have been scattered by the small measure of sufferings allotted to them. How very apt we are to think well of ourselves, and to trust our own hearts! It was ill done of Peter thus to answer his Master, and not with fear and trembling. Lord, give me grace to keep me from denying thee.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
This is my blood of the New Testament - That is, this I appoint to be a perpetual sign and memorial of my blood, as shed for establishing the new covenant, that all who shall believe in me may receive all its gracious promises.
McArther Bible Commentary
My blood of the new covenant. The shedding of blood in a sacrifice was always God's requirement in establishing any covenant (cf. Gen 8:20; Gen 15:10; Exo 24:5-8). Here, Christ's blood needed to be shed for the remission of sins (Heb 9:22; 1Pe 1:19; see note on Mat 26:28). for many. This literally means "for the benefit of many." The "many" are all who believe, both Jew and Gentile. See note on Mar 10:45; cf. Mat 20:28.
Bible Cross References
Exodus 24:8 Jeremiah 31:31 Mark 14:23 Mark 14:25 Luke 22:20

Verse 25

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The Lord's supper instituted.
The Lord's supper is food for the soul, therefore a very little of that which is for the body, as much as will serve for a sign, is enough. It was instituted by the example and the practice of our Master, to remain in force till his second coming. It was instituted with blessing and giving of thanks, to be a memorial of Christ's death. Frequent mention is made of his precious blood, as the price of our redemption. How comfortable is this to poor repenting sinners, that the blood of Christ is shed for many! If for many, why not for me? It was a sign of the conveyance of the benefits purchased for us by his death. Apply the doctrine of Christ crucified to yourselves; let it be meat and drink to your souls, strengthening and refreshing your spiritual life. It was to be an earnest and foretaste of the happiness of heaven, and thereby to put us out of taste for the pleasures and delights of sense. Every one that has tasted spiritual delights, straightway desires eternal ones. Though the great Shepherd passed through his sufferings without one false step, yet his followers often have been scattered by the small measure of sufferings allotted to them. How very apt we are to think well of ourselves, and to trust our own hearts! It was ill done of Peter thus to answer his Master, and not with fear and trembling. Lord, give me grace to keep me from denying thee.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
I will drink no more of the fruit of the vine, till I drink it new in the kingdom of God - That is, I shall drink no more before I die: the next wine I drink will not be earthly, but heavenly.
McArther Bible Commentary
Assuredly, I say to you. See note on Mar 3:28. I will no longer drink. Jesus declared that this would be the last Passover, and that He would not drink wine with them again, since this was His last meal. Until the inauguration of the millennial kingdom, believers are to share this memorial meal (see notes on 1Co 11:23-34). drink it new. This anticipation served as an assurance to them of Jesus' return and His establishment of His earthly, millennial kingdom. It possibly implies that the communion service will continue to be observed in the millennial kingdom, as a memorial to the cross. It more probably indicates that Jesus would not have another Passover with them until the kingdom (see notes on Eze 45:18-25; Eze 45:21-24). It is also true that in the kingdom, some commemorative sacrifices from the old covenant will be restored (Ezek. 43-45), which will have meaning never understood before the cross of Christ to which they pointed. kingdom of God. The earthly millennial kingdom is in view.
Bible Cross References
Mark 14:24 Mark 14:26 Luke 22:18

Verse 26

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The Lord's supper instituted.
The Lord's supper is food for the soul, therefore a very little of that which is for the body, as much as will serve for a sign, is enough. It was instituted by the example and the practice of our Master, to remain in force till his second coming. It was instituted with blessing and giving of thanks, to be a memorial of Christ's death. Frequent mention is made of his precious blood, as the price of our redemption. How comfortable is this to poor repenting sinners, that the blood of Christ is shed for many! If for many, why not for me? It was a sign of the conveyance of the benefits purchased for us by his death. Apply the doctrine of Christ crucified to yourselves; let it be meat and drink to your souls, strengthening and refreshing your spiritual life. It was to be an earnest and foretaste of the happiness of heaven, and thereby to put us out of taste for the pleasures and delights of sense. Every one that has tasted spiritual delights, straightway desires eternal ones. Though the great Shepherd passed through his sufferings without one false step, yet his followers often have been scattered by the small measure of sufferings allotted to them. How very apt we are to think well of ourselves, and to trust our own hearts! It was ill done of Peter thus to answer his Master, and not with fear and trembling. Lord, give me grace to keep me from denying thee.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
(Matthew 26:30) ; (Luke 22:39) ; (John 18:1) .
McArther Bible Commentary
sung a hymn. Probably Psalm 118, the last psalm of the traditional Hallel, sung at Passover (see note on Mat 26:30). Mount of Olives. See note on Mar 11:1.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 21:1 Matthew 26:30 Mark 14:25 Luke 22:39 John 18:1

Verse 27

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The Lord's supper instituted.
The Lord's supper is food for the soul, therefore a very little of that which is for the body, as much as will serve for a sign, is enough. It was instituted by the example and the practice of our Master, to remain in force till his second coming. It was instituted with blessing and giving of thanks, to be a memorial of Christ's death. Frequent mention is made of his precious blood, as the price of our redemption. How comfortable is this to poor repenting sinners, that the blood of Christ is shed for many! If for many, why not for me? It was a sign of the conveyance of the benefits purchased for us by his death. Apply the doctrine of Christ crucified to yourselves; let it be meat and drink to your souls, strengthening and refreshing your spiritual life. It was to be an earnest and foretaste of the happiness of heaven, and thereby to put us out of taste for the pleasures and delights of sense. Every one that has tasted spiritual delights, straightway desires eternal ones. Though the great Shepherd passed through his sufferings without one false step, yet his followers often have been scattered by the small measure of sufferings allotted to them. How very apt we are to think well of ourselves, and to trust our own hearts! It was ill done of Peter thus to answer his Master, and not with fear and trembling. Lord, give me grace to keep me from denying thee.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Matthew 26:31-35.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
This night - The Jews in reckoning their days began with the evening, according to the Mosaic computation, which called the evening and the morning the first day, (Genesis 1:5) . And so that which after sunset is here called this night is, (Mark 14:30) , called to - day. The expression there is peculiarly significant. Verily I say to thee, that thou thyself, confident as thou art, to - day, even within four and twenty hours; yea, this night, or ever the sun be risen, nay, before the cock crow twice, before three in the morning, wilt deny me thrice. Our Lord doubtless spoke so determinately, as knowing a cock would crow once before the usual time of cock crowing. By (Mark 13:35) , it appears, that the third watch of the night, ending at three in the morning, was commonly styled the cock crowing. (Zechariah 13:7) .
McArther Bible Commentary
made to stumble. See note on Mar 4:17; Mat 26:31. This can be translated "fall away," and it refers to the disciples' temporary falling away from their loyalty to Jesus. it is written. Quoted from Zec 13:7.
Bible Cross References
Zechariah 13:7 Matthew 11:6 Matthew 26:31

Verse 28

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The Lord's supper instituted.
The Lord's supper is food for the soul, therefore a very little of that which is for the body, as much as will serve for a sign, is enough. It was instituted by the example and the practice of our Master, to remain in force till his second coming. It was instituted with blessing and giving of thanks, to be a memorial of Christ's death. Frequent mention is made of his precious blood, as the price of our redemption. How comfortable is this to poor repenting sinners, that the blood of Christ is shed for many! If for many, why not for me? It was a sign of the conveyance of the benefits purchased for us by his death. Apply the doctrine of Christ crucified to yourselves; let it be meat and drink to your souls, strengthening and refreshing your spiritual life. It was to be an earnest and foretaste of the happiness of heaven, and thereby to put us out of taste for the pleasures and delights of sense. Every one that has tasted spiritual delights, straightway desires eternal ones. Though the great Shepherd passed through his sufferings without one false step, yet his followers often have been scattered by the small measure of sufferings allotted to them. How very apt we are to think well of ourselves, and to trust our own hearts! It was ill done of Peter thus to answer his Master, and not with fear and trembling. Lord, give me grace to keep me from denying thee.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Matthew 26:31-35.
McArther Bible Commentary
to Galilee. Jesus promised to meet the disciples in His post-resurrection form (cf. Mar 16:7; Mat 28:16-17; see note on Mat 28:7).
Bible Cross References
Matthew 28:16 Mark 14:29 Mark 16:7

