Matthew 26

-8 1 3 2 -9 1 0 0 0 0 13 96 -9 2 0 0 2 0 1 RVStyle2 7 StyleNameNormal textFontNameArialUnicode Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaUnicode Size Standard StyleNameJumpFontNameTahomaStylefsUnderlineColorclBlue HoverColorclMaroonHoverEffects rvheUnderlineUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameHeading - Module name SizeDoubleFontNameTahomaColorclMaroonUnicode SizeStandard StyleName"Heading small - Module descriptionFontNameTahomaColorclMaroonUnicode Size Standard StyleNameHeading - LinkFontNameTahomaColorclNavy HoverColorclPurpleUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaStylefsUnderlineColorclBlueUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaColorclBlue HoverColorclMaroonNextStyleNoUnicode Jump Size -9 2 0 0 2 0 2 RVStyle2 jBiDiModervbdLeftToRightTabs StyleNameCentered Alignment rvaCenterTabsStandardTabs-9 2 0 0 2 0 4 RVStyle2 -9 0 0 0 0 0 7 1 15 2 8 0 0 CHAPTER XXVI) Outline of Chapter 26) Theme: The Work Which Thou Gavest Him to Do) 26:1 5 God s Counsel versus Man s Collusion) 26:6 13 The Anointing at Bethany) 26:14 16 The Agreement between Judas and the Chief Priests) 26:17 25 The Passover) 26:26 30 The Institution of the Lord s Supper) 26:31 35 Peter s Denial Foretold) 26:36 46 Gethsemane) 26:47 56 The Betrayal and the Seizure of Jesus) 26:57 68 The Trial before the Sanhedrin) 26:69 75 Peter s Threefold Denial) ) 26:1 5 God s Counsel versus Man s Collusion) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.1|AUTODETECT|” Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.1|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.1|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 2 2 8 0 0 26 1 It came about that when Jesus had finished all these words, he said to his disciples, 2 You know that after two days the Passover is held; then the Son of man is handed over to be crucified. 3 Then the chief priests and the elders of the people assembled in the palace of the highpriest named Caiaphas, 4 and plotted by some trick to take Jesus into custody and kill him. 5 But they went on to say, Not at the Festival, lest there be a riot among the people. ) ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.12.6|AUTODETECT|” 1, 2. It came about that when Jesus had finished all these words, he said to his disciples, You know that after two days the Passover is held; then the Son of man is handed over to be crucified. The formula, When Jesus had finished all these words, or something similar, has been discussed in connection with 19:1. See on that passage. The expression holding or celebrating the Passover obviously refers here to the eating of the Passover lamb on Thursday, the fourteenth of the month Nisan 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.12.6|AUTODETECT|” Exod. 12:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.12.7|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.12.7|AUTODETECT|” 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). The entire Festival of Unleavened Bread lasted seven additional days; that is, until the twenty-first of the month. It is clear, therefore, that when Jesus reminds his disciples that after two days the Passover would be held, Tuesday that very memorable day on which so many events transpired and so many words were spoken (beginning at 21:20) is not yet over. The disciples knew, of course, when the Passover would be held. They also knew, at least should have known, that Jesus was going to be crucified, for this he had predicted again and again. See above, p. 9. Something new is added when Jesus now designates the very day when this being handed over for crucifixion would take place, namely, during the night from Thursday to Friday, with the crucifixion itself to occur on Friday.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.10|AUTODETECT|” It is not only the precise prediction, indicated by the prophetic present tense that arrests our attention, but also the implied determination on the part of the Son of man for this title see on 8:20, pp. 403 407 that the counsel of God shall stand 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.10|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 53:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.22|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.23|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.23|AUTODETECT|” Acts 2:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.3.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.3.18|AUTODETECT|” 3:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.28|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.28|AUTODETECT|” 4:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.11|AUTODETECT|” ), and that he himself shall, in accordance with that counsel, actually lay down his life 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.11|AUTODETECT|” John 10:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.15|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.15|AUTODETECT|” 15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Apart from this voluntary sacrifice salvation for sinners would be impossible.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.46.10|AUTODETECT|” The clash between God s counsel and man s collusion is indicated in 26:3 5; 27:1, 35, 50, 62. These passages clearly show that while the Jewish authorities insisted that the arrest, trial, and death of Jesus must not take place during the Festival, the divine decree that it would indeed happen at that particular time triumphed. Even in and by itself this victory of God over every wicked design of man is a source of comfort for every believer 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.46.10|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 46:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.11|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 1:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.12|AUTODETECT|” 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.29|AUTODETECT|” ). Moreover, was it not also very appropriate that the type, namely, the slaying of the Passover lamb, and the antitype, the crucifixion of the Lamb of God, who was taking away the sin of the world 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.29|AUTODETECT|” John 1:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), should follow each other in such close succession?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.45-43.11.53|AUTODETECT|” The narrative relating how vain men tried to overthrow God s eternal plan and to vent their fury on Jesus begins as follows: 3 5. Then the chief priests and the elders of the people assembled in the palace of the highpriest named Caiaphas, and plotted by some trick to take Jesus into custody and kill him. The envy of the leaders had been aroused by Christ s miracles, climaxed by the raising of Lazarus from the dead, causing many people to believe in Jesus 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.45-43.11.53|AUTODETECT|” John 11:45 53) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.21.1-40.21.11|AUTODETECT|” ). The wrath of these same religious authorities had been further uncorked by the triumphal entry s effect upon the crowds 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.21.1-40.21.11|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 21:1 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), the cleansing of the temple (21:12, 13, 23), parables which they knew were meant for them (21:45), and the discourse by means of which the seven woes were pronounced against the scribes and Pharisees (chap. 23).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.5.18|AUTODETECT|” Consequently the Sanhedrin, here indicated by two of its three groups the chief priests and the elders held a meeting. No doubt the third group, consisting of the scribes (see on 2:4 and 16:21), was also represented. The plan to put Jesus to death did not originate at this meeting. That purpose was of long standing 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.5.18|AUTODETECT|” John 5:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.5.7|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.5.7|AUTODETECT|” 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.5.19|AUTODETECT|” :1, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.5.19|AUTODETECT|” 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.5.25|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.5.25|AUTODETECT|” 25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.37|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.37|AUTODETECT|” 8:37) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.40|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.40|AUTODETECT|” 40) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.53|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.53|AUTODETECT|” 11:53) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). What is now decided is how to carry out this plan. The leaders agree on a scheme to take Jesus by surprise, by trickery. Were they even now devising the kind of plot in which Judas would play an important role? But see on verses 14 16. However that may have been, one thing is certain, their presiding officer was not going to restrain them from using questionable methods to attain their end.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.49-43.11.51|AUTODETECT|” Who was this presiding officer? His name was Caiaphas ( Joseph who was called Caiaphas, says Josephus). The exact meaning of the name Caiaphas is not known, though it has been interpreted as physiognomist (expert in the art of reading character in the lineaments of a person s face or form) or, by a slight modification of this interpretation, fortune-teller, prophet. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.49-43.11.51|AUTODETECT|” John 11:49 51) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . Having been appointed to the highpriesthood by Valerius Gratus, the predecessor of Pontius Pilate, in the year a.d. 18, he was going to be deposed by Vitellus, the successor of Pontius Pilate, in the year a.d. 36. Caiaphas was the son-in-law of Annas, who was highpriest from a.d. 6 15. See Josephus Antiquities XVIII.35, 95.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.3|AUTODETECT|” That Caiaphas was a rude and sly manipulator, an opportunist, who did not know the meaning of fairness or justice and who was bent on having his own way by hook or by crook, is clear from the passages in which he is mentioned 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.3|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 26:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.57|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.57|AUTODETECT|” 57) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.2|AUTODETECT|” Luke 3:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.49|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.49|AUTODETECT|” John 11:49) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.13|AUTODETECT|” 18:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.14|AUTODETECT|” 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.24|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.24|AUTODETECT|” 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.28|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.28|AUTODETECT|” 28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.18|AUTODETECT|” ; Acts 4 6). He did not shrink from shedding innocent blood. What he himself ardently craved, for selfish purposes, he made to look as if it were the one thing needful for the welfare of the people. In order to effect the condemnation of Jesus, who had aroused his envy 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.18|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 27:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.57-40.26.66|AUTODETECT|” ), he was going to use devices which were the product of clever calculation and unprecedented boldness 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.57-40.26.66|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 26:57 66) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). He was a hypocrite, for in the night trial, at the selfsame moment when he was filled with inner glee because he had found what he considered a ground for Christ s condemnation, he tore his priestly robe as if overcome by profound sorrow! Such was Caiaphas.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 Leadership in hatching insidious plots could be expected from such a man. Judged by worldly standards both he and his father-in-law Annas on whom see N.T.C. on the Gospel according to John, Vol. II, p. 388 were very clever individuals. The meeting, moreover, took place in the palace��832�� of Caiaphas, a probable reference to the spacious and sumptuous residence, one wing of which may have been occupied by Annas, another by his son-in-law.��833�� Just why it was held here and not at the more usual place, namely, the hall of hewn stone on the south side of the great temple court, is not indicated. One guess would be: because secrecy was required. This sounds reasonable.

Besides, old Annas may have considered it more convenient for himself to have the meeting right in or near his own home! Or, one other possibility, those who were to attend the meeting may have known that it would last on into the night, when no meetings were allowed within the temple complex.) It is entirely in line with the spirit of these clever manipulators to read: But they went on to say, Not at the Festival, lest there be a riot among the people. The plotters knew that especially among the thousands of Galileans attending the festivities lasting eight days Jesus had many friends and adherants, people who in case of any action against their Leader might make trouble for the authorities. So it was decided to wait with the arrest, etc. until the followers of Jesus were no longer around. That this part of the plan miscarried was due to the fact that, because of the unexpected help offered by one of Christ s own disciples (verses 14 16), events took a much more rapid course than had been anticipated.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.2.4|AUTODETECT|” Not at the Festival, said the plotters. At the Festival, said the Almighty; after two days, echoed Jesus. His words and those of the conspirators seem to have been spoken at the same time, for the context seems to imply that here, for once, the full temporal sense must be given to the opening word of verse 3, Then. The divine decree always wins; in the interest of the kingdom, and to God s glory 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.2.4|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 2:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.33.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.33.10|AUTODETECT|” 33:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.33.11|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.33.11|AUTODETECT|” 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 2 2 8 0 0 ) 26:6 13 The Anointing at Bethany) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.3-41.14.9|AUTODETECT|” Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.3-41.14.9|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:3 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.1-43.12.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.1-43.12.8|AUTODETECT|” John 12:1 8) 1 2 2 8 0 0 6 Now when Jesus was in Bethany, at the home of Simon the leper, 7 there came to him a woman having an alabaster jar of very precious perfume, which she poured on his head as he was reclining at table. 8 But when the disciples saw (this) they were indignant. Why this waste? they said, 9 for this perfume could have been sold at a high price, and (the money) given to the poor. 10 But when Jesus perceived it he said to them, Why are you bothering this woman? For it is a beautiful thing she has done to me; 11 for the poor you always have with you, but me you have not always. 12 For when she poured this perfume on my body, she did it to prepare me for burial. 13 I solemnly assure you, wherever this gospel is preached in the whole world, also what she has done shall be told in memory of her. ) ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.1|AUTODETECT|” Though the fact that Jesus would be handed over to be crucified after two days was news for The Twelve, it cannot be said that among Christ s true followers there was no one who had a presentiment of his impending death. See 26:12. The story begins as follows: 6, 7. Now when Jesus was in Bethany, at the home of Simon the leper, there came to him a woman having an alabaster jar of very precious perfume, which she poured on his head as he was reclining at table. There is no conflict between this account and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.1|AUTODETECT|” John 12:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.2|AUTODETECT|” , Now six days before the Passover Jesus came to Bethany.& The time indication in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.2|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 26:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.2|AUTODETECT|” , after two days does not apply to the anointing at Bethany (verses 6 13). At verse 6 Matthew begins to tell a new story. To do so he must go back a few days, to the preceding Saturday evening, when a supper was given at Bethany in honor of Jesus. Present at this supper were at least fifteen men: Jesus, The Twelve, Lazarus 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.2|AUTODETECT|” John 12:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.6|AUTODETECT|” ), and a certain Simon, mentioned only here 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.6|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 26:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.3|AUTODETECT|” ) and in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.3|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.2|AUTODETECT|” . The idea readily suggests itself that the supper (or dinner if one prefers) was prompted by love for the Lord, specifically by gratitude for the raising of Lazarus and for the healing of Simon, the man who had been a leper, is still called Simon the leper, but had presumably been healed by Jesus. It was at the home of this Simon that the dinner was given. From ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.2|AUTODETECT|” John 12:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 we learn that Martha, the sister of Mary and of Lazarus, was serving, while Lazarus was one of those reclining with Jesus.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.3|AUTODETECT|” While the guests, according to the custom prevailing in that region, were reclining at table, there came to him a woman. That this woman was Mary of Bethany we learn from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.3|AUTODETECT|” John 12:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.7|AUTODETECT|” .��834�� She has taken a position behind the reclining Jesus. In her hand she holds an alabaster jar of very precious perfume, that is, a jar of white (or perhaps delicately tinted) fine-grained gypsum. It is filled with perfume or ointment, characterized as being very precious 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.7|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 26:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.3|AUTODETECT|” ), very costly 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.3|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.3|AUTODETECT|” ). In fact, the perfume had been extracted from pure nard 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.3|AUTODETECT|” John 12:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.23.5|AUTODETECT|” ). The same passage also informs us that there was a large quantity of this precious and very fragrant extract, not less than a Roman pound (twelve ounces)! Suddenly she purposely breaks this jar and pours its contents over Jesus. According to Matthew and Mark she pours it on his head 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.23.5|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 23:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.12|AUTODETECT|” ); according to John she anoints his feet. There is no conflict, for Matthew and Mark clearly indicate that the perfume was poured over Christ s body 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.12|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 26:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.8|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Evidently there was enough for the entire body: head, neck, shoulders, and feet. Simon s house was filled with fragrance.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 The true meaning of what happened here will never be grasped until it is realized that when Mary was pouring out her perfume, she was also pouring out her heart, filled with genuine religious love, gratitude, and devotion. The vessel in which the perfume was stored generally had a rather long and narrow neck. This bottle could have been opened or even broken at the top in such a manner that the perfume would have trickled out. But that would not have satisfied Mary. So she broke it in such a manner that the ointment came gushing out over Jesus.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.4-43.12.6|AUTODETECT|” The rest of the paragraph describes the reaction on the part of a. the disciples (verses 8 and 9), and b. Jesus (verses 10 13). 8, 9. But when the disciples saw (this) they were indignant. Why this waste? they said, for this perfume could have been sold at a high price, and (the money) given to the poor. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.4-43.12.6|AUTODETECT|” John 12:4 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.6|AUTODETECT|” (see N.T.C. on this) supplies further details, showing that it was the treasurer of The Twelve, namely Judas Iscariot, who voiced the strongest objection, and who quickly calculated the value of the gift, assessing it at three hundred denarii, for which, he implies, it should have been sold, the money to be given to the poor. But Matthew and Mark make it clear that the other disciples chimed in. With one exception, wherever Mary looked she met angry glances, shocked disapproval. That the native language of love is lavishness they did not understand. Noble people, these disciples, especially Judas, the protector of the simple way of life, the defender of the poor! But see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.6|AUTODETECT|” John 12:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.20|AUTODETECT|” It is almost beyond belief that the disciples should, by implication, mark as lacking in sufficient sympathy for the poor a most generous hostess; in fact one who together with her sister was in the habit of showing hospitality to them and to their Master whenever these poor people 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.20|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 8:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), in need of constant help (27:55, 56), were in the neighborhood. It is even more amazing when one considers that at this very hour these adverse critics, the disciples, were being entertained at the home of one of Mary s friends! He is ungrateful who denies that he has received a kindness which has been bestowed upon him; he is ungrateful who conceals it; he is ungrateful who makes no return for it; most ungrateful of all is he who forgets it (Seneca, De Beneficiis III.1). Moreover, in view of all that Jesus had already done for them, was doing for them, and was going to do for them, should not these men have been happy that Mary was in this marvelous manner honoring their Benefactor?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.7|AUTODETECT|” It is not surprising that Jesus rushes to Mary s defense: 10, 11. But when Jesus perceived it he said to them, Why are you bothering this woman? For it is a beautiful thing she has done to me; for the poor you always have with you, but me you have not always. Jesus did not want his disciples to worry about the perfume, as if it had been wasted, nor did he desire that they concentrate their attention exclusively upon the poor. He is saying, as it were, Consider what Mary has done for me. Not that the Master was unconcerned about the needs, both physical and spiritual, of those to whom help and mercy should be shown. Far from it, as the following passages indicate: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.7|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 5:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.2-40.6.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.2-40.6.4|AUTODETECT|” 6:2 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.7|AUTODETECT|” 12:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.19.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.19.21|AUTODETECT|” 19:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.20|AUTODETECT|” Luke 6:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.36-42.6.38|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.36-42.6.38|AUTODETECT|” 36 38) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.21.1-42.21.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.21.1-42.21.4|AUTODETECT|” 21:1 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.29|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.29|AUTODETECT|” John 13:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.23.10|AUTODETECT|” . On this subject, as well as on all others, his teaching was in line with the rest of special Revelation 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.23.10|AUTODETECT|” Exod. 23:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.23.11|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.23.11|AUTODETECT|” 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.19.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.19.10|AUTODETECT|” Lev. 19:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.15.7-5.15.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.15.7-5.15.11|AUTODETECT|” Deut. 15:7 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.15.11|AUTODETECT|” was he not in a sense quoting ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.15.11|AUTODETECT|” Deut. 15:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.41.1|AUTODETECT|” ? ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.41.1|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 41:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.14.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.14.21|AUTODETECT|” Prov. 14:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.14.31|AUTODETECT|” b, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.14.31|AUTODETECT|” 31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.19.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.19.17|AUTODETECT|” 19:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.58.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.58.7|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 58:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.22.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.22.16|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 22:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.4.27|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.4.27|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 4:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=30.2.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=30.2.6|AUTODETECT|” Amos 2:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=30.2.7|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=30.2.7|AUTODETECT|” 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.8.1-47.8.9|AUTODETECT|” ; and for the New Testament see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.8.1-47.8.9|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 8:1 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.2|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 6:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.9|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.9|AUTODETECT|” 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.10|AUTODETECT|” 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.13|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 3:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.5.1-59.5.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.5.1-59.5.6|AUTODETECT|” James 5:1 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). But there would be many more opportunities to attend to the cause of Christian charity or benevolence. On the contrary, the opportunity to show love and honor to Jesus in the state of humiliation had almost vanished. Gethsemane, Gabbatha, and Golgotha were just around the corner. What Mary had done was therefore right, beautiful even, for it was prompted by thankfulness of heart. It was also unique in the thoughtfulness it revealed. Moreover, it was regal in its lavishness. Last but not least, it was marvelous in its timeliness.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.39|AUTODETECT|” As to the latter Jesus continues: 12. For when she poured this perfume on my body, she did it to prepare me for burial. On this difficult passage much has been written. As some see it, Jesus is saying that Mary, without realizing it herself, had anointed Jesus for his impending death and burial.��835�� Now it must be admitted that this interpretation makes sense: God s purpose is often accomplished through the deeds of human beings, even though the latter are unaware of what is actually happening. Besides, Mary may not have known that her Master s death was so close at hand. On the other hand, the fact should not be overlooked that Mary of Bethany was perhaps the best listener Jesus ever had. The woman who now anointed Jesus feet was the same one who had previously been sitting at his feet 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.39|AUTODETECT|” Luke 10:39) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). If even the enemies of Jesus knew about the predictions Jesus had made concerning himself (27:63), can we not assume that Mary knew fully as much? If so, is it not probable that the thought had occurred to her, This may well be the last opportunity I shall ever get to bestow a kindness upon Jesus; and when, according to his own prediction, his enemies kill him, will his friends be accorded the privilege of anointing his body? The view, accordingly, that Mary s conscious purpose was to prepare Jesus for burial must not be ruled out. For more detail on this see N.T.C. on the Gospel according to John, Vol. II, pp. 178 180.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.14|AUTODETECT|” Jesus concludes his defense of Mary as follows: 13. I solemnly assure you see on 5:18 wherever this gospel is preached in the whole world, also what she has done shall be told in memory of her. As already indicated, it was now Saturday evening, the day before the triumphal entry. Then on Tuesday Jesus was going to make the astounding prediction that the gospel of the kingdom would spread throughout the world 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.14|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 24:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). But before that announcement is even made, he now, that is three days earlier, solemnly promises that wherever the joyful story concerning Jesus is told there the deed of Mary will march hand in hand with it. The memory of Mary s noble act must be kept alive. The Master will not allow it to be forgotten.) 1 3 2 8 0 0 This, of course, is a lesson for all time. The gospel and Mary s beautiful deed, the message of salvation and the response of gratitude for salvation received, these two must never be separated.) ) 26:14 16 The Agreement between Judas and the Chief Priests) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.10|AUTODETECT|” Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.10|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.11|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.11|AUTODETECT|” 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.3-42.22.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.3-42.22.6|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:3 6) 1 3 2 8 0 0 14 Then one of the twelve, named Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests 15 and said, What are you willing to give me if I hand him over to you? ) And they weighed out for him thirty pieces of silver. 16 And from then on he was looking for an opportunity to hand him over.) ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.11.57|AUTODETECT|” In sharp contrast with Mary s manifestation of loyalty stands forever Judas deed of disloyalty: 14, 15. Then one of the twelve, named Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and said, What are you willing to give me if I hand him over to you? For a description of Judas and a discussion of the reasons which may have prompted him to commit the deed of treachery which from this moment on is linked forever with his name see on 10:2 4, pp. 454, 455. The word then, as so often in Matthew, is again rather indefinite. It seems reasonable, nevertheless, to conclude that the agreement between Judas and the chief priests occurred not only after the Saturday evening supper (verses 6 13) but even after the Tuesday meeting of the Sanhedrin (verses 3 5). In order to allow enough time for Judas to work out his plans it is probably correct to say that he went to the chief priests immediately or almost immediately after their recorded session.