Verse 29

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The Lord's supper instituted.
The Lord's supper is food for the soul, therefore a very little of that which is for the body, as much as will serve for a sign, is enough. It was instituted by the example and the practice of our Master, to remain in force till his second coming. It was instituted with blessing and giving of thanks, to be a memorial of Christ's death. Frequent mention is made of his precious blood, as the price of our redemption. How comfortable is this to poor repenting sinners, that the blood of Christ is shed for many! If for many, why not for me? It was a sign of the conveyance of the benefits purchased for us by his death. Apply the doctrine of Christ crucified to yourselves; let it be meat and drink to your souls, strengthening and refreshing your spiritual life. It was to be an earnest and foretaste of the happiness of heaven, and thereby to put us out of taste for the pleasures and delights of sense. Every one that has tasted spiritual delights, straightway desires eternal ones. Though the great Shepherd passed through his sufferings without one false step, yet his followers often have been scattered by the small measure of sufferings allotted to them. How very apt we are to think well of ourselves, and to trust our own hearts! It was ill done of Peter thus to answer his Master, and not with fear and trembling. Lord, give me grace to keep me from denying thee.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Matthew 26:31-35.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Luke 22:31-34.
Bible Cross References
Mark 14:28 Mark 14:30 Luke 22:33 John 13:37 John 21:15

Verse 30

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The Lord's supper instituted.
The Lord's supper is food for the soul, therefore a very little of that which is for the body, as much as will serve for a sign, is enough. It was instituted by the example and the practice of our Master, to remain in force till his second coming. It was instituted with blessing and giving of thanks, to be a memorial of Christ's death. Frequent mention is made of his precious blood, as the price of our redemption. How comfortable is this to poor repenting sinners, that the blood of Christ is shed for many! If for many, why not for me? It was a sign of the conveyance of the benefits purchased for us by his death. Apply the doctrine of Christ crucified to yourselves; let it be meat and drink to your souls, strengthening and refreshing your spiritual life. It was to be an earnest and foretaste of the happiness of heaven, and thereby to put us out of taste for the pleasures and delights of sense. Every one that has tasted spiritual delights, straightway desires eternal ones. Though the great Shepherd passed through his sufferings without one false step, yet his followers often have been scattered by the small measure of sufferings allotted to them. How very apt we are to think well of ourselves, and to trust our own hearts! It was ill done of Peter thus to answer his Master, and not with fear and trembling. Lord, give me grace to keep me from denying thee.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Matthew 26:31-35.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Luke 22:31-34.
McArther Bible Commentary
Assuredly, I say to you. See note on Mar 3:28. before the rooster crows twice. In the Jewish reckoning of time, "cock crow" was the third watch of the night, ending at 3:00 a.m., which was when roosters typically began to crow (see note on Mar 13:35). Mark, alone among the Gospels, indicates that the rooster crowed two times (Mar 14:72; see note on Mat 26:34).
Bible Cross References
Matthew 26:34 Mark 13:35 Mark 14:29 Mark 14:31 Mark 14:68 Mark 14:72 John 13:38

Verse 31

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The Lord's supper instituted.
The Lord's supper is food for the soul, therefore a very little of that which is for the body, as much as will serve for a sign, is enough. It was instituted by the example and the practice of our Master, to remain in force till his second coming. It was instituted with blessing and giving of thanks, to be a memorial of Christ's death. Frequent mention is made of his precious blood, as the price of our redemption. How comfortable is this to poor repenting sinners, that the blood of Christ is shed for many! If for many, why not for me? It was a sign of the conveyance of the benefits purchased for us by his death. Apply the doctrine of Christ crucified to yourselves; let it be meat and drink to your souls, strengthening and refreshing your spiritual life. It was to be an earnest and foretaste of the happiness of heaven, and thereby to put us out of taste for the pleasures and delights of sense. Every one that has tasted spiritual delights, straightway desires eternal ones. Though the great Shepherd passed through his sufferings without one false step, yet his followers often have been scattered by the small measure of sufferings allotted to them. How very apt we are to think well of ourselves, and to trust our own hearts! It was ill done of Peter thus to answer his Master, and not with fear and trembling. Lord, give me grace to keep me from denying thee.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Matthew 26:31-35.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Luke 22:31-34.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 10:33 Mark 14:30 Mark 14:32 Luke 23:23

Verse 32

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ's agony in the garden.
Christ's sufferings began with the sorest of all, those in his soul. He began to be sorely amazed; words not used in St. Matthew, but very full of meaning. The terrors of God set themselves in array against him, and he allowed him to contemplate them. Never was sorrow like unto his at this time. Now he was made a curse for us; the curses of the law were laid upon him as our Surety. He now tasted death, in all the bitterness of it. This was that fear of which the apostle speaks, the natural fear of pain and death, at which human nature startles. Can we ever entertain favourable, or even slight thoughts of sin, when we see the painful sufferings which sin, though but reckoned to him, brought on the Lord Jesus? Shall that sit light upon our souls, which sat so heavy upon his? Was Christ in such agony for our sins, and shall we never be in agony about them? How should we look upon Him whom we have pierced, and mourn! It becomes us to be exceedingly sorrowful for sin, because He was so, and never to mock at it. Christ, as Man, pleaded, that, if it were possible, his sufferings might pass from him. As Mediator, he submitted to the will of God, saying, Nevertheless, not what I will, but what thou wilt; I bid it welcome. See how the sinful weakness of Christ's disciples returns, and overpowers them. What heavy clogs these bodies of ours are to our souls! But when we see trouble at the door, we should get ready for it. Alas, even believers often look at the Redeemer's sufferings in a drowsy manner, and instead of being ready to die with Christ, they are not even prepared to watch with him one hour.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Matthew 26:36-46.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
(Matthew 26:36) .
McArther Bible Commentary
Gethsemane. The name means "oil press," and referred to a garden filled with olive trees on a slope of the Mt. of Olives. Jesus frequented this spot with the disciples when He wanted to get away from the crowds to pray (cf. Joh 18:12; see note on Mat 26:36).
Bible Cross References
Matthew 26:36 Mark 14:31 Luke 22:40 John 18:1

Verse 33

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ's agony in the garden.
Christ's sufferings began with the sorest of all, those in his soul. He began to be sorely amazed; words not used in St. Matthew, but very full of meaning. The terrors of God set themselves in array against him, and he allowed him to contemplate them. Never was sorrow like unto his at this time. Now he was made a curse for us; the curses of the law were laid upon him as our Surety. He now tasted death, in all the bitterness of it. This was that fear of which the apostle speaks, the natural fear of pain and death, at which human nature startles. Can we ever entertain favourable, or even slight thoughts of sin, when we see the painful sufferings which sin, though but reckoned to him, brought on the Lord Jesus? Shall that sit light upon our souls, which sat so heavy upon his? Was Christ in such agony for our sins, and shall we never be in agony about them? How should we look upon Him whom we have pierced, and mourn! It becomes us to be exceedingly sorrowful for sin, because He was so, and never to mock at it. Christ, as Man, pleaded, that, if it were possible, his sufferings might pass from him. As Mediator, he submitted to the will of God, saying, Nevertheless, not what I will, but what thou wilt; I bid it welcome. See how the sinful weakness of Christ's disciples returns, and overpowers them. What heavy clogs these bodies of ours are to our souls! But when we see trouble at the door, we should get ready for it. Alas, even believers often look at the Redeemer's sufferings in a drowsy manner, and instead of being ready to die with Christ, they are not even prepared to watch with him one hour.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Matthew 26:36-46.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Sore amazed - The original word imports the most shocking amazement, mingled with grief: and that word in the next verse which we render sorrowful intimates, that he was surrounded with sorrow on every side, breaking in upon him with such violence, as was ready to separate his soul from his body.
McArther Bible Commentary
Peter, James, and John. See note on Mar 5:37. Jesus likely had them accompany Him into the garden because they were the leaders of the Twelve and had to learn an important lesson to pass on to the others (Mar 14:34-42). troubled. The Greek word refers to a feeling of terrified amazement. In the face of the dreadful prospect of bearing God's full fury against sin, Jesus was in the grip of terror (see note on Mat 26:38).
Bible Cross References
Mark 9:15 Mark 16:5 Mark 16:6