Not before, for it is clear from verses 3 5 that the decision reached at the meeting was still rather indefinite. They agreed by means of some trick or strategem to take Jesus into custody, not during the festival however. The exact nature of their dark device seems not to have been clear even to themselves at that time. They were hoping that something would turn up, or someone would show up. After all, everybody knew that they were seeking the help of the public in arresting Jesus 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.57|AUTODETECT|” John 11:57) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Did Judas arrive on Tuesday evening, just as the members of the Sanhedrin were leaving, and did they then quickly re-assemble? We do not know.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.41.9|AUTODETECT|” One of the twelve, that was the tragedy. One cannot help thinking of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.41.9|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 41:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.18|AUTODETECT|” , Even my bosom friend, in whom I trusted, who ate my bread, has lifted up his heel against me. In fact, Scripture itself 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.18|AUTODETECT|” John 13:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) encourages us to look in this direction in order to sense something of the depth of this man s sin and of his responsibility.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.11|AUTODETECT|” What are you willing to give me if I hand him over to you? Naturally the chief priests were glad 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.11|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.11|AUTODETECT|” ) when they heard these words. Here, just when they were in a quandary, thinking perhaps that the crowds of Jewish Passover pilgrims were rather solidly on the side of Jesus, this man one of the twelve closest companions of him whom they considered their enemy volunteers his services! The chief priests must have considered this an answer to their prayers. And they weighed out��836�� for him thirty pieces of silver. Right there, on the spot, the deal was finalized, the money paid. This is not in conflict with promised to give him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.11|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.5|AUTODETECT|” ). ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.5|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.6|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.6|AUTODETECT|” 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 a solves the puzzle: they came to an agreement with him, to pay him money. He consented. The implication is, So they paid. We can perhaps picture the situation as follows:) 1 4 2 8 0 0 Judas: What are you willing to give me if I hand him over to you? ) The chief priests: We promise to give you thirty pieces of silver as soon as you agree to deliver him into our hands. ) Judas: I agree. ) The chief priests, after weighing out the money: Here are the thirty silver coins. Judas takes them and departs.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.11.12|AUTODETECT|” This interpretation is in harmony with the psychology of the situation. The chief priests would not have allowed their golden opportunity to pass by unheeded. They knew very well that if Judas had the money in his pocket he would not have dared to back out before committing the deed. Besides, if it is Matthew s intention that the words regarding the thirty pieces be interpreted as a fulfilment of the prophecy of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.11.12|AUTODETECT|” Zech. 11:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.11.13|AUTODETECT|” , as is probably true, they must have the meaning they weighed out for him, for that is their connotation in that prophecy, as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.11.13|AUTODETECT|” Zech. 11:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 makes clear.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.21.32|AUTODETECT|” As to the price paid, namely thirty pieces of silver, these pieces were tantamount in value to tetradrachmas or Hebrew shekels. Thirty of these, figured at 64 72 cents each, add up to (a sum) slightly more or less than $20. But with money values, both then and now, constantly fluctuating, it is impossible to determine with any exactness what this would amount to in present currency. For a price of a slave, gored by an ox, the Savior was sold to his enemies. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.21.32|AUTODETECT|” Exod. 21:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . For such a pitiful sum��837�� Judas betrayed the Master!) 1 3 2 8 0 0 With the money already in his possession, Judas now feels obliged to go into action. We are therefore not surprised to read: 16. And from then on he was looking for an opportunity to hand him over. That opportunity would come his way very soon.) ) 26:17 25 The Passover) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.12-41.14.21|AUTODETECT|” Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.12-41.14.21|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:12 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.7-42.22.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.7-42.22.14|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:7 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.21-42.22.23|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.21-42.22.23|AUTODETECT|” 21 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.21-43.13.30|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.21-43.13.30|AUTODETECT|” John 13:21 30) 1 3 2 8 0 0 17 Now on the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread the disciples came to Jesus, saying, Where do you want us to get the Passover supper ready for you to eat? 18 He said, Go to the city, to So-and So, and say to him, The Teacher says, My time is near; at your house I am going to celebrate the Passover with my disciples. 19 So the disciples did as Jesus had instructed them, and prepared the Passover meal.) 20 When it was evening Jesus was reclining at table with the twelve. 21 And while they were eating he said, I solemnly assure you that one of you shall betray me. 22 Filled with deep distress they, one by one, began to say to him, Surely not I, Lord? 23 But he answered and said, He who has dipped his hand into the bowl together with me, he shall betray me. 24 The Son of man goes as it is written concerning him, but woe to that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed. It would have been better for that man if he had not been born. 25 Judas, who was betraying him, said Surely not I, Rabbi? He said to him, You said (it)! ) ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.12.3|AUTODETECT|” Finally the morning of the fourteenth of Nisan arrived. When, as sometimes happens, the term Festival of Unleavened Bread is taken in its broadest sense, even the day on which occurred the eating of the Passover lamb is included. We are not told where Jesus and his disciples spent Wednesday, the day between the announcement recorded in verse 2 (Tuesday), and the Passover, verses 17 25 (Thursday).��838�� We read: 17. Now on the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread the disciples came to Jesus, saying, Where do you want us to get the Passover supper ready for you to eat? Nothing is said about the purchase of a lamb. We may probably assume that this had been attended to a few days earlier. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.12.3|AUTODETECT|” Exod. 12:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.12.6|AUTODETECT|” . Further preparations had to be made however. During the afternoon the lamb must be killed in the forecourt of the temple 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.12.6|AUTODETECT|” Exod. 12:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.13|AUTODETECT|” ). A room of sufficient size must be obtained, and everything in connection with this room and its furniture must be arranged. Besides, purchases must be made: of unleavened bread, bitter herbs, wine, etc. The lamb must be made ready for use, the sauce must be prepared. Since it was now Thursday morning, there can be no delay. 18. He said, Go to the city, to So-and-So & ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.13|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.8|AUTODETECT|” informs us that these instructions were given to two of his diciples. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.22.8|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 supplies the names Peter and John. Both of these Gospels also supply a more detailed description of Mr. So-and-So, without naming him, however. Is the indefiniteness of the three accounts due to the fact that not until later in the day must Judas know where the Passover will be kept, so that Jesus may indeed observe it with his disciples, and the plan of God regarding the subsequent events may be fully carried out? However this may be, the two apostles are told that upon entering the city (Jerusalem) they will be met by a man carrying a pitcher of water. Ordinarily not a man but a woman or a girl would be doing this; hence, this man with a jar of water, probably carrying it on his head, will be rather conspicuous.

The disciples will have no difficulty singling him out from the crowd. Jesus instructs them to follow this man into whatever house he enters, and then to bring Christ s message to the master or owner of that house: and say to him, The Teacher says, My time is near; at your house I am going to celebrate the Passover with my disciples. It was the rule in Israel that if anyone at this time had space available it must be given free of charge to whatever family or group wished to make sacred use of it. Besides, this particular person, the owner of the house, may well have been one of Christ s followers, who accordingly would be glad to accommodate the Master and his disciples.��839��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.2.4|AUTODETECT|” The words, My time is near, clearly indicate Christ s consciousness of the fact that he was accomplishing the work which the Father had given him to do. Every detail of this task had been marked out in the eternal decree, so that for each event there was a stipulated moment. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.2.4|AUTODETECT|” John 2:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.6|AUTODETECT|” 7:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.8|AUTODETECT|” 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.30|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.30|AUTODETECT|” 30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.20|AUTODETECT|” 8:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.23|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.23|AUTODETECT|” 12:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.1|AUTODETECT|” 13:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.1|AUTODETECT|” 17:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.18|AUTODETECT|” ; and the climax: 19:30. The time, to which Jesus refers here 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.18|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 26:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), must not be limited to the hours of the Passover but should be interpreted in a somewhat broader sense, the time appointed to me to bring to its conclusion the task of redemption assigned to me by the Father. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.48|AUTODETECT|” 19. So the disciples did as Jesus had instructed them, and prepared the Passover meal. Christ s detailed prediction was literally fulfilled. The disciples are met by the man carrying the pitcher, etc. They make all the necessary preparations. The exact prediction and its precise fulfilment reminds one of similar occasions when the omniscience pertaining to Christ s divine nature seems to have conveyed information to his finite and by no means omniscient (see on 24:36) human mentality 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.48|AUTODETECT|” John 1:48) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.19.29|AUTODETECT|” ; and perhaps ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.19.29|AUTODETECT|” Luke 19:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.19.30|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.19.30|AUTODETECT|” 30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.21.1|AUTODETECT|” , but see on its parallel, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.21.1|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 21:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.21.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.21.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 20, 21. When it was evening Jesus was reclining at table with the twelve. And while they were eating he said, I solemnly assure you see on 5:18 that one of you shall betray me. According to John s Gospel (13:1 20) Jesus has already washed the feet of his disciples, giving them a lesson in humility. Afterward he startles them by telling them that one of them is going to betray him (13:21 30). The pointing out of the betrayer occurred, according to our passage, while they were eating, that is, after the meal had been proceeding for some time.

For the elements that pertained to the Passover meal, as far as possible chronologically arranged, see N.T.C. on the Gospel according to John, Vol. I, p. 121.The reference in while they were eating is probably to item f. on that page. In the same commentary see also p. 242.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.46|AUTODETECT|” One of you! It came as a bolt from the blue. It was a stunning blow. What! Did the Master actually mean to say that one of their own number was going to hand him over to the authorities, for them to deal with as they pleased? Why, it was almost unbelievable Yet, the One who never told an untruth and whose very name was the Truth 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.46|AUTODETECT|” John 8:46) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.6|AUTODETECT|” 14:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) was saying this; so it must be true.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.25|AUTODETECT|” Christ s shocking announcement evoked three responses, in the form of questions, as follows: a. a question of wholesome self-distrust, Surely not I, Lord? That was the reaction on the part of all the disciples with the exception of Judas Iscariot. In Matthew s Gospel the question is found in 26:22, Christ s answer in verses 23, 24. There was also b. a question of loathsome hypocrisy, Surely not I, Rabbi? That, probably after considerable hesitation, was Judas reaction. For both his question and Christ s answer see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.25|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 26:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.23-43.13.30|AUTODETECT|” . Finally, there was c. a question of childlike confidence, Lord, who is it? That was the way in which John, prompted by Peter, expressed himself. The question in this form, the events relating to it, Christ s response, and the disciples reaction to that response, are recorded only in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.23-43.13.30|AUTODETECT|” John 13:23 30) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , which also in verse 30 mentions the traitor s departure. Therefore for c. read N.T.C. on the Gospel according to John, Vol. II, pp. 245 250.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Here in Matthew, therefore, we are dealing only with a. and b.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=19.41.9|AUTODETECT|” As to a. the question of wholesome self-distrust, note verse 22. Filled with deep distress they, one by one, began to say to him, Surely not I, Lord? Eleven hearts those of The Twelve minus Judas Iscariot are filled with misgiving. Each of these eleven men feels that he could not possibly be the one meant by the Lord and yet one never can tell. And so, one by one, each of them, caught with a certain dread of himself, asks, Surely not I, Lord? As to its form in the original, the question expects a negative answer, the kind of answer each ardently hopes the Master will give. 23.

But he answered and said, He who has dipped his hand into the bowl together with me, he shall betray me. It is clear that Jesus did not immediately allay the fear of these men or cure their self-distrust. Nor did he at once satisfy their suddenly aroused curiosity. Were not all the twelve disciples dipping morsels of food into the bowl filled with a broth consisting of mashed fruit (probably dates, figs, and raisins), water, and vinegar? Judas surely was not the only man doing this. What the Lord is doing, therefore, is this: he is emphasizing the base character of the betrayer s deed.

He is saying. Think of it, my betrayer is a man who is sharing his meal with me. Jesus was himself the Host. All the others were eating his food. That very fact, especially in the Near East, a region where accepting someone s hospitality and then injuring him, was considered most reprehensible, should have tied the hands of all. It should have made it impossible for any of The Twelve to take any action against their Host.

Think of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.41.9|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 41:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 0 The answer given by Jesus here in verse 23 served the following purposes:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.4.6|AUTODETECT|” (1). It was a warning for Judas. Let Judas ponder what he is doing. I know your designs, Judas, the Master seems to be saying. The revelation of this detailed knowledge should have put Judas on guard even at this late hour to return those thirty pieces of silver! Yes, in God s incomprehensible and all-comprehensive decree there is room even for solemn admonitions given to those who ultimately are lost.

You ask, How is that possible? I answer: I do not know, but the fact remains, nevertheless. If one does not want to accept the idea of warnings even for reprobates, he misses something of the meaning of this account. The serious character of the implied admonition increases the guilt of Judas. Before one is ready to deny the possibility of earnest warnings even for the reprobate, he should study ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.4.6|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 4:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.4.7|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.4.7|AUTODETECT|” 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.29.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.29.1|AUTODETECT|” Prov. 29:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.13.6-42.13.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.13.6-42.13.9|AUTODETECT|” Luke 13:6 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.13.34|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.13.34|AUTODETECT|” 34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.13.35|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.13.35|AUTODETECT|” 35) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 2 2 8 0 0 (2). It rivets the attention upon the depth of Christ s suffering. In a treacherous and humiliating manner he, the Lord of glory, is being handed over to his enemies. It is very important that we see this. Our reflection on the account of Christ s Passion should not become lost in all kinds of details regarding Judas and Peter and Annas and Pilate. It is, after all, the story of his suffering. It centers in him, and we must never forget to ask how all these things affected him!) (3). It showed, once again, that Jesus was in full control of the situation. He was not taken by surprise. He knew exactly what was happening and what was going to happen, the very details.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.23|AUTODETECT|” (4). It furnished an opportunity to the disciples to examine themselves. This point is often passed by. It is, nevertheless, very important. By giving the answer that is recorded here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.23|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 26:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.24|AUTODETECT|” Jesus did not identify the betrayer, and exactly by not identifying him the Lord was actually doing all a favor. He knew that self-examination would be the very best exercise for men such as these 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.24|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 !). Let each disciple be filled with grave misgivings, with wholesome self-distrust. These men need time for self-examination.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.21|AUTODETECT|” Jesus continues: 24. The Son of man goes as it is written concerning him, but woe to that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed. It would have been better for that man if he had not been born. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.21|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.22|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.0|AUTODETECT|” . For Son of man see on 8:20, pp. 403 407. Jesus, the One who via the path of humiliation attains to glorification, and in fact was glorious from the very beginning, goes, that is, lives on earth, suffers, dies, all this not as a victim of circumstances, but as it is written concerning him, hence as predicted by the prophets 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=23.53.0|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 53) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , etc.) and established in God s eternal decree. It was necessary for the Master to emphasize this truth once again, for it was so very difficult for the disciples to reconcile themselves with the idea of a Messiah who would die. Besides, when, on the day of tomorrow by Jewish reckoning today he dies on the cross, let the disciples reflect on this solemn statement, that they may know that this death does not mean the triumph of his enemies but rather the realization of God s gracious, sovereign, and ever victorious plan.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 However, nowhere in Scripture does predestination and prophecy cancel human responsibility. So also here: the expression Woe to that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed fully maintains the guilt and establishes the doom of the traitor. Not to have been born would have been better for such a man. But he was born, and is in the process of committing the gruesome deed. Therefore the entire statement, It would have been better for that man if he had not been born is an expression of unreality a situation that can be changed only if Judas, who remains fully responsible, still repents. We know that he did not repent.