Verse 34

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ's agony in the garden.
Christ's sufferings began with the sorest of all, those in his soul. He began to be sorely amazed; words not used in St. Matthew, but very full of meaning. The terrors of God set themselves in array against him, and he allowed him to contemplate them. Never was sorrow like unto his at this time. Now he was made a curse for us; the curses of the law were laid upon him as our Surety. He now tasted death, in all the bitterness of it. This was that fear of which the apostle speaks, the natural fear of pain and death, at which human nature startles. Can we ever entertain favourable, or even slight thoughts of sin, when we see the painful sufferings which sin, though but reckoned to him, brought on the Lord Jesus? Shall that sit light upon our souls, which sat so heavy upon his? Was Christ in such agony for our sins, and shall we never be in agony about them? How should we look upon Him whom we have pierced, and mourn! It becomes us to be exceedingly sorrowful for sin, because He was so, and never to mock at it. Christ, as Man, pleaded, that, if it were possible, his sufferings might pass from him. As Mediator, he submitted to the will of God, saying, Nevertheless, not what I will, but what thou wilt; I bid it welcome. See how the sinful weakness of Christ's disciples returns, and overpowers them. What heavy clogs these bodies of ours are to our souls! But when we see trouble at the door, we should get ready for it. Alas, even believers often look at the Redeemer's sufferings in a drowsy manner, and instead of being ready to die with Christ, they are not even prepared to watch with him one hour.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Matthew 26:36-46.
McArther Bible Commentary
even to death. Jesus' sorrow was so severe that it threatened to cause His death at that moment. It is possible for a person to die from sheer anguish (cf. Luk 22:44; see note on Mat 26:38).
Bible Cross References
Matthew 26:38 John 12:27

Verse 35

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ's agony in the garden.
Christ's sufferings began with the sorest of all, those in his soul. He began to be sorely amazed; words not used in St. Matthew, but very full of meaning. The terrors of God set themselves in array against him, and he allowed him to contemplate them. Never was sorrow like unto his at this time. Now he was made a curse for us; the curses of the law were laid upon him as our Surety. He now tasted death, in all the bitterness of it. This was that fear of which the apostle speaks, the natural fear of pain and death, at which human nature startles. Can we ever entertain favourable, or even slight thoughts of sin, when we see the painful sufferings which sin, though but reckoned to him, brought on the Lord Jesus? Shall that sit light upon our souls, which sat so heavy upon his? Was Christ in such agony for our sins, and shall we never be in agony about them? How should we look upon Him whom we have pierced, and mourn! It becomes us to be exceedingly sorrowful for sin, because He was so, and never to mock at it. Christ, as Man, pleaded, that, if it were possible, his sufferings might pass from him. As Mediator, he submitted to the will of God, saying, Nevertheless, not what I will, but what thou wilt; I bid it welcome. See how the sinful weakness of Christ's disciples returns, and overpowers them. What heavy clogs these bodies of ours are to our souls! But when we see trouble at the door, we should get ready for it. Alas, even believers often look at the Redeemer's sufferings in a drowsy manner, and instead of being ready to die with Christ, they are not even prepared to watch with him one hour.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Matthew 26:36-46.
McArther Bible Commentary
if … possible. Jesus was not asking God if He had the power to let the cup pass from Him, but if it were possible in God's plan. Christ was soon to partake of this cup in the cross as God's only sacrifice for sin (cf. Act 4:12). the hour. I.e., the time of His sacrificial death as decreed by God. It included everything from the betrayal (Mar 14:41) to Jesus' trials, the mockery, and His crucifixion.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 26:45 Mark 14:41 Luke 22:41 John 12:23

Verse 36

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ's agony in the garden.
Christ's sufferings began with the sorest of all, those in his soul. He began to be sorely amazed; words not used in St. Matthew, but very full of meaning. The terrors of God set themselves in array against him, and he allowed him to contemplate them. Never was sorrow like unto his at this time. Now he was made a curse for us; the curses of the law were laid upon him as our Surety. He now tasted death, in all the bitterness of it. This was that fear of which the apostle speaks, the natural fear of pain and death, at which human nature startles. Can we ever entertain favourable, or even slight thoughts of sin, when we see the painful sufferings which sin, though but reckoned to him, brought on the Lord Jesus? Shall that sit light upon our souls, which sat so heavy upon his? Was Christ in such agony for our sins, and shall we never be in agony about them? How should we look upon Him whom we have pierced, and mourn! It becomes us to be exceedingly sorrowful for sin, because He was so, and never to mock at it. Christ, as Man, pleaded, that, if it were possible, his sufferings might pass from him. As Mediator, he submitted to the will of God, saying, Nevertheless, not what I will, but what thou wilt; I bid it welcome. See how the sinful weakness of Christ's disciples returns, and overpowers them. What heavy clogs these bodies of ours are to our souls! But when we see trouble at the door, we should get ready for it. Alas, even believers often look at the Redeemer's sufferings in a drowsy manner, and instead of being ready to die with Christ, they are not even prepared to watch with him one hour.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Matthew 26:36-46.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Matthew 26:42; Luke 22:42; Romans 8:11.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Abba, Father - St. Mark seems to add the word Father, by way of explication.
McArther Bible Commentary
Abba. An endearing, intimate Aramaic term that is essentially equivalent to the English word Daddy (cf. Rom 8:15; Gal 4:6). all things are possible. Jesus knew that it was in the scope of God's power and omniscience to provide an alternate plan of salvation, if He desired (see note on Mar 14:35). cup. This refers to the cup of divine wrath mentioned in the OT (Psa 75:8; Isa 51:17; Jer 49:12). Christ was to endure the fury of God over sin, Satan, the power of death, and the guilt of iniquity (see notes on Mat 26:39; Luk 22:42; Joh 18:11). not what I will, but what You will. This reveals Jesus' total resolution and resignation to do the will of God. He came into the world to do God's will, and this remained His commitment while here (see notes on Mat 26:39; cf. Joh 6:38-40).
Bible Cross References
Matthew 26:39 Matthew 26:42 Mark 14:37 John 18:11 Romans 8:15 Galatians 4:6 Hebrews 5:7

Verse 37

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ's agony in the garden.
Christ's sufferings began with the sorest of all, those in his soul. He began to be sorely amazed; words not used in St. Matthew, but very full of meaning. The terrors of God set themselves in array against him, and he allowed him to contemplate them. Never was sorrow like unto his at this time. Now he was made a curse for us; the curses of the law were laid upon him as our Surety. He now tasted death, in all the bitterness of it. This was that fear of which the apostle speaks, the natural fear of pain and death, at which human nature startles. Can we ever entertain favourable, or even slight thoughts of sin, when we see the painful sufferings which sin, though but reckoned to him, brought on the Lord Jesus? Shall that sit light upon our souls, which sat so heavy upon his? Was Christ in such agony for our sins, and shall we never be in agony about them? How should we look upon Him whom we have pierced, and mourn! It becomes us to be exceedingly sorrowful for sin, because He was so, and never to mock at it. Christ, as Man, pleaded, that, if it were possible, his sufferings might pass from him. As Mediator, he submitted to the will of God, saying, Nevertheless, not what I will, but what thou wilt; I bid it welcome. See how the sinful weakness of Christ's disciples returns, and overpowers them. What heavy clogs these bodies of ours are to our souls! But when we see trouble at the door, we should get ready for it. Alas, even believers often look at the Redeemer's sufferings in a drowsy manner, and instead of being ready to die with Christ, they are not even prepared to watch with him one hour.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Matthew 26:36-46.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Saith to Peter - The zealous, the confident Peter.
McArther Bible Commentary
Simon. Jesus' use of Simon may imply that Peter was not living up to the significance and meaning of his new name, "Peter" (see note on Mat 16:18). one hour. This phrase suggests that Jesus had spent an hour praying, a duration in which Peter had been unable to stay awake.
Bible Cross References
Mark 14:36 Mark 14:38