Hence he faces everlasting damnation (25:46). What makes his guilt all the heavier is the fact that he not only planned the treachery and took the next step volunteering to deliver Jesus to the enemy and the next accepting the thirty pieces of silver but even now, in spite of Christ s impressive warnings, goes right ahead.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.27|AUTODETECT|” As to b., the question of loathsome hypocrisy, note verse 25. Judas, who was betraying him, said, Surely not I, Rabbi? Thus speaks the man who has the blood-money on his person! Was he thinking, Perhaps Jesus does not really know; perhaps he is only guessing. Besides, if I don t imitate the others, I ll be exposing myself. So I better put on a bold front ? It may be significant, however, that he does not say Lord, as did the others, but Rabbi. Did his real self momentarily rise to the surface when he made this change? Jesus shot back the answer. He said to him, You said (it)! Yes, Judas, you yourself are the man! And after this reply and the additional word, What you are doing, so do it faster 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.27|AUTODETECT|” John 13:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.30|AUTODETECT|” ), Judas, into whose heart Satan has entered, rushes out of the room and into the night 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.30|AUTODETECT|” John 13:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), with night in his heart.��840��) 1 2 2 8 0 0 ) 26:26 30 The Institution of the Lord s Supper) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.22-41.14.26|AUTODETECT|” Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.22-41.14.26|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:22 26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.15-42.22.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.15-42.22.20|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:15 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.11.23-46.11.25|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.11.23-46.11.25|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 11:23 25) 1 3 2 8 0 0 26 While they were eating, Jesus took bread, gave thanks, and broke it. He then gave it to his disciples and said, Take, eat; this is my body. 27 Then he took the cup and gave thanks. He gave it to them, saying, All of you drink from it; 28 for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. 29 But I tell you that from now on I will certainly not drink from this fruit of the vine until that day when I am drinking it new with you in my Father s kingdom. 30 And when they had sung a hymn they went out to the Mount of Olives.) ) 26. While they were eating, Jesus took bread, gave thanks, and broke it. At this point Passover passes over into the Lord s Supper; for it was while, toward the close of the Passover meal, the men were all eating freely (see on verse 21) that Jesus instituted the new sacrament that was to replace the old. A few more hours and the old symbol, being bloody for it required the slaying of the lamb will have served its purpose forever, having reached its fulfilment in the blood shed on Calvary.

It was time, therefore, that a new and unbloody symbol replace the old. Nevertheless, by historically linking Passover and Lord s Supper so closely together Jesus also made clear that what was essential in the first was not lost in the second. Both point to him, the only and all-sufficient sacrifice for the sins of his people. Passover pointed forward to this; the Lord s Supper points back to it.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.22|AUTODETECT|” Having taken from the table a thin slice or sheet of unleavened bread, Jesus gave thanks and then started to break up the slice. Though the original, in referring to the prayer, uses one word in verse 26 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.22|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.23|AUTODETECT|” ), and another in verse 27 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.23|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.11.24|AUTODETECT|” ) the first participial form occurring in connection with the bread, the second in connection with the cup there is no essential difference. Both Luke (22:19) and Paul 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.11.24|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 11:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.26|AUTODETECT|” ) read having given thanks where Matthew and Mark read having blessed. It is not incorrect therefore, in both ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.26|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 26:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 and 27, to adopt the rendering, Jesus & gave thanks. For more on this see on 14:19. The words which the Lord used in this thanksgiving have not been revealed. To try to reconstruct them from Jewish formula prayers would serve no useful purpose. How do we even know that our Lord availed himself of these prayers?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.6|AUTODETECT|” The breaking of the bread, to which reference is made in all four accounts, must be considered as belonging to the very essence of the sacrament. This becomes clear in the light of that which immediately follows, namely, He then gave it to his disciples and said, Take, eat; this is my body. To interpret this to mean that Jesus was actually saying that these portions of bread which he handed to the disciples were identical with his physical body, or were at that moment being changed into his body, is to ignore a. the fact that in his body Jesus was standing there in front of his disciples, for all to see. He was holding in his hand the bread, and giving them the portions as he broke them off. Body and bread were clearly distinct and remained thus. Neither changed into the other, or took on the physical properties or characteristics of the other. Besides, such an interpretation also ignores b. the fact that during his earthly ministry the Master very frequently used symbolical language 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.6|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 16:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.2.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.2.19|AUTODETECT|” John 2:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.3|AUTODETECT|” 3:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.14|AUTODETECT|” 4:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.32|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.32|AUTODETECT|” 32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.51|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.51|AUTODETECT|” 6:51) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.53-43.6.56|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.53-43.6.56|AUTODETECT|” 53 56) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.11|AUTODETECT|” 11:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.1|AUTODETECT|” ). It is striking that in all of the instances indicated by these references the symbolical or figurative character of our Lord s language was disregarded by those who first heard it! In each case also, the context makes clear that those who interpreted Christ s words literally were mistaken! Is it not high time that the implied lesson be taken to heart? Finally, there is c.: when Jesus spoke of himself as being the vine 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.1|AUTODETECT|” John 15:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.5|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.5|AUTODETECT|” 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.35|AUTODETECT|” ), is it not clear that he meant that what a natural vine is in relation to its branches, which find their unity, life, and fruit-bearing capacity in this plant, that, in a far more exalted sense, Christ is to his people? Is it not clear, therefore, that the vine represents or symbolizes Jesus, the Genuine Vine? Thus also he calls himself or is called the door, the morning star, the cornerstone, the lamb, the fountain, the rock, etc. He also refers to himself as the bread of life 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.35|AUTODETECT|” John 6:35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.48|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.48|AUTODETECT|” 48) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.58|AUTODETECT|” ), the bread that came down out of heaven 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.58|AUTODETECT|” John 6:58) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). So, why should he not be, and be represented and symbolized by, the broken bread ? Accordingly, the meaning of the broken bread and the poured out wine is correctly indicated in a Communion Form which represents Christ as saying: Whereas otherwise you should have suffered eternal death, I give my body in death on the tree of the cross and shed my blood for you, and nourish and refresh your hungry and thirsty souls with my crucified body and shed blood to everlasting life, as certainly as this bread is broken before your eyes and this cup is given to you, and you eat and drink with your mouth in remembrance of Me. ��841��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.18.20|AUTODETECT|” It was the desire of our Lord, therefore, that by means of the supper, here instituted, the church should remember his sacrifice and love him, should reflect on that sacrifice and embrace him by faith, and should look forward in living hope to his glorious return. Surely, the proper celebration of communion is a loving remembrance. It is, however, more than that. Jesus Christ is most certainly, and through his Spirit most actively, present at this genuine feast! Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.18.20|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 18:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . His followers take and eat. They appropriate Christ by means of living faith, and are strengthened in this faith.) 1 4 2 8 0 0 Having said all this, it will not be necessary to expatiate to any great extent on verses 27, 28. Then he took the cup and gave thanks. He gave it to them, saying, All of you drink from it; for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.) Note the following:) a. Not much significance should be attached to the fact that Mark speaks of a cup, for in the parallel accounts Matthew s text varies, while Luke and Paul both use the definite article; hence the cup. At the Passover it was customary to drink several cups of diluted wine. Since, as has been shown, the Lord s Supper was linked with the last part of the Passover, it is clear that the cup here mentioned reflects the final drinking that occurred at this feast.

Hence both Luke and Paul speak of the cup after supper. The emphasis, moreover, is never on the container. All the stress is on its contents, the wine (see on 26:29), as symbol of Christ s blood.) b. By ordering all his true disciples to drink this wine, the unity of all believers in Christ is stressed. Moreover, the practice of having one person, a priest, drink for all is hereby condemned.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.24.8|AUTODETECT|” c. In all four accounts a relation is established between Christ s blood and his covenant. As reported by Matthew and Mark, Jesus said, my blood of the covenant. The expression goes back to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.24.8|AUTODETECT|” Exod. 24:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.17.11|AUTODETECT|” . See also the significant passage ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.17.11|AUTODETECT|” Lev. 17:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.9.22|AUTODETECT|” . And note: Apart from the shedding of blood there is no remission 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.9.22|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 9:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.7|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.7|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 1:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.6|AUTODETECT|” ); therefore also no covenant, no special relation of friendship between God and his people. Reconciliation with God always requires blood, an atoning sacrifice. And since man himself is unable to render such a sacrifice, a substitutionary offering, accepted by faith, is required 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.6|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 53:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.8|AUTODETECT|” 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.10|AUTODETECT|” 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.12|AUTODETECT|” 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.28|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.28|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 20:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.45|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.45|AUTODETECT|” Mark 10:45) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” John 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.51|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.51|AUTODETECT|” 6:51) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.4.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.4.19|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 4:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.32|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.32|AUTODETECT|” 8:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.20|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 5:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.21|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.21|AUTODETECT|” 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.2.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.2.20|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 2:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.13|AUTODETECT|” 3:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.2.24|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.2.24|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 2:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.17.7|AUTODETECT|” ). Thus the covenant comes into being. Scripture refers again and again to God s covenant with his people. The Lord established it with Abraham 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.17.7|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 17:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.105.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.105.9|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 105:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.7|AUTODETECT|” ); hence, also with all who share Abraham s faith 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.7|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 3:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.29|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.29|AUTODETECT|” 29) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).��842��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.12|AUTODETECT|” d. Jesus says that his blood is poured out for many, not for all. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.12|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 53:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.21|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 1:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.28|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.28|AUTODETECT|” 20:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.45|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.45|AUTODETECT|” Mark 10:45) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.11|AUTODETECT|” John 10:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.14|AUTODETECT|” 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.15|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.15|AUTODETECT|” 15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.27|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.27|AUTODETECT|” 27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.28|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.28|AUTODETECT|” 28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.9|AUTODETECT|” 17:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.28|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.28|AUTODETECT|” Acts 20:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.32-45.8.35|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.32-45.8.35|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:32 35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.25-49.5.27|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.25-49.5.27|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 5:25 27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.29|AUTODETECT|” . Nevertheless, for many, not for just a few. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.29|AUTODETECT|” John 1:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.42|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.42|AUTODETECT|” 4:42) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.16|AUTODETECT|” 10:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.4.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.4.14|AUTODETECT|” I John 4:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.7.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.7.9|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 7:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.7.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.7.10|AUTODETECT|” 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.11.26|AUTODETECT|” In both Matthew and Mark Jesus indicates that this is certainly the very last time that he is going to be with his disciples at this kind of supper. By means of this saying and its implications, he both predicts his imminent death and instructs them, and their followers throughout the ages, to continue until his return 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.11.26|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 11:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.24.7|AUTODETECT|” ) this manner of remembering him: 29. But I tell you that from now on I will certainly not drink��843�� from this fruit of the vine until that day when I am drinking��843�� it new with you in my Father s kingdom. By speaking of the fruit of the vine Jesus undoubtedly refers to wine. Note close relation between vine and wine in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.24.7|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 24:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.6.4|AUTODETECT|” . See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.6.4|AUTODETECT|” Num. 6:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=35.3.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=35.3.17|AUTODETECT|” Hab. 3:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . At this time of the year (April), and under conditions then prevailing in Judea, it is hard to think of anything but fermented grape juice, that is, wine, the kind of wine used at Passover; hence, diluted or paschal wine.��844��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.16|AUTODETECT|” By saying until that day when I am (or: shall be) drinking it new with you in my Father s kingdom Jesus in all likelihood means until in the kingdom see on 4:23; 13:43 of my Father a favorite phrase with Jesus; see pp. 287, 326, 378, 543, 644 I shall enter into everlasting, festive fellowship with you. Then both passover and eucharist will reach their fruition 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.16|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). See also on 19:28.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.25.6|AUTODETECT|” We see, therefore, that communion not only points back to what Jesus Christ has done for us but also forward to what he is still going to mean for us. Drinking new wine in my Father s kingdom in all probability must be interpreted as a symbol for the glorious reunion and never-ending festivities awaiting the children of God in the hereafter. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.25.6|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 25:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.19.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.19.19|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 19:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.11|AUTODETECT|” ; and see also on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.11|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 8:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.19|AUTODETECT|” 30. And when they had sung a hymn they went out to the Mount of Olives. When they had hymned, says the original. Since, as has been shown, the Lord s Supper was the natural outgrowth of the Passover, it is probable that the hymns of praise that were lifted up to God were Pss. 115 118. These are songs of praise, thanksgiving, and trust, as anyone can see by reading them. They not only constituted a fitting conclusion to the blessings enjoyed but also a most appropriate preparation for the ordeal that was about to begin. For the entire subject of songs appropriate for the home as well as for public gatherings see N.T.C. on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.19|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 5:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.16|AUTODETECT|” and on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.16|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.1|AUTODETECT|” . When the meeting had been thus concluded, Jesus and his disciples, no longer twelve but eleven, went to the Mount of Olives; for which see on 21:1; 24:3. Specifically, they crossed the Kedron and entered the Gethsemane grove, located at the foot of that mountain. See 26:36; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.1|AUTODETECT|” John 18:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 2 2 8 0 0 ) 26:31 35 Peter s Denial Foretold) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.27-41.14.31|AUTODETECT|” Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.27-41.14.31|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:27 31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.31-42.22.34|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.31-42.22.34|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:31 34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.36-43.13.38|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.36-43.13.38|AUTODETECT|” John 13:36 38) 1 13 2 8 0 0 31 Then Jesus told them, This very night all of you shall become untrue to me, for it is written,) I will strike down the shepherd,) And the sheep of the flock shall be scattered. ) 32 But after I have been raised, I will go ahead of you to Galilee. 33 But Peter answered him, Even though all may become untrue to you, I will never become untrue. 34 Jesus said to him, I solemnly declare to you: this very night, before the rooster crows, you shall deny me three times. 35 Peter said to him, Even if I have to die with you, I will certainly not deny you. Similarly spoke also all the (other) disciples.) ) 31. Then Jesus told them, This very night all of you shall become untrue to me, for it is written,) I will strike down the shepherd,) And the sheep of the flock shall be scattered.) Though Then may again be rather indefinite, the most natural interpretation is that what is reported here took place on the way from the Upper Room to Gethsemane. It must have been rather late in the evening eleven o clock perhaps?��845�� when Jesus and the eleven men who were with him wended their way toward the garden. That adds meaning to the expression, this very night. In all of you shall become untrue to me, the basic meaning of the verb that is used is, as always, become trapped or ensnared.