Verse 38

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ's agony in the garden.
Christ's sufferings began with the sorest of all, those in his soul. He began to be sorely amazed; words not used in St. Matthew, but very full of meaning. The terrors of God set themselves in array against him, and he allowed him to contemplate them. Never was sorrow like unto his at this time. Now he was made a curse for us; the curses of the law were laid upon him as our Surety. He now tasted death, in all the bitterness of it. This was that fear of which the apostle speaks, the natural fear of pain and death, at which human nature startles. Can we ever entertain favourable, or even slight thoughts of sin, when we see the painful sufferings which sin, though but reckoned to him, brought on the Lord Jesus? Shall that sit light upon our souls, which sat so heavy upon his? Was Christ in such agony for our sins, and shall we never be in agony about them? How should we look upon Him whom we have pierced, and mourn! It becomes us to be exceedingly sorrowful for sin, because He was so, and never to mock at it. Christ, as Man, pleaded, that, if it were possible, his sufferings might pass from him. As Mediator, he submitted to the will of God, saying, Nevertheless, not what I will, but what thou wilt; I bid it welcome. See how the sinful weakness of Christ's disciples returns, and overpowers them. What heavy clogs these bodies of ours are to our souls! But when we see trouble at the door, we should get ready for it. Alas, even believers often look at the Redeemer's sufferings in a drowsy manner, and instead of being ready to die with Christ, they are not even prepared to watch with him one hour.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Matthew 26:36-46.
McArther Bible Commentary
Watch. This Greek word means "to keep alert." Jesus was encouraging Peter, James, and John to discern when they were under spiritual attack. They were not to let their self-confidence lull them to sleep spiritually. the flesh is weak. Because willing spirits are still attached to unredeemed flesh, believers are not always able to practice the righteousness they want to do (cf. Rom 7:15-23; see note on Mat 26:41).
Bible Cross References
Matthew 26:41 Mark 14:37 Mark 14:39

Verse 39

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ's agony in the garden.
Christ's sufferings began with the sorest of all, those in his soul. He began to be sorely amazed; words not used in St. Matthew, but very full of meaning. The terrors of God set themselves in array against him, and he allowed him to contemplate them. Never was sorrow like unto his at this time. Now he was made a curse for us; the curses of the law were laid upon him as our Surety. He now tasted death, in all the bitterness of it. This was that fear of which the apostle speaks, the natural fear of pain and death, at which human nature startles. Can we ever entertain favourable, or even slight thoughts of sin, when we see the painful sufferings which sin, though but reckoned to him, brought on the Lord Jesus? Shall that sit light upon our souls, which sat so heavy upon his? Was Christ in such agony for our sins, and shall we never be in agony about them? How should we look upon Him whom we have pierced, and mourn! It becomes us to be exceedingly sorrowful for sin, because He was so, and never to mock at it. Christ, as Man, pleaded, that, if it were possible, his sufferings might pass from him. As Mediator, he submitted to the will of God, saying, Nevertheless, not what I will, but what thou wilt; I bid it welcome. See how the sinful weakness of Christ's disciples returns, and overpowers them. What heavy clogs these bodies of ours are to our souls! But when we see trouble at the door, we should get ready for it. Alas, even believers often look at the Redeemer's sufferings in a drowsy manner, and instead of being ready to die with Christ, they are not even prepared to watch with him one hour.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Matthew 26:36-46.
Bible Cross References
Mark 14:38 Mark 14:40 Hebrews 5:7

Verse 40

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ's agony in the garden.
Christ's sufferings began with the sorest of all, those in his soul. He began to be sorely amazed; words not used in St. Matthew, but very full of meaning. The terrors of God set themselves in array against him, and he allowed him to contemplate them. Never was sorrow like unto his at this time. Now he was made a curse for us; the curses of the law were laid upon him as our Surety. He now tasted death, in all the bitterness of it. This was that fear of which the apostle speaks, the natural fear of pain and death, at which human nature startles. Can we ever entertain favourable, or even slight thoughts of sin, when we see the painful sufferings which sin, though but reckoned to him, brought on the Lord Jesus? Shall that sit light upon our souls, which sat so heavy upon his? Was Christ in such agony for our sins, and shall we never be in agony about them? How should we look upon Him whom we have pierced, and mourn! It becomes us to be exceedingly sorrowful for sin, because He was so, and never to mock at it. Christ, as Man, pleaded, that, if it were possible, his sufferings might pass from him. As Mediator, he submitted to the will of God, saying, Nevertheless, not what I will, but what thou wilt; I bid it welcome. See how the sinful weakness of Christ's disciples returns, and overpowers them. What heavy clogs these bodies of ours are to our souls! But when we see trouble at the door, we should get ready for it. Alas, even believers often look at the Redeemer's sufferings in a drowsy manner, and instead of being ready to die with Christ, they are not even prepared to watch with him one hour.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Matthew 26:36-46.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Matthew 26:43.
Bible Cross References
Mark 14:39 Mark 14:41 Luke 9:32

Verse 41

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ's agony in the garden.
Christ's sufferings began with the sorest of all, those in his soul. He began to be sorely amazed; words not used in St. Matthew, but very full of meaning. The terrors of God set themselves in array against him, and he allowed him to contemplate them. Never was sorrow like unto his at this time. Now he was made a curse for us; the curses of the law were laid upon him as our Surety. He now tasted death, in all the bitterness of it. This was that fear of which the apostle speaks, the natural fear of pain and death, at which human nature startles. Can we ever entertain favourable, or even slight thoughts of sin, when we see the painful sufferings which sin, though but reckoned to him, brought on the Lord Jesus? Shall that sit light upon our souls, which sat so heavy upon his? Was Christ in such agony for our sins, and shall we never be in agony about them? How should we look upon Him whom we have pierced, and mourn! It becomes us to be exceedingly sorrowful for sin, because He was so, and never to mock at it. Christ, as Man, pleaded, that, if it were possible, his sufferings might pass from him. As Mediator, he submitted to the will of God, saying, Nevertheless, not what I will, but what thou wilt; I bid it welcome. See how the sinful weakness of Christ's disciples returns, and overpowers them. What heavy clogs these bodies of ours are to our souls! But when we see trouble at the door, we should get ready for it. Alas, even believers often look at the Redeemer's sufferings in a drowsy manner, and instead of being ready to die with Christ, they are not even prepared to watch with him one hour.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Matthew 26:36-46.
McArther Bible Commentary
Are you still sleeping and resting? The three disciples remained indifferent not only to the needs of Christ at that moment, but also to their need of strength and watchfulness for the impending temptation that all eleven would face. The disciples needed to learn that spiritual victory goes to those who are alert in prayer and who depend on God, and that self-confidence and spiritual unpreparedness lead to spiritual disaster. Son of Man. See note on Mar 2:10.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 26:45 Mark 14:35 Mark 14:40 Mark 14:42 John 12:23

Verse 42

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ's agony in the garden.
Christ's sufferings began with the sorest of all, those in his soul. He began to be sorely amazed; words not used in St. Matthew, but very full of meaning. The terrors of God set themselves in array against him, and he allowed him to contemplate them. Never was sorrow like unto his at this time. Now he was made a curse for us; the curses of the law were laid upon him as our Surety. He now tasted death, in all the bitterness of it. This was that fear of which the apostle speaks, the natural fear of pain and death, at which human nature startles. Can we ever entertain favourable, or even slight thoughts of sin, when we see the painful sufferings which sin, though but reckoned to him, brought on the Lord Jesus? Shall that sit light upon our souls, which sat so heavy upon his? Was Christ in such agony for our sins, and shall we never be in agony about them? How should we look upon Him whom we have pierced, and mourn! It becomes us to be exceedingly sorrowful for sin, because He was so, and never to mock at it. Christ, as Man, pleaded, that, if it were possible, his sufferings might pass from him. As Mediator, he submitted to the will of God, saying, Nevertheless, not what I will, but what thou wilt; I bid it welcome. See how the sinful weakness of Christ's disciples returns, and overpowers them. What heavy clogs these bodies of ours are to our souls! But when we see trouble at the door, we should get ready for it. Alas, even believers often look at the Redeemer's sufferings in a drowsy manner, and instead of being ready to die with Christ, they are not even prepared to watch with him one hour.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Matthew 26:36-46.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 26:46 Mark 14:41 Mark 14:43

Verse 43

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
He is betrayed and taken.
Because Christ appeared not as a temporal prince, but preached repentance, reformation, and a holy life, and directed men's thoughts, and affections, and aims to another world, therefore the Jewish rulers sought to destroy him. Peter wounded one of the band. It is easier to fight for Christ than to die for him. But there is a great difference between faulty disciples and hypocrites. The latter rashly and without thought call Christ Master, and express great affection for him, yet betray him to his enemies. Thus they hasten their own destruction.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
(Matthew 26:47) ; (Luke 22:47) ; (John 18:2) .
McArther Bible Commentary
Judas, one of the twelve. See notes on Mar 3:19; Mat 26:47. All the Gospel writers refer to him this way (Mar 14:10, Mar 14:20; Mat 26:14, Mat 26:47; Luk 22:47; Joh 6:71); and in so doing, they display remarkable restraint in describing and evaluating Judas. Especially in this context, such a simple description actually heightens the evil of his crime more than any series of derogatory epithets or negative criticisms could do. It also points out the precise fulfillment of Jesus' announcement in verses Mar 14:18-20. a great multitude with swords and clubs. This multitude was a carefully selected group whose sole purpose was arresting Jesus so He could can be put to death. A cohort (six hundred men at full strength) of Roman soldiers (Joh 18:3, Joh 18:12) was is in this crowd because the Jewish leaders (cf. Luk 22:52) who organized the throng needed permission from Rome to carry out the death penalty and feared the crowds. The swords were the regular small hand weapons of the Romans, and the wood clubs were ordinary weapons carried by the Jewish temple police. chief priests … scribes … elders. Although representing three distinct sections of the Sanhedrin (as indicated by the Greek definite article with each), they were acting in unity. These Jewish leaders had evidently for some time (see notes on Mar 3:6; Mar 11:18) hoped to accuse Jesus of rebellion against Rome. Then His execution could be blamed on the Romans, and the leaders could escape potential reprisals from those Jews who admired Jesus. The Sanhedrin likely had hurried to Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor, to ask immediate use of his soldiers; or perhaps they acted on a prearranged agreement for use of these troops on short notice. Whatever the case, the leaders enlisted the assistance of the Roman military from Fort Antonia in Jerusalem.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 26:47 Mark 14:42 Mark 14:44 Luke 22:47 John 18:3 Acts 1:16

Verse 44

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
He is betrayed and taken.
Because Christ appeared not as a temporal prince, but preached repentance, reformation, and a holy life, and directed men's thoughts, and affections, and aims to another world, therefore the Jewish rulers sought to destroy him. Peter wounded one of the band. It is easier to fight for Christ than to die for him. But there is a great difference between faulty disciples and hypocrites. The latter rashly and without thought call Christ Master, and express great affection for him, yet betray him to his enemies. Thus they hasten their own destruction.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Whomsoever I shall kiss - Probably our Lord, in great condescension, had used (according to the Jewish custom) to permit his disciples to do this, after they had been some time absent.
McArther Bible Commentary
kiss. In addition to being a special act of respect and affection, this kind of kiss was a sign of homage in Middle Eastern culture. Out of the varieties of this kiss (on the feet, on the back of the hand, on the palm, on the hem of the garment), Judas chose the embrace and the kiss on the cheek-the one that showed the closest love and affection, normally reserved for one with whom a person had a close, intimate relationship (such as a pupil for his teacher). Judas could not have chosen a more despicable way to identify Jesus, because he perverted its usual meaning so treacherously and hypocritically.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 26:46 Matthew 26:48 Mark 14:43 Mark 14:45

Verse 45

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
He is betrayed and taken.
Because Christ appeared not as a temporal prince, but preached repentance, reformation, and a holy life, and directed men's thoughts, and affections, and aims to another world, therefore the Jewish rulers sought to destroy him. Peter wounded one of the band. It is easier to fight for Christ than to die for him. But there is a great difference between faulty disciples and hypocrites. The latter rashly and without thought call Christ Master, and express great affection for him, yet betray him to his enemies. Thus they hasten their own destruction.
McArther Bible Commentary
Rabbi. "My master" (see note on Mar 9:5). kissed Him. Kissed is an intensified form of the verb for kiss in verse Mar 14:44, and it denotes a fervent, continuous expression of affection (cf. Luk 7:38, Luk 7:45; Luk 15:20; Act 20:37). It was with intensity that Judas pretended to love Christ. The act was likely prolonged enough so the crowd had time to identify Jesus.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 23:7 Matthew 23:8 Mark 14:44 Mark 14:46 John 4:31

Verse 46

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
He is betrayed and taken.
Because Christ appeared not as a temporal prince, but preached repentance, reformation, and a holy life, and directed men's thoughts, and affections, and aims to another world, therefore the Jewish rulers sought to destroy him. Peter wounded one of the band. It is easier to fight for Christ than to die for him. But there is a great difference between faulty disciples and hypocrites. The latter rashly and without thought call Christ Master, and express great affection for him, yet betray him to his enemies. Thus they hasten their own destruction.
Bible Cross References
Mark 14:45 Mark 14:47

Verse 47

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
He is betrayed and taken.
Because Christ appeared not as a temporal prince, but preached repentance, reformation, and a holy life, and directed men's thoughts, and affections, and aims to another world, therefore the Jewish rulers sought to destroy him. Peter wounded one of the band. It is easier to fight for Christ than to die for him. But there is a great difference between faulty disciples and hypocrites. The latter rashly and without thought call Christ Master, and express great affection for him, yet betray him to his enemies. Thus they hasten their own destruction.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
(Matthew 26:51) ; (Luke 22:49) ; (John 18:10) .
McArther Bible Commentary
one of those who stood by. This refers to Simon Peter (Joh 18:10), one of the two disciples who brought weapons (Luk 22:38). Mark and the other synoptic writers do not identify Peter explicitly, perhaps because they wrote earlier than John, during the time when Peter would still have been in danger of Jewish revenge. the servant of the high priest. Malchus (Joh 18:10). He was neither a soldier nor a temple policeman, but rather was a high-ranking personal slave of Caiaphas, the high priest, probably sent along to observe Judas and report on the events of the evening.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 26:51 Mark 14:46 Mark 14:48 John 18:10

Verse 48

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
He is betrayed and taken.
Because Christ appeared not as a temporal prince, but preached repentance, reformation, and a holy life, and directed men's thoughts, and affections, and aims to another world, therefore the Jewish rulers sought to destroy him. Peter wounded one of the band. It is easier to fight for Christ than to die for him. But there is a great difference between faulty disciples and hypocrites. The latter rashly and without thought call Christ Master, and express great affection for him, yet betray him to his enemies. Thus they hasten their own destruction.
McArther Bible Commentary
as against a robber. Jesus expressed a righteous resentment toward the crowd's actions and attitudes. A robber was normally a highwayman or armed bandit who would resist arrest. The setting which the crowd orchestrated was inconsistent with His well-known ministry as a religious teacher.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 26:47 Matthew 26:55 Mark 14:47 Mark 14:49

Verse 49

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
He is betrayed and taken.
Because Christ appeared not as a temporal prince, but preached repentance, reformation, and a holy life, and directed men's thoughts, and affections, and aims to another world, therefore the Jewish rulers sought to destroy him. Peter wounded one of the band. It is easier to fight for Christ than to die for him. But there is a great difference between faulty disciples and hypocrites. The latter rashly and without thought call Christ Master, and express great affection for him, yet betray him to his enemies. Thus they hasten their own destruction.
McArther Bible Commentary
temple. See note on Mar 11:11. The temple was the most public place in Jerusalem. the Scriptures must be fulfilled. Entirely apart from the crowd's sinful intentions against Jesus, God used them sovereignly to fulfill prophecy (cf. Isa 53:7-9, Isa 53:12) and to accomplish His gracious purposes (see note on Mat 26:54).
Bible Cross References
Matthew 26:55 Mark 10:1 Mark 12:35 Mark 14:48 Mark 14:50 Luke 19:47 Luke 21:37