See footnote 293 on p. 303. In connection with Jesus, and because of their own weakness, these men would be lured into sin, in this specific case probably referring to becoming untrue to their Master.��846�� This would happen to all of them, says Jesus.) There are three significant all s in this story. Taken together and fathomed in their depth and in connection with the attitude of Jesus toward these men, they reveal human weakness as contrasted with divine strength. Note:) All of you shall become untrue to me (verse 31).) All protest that this will never happen (verse 35).) They all left him and fled (verse 56).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.6|AUTODETECT|” Nevertheless, all of these eleven were saved men, so regarded by the Lord in his bounteous, forgiving love 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.6|AUTODETECT|” John 17:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.14|AUTODETECT|” 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.16|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.16|AUTODETECT|” 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.11|AUTODETECT|” ). Not one of them perished 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.11|AUTODETECT|” John 17:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.13.7|AUTODETECT|” In this momentary lapse of the disciples the failure to show their loyalty this night Jesus sees the fulfilment of the prophecy of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.13.7|AUTODETECT|” Zech. 13:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.6|AUTODETECT|” . The application of the prophecy to Jesus and his disciples does not present any great difficulty. It is true that in the context of Zechariah s prophecy the one who smites the shepherd is not mentioned. An order is simply issued, namely, to strike down the shepherd. On the other hand, the entire context refers repeatedly to Jehovah as being the Actor. It is he who will turn, bring, refine, try, hear, say. Accordingly, Jesus was entirely justified in saying, for it is written, I will strike down the shepherd. Interpreting this in the light of prophecy and of the New Testament, we can say that it was Jehovah himself who laid upon the Mediator all our iniquities 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.6|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 53:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.8.32-44.8.35|AUTODETECT|” ). It was he who struck him down, bruised him, put him to grief, made his soul an offering for sin. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.8.32-44.8.35|AUTODETECT|” Acts 8:32 35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.32|AUTODETECT|” . It was God the Father who spared not his own Son 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.32|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 As indicated (see verse 56), the sheep were scattered. They fled were going to flee in every direction. The beauty in all this is not only that Jesus loved them all the same, but also that this very prediction would serve the purpose of bringing the scattered sheep together again, once they reflected on the fact that their Master had lovingly forewarned them.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.21.1-43.21.23|AUTODETECT|” Jesus continues, 32. But after I have been raised, I will go ahead of you to Galilee. Another revelation of love is this, for here, even before these eleven men have become scattered, they already receive the assurance that they will be regathered. In clear and unfigurative language Jesus again speaks about his being raised from the dead. He assures them that, having been raised, he will go ahead of them to the very region, Galilee, where their homes were, and what is even more significant where their Lord had originally called them to himself. Immediately after Christ s resurrection a messenger from heaven is going to remind the disciples of this promise (28:7), and so, at his own direction, will the women, with the instruction that they must therefore go and meet the Lord in Galilee (28:10). It was indeed in Galilee that the risen Savior met with these eleven men (28:16), with seven of them 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.21.1-43.21.23|AUTODETECT|” John 21:1 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.6|AUTODETECT|” ), and with more than five hundred of his followers 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.6|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 15:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 2 2 8 0 0 Peter now reflects on Christ s prediction recorded in verse 31: 33. But Peter answered him, Even though all may become untrue to you, I will never become untrue.) At the moment Peter said this he meant every word of it. His desire to be and remain loyal to Jesus, come what may, must not be questioned. However, the very language he used proves that he committed at least three closely related errors. He revealed a threefold weakness. First of all, he treated the word of Jesus, previously spoken (see verse 31) with disbelief.

All of you shall become untrue to me, the Master had said. Not true, was essentially Peter s response, though he did not use these very words. But secondly, he also made himself guilty of disdain: with respect to his fellow disciples he revealed an attitude of unwarranted superiority. In the original the pronoun I, Even though all & I never, is very emphatic, not only because it is spelled out separately not just part of a verbal form but also because it heads the concluding clause of the conditional sentence. The apostle, therefore, was mentally drawing a comparison. He was as it were saying, Matthew, the former publican, might perhaps stoop down to that low moral level of abandoning the Master in his hour of affliction.

My former fishing partners, James and John, might also conceivably fall into this trap. In fact, I wouldn t even put it past my own brother Andrew & but not I. In reality he does not even say not, but never, which is stronger. But basic to his disbelief and disdain was a very dangerous distention or swelling. Colloquially we speak about the swelled head. Peter had an inflated opinion of himself.

He was guilty of overconfidence, conceit.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.17.44|AUTODETECT|” He should have known better. As a child he must have received instruction in what we now call the Old Testament. However, he was not taking to heart the lesson which the stories of other boasters, such as Goliath 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.17.44|AUTODETECT|” I Sam. 17:44) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.17.51|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.17.51|AUTODETECT|” 51) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.20.11|AUTODETECT|” ), Benhadad 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.20.11|AUTODETECT|” I Kings 20:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.20.21|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.20.21|AUTODETECT|” 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.32.14|AUTODETECT|” ), Sennacherib 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.32.14|AUTODETECT|” II Chron. 32:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.32.19|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.32.19|AUTODETECT|” 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.32.21|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.32.21|AUTODETECT|” 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=17.5.11|AUTODETECT|” ), Haman 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=17.5.11|AUTODETECT|” Esther 5:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=17.5.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=17.5.12|AUTODETECT|” 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=17.7.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=17.7.10|AUTODETECT|” 7:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.4.30-27.4.33|AUTODETECT|” ), and Nebuchadnezzar 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.4.30-27.4.33|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 4:30 33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.16.18|AUTODETECT|” ) should have taught him; nor was he applying to himself the inspired counsel found in such precious passages as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.16.18|AUTODETECT|” Prov. 16:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.26.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.26.12|AUTODETECT|” 26:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.18.1-40.18.6|AUTODETECT|” . Worst of all, he was ignoring Christ s constant emphasis on the necessity of humility 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.18.1-40.18.6|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 18:1 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) and his prediction, which was after all a warning, that all would become untrue to him.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.13.35|AUTODETECT|” In response Jesus now sharpens the prediction of a moment ago: 34. Jesus said to him, I solemnly declare to you: this very night, before the rooster crows, you shall deny me three times. In comparison with verse 31 we notice that the present prediction a. is introduced in a more solemn and impressive manner, I solemnly declare see on 5:18 and b. is far more specific, being addressed to just one person, Peter; indicating even more precisely when it will be fulfilled, namely, before the rooster crows, that is, before dawn; and describing the nature of the disloyalty trap into which that disciple will fall, namely, deny me three times. Rooster-crowing served as a time indication. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.13.35|AUTODETECT|” Mark 13:35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.30|AUTODETECT|” shows that it marked the third of the four watches. These were: evening: 6 9, midnight: 9 12, rooster-crowing: 12 3, and morning: 3 6. That the reference is to the second part of the 12 3 period is clear from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.30|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . However the mention of the crowing of the rooster refers not only to the time, but also to the actual crowing.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.26.74|AUTODETECT|” We see Jesus here as the great Prophet. Though Peter did not know his own heart, Jesus not only knew it but also revealed it. Note the detailed character of this knowledge: three times. We see Jesus also as the great Sufferer. How what he foresaw must have grieved him. Finally, we see him as the great Savior.