Verse 50

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
He is betrayed and taken.
Because Christ appeared not as a temporal prince, but preached repentance, reformation, and a holy life, and directed men's thoughts, and affections, and aims to another world, therefore the Jewish rulers sought to destroy him. Peter wounded one of the band. It is easier to fight for Christ than to die for him. But there is a great difference between faulty disciples and hypocrites. The latter rashly and without thought call Christ Master, and express great affection for him, yet betray him to his enemies. Thus they hasten their own destruction.
McArther Bible Commentary
forsook Him. The disciples found no comfort in Jesus' reference to Scripture, but instead their faith in Him collapsed as they realized He would not resist arrest and that they also might be captured.
Bible Cross References
Mark 14:49 Mark 14:51

Verse 51

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
He is betrayed and taken.
Because Christ appeared not as a temporal prince, but preached repentance, reformation, and a holy life, and directed men's thoughts, and affections, and aims to another world, therefore the Jewish rulers sought to destroy him. Peter wounded one of the band. It is easier to fight for Christ than to die for him. But there is a great difference between faulty disciples and hypocrites. The latter rashly and without thought call Christ Master, and express great affection for him, yet betray him to his enemies. Thus they hasten their own destruction.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
A young man - It does not appear, that he was one of Christ's disciples. Probably hearing an unusual noise, he started up out of his bed, not far from the garden, and ran out with only the sheet about him, to see what was the matter. And the young men laid hold on him - Who was only suspected to be Christ's disciple: but could not touch them who really were so.
McArther Bible Commentary
certain young man. Perhaps this was Mark himself. If the mob under Judas's guidance had first gone to Mark's mother's house in search of Jesus-possibly where the last Passover was observed by Jesus and the Twelve-Mark could have heard the noise, suspected what was happening, and hurried to follow the multitude. a linen cloth. Either a loose-fitting linen sleeping garment or a sheet Mark had hastily wrapped around himself after being roused from bed.
Bible Cross References
Mark 14:50 Mark 14:52

Verse 52

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
He is betrayed and taken.
Because Christ appeared not as a temporal prince, but preached repentance, reformation, and a holy life, and directed men's thoughts, and affections, and aims to another world, therefore the Jewish rulers sought to destroy him. Peter wounded one of the band. It is easier to fight for Christ than to die for him. But there is a great difference between faulty disciples and hypocrites. The latter rashly and without thought call Christ Master, and express great affection for him, yet betray him to his enemies. Thus they hasten their own destruction.
McArther Bible Commentary
fled … naked. Mark escaped capture and ran, but in doing so, his covering came off or was pulled off, and he left with nothing on-or perhaps nothing more than undergarments.
Bible Cross References
Mark 14:51 Mark 14:53

Verse 53

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ before the high priest.
We have here Christ's condemnation before the great council of the Jews. Peter followed; but the high priest's fire-side was no proper place, nor his servants proper company, for Peter: it was an entrance into temptation. Great diligence was used to procure false witnesses against Jesus, yet their testimony was not equal to the charge of a capital crime, by the utmost stretch of their law. He was asked, Art thou the Son of the Blessed? that is, the Son of God. For the proof of his being the Son of God, he refers to his second coming. In these outrages we have proofs of man's enmity to God, and of God's free and unspeakable love to man.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Matthew 26:3.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
(Matthew 26:57) ; (Luke 22:54) ; (John 18:12) .
McArther Bible Commentary
Mark's account of Jesus' trials, like that of all the Gospels, makes it clear that Christ was tried in two general phases: first, before the religious authorities (the Jewish Sanhedrin), and second, before the secular, political authorities (Rome, represented by the governor, Pontius Pilate). Each of these phases had three parts: preliminary interrogation, formal arraignment, and formal sentencing. Mark, like the other Gospel writers, did not include a comprehensive account of all the details and stages. A complete picture requires the material from all four Gospels to be combined.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 26:57 Mark 14:52 Luke 22:54 John 18:12 John 18:19

Verse 54

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ before the high priest.
We have here Christ's condemnation before the great council of the Jews. Peter followed; but the high priest's fire-side was no proper place, nor his servants proper company, for Peter: it was an entrance into temptation. Great diligence was used to procure false witnesses against Jesus, yet their testimony was not equal to the charge of a capital crime, by the utmost stretch of their law. He was asked, Art thou the Son of the Blessed? that is, the Son of God. For the proof of his being the Son of God, he refers to his second coming. In these outrages we have proofs of man's enmity to God, and of God's free and unspeakable love to man.
McArther Bible Commentary
courtyard of the high priest. A quadrangle in the center of the high priest's residence.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 26:3 Mark 14:66 Mark 14:67 Mark 14:68 Luke 22:54 John 18:15 John 18:18

Verse 55

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ before the high priest.
We have here Christ's condemnation before the great council of the Jews. Peter followed; but the high priest's fire-side was no proper place, nor his servants proper company, for Peter: it was an entrance into temptation. Great diligence was used to procure false witnesses against Jesus, yet their testimony was not equal to the charge of a capital crime, by the utmost stretch of their law. He was asked, Art thou the Son of the Blessed? that is, the Son of God. For the proof of his being the Son of God, he refers to his second coming. In these outrages we have proofs of man's enmity to God, and of God's free and unspeakable love to man.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
All the council sought for witness and found none - What an amazing proof of the overruling providence of God, considering both their authority, and the rewards they could offer, that no two consistent witnesses could be procured, to charge him with any gross crime. (Matthew 26:59) .
McArther Bible Commentary
council. The Sanhedrin (see note on Mat 26:59).
Bible Cross References
Matthew 5:22 Mark 14:56 John 18:19

Verse 56

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ before the high priest.
We have here Christ's condemnation before the great council of the Jews. Peter followed; but the high priest's fire-side was no proper place, nor his servants proper company, for Peter: it was an entrance into temptation. Great diligence was used to procure false witnesses against Jesus, yet their testimony was not equal to the charge of a capital crime, by the utmost stretch of their law. He was asked, Art thou the Son of the Blessed? that is, the Son of God. For the proof of his being the Son of God, he refers to his second coming. In these outrages we have proofs of man's enmity to God, and of God's free and unspeakable love to man.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Their evidences were not sufficient - The Greek words literally rendered are, Were not equal: not equal to the charge of a capital crime: it is the same word in (Mark 14:59) .
McArther Bible Commentary
Because Jesus was innocent, the Jewish leaders could not convict Him except by relying on perjured testimony and perverted justice. The Jewish leaders were intent on doing whatever was necessary, even if they had to violate every biblical and rabbinical rule. many bore false witness against Him. There was no lack of people to come forward at the Sanhedrin's invitation to consciously present false, lying testimony. did not agree. The testimonies were grossly inconsistent. The law, however, required exact agreement between two witnesses (Deu 17:6; Deu 19:15).
Bible Cross References
Mark 14:55 Mark 14:57

Verse 57

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ before the high priest.
We have here Christ's condemnation before the great council of the Jews. Peter followed; but the high priest's fire-side was no proper place, nor his servants proper company, for Peter: it was an entrance into temptation. Great diligence was used to procure false witnesses against Jesus, yet their testimony was not equal to the charge of a capital crime, by the utmost stretch of their law. He was asked, Art thou the Son of the Blessed? that is, the Son of God. For the proof of his being the Son of God, he refers to his second coming. In these outrages we have proofs of man's enmity to God, and of God's free and unspeakable love to man.
McArther Bible Commentary
false witness. The witnesses maliciously garbled and misrepresented Jesus' statements. Quite possibly, they blended His figurative statement about His death and resurrection in Joh 2:19-22 with His prediction of a literal destruction of the temple in Mar 13:2. Their charge claimed He was disloyal to the present order of religion and worship (by replacing the current temple), and that He was blaspheming God (by saying He would so quickly rebuild the temple without hands).
Bible Cross References
Mark 14:56 Mark 14:58