The reference to the crowing of the rooster does double duty: a. It indicates the shallow character of Peter s boast. Within just a few hours, yes, even before dawn, Peter will publicly disown his Master! Yet, b. this very rooster-crowing is also a means of bringing Peter back to repentance, for Christ s reference to it becomes firmly embedded in his mind, so that at the appropriate moment this hidden memory will suddenly pull the rope that will ring the bell of Peter s conscience. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.74|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 26:74) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.72|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.72|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:72) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.60|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.60|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:60) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.27|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.27|AUTODETECT|” John 18:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.31|AUTODETECT|” The disciple who by the Lord had been singled out for this specific prediction persists, however, in his profession of unswerving loyalty: 35. Peter said to him, Even if I have to die with you, I will certainly not deny you. His boast grows louder and louder. He speaks more and more emphatically note certainly not and even vehemently 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.31|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.35|AUTODETECT|” ). If need be, he is willing even to die with 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.35|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 26:35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.31|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.31|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.33|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.33|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.37|AUTODETECT|” ) and for 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.37|AUTODETECT|” John 13:37) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) Jesus! Similarly spoke also all the (other) disciples. They were swept off their feet by Peter s mighty boasts. They must have felt that they could not very well promise less than Peter, their leader. With respect to this all (the others) see above, on verse 31.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.31|AUTODETECT|” It would seem as if Jesus allows Peter to have the final say, for the Master does not again answer his erring disciple. Nevertheless, also in the present case Jesus proves that he is the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last. Had he not already prayed for Simon 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.31|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.32|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.32|AUTODETECT|” 32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.61|AUTODETECT|” )? And at the conclusion of the sad story was he not going to answer Peter by means of a tender, meaningful, marvelous look 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.61|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:61) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.24.34|AUTODETECT|” ), to be followed after his (Christ s) resurrection by a private visit 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.24.34|AUTODETECT|” Luke 24:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.5|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 15:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.21.15-43.21.17|AUTODETECT|” ), and an unforgettable public restoration 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.21.15-43.21.17|AUTODETECT|” John 21:15 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 )?) 1 2 2 8 0 0 ) 26:36 46 Gethsemane) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.32-41.14.42|AUTODETECT|” Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.32-41.14.42|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:32 42) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.39-42.22.46|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.39-42.22.46|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:39 46) 1 4 2 8 0 0 36 Then Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane, and said to them, Sit here, while I go over there and pray. 37 And he took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be filled with sorrow and anguish. 38 He said to them, I am overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep awake with me. 39 And going a little farther he threw himself face down to the ground in prayer, saying, My Father, if it is possible, let this cup be spared me; nevertheless, not as I will but as thou wilt. 40 And he came to the disciples and found them sleeping, and said to Peter, So, were you men not able to stay awake with me for a single hour? 41 Keep on the alert and keep on praying, that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit is eager but the flesh is weak. 42 Again, for the second time, he went away and prayed, My Father, if it is not possible that this (cup) be spared me except I drink it, thy will be done. 43 He came again and found them asleep, for their eyes were heavy with sleep. 44 So he left them, went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same thing. 45 Then he comes to the disciples and says to them, Sleep on now and take your rest. ) Behold, the hour is at hand, and the Son of man is being betrayed into the hands of sinners. 46 Get up! Let us be going. Look, my betrayer is near. ) ) In Gethsemane Jesus agonized) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.1|AUTODETECT|” 36. Then Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane, and said to them, Sit here, while I go over there and pray. Out of the eastern gate, located north of the temple, Jesus and his disciples proceed along the road that crosses the winter brook Kedron 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.1|AUTODETECT|” John 18:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.2|AUTODETECT|” ). They continue to a point near the place where this road divides into three branches, each leading to the Mount of Olives. Somewhere near this fork was a grove called Gethsemane, in all probability meaning oil-press. It must have been a secluded spot, fenced in and containing some olive trees and perhaps a grotto used in the fall of the year for an olive oil-press. Was the owner of the grove a follower of Jesus? That would almost seem so, for Jesus went there often with his disciples 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.2|AUTODETECT|” John 18:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). It was therefore a quiet place, a place to teach, pray, rest, and sleep.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 At or near the entrance of the grove Jesus leaves eight of his disciples. 37. And he took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee.& Also at other occasions these same three men were selected by the Master to be with him. Why just these three? See on 17:1. Is it not remarkable that on two occasions Jesus bestowed this honor not only on James and John but also on Peter when this very disciple had just sinned grievously against the Master by sharply contradicting him? See 16:22, cf. 17:1; and 26:33, 35, cf. 26:37. This is one more indication of the tenderness and the forgiving love of the Savior.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.4.15|AUTODETECT|” That Jesus would take some of his disciples with him into the grove is not strange. Being human himself, he stood in need not only of food, drink, clothing, shelter, and sleep, but also of human fellowship. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.4.15|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 4:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.42.7|AUTODETECT|” . He needed these men. Even more, they needed him! Continued: & and began to be filled with sorrow and anguish. All the waves and the billows of distress came pouring over his soul. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.42.7|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 42:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.66|AUTODETECT|” b. Why this terror and dismay? Was it because he knew that even now Judas was approaching or preparing to approach in order to deliver him to his enemies? Was it because he was painfully aware that Peter would deny him, that the Sanhedrin would condemn him, Pilate sentence him, his enemies ridicule him, and the soldiers crucify him? No doubt all that was included. However, as the story develops we notice that it was especially this one thought, namely, that he, a most tender and sensitive soul, is more and more being driven into isolation. Many of the people have already left him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.66|AUTODETECT|” John 6:66) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.56|AUTODETECT|” ). His disciples are going to forsake him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.56|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 26:56) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.63.3|AUTODETECT|” ). Worst of all, on the cross he will be crying out, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? (27:46). Did he, perhaps, here in Gethsemane see this tidal wave of God s wrath because of our sin coming? Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.63.3|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 63:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 8 2 8 0 0 It was alone the Savior prayed) In dark Gethsemane;) Alone he drained the bitter cup) And suffered there for me.) Alone, alone, He bore it all alone;) He gave himself to save his own,) He suffered, bled, and died alone, alone.) Ben H. Price) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.13|AUTODETECT|” 38. He said to them, I am overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep awake with me. To be sure, he had been a curse-bearer throughout the days of his humiliation, but now he was becoming overwhelmed with the curse; and this consciousness would not again leave him until he was able to say, It is finished 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.13|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 3:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.28|AUTODETECT|” ). He knew that he was giving his life as a ransom for many 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.28|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 20:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.45|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.45|AUTODETECT|” Mark 10:45) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.21|AUTODETECT|” ); that he, the sinless One, was being made sin, that is, the object of God s wrath 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.21|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 5:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Is it any wonder then that he said to his three closest disciples, Stay here and keep awake with me? The sorrows of death not just physical death but eternal death in the place of his people were coming upon him, now more than ever before. That is why he speaks of sorrow to the point of death. ) 1 1 2 8 0 0 In Gethsemane Jesus agonized and prayed) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.43|AUTODETECT|” The agony continues and even intensifies. But now the story of Christ s praying (already briefly introduced in verse 36) is added to that of his agonizing. 39. And going a little farther he threw himself face down to the ground in prayer, saying, My Father.& The Master wishes to be undisturbed during his prayer. Hence, he now leaves even the three behind. Yet not far behind, for he desires to retain contact with them. Having arrived at a suitable spot. he casts himself face down to the ground, in the spirit of deep reverence and awe before his heavenly Father, the sorrow and anguish meanwhile continuing and even growing moment by moment.

He addresses the Object of his prayer in the most intimate manner, saying, My Father. For this and related expressions see pp. 287, 326, 378, 543, 644. For prayer postures and their significance see N.T.C. on I and II Timothy and Titus, pp. 103, 104. He continues & if it is possible, let this cup be spared me; nevertheless, not as I will but as thou wilt. This cup, see on 20:22.) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.43|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:43) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 relates that there came an angel from heaven to strengthen him. This may well be considered an answer to his prayer, for though the cup was not taken away, he was given strength to take it to his mouth and drink it until it was empty. The same evangelist in the next verse also states that being in agony he prayed more earnestly; and his sweat became like great drops of blood falling down upon the ground. ) 1 2 2 8 0 0 The nature of the cup has already been indicated (see on verse 37). Jesus now prays that it may be spared him, that is, that it may pass him by. The completely sinless, in fact exemplary nature of the prayer appears from the fact that the main clause Let this cup be spared me, is introduced by the subordinate clause, if it is possible, which, in turn, is elucidated by the words, nevertheless, not as I will but as thou wilt. Jesus is submitting himself entirely to the will of his Father.) Never shall we, who do not even know how our own soul and body interact, be able to grasp how the human nature of Christ, in these solemn moments, related itself toward the divine, or vice versa. To the intense suffering, experienced in Christ s human nature, was given infinite value by means of the union of this human to the divine nature, within the second person of the Holy Trinity. Therefore his suffering, from first to last, was all-sufficient, that is, sufficient for the sin of the whole world.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.40.6|AUTODETECT|” After the first prayer Jesus returned to the three men who had been exhorted to keep awake: 40. And he came to the disciples and found them sleeping, and said to Peter, So, were you men not able to stay awake with me for a single hour? Sleeping at this hour, probably past midnight, was natural, especially after the exciting experiences in the Upper Room (the washing of the disciples feet, the revelation that one of The Twelve was going to betray his Master, the departure of Judas, the institution of the Lord s Supper) and afterward ( All of you shall become untrue to me, Peter s protest, etc.). Nevertheless, these men should have stayed awake. They could have, had they only prayed for strength to do so. Though Christ s gentle reprimand concerned all three note the plural yet it was addressed particularly to Peter, no doubt because in the matter of pledging his loyalty and even boasting about it he had taken the lead.

Jesus continues, 41. Keep on the alert and keep on praying, that you may not enter into temptation. The context clearly indicates that here a slightly different meaning must be assigned to the same Greek word that was used also in verses 38, 40. Keep (or: stay) awake becomes Keep on the alert, or Remain watchful. The reason for the change is the clause that you may not enter into temptation. A person may be wide awake physically and may still succumb to temptation, but if he remains awake spiritually, that is, if with heart and mind he remains on the alert or watchful, he will overcome temptation.

The temptation for the disciples was to become untrue to Jesus. We already know that they, definitely including Peter, did not remain alert, did not make earnest work of prayer, and therefore did, indeed, succumb to temptation. Jesus adds: The spirit is eager but the flesh is weak. If in this nightly hour Jesus experienced the weakness of his own human nature, hence the need of prayer, we may be sure that this was far more seriously true in the case of the disciples. In the present passage spirit indicates man s invisible entity viewed in its relation to God. As such it is the recipient of God s favor and the means whereby man worships God.

See further on 10:28, including footnote 453 on p. 471. Flesh, as here meant, is the human nature considered from the aspect of its frailty and needs, both physical and psychical. See N.T.C. on Philippians, p. 77, footnote 55. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.40.6|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 40:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.29|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.29|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 1:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.2.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.2.16|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 2:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.25|AUTODETECT|” . This use of flesh must not be confused with that according to which flesh indicates the human nature regarded as the seat of sinful desire 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.25|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 7:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.4-45.8.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.4-45.8.9|AUTODETECT|” 8:4 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ; etc.). To the disciples, borne down with sleep, it was a battle between their spirit which was eager to do what was right and thus to remain on guard against temptation, and their flesh which, because of its weakness, was prone to yield to Satan s desires.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.10|AUTODETECT|” 42. Again, for the second time, he went away and prayed, My Father, if it is not possible that this (cup) be spared me except I drink it, thy will be done. Again Jesus retires to the place of solitude. From his sleepy disciples he could expect no help. Again he prays. Though both prayers the one of verse 39 and that of verse 42 are the same in essence, there is a difference in emphasis. The main clause is no longer, Let this cup be spared me, but Thy will be done, a petition identical in wording and meaning with the one Jesus had himself taught his disciples 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.10|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 6:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 b). What is happening, then, is that by his own very painful and distressing experience Jesus is learning what it means to be obedient, and is revealing this obedience in a progressively glorious manner.��847��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.40|AUTODETECT|” 43. He came again and found them asleep, for their eyes were heavy with sleep. Their drowsiness had once again gained the victory over their desire to stay awake and remain on the alert. Their eyes were heavy with sleep, for their hearts had not been filled with prayer. So, all alone Jesus must fight the battle. No help of any kind does he receive from men, not even from The Twelve, now reduced to eleven; in fact, not even from the select three within that small group. From ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=41.14.40|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:40) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 it would appear that the Master spoke to the three, but because their eyes were heavy with sleep they barely heard what he said. At least, they were unable to answer him coherently. 44. So he left them, went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same thing. Again, therefore, he is all by himself, in communion with his Father, whom he loves and who loves him; and again the prayer, though referring also to the cup, gives expression to the Son s chief desire, namely, that his Father s will be done, come what may.) 1 6 2 8 0 0 In Gethsemane Jesus prayed and kept watch) With respect to the final two verses of this section there is a great diversity of opinion among commentators. With very slight alteration I have adopted the rendering of verse 45a that is found in A.V. and A.R.V.: 45a. Then he comes to the disciples and says to them, Sleep on now and take your rest. The problem is that the very next verse begins with the words Get up! Let us be going. This raises the question, How would it be possible for Jesus in one breath to be saying, Sleep on now and take your rest.& Get up!

Let us be going ? The two statements seem to contradict each other. Many solutions have been proposed, two of the most popular ones being discussed in the footnote.��848��) The explanation that appeals to me most is the following:��849�� What marvelous compassion! The Shepherd, who has been asking the disciples to watch with him, is now tenderly keeping vigil over them. His own victory having been won, perfect peace has been restored to his own heart. He has been strengthened through prayer.

To be sure, the three men had failed him. But never, no never will his love fail them! What we have here, accordingly, is one of the most touching pictures in the Gospels, and one, moreover, that is entirely in harmony with the sympathetic character of the Savior as mentioned, described, or implied in many other passages of this Gospel (4:23, 24: 5:43 48; 6:15; 8:16, 17; 9:2, 13, 36 38; 10:42; 11:28 30; 12:7, 17 21; 14:14 16, 27, 34 36; 15:28, 32; 18:1 6, 10 14, 21, 22, 35; 19:13 15; 20:25 28, 34; 21:14; 22:9, 10; 23:37; 25:40; 28:10).) The vigil was of short duration. After just a little while Jesus could see the approaching band. He now rouses the three men by saying: 45b. Behold, the hour is at hand, and the Son of man is being betrayed into the hands of sinners.