Verse 58

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ before the high priest.
We have here Christ's condemnation before the great council of the Jews. Peter followed; but the high priest's fire-side was no proper place, nor his servants proper company, for Peter: it was an entrance into temptation. Great diligence was used to procure false witnesses against Jesus, yet their testimony was not equal to the charge of a capital crime, by the utmost stretch of their law. He was asked, Art thou the Son of the Blessed? that is, the Son of God. For the proof of his being the Son of God, he refers to his second coming. In these outrages we have proofs of man's enmity to God, and of God's free and unspeakable love to man.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
We heard him say - It is observable, that the words which they thus misrepresented, were spoken by Christ at least three years before, (John 2:19) . Their going back so far to find matter for the charge, was a glorious, though silent attestation of the unexceptionable manner wherein he had behaved, through the whole course of his public ministry.
McArther Bible Commentary
I will destroy this temple made with hands. This temple refers to the material sanctuary in Jerusalem. Jesus boldly made this assertion in front of the temple the Jews revered, but His words were not fully understood (see notes on Mar 14:57-58; Joh 2:19-20).
Bible Cross References
Matthew 26:61 Mark 14:57 Mark 14:59 Mark 15:29 John 2:19 2 Corinthians 5:1 Hebrews 9:11

Verse 59

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ before the high priest.
We have here Christ's condemnation before the great council of the Jews. Peter followed; but the high priest's fire-side was no proper place, nor his servants proper company, for Peter: it was an entrance into temptation. Great diligence was used to procure false witnesses against Jesus, yet their testimony was not equal to the charge of a capital crime, by the utmost stretch of their law. He was asked, Art thou the Son of the Blessed? that is, the Son of God. For the proof of his being the Son of God, he refers to his second coming. In these outrages we have proofs of man's enmity to God, and of God's free and unspeakable love to man.
Bible Cross References
Mark 14:58 Mark 14:60

Verse 60

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ before the high priest.
We have here Christ's condemnation before the great council of the Jews. Peter followed; but the high priest's fire-side was no proper place, nor his servants proper company, for Peter: it was an entrance into temptation. Great diligence was used to procure false witnesses against Jesus, yet their testimony was not equal to the charge of a capital crime, by the utmost stretch of their law. He was asked, Art thou the Son of the Blessed? that is, the Son of God. For the proof of his being the Son of God, he refers to his second coming. In these outrages we have proofs of man's enmity to God, and of God's free and unspeakable love to man.
McArther Bible Commentary
Caiaphas attempted to salvage the tense situation when the continued false charges were failing to establish a case or elicit a response from the Lord. The high priest could not understand how Jesus could remain silent and not offer any defense.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 26:62 Mark 14:59 Mark 14:61

Verse 61

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ before the high priest.
We have here Christ's condemnation before the great council of the Jews. Peter followed; but the high priest's fire-side was no proper place, nor his servants proper company, for Peter: it was an entrance into temptation. Great diligence was used to procure false witnesses against Jesus, yet their testimony was not equal to the charge of a capital crime, by the utmost stretch of their law. He was asked, Art thou the Son of the Blessed? that is, the Son of God. For the proof of his being the Son of God, he refers to his second coming. In these outrages we have proofs of man's enmity to God, and of God's free and unspeakable love to man.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Matthew 26:63, 64; Luke 22:70.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
(Matthew 26:63) ; (Luke 22:67) .
McArther Bible Commentary
kept silent. This represented the silence of innocence, integrity, and faith in God. An answer by Jesus would have given all the false testimonies and illegal proceedings an appearance of legitimacy. Christ. This term refers to Jesus' claim to be the promised Messiah (see note on Mat 1:1). Son of the Blessed. This refers to Jesus' claim to deity. This use of the expression is the only one in the NT, and it is an example of Jewish wording that avoided using God's name (see note on Joh 8:58). Jesus' acceptance of messiahship and deity (cf. Luk 4:18-21; Joh 4:25-26; Joh 5:17-18; Joh 8:58) had always brought vigorous opposition from the Jewish leaders (Joh 5:19-47; Joh 8:16-19; Joh 10:29-39). Clearly, the high priest was asking this question in hopes that Jesus would affirm it and open Himself to the formal charge of blasphemy.
Bible Cross References
Isaiah 53:7 Matthew 26:63 Mark 14:60 Luke 22:67

Verse 62

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ before the high priest.
We have here Christ's condemnation before the great council of the Jews. Peter followed; but the high priest's fire-side was no proper place, nor his servants proper company, for Peter: it was an entrance into temptation. Great diligence was used to procure false witnesses against Jesus, yet their testimony was not equal to the charge of a capital crime, by the utmost stretch of their law. He was asked, Art thou the Son of the Blessed? that is, the Son of God. For the proof of his being the Son of God, he refers to his second coming. In these outrages we have proofs of man's enmity to God, and of God's free and unspeakable love to man.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Matthew 26:63, 64; Luke 22:70.
McArther Bible Commentary
I am. An explicit, unambiguous declaration that Jesus was and is both the Messiah and the Son of God. Son of Man. See notes on Mar 2:10; Mat 8:20. Jesus used this commonly acknowledged messianic title of Himself more than eighty times in the Gospels, here in a reference to Psa 110:1 and Dan 7:13 (cf. Rev 1:13; Mar 14:14). right hand of the Power. Cf. Mar 10:37; Act 2:33; Act 7:55; Heb 2:9; Rev 12:5. Jesus' glorified position is next to the throne of God (the "Power" is another reference to God). clouds. See note on Mar 13:26; cf. Mat 24:30; Mat 26:64; Luk 21:27; Act 1:9-11; Rev 1:7; Rev 14:14.
Bible Cross References
Psalm 110:1 Daniel 7:13 Matthew 26:64 Mark 13:26 Luke 22:69 2 Peter 1:16

Verse 63

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ before the high priest.
We have here Christ's condemnation before the great council of the Jews. Peter followed; but the high priest's fire-side was no proper place, nor his servants proper company, for Peter: it was an entrance into temptation. Great diligence was used to procure false witnesses against Jesus, yet their testimony was not equal to the charge of a capital crime, by the utmost stretch of their law. He was asked, Art thou the Son of the Blessed? that is, the Son of God. For the proof of his being the Son of God, he refers to his second coming. In these outrages we have proofs of man's enmity to God, and of God's free and unspeakable love to man.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Matthew 26:65.
McArther Bible Commentary
tore his clothes. A ceremonial, and in this case contrived, display of grief and indignation over the presumed dishonoring of God's name by Jesus (cf. Gen 37:29; Lev 10:6; Job 1:20; Act 14:13, Act 14:19; see note on Mat 26:65). further need … of witnesses. A rhetorical question that expressed relief that the tense and embarrassing situation was finally over. Because Jesus had allegedly incriminated Himself in the eyes of the Sanhedrin, they would not need to summon any more lying witnesses.
Bible Cross References
Numbers 14:6 Matthew 26:65 Acts 14:14

Verse 64

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ before the high priest.
We have here Christ's condemnation before the great council of the Jews. Peter followed; but the high priest's fire-side was no proper place, nor his servants proper company, for Peter: it was an entrance into temptation. Great diligence was used to procure false witnesses against Jesus, yet their testimony was not equal to the charge of a capital crime, by the utmost stretch of their law. He was asked, Art thou the Son of the Blessed? that is, the Son of God. For the proof of his being the Son of God, he refers to his second coming. In these outrages we have proofs of man's enmity to God, and of God's free and unspeakable love to man.
McArther Bible Commentary
blasphemy. See note on Mar 2:7; cf. Mar 3:29. Strictly speaking, Jesus' words were not "blasphemy," or defiant irreverence of God (Lev 24:10-23), but Caiaphas regarded them as such because Jesus claimed for Himself equal power and prerogative with God.
Bible Cross References
Leviticus 24:16 Deuteronomy 21:22