For Behold or Look, or Listen, see footnote 133 on p. 131. For Son of man, with emphasis here on Christ s afflicted human nature, see on 8:20, pp. 403 407. He continues: 46. Get up! Let us be going. Going where?

Away as far as possible from the approaching band? Fleeing? No, the very opposite: going forward to meet those who have come to arrest him. Jesus adds, Look, my betrayer (Judas Iscariot) is near.) ) 26:47 56 The Betrayal and the Seizure of Jesus) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.43-41.14.50|AUTODETECT|” Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.43-41.14.50|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:43 50) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.47-42.22.53|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.47-42.22.53|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:47 53) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.3-43.18.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.3-43.18.12|AUTODETECT|” John 18:3 12) 1 3 2 8 0 0 47 While he was still speaking, look, Judas, one of the twelve, came, and with him a big crowd (armed) with swords and clubs, from the chief priests and elders of the people. 48 Now he who was betraying him had given them a sign, saying, The one I kiss is the man; grab him. 49 And he stepped up to Jesus at once and said, Hello, Rabbi, and kissed him fervently. 50 Jesus said to him, Friend, for this are you here? Then they came, laid their hands on Jesus, and arrested him. 51 And look, one of those who accompanied Jesus stretched out his hand and drew his sword. He struck the highpriest s servant and cut off his ear. 52 Then Jesus said to him, Put your sword back in its place, for all who take the sword shall perish by the sword. 53 Or do you think that I cannot call on my Father, and at once he will put at my disposal more than twelve legions of angels? 54 How then would the Scriptures be fulfilled (which say) that it must happen this way? 55 At that time Jesus said to the crowds, As against a robber��850�� you came out, with swords and clubs, to seize me. Every day I was sitting in the temple, teaching, and you did not arrest me. 56 But all this has taken place in order that the Scriptures of the prophets may be fulfilled. Then all the disciples left him and fled.) ) In the present paragraph we are told about a. the Onslaught of the Treacherous (Judas and his band), b. the Defeat of the Defenders (the disciples, who left Jesus and fled, as he had predicted), and c. the Triumph of the Captive (Jesus, who offered himself willingly).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.18.28|AUTODETECT|” 47. While he was still speaking, look, Judas, one of the twelve, came, and with him a big crowd (armed) with swords and clubs, from the chief priests and elders of the people. When Jesus had exposed Judas at the Passover supper, that traitor must have hurried off to the chief priests, etc., the men who had hired him. Was he afraid that once his treachery became known the alarm would spread and from everywhere friends of Jesus think especially of the many from Galilee, now in the city would gather in his defense? Act quickly, he must have told the Jewish authorities, preferably by night, when no crowds are around. Act tonight.

The authorities had been waiting for him. So busy were they with this plot to destroy Jesus that, as explained in N.T.C. on the Gospel according to John, Vol. II, pp. 401 404 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.28|AUTODETECT|” John 18:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), they had not yet partaken of the Passover meal. The probable whereabouts of Jesus had to be ascertained; a posse had to be organized; the temple police must be notified; permission must be obtained, whether from Pilate, which in view of 27:62 65 seems probable, or from the Roman chiliarch, so that a group of soldiers could accompany the temple police; all the members of the Sanhedrin must be alerted; Annas must not be left in the dark; lanterns, swords, and clubs must be collected; the need of secrecy must be emphasized to all those who are in on this; etc., etc.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.2|AUTODETECT|” Finally, then, all is in readiness. Now to find Jesus. Judas did not know for certain where the group might have gone after leaving the Upper Room, but since Gethsemane was the place often visited by the Master and his disciples 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.18.2|AUTODETECT|” John 18:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), the traitor was able to make a good guess, one that proved to be correct. So, while Jesus was still talking to the three disciples, Judas was seen entering the grove. Judas, one of the twelve, says the text, to emphasize the terrible character of the crime this man was committing. See on verse 14. Since he was one of the twelve, it would be impossible to mention all the privileges that had been bestowed upon him during the many days, weeks, and months he had spent in Christ s immediate company. Such confidence had the other eleven reposed in this same Judas that they had even made him their treasurer.

And now he was proving himself totally unworthy of all these honors and advantages, of all this trust. A shameless, disgusting quisling he had become, a wretched turncoat, one who for the paltry sum of thirty pieces of silver was delivering over to the enemy the greatest Benefactor whose feet ever trod this earth, even the Mediator, both God and man, the Lord Jesus Christ.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 No one knows exactly how the crowd that accompanied Judas was arranged, if it be even correct to speak about any order or arrangement. If any guess be permissible it would be as follows:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.10|AUTODETECT|” In front Judas. This, at least, seems rather well established. The crowd is said to be with him. Besides, he is the one who is going to step up to Jesus (verse 49), to point him out to the others. The highpriest s personal servant, Malchus, must also have been near the front 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.10|AUTODETECT|” John 18:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.3|AUTODETECT|” ) and so were also probably the temple police, Levites 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.3|AUTODETECT|” John 18:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.3|AUTODETECT|” ). The detachment of soldiers, together with their commander cannot have been far away 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.3|AUTODETECT|” John 18:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.12|AUTODETECT|” 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.3|AUTODETECT|” ). ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.3|AUTODETECT|” John 18:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.52|AUTODETECT|” mentions a cohort, probably obtained from the tower of Antonia, situated at the northwest corner of the temple area. Though a cohort at full strength consisted of six hundred men (the tenth of a legion), the Roman authorities would probably not have depleted their garrison to that extent. At any rate, the band must have been rather large. Perhaps somewhat farther toward the back were members of the Sanhedrin 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.52|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:52) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.55|AUTODETECT|” ). Whether any others were present we cannot be certain. Even ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.55|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 26:55) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 does not necessarily imply this.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 The force that had been commissioned to capture Jesus was well equipped. The men carried swords and clubs. As to the first, these were probably the short swords carried by the heavily armed Roman soldier. See N.T.C. on Ephesians, p. 279, including footnote 177. The clubs or cudgels, we may assume, were in the hands of the temple police. Absolute certainty in such matters is not possible.

Words have histories, which in the present case means that the term used in the original for swords may at times have a more general meaning. It was not always used to distinguish these weapons from the broadswords. Also, we cannot be entirely certain that none but soldiers carried swords. Did not even Peter have a sword? See verse 51. All we really know is that those who came to arrest Jesus carried swords and clubs.

Their distribution is not definitely indicated, though it is natural to think of soldiers equipped with swords. The Gospel of John also mentions torches and lanterns. Torches and lanterns to search for the Light of the world. And it was full moon! Swords and cudgels to subdue the Prince of Peace. For the Man of Sorrows the very sight of this band of ruffians, which considered him their quarry, meant indescribable suffering.

And to think that the men who were supposed to be leaders in Israel, highly religious and devout, together composing the Sanhedrin here indicated by the two groups chief priests and elders had sent this force. Instead of welcoming Jesus as the long-expected Messiah, they were sending a posse to capture him, with the ultimate purpose of having him brought before the authorities that he might be sentenced to death! For the concept Sanhedrin see on 2:4 and on 16:21.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.49-42.22.51|AUTODETECT|” Now if all these soldiers and temple police, with their swords and clubs, indicated that those who had assigned to these men the task of seizing Jesus held him to be a revolutionary, one who might wish to make trouble for the Roman government and set up an earthly kingdom of his own, they were certainly mistaken. Not even once during his ministry did Jesus give any encouragement to this idea. The very opposite was the case. See 26:51 54; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.49-42.22.51|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:49 51) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.15|AUTODETECT|” John 6:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.10|AUTODETECT|” 18:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.4|AUTODETECT|” 48, 49. Now he who was betraying him had given them a sign, saying, The one I kiss is the man; grab him. And he stepped up to Jesus at once and said, Hello, Rabbi, and kissed him fervently. Jesus had come out from among the trees in the grove and was now standing in front of the band 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.4|AUTODETECT|” John 18:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.48|AUTODETECT|” ). As he did this, Judas performed that act which has caused all later generations to recoil with horror at the mere mention of his name. Embracing Jesus, he kissed him probably fervently or repeatedly��851�� and greeted him, saying, Hello (or: Hail), Rabbi! It was a prearranged sign, whereby the symbol of friendship and affection was made the sign to grab Jesus. 50. Jesus said to him, Friend, for this are you here?��852�� Cf. With a kiss are you betraying the Son of man? 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.48|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:48) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.22|AUTODETECT|” ). The purpose of this word addressed in an earnest but not unfriendly way note even now Friend (cf. 20:13; 22:12) to Judas was probably: a. to reveal to the traitor the meanness of his deed; b. to show him that the Master was not being deceived but thoroughly understood the reason for this embrace; and c. even at this point to warn the traitor. If anyone should raise the objection that in view of the fact that from all eternity the deed of Judas, too, was included in the divine decree 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.22|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.4.6|AUTODETECT|” ), so that a warning or admonition was now impossible, the answer would be that this decree does not exclude but includes all such warnings. Was not Cain s deed also included in the decree? Nevertheless, he was warned, earnestly and tenderly 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.4.6|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 4:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.4.7|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.4.7|AUTODETECT|” 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.4-43.18.9|AUTODETECT|” ). As happened in the case of Cain, so also here: Judas does not take the warning to heart, but allows matters to proceed as they had been planned. Then they came, laid their hands on Jesus, and arrested him. For details see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.4-43.18.9|AUTODETECT|” John 18:4 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.3|AUTODETECT|” and N.T.C. on those verses. It is clear from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.3|AUTODETECT|” John 18:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.12|AUTODETECT|” 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.27|AUTODETECT|” that the arrest was made by a. the soldiers and their chiliarch (commander) and b. the temple guards. Gentiles and Jews combine against Jesus. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.27|AUTODETECT|” Acts 4:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.11|AUTODETECT|” . John s Gospel, moreover, makes it perfectly clear that before allowing himself to be bound Jesus demonstrated his power over his captors, proving that he voluntarily surrendered himself to them, in line with ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.11|AUTODETECT|” John 10:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.15|AUTODETECT|” b, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.15|AUTODETECT|” 15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 b. In this capture it was the Captive who triumphed!) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.49|AUTODETECT|” 51. And look, one of those who accompanied Jesus stretched out his hand and drew his sword. He struck the highpriest s servant and cut off his ear. By this time the other eight disciples too have rejoined Jesus. See verse 56 and cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.49|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:49) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . At this point Peter goes into action. Although the incident is related in all four Gospels, only John mentions the names of the two persons who (in addition to Jesus himself) figured most prominently in it. When John published his Gospel it was no longer possible to punish the assailant. Hence, in John s Gospel the assailant s name and that of the person attacked could be mentioned.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.10|AUTODETECT|” The one who accompanied Jesus was Simon Peter. Emboldened perhaps by the marvelous triumph of Jesus over the men who had come to capture him at first the would-be captors, at the word of Jesus, I am the One for whom you are looking had lurched backward and fallen to the ground and impelled by his own previous boast (verses 33, 35), Simon drew his short sword from its scabbard. Having drawn it, he sprang at Malchus 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.10|AUTODETECT|” John 18:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), the servant of the highpriest, and probably because the servant saw what was coming and quickly jumped aside cut off his ear. Peter probably still believed that the Messiah must not die. Cf. 16:22.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.11|AUTODETECT|” Christ s reaction to this rash act is described most fully here in Matthew s Gospel. But see also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.11|AUTODETECT|” John 18:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.51|AUTODETECT|” . Matthew states: 52 54. Then Jesus said to him, Put your sword back in its place, for all who take the sword shall perish by the sword. Or do you think that I cannot call on my Father, and at once he will put at my disposal more than twelve legions of angels? How then would the Scriptures be fulfilled (which say) that it must happen this way? ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.51|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:51) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 relates that Jesus touched the servant s ear and healed him. According to Matthew s record, then, Jesus told Peter to sheathe his sword, and this for the following reason:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.9.6|AUTODETECT|” a. Use of the sword for this purpose was unprofitable, definitely harmful for Peter and for all who might think of following his example: All who take the sword shall perish with the sword. This proverbial saying must not be interpreted in an absolute, unqualified sense, as if use of the sword were always wrong. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.9.6|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 9:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.13.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.13.4|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 13:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.49|AUTODETECT|” . But rashly swinging the sword, without even being willing to wait for Christ s answer to the question, Shall we strike with the sword? 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.49|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:49) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.13.10|AUTODETECT|” ) is always wrong, and will mean retribution for the one who does it. See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.13.10|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 13:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 0 b. Also, it was wholly unnecessary. He who is able, in answer to his request, to receive immediately from the Father twelve times six thousand angels, rushing to his defense, certainly does not need the help of a few weak disciples. What Jesus implies is this: Since I am not appealing to my Father again, as in 26:39 that beautiful appellation to send me these angels, it is clear that I am determined to lay down my life as a voluntary sacrifice.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.11|AUTODETECT|” c. Finally, it was unenlightened, failing completely to figure with prophecy and the necessity that it be fulfilled. Jesus must drink the cup which the Father gave him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.11|AUTODETECT|” John 18:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.19.11|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.19.11|AUTODETECT|” 19:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.22.1|AUTODETECT|” ). In the garden, in answer to his prayers, he has found perfect peace. He is fully determined to drink this cup, and to do so in fulfilment of such prophecies as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.22.1|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 22:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.69.20|AUTODETECT|” ff.; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.69.20|AUTODETECT|” 69:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.69.21|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.69.21|AUTODETECT|” 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.0|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.0|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 53) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.23.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.23.5|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 23:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.23.6|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.23.6|AUTODETECT|” 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.13.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.13.1|AUTODETECT|” Zech. 13:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , etc. If Peter had had his way, how then would these passages of Scripture be fulfilled? And how would all the symbols of the Old Testament, pointing forward to the Suffering Servant, be fulfilled?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.52|AUTODETECT|” 55. At that time Jesus said to the crowds, As against a robber you came out, with swords and clubs, to seize me. Every day I was sitting in the temple, teaching, and you did not arrest me. Right then and there Jesus, though bound, addressed the crowds. The venerable members of the Sanhedrin were also present 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.52|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:52) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Of course, they had no business being here during this sacred night, but were so anxious to see whether their sinister plot against the enemy would succeed that they were actually to be seen among this crowd. See N.T.C. on the Gospel according to John, Vol. II, pp. 403, 404. Jesus, then, pointed out to the crowds to all those who had come to arrest him and all those who gloated over his capture how cowardly and perfidiously they were behaving. They had come out against him with an army, as if he were a highwayman or, as the text can also be rendered, an insurrectionist, a revolutionary.