Verse 65

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christ before the high priest.
We have here Christ's condemnation before the great council of the Jews. Peter followed; but the high priest's fire-side was no proper place, nor his servants proper company, for Peter: it was an entrance into temptation. Great diligence was used to procure false witnesses against Jesus, yet their testimony was not equal to the charge of a capital crime, by the utmost stretch of their law. He was asked, Art thou the Son of the Blessed? that is, the Son of God. For the proof of his being the Son of God, he refers to his second coming. In these outrages we have proofs of man's enmity to God, and of God's free and unspeakable love to man.
McArther Bible Commentary
spit on Him … beat Him. For the Jews, to "spit" in another's face was the most gross and most hateful form of personal insult (cf. Num 12:14; Deu 25:9). Their brutal cruelty reached a climax and revealed the great depravity of their hearts when they "beat Him," or hit Him with clenched fists. Prophesy! They jeeringly and disrespectfully ordered Jesus to use the prophetic powers He claimed to have-even in the frivolous manner of telling them who had hit Him (Mat 26:68).
Bible Cross References
2 Chronicles 18:23 Esther 7:8 Isaiah 50:6 Matthew 26:67 Matthew 26:68 Matthew 27:30 Mark 10:34 Luke 22:63 Luke 22:64

Verse 66

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Peter denies Christ.
Peter's denying Christ began by keeping at a distance from him. Those that are shy of godliness, are far in the way to deny Christ. Those who think it dangerous to be in company with Christ's disciples, because thence they may be drawn in to suffer for him, will find it much more dangerous to be in company with his enemies, because there they may be drawn in to sin against him. When Christ was admired and flocked after, Peter readily owned him; but will own no relation to him now he is deserted and despised. Yet observe, Peter's repentance was very speedy. Let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall; and let him that has fallen think of these things, and of his own offences, and return to the Lord with weeping and supplication, seeking forgiveness, and to be raised up by the Holy Spirit.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
(Matthew 26:69) ; (Luke 22:56) ; (John 18:25) .
McArther Bible Commentary
below. The apartments around it were higher than the courtyard itself. one of the servant girls. She was a female slave, or maid, in the household of the high priest, and she might have been the same gatekeeper (cf. Joh 18:15-16) who admitted Peter and who, being curious and suspicious of him, wanted a closer look.
Bible Cross References
Nahum 2:7 Matthew 26:3 Matthew 26:69 Mark 14:54 Luke 22:55 Luke 22:56 John 18:16 John 18:25

Verse 67

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Peter denies Christ.
Peter's denying Christ began by keeping at a distance from him. Those that are shy of godliness, are far in the way to deny Christ. Those who think it dangerous to be in company with Christ's disciples, because thence they may be drawn in to suffer for him, will find it much more dangerous to be in company with his enemies, because there they may be drawn in to sin against him. When Christ was admired and flocked after, Peter readily owned him; but will own no relation to him now he is deserted and despised. Yet observe, Peter's repentance was very speedy. Let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall; and let him that has fallen think of these things, and of his own offences, and return to the Lord with weeping and supplication, seeking forgiveness, and to be raised up by the Holy Spirit.
McArther Bible Commentary
of Nazareth. Their reference to Jesus' hometown communicates a feeling of contempt, in keeping with the views of the Jewish leaders and the poor reputation Nazareth generally had (cf. Joh 1:46).
Bible Cross References
Matthew 2:23 Mark 1:24 Mark 14:54 John 18:18

Verse 68

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Peter denies Christ.
Peter's denying Christ began by keeping at a distance from him. Those that are shy of godliness, are far in the way to deny Christ. Those who think it dangerous to be in company with Christ's disciples, because thence they may be drawn in to suffer for him, will find it much more dangerous to be in company with his enemies, because there they may be drawn in to sin against him. When Christ was admired and flocked after, Peter readily owned him; but will own no relation to him now he is deserted and despised. Yet observe, Peter's repentance was very speedy. Let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall; and let him that has fallen think of these things, and of his own offences, and return to the Lord with weeping and supplication, seeking forgiveness, and to be raised up by the Holy Spirit.
McArther Bible Commentary
the porch. Used only here in the NT, this term denotes "the forecourt," or "entryway," a covered archway of the courtyard, opening onto the street. a rooster crowed. This reference brings to mind Jesus' prediction in verse Mar 14:30 (see note there) and Mat 26:34. Amid all the accusations being hurled at him, Peter either did not hear the rooster's crowing, or failed to realize its significance. When the rooster crowed the second time, Jesus looked at Peter (Luk 22:61), triggering Peter's memory and bringing conviction of his denials (cf. Mar 14:72).
Bible Cross References
Mark 14:30 Mark 14:54 Mark 14:69 Mark 14:70 Mark 14:72

Verse 69

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Peter denies Christ.
Peter's denying Christ began by keeping at a distance from him. Those that are shy of godliness, are far in the way to deny Christ. Those who think it dangerous to be in company with Christ's disciples, because thence they may be drawn in to suffer for him, will find it much more dangerous to be in company with his enemies, because there they may be drawn in to sin against him. When Christ was admired and flocked after, Peter readily owned him; but will own no relation to him now he is deserted and despised. Yet observe, Peter's repentance was very speedy. Let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall; and let him that has fallen think of these things, and of his own offences, and return to the Lord with weeping and supplication, seeking forgiveness, and to be raised up by the Holy Spirit.
Bible Cross References
Mark 14:68 Mark 14:70 John 18:25

Verse 70

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Peter denies Christ.
Peter's denying Christ began by keeping at a distance from him. Those that are shy of godliness, are far in the way to deny Christ. Those who think it dangerous to be in company with Christ's disciples, because thence they may be drawn in to suffer for him, will find it much more dangerous to be in company with his enemies, because there they may be drawn in to sin against him. When Christ was admired and flocked after, Peter readily owned him; but will own no relation to him now he is deserted and despised. Yet observe, Peter's repentance was very speedy. Let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall; and let him that has fallen think of these things, and of his own offences, and return to the Lord with weeping and supplication, seeking forgiveness, and to be raised up by the Holy Spirit.
McArther Bible Commentary
Galilean. This was frequently used as a derisive label by people in Jerusalem toward their northern neighbors. It suggested that natives of Galilee were deemed unsophisticated and uneducated (cf. Act 4:13).
Bible Cross References
Matthew 26:73 Mark 14:68 Mark 14:69 Mark 14:71 Luke 22:59

Verse 71

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Peter denies Christ.
Peter's denying Christ began by keeping at a distance from him. Those that are shy of godliness, are far in the way to deny Christ. Those who think it dangerous to be in company with Christ's disciples, because thence they may be drawn in to suffer for him, will find it much more dangerous to be in company with his enemies, because there they may be drawn in to sin against him. When Christ was admired and flocked after, Peter readily owned him; but will own no relation to him now he is deserted and despised. Yet observe, Peter's repentance was very speedy. Let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall; and let him that has fallen think of these things, and of his own offences, and return to the Lord with weeping and supplication, seeking forgiveness, and to be raised up by the Holy Spirit.
Bible Cross References
Mark 14:70 Mark 14:72

Verse 72

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Peter denies Christ.
Peter's denying Christ began by keeping at a distance from him. Those that are shy of godliness, are far in the way to deny Christ. Those who think it dangerous to be in company with Christ's disciples, because thence they may be drawn in to suffer for him, will find it much more dangerous to be in company with his enemies, because there they may be drawn in to sin against him. When Christ was admired and flocked after, Peter readily owned him; but will own no relation to him now he is deserted and despised. Yet observe, Peter's repentance was very speedy. Let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall; and let him that has fallen think of these things, and of his own offences, and return to the Lord with weeping and supplication, seeking forgiveness, and to be raised up by the Holy Spirit.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
And he covered his head - Which was a usual custom with mourners, and was fitly expressive both of grief and shame.
Bible Cross References
Psalm 119:59 Matthew 26:34 Mark 14:30 Mark 14:68 Mark 14:71