In reality he was and had been a quiet, peaceful Prophet, sitting day by day in the temple, teaching the people. His life had been an open book. Had he been guilty of any crimes, those in charge of law and order would have had every chance to seize him.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.24.19|AUTODETECT|” If anyone wishes to know what kind of person this Jesus had proved himself to be during the slightly more than three years of his public ministry, let him read such passages as 4:23 25; 11:25 30; 12:18 21; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.24.19|AUTODETECT|” Luke 24:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.22|AUTODETECT|” Acts 2:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.55|AUTODETECT|” . To say, as some, in commenting on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.55|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 26:55) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.42|AUTODETECT|” , have done, that he was harmless is putting it too mildly. He was and is, the Savior of the world 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.42|AUTODETECT|” John 4:42) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.4.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.4.14|AUTODETECT|” I John 4:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.44|AUTODETECT|” ), the world s greatest Benefactor. How absurd and hypocritical it was for the foe in the hour of darkness to pounce upon this Good Shepherd, from whom no one who heeded his message had anything to fear, and who even taught people to love their enemies! See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.44|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 5:44) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.6.7|AUTODETECT|” By addressing the crowds in this manner Jesus was in reality doing them a favor. He was exposing their guilt. Is it not true that it takes confession of guilt to bring about salvation? Though it is a fact that by far the most of those who heard Jesus speak these words hardened themselves in sin, we have no right to conclude that the message, together with other messages that followed (for example, the seven words from the cross, Peter s Pentecost address, etc.), was completely ineffective. See, for example, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.6.7|AUTODETECT|” Acts 6:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.7|AUTODETECT|” . The impression left upon us by these words of our Lord is that they were spoken in a calm and earnest manner. To be sure, Jesus rebukes, but at the same time he is even now seeking the lost, that he may save them. He continues: 56. But all this has taken place in order that the Scriptures of the prophets may be fulfilled. Had it not been for God s eternal decree with respect to man s salvation, a decree reflected in the prophets 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.7|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 53:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.10|AUTODETECT|” 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.12|AUTODETECT|” 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.23.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.23.6|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 23:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.9.26|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.9.26|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 9:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.11.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.11.12|AUTODETECT|” Zech. 11:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.13.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.13.1|AUTODETECT|” 13:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ; etc.), these captors could have accomplished nothing at all! Then all the disciples left him and fled. All alone Jesus must suffer and die. For further comments see above, on verse 31.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 ) 26:57 68 The Trial before the Sanhedrin) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.53-41.14.65|AUTODETECT|” Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.53-41.14.65|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:53 65) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.54|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.54|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:54) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.55|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.55|AUTODETECT|” 55) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.63-42.22.65|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.63-42.22.65|AUTODETECT|” 63 65) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.67-42.22.71|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.67-42.22.71|AUTODETECT|” 67 71) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.24|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.24|AUTODETECT|” John 18:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ��855��) 1 6 2 8 0 0 57 Now those who had seized Jesus led him away to Caiaphas the highpriest, where the scribes and the elders were assembled. 58 But from a considerable distance Peter was following him until (he came) to the courtyard of the highpriest; and having entered he sat down with the officers to see the outcome. 59 Now the chief priests and the entire Sanhedrin were seeking to obtain false testimony against Jesus, so that they might put him to death; 60 but they did not find (any), though many false witnesses came forward. But at last two came forward 61 and declared, This fellow said, I am able to destroy the temple��853�� of God, and in three days to rebuild it. 62 And the highpriest arose and said to him, You don t answer? What are these men testifying against you? 63 But Jesus remained silent. And the highpriest said to him, I adjure you��854�� by the living God that you tell us whether you are the Christ, the Son of God. 64 Jesus replied, You said (it), but I tell you, from now on you shall see) the Son of man) sitting at the right hand of the Power) and coming on the clouds of heaven. ) 65 Then the highpriest tore his robes, saying, He has blasphemed. What need do we still have of witnesses? Look, now you have heard his blasphemy. 66 What do you think?

They answered, Deserving of death is he. 67 Then they spat in his face and struck him with the fist. Others slapped him 68 and said, Prophesy to us, Christ, who was it that hit you? ) ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.57-40.26.68|AUTODETECT|” To understand ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.57-40.26.68|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 26:57 68) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.12-43.18.14|AUTODETECT|” and that which follows in chapter 27 it is necessary to bear in mind that Jesus had to undergo two trials. The first has often been called the ecclesiastical trial; the second, the civil. The first contained three stages, and so did the second. The three stages of the so-called ecclesiastical trial were: a. the preliminary hearing before Annas 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.12-43.18.14|AUTODETECT|” John 18:12 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.19-43.18.23|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.19-43.18.23|AUTODETECT|” 19 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.57|AUTODETECT|” ); b. the trial before the Sanhedrin, that is, before Caiaphas and the scribes and the elders 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.57|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 26:57) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.1|AUTODETECT|” ); and c. the trial before the same body just after daybreak 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.1|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 27:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). The hearing before Annas, described only by John, must not be confused with the trial before Caiaphas. See the argument in N.T.C. on the Gospel according to John, Vol. II, pp. 385 388. The three stages in the trial before the civil authorities were: a. the trial before Pilate, b. that before Herod, and c. that before Pilate resumed. Just as it is true that the preliminary hearing before Annas is found only in John s Gospel, so also Christ s appearance before Herod is recorded only by Luke (23:6 12).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.57-40.26.68|AUTODETECT|” In our present paragraph 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.57-40.26.68|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 26:57 68) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.24|AUTODETECT|” ), therefore, it is assumed that the preliminary hearing before Annas has been held. 57. Now those who had seized Jesus led him away to Caiaphas the highpriest, where the scribes and the elders were assembled. Perhaps for one of the reasons mentioned above (see on 26:3 5) this meeting again is held in the palace of Caiaphas the highpriest. Whether such a session is described as attended by the chief priests and scribes (2:4), the chief priests and the elders (26:3), the scribes and the elders (here in 26:57), or the elders and chief priests and scribes (16:21), the reference in each of these cases is probably to the Sanhedrin in Jerusalem.��856�� Jesus, then, is sent bound to Caiaphas the highpriest and those who were assembled with him. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.24|AUTODETECT|” John 18:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.15|AUTODETECT|” . 58. But from a considerable distance Peter was following him until (he came) to the courtyard of the highpriest; and having entered he sat down with the officers to see the outcome. Though all the disciples had fled, two Peter and another disciple soon rallied and began to follow the band that was leading Jesus to the highpriest s palace. In the case of Peter, following Jesus was probably prompted, in part, by the loud boasts he had uttered, as recorded in verses 33 and 35; in part also, by sheer curiosity, as the text states. How this disciple secured admission to the palace is described in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.15|AUTODETECT|” John 18:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.16|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.16|AUTODETECT|” 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.54|AUTODETECT|” . See N.T.C. on the Gospel according to John, Vol. II, pp. 388 392. Peter, then, having been allowed to enter the palace by its outer gate, walked through the archway that led to the unroofed courtyard, where he sat down with the palace servants and the temple guards (policemen). By this time most of the soldiers, having delivered their prisoner, had probably returned to the fortress of Antonia. The record of Peter s first denial, which here in verse 58 is merely introduced, is found in verses 69, 70; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.54|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:54) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.66-41.14.68|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.66-41.14.68|AUTODETECT|” 66 68) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.54-42.22.57|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.54-42.22.57|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:54 57) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.15-43.18.18|AUTODETECT|” ; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.15-43.18.18|AUTODETECT|” John 18:15 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . The story now returns to Christ s trial before the Sanhedrin.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.49|AUTODETECT|” 59, 60a. Now the chief priests and the entire Sanhedrin were seeking to obtain false testimony against Jesus, so that they might put him to death; but they did not find (any), though many false witnesses came forward. Probably this trial took place in a large upper room of that wing of the palace where Caiaphas lived. The question might be asked, But why have a trial at all, since the Sanhedrin had decided a long time ago that Jesus must be put to death 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.49|AUTODETECT|” John 11:49) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.50|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.50|AUTODETECT|” 50) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.4|AUTODETECT|” ), an agreement which very recently had been reconfirmed 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.4|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 26:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 )? Answer: the verdict must be made official and reasons must be formulated, so that the sentence that subsequently will be based upon it can be justified before the Jews, and so that the indispensable co-operation of the Gentiles especially of Pilate can be obtained.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.13|AUTODETECT|” For the absolutely sinless One to be subjected to a trial conducted by sinful men was in itself a deep humiliation. To be tried by such men, under such circumstances made it infinitely worse. Greedy, serpent-like, vindictive Annas 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.13|AUTODETECT|” John 18:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.49|AUTODETECT|” ), rude, sly, hypocritical Caiaphas 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.49|AUTODETECT|” John 11:49) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.50|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.50|AUTODETECT|” 50) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.29|AUTODETECT|” ), crafty, superstitious, self-seeking Pilate 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.29|AUTODETECT|” John 18:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ); and immoral, ambitious, superficial Herod Antipas; these were his judges!) 1 2 2 8 0 0 In reality, the entire trial was a farce. It was a mis-trial. There was no intention at all of giving Jesus a fair hearing in order that it might be discovered, in strict conformity with the laws of evidence, whether or not the charges against him were just or unfounded. In the annals of jurisprudence no travesty of justice ever took place that was more shocking than this one. Moreover, in order to reach this conclusion it is not at all necessary to make a close study of all the technical points with reference to Jewish law of that day. It has been emphasized by various authors that the trial of Jesus was illegal on several technical grounds, such as the following: a.

No trial for life was allowed during the night. Yet, Jesus was tried and condemned during the hours of 1 3 A.M. Friday, and executed on the Feast, which was forbidden. According to Pharisaic law, no hearings in a case involving capital punishment could even be initiated on the eve of a major festival like Passover. No conviction was allowed at night. To execute a sentence on the day of one of the great feasts was contrary to the established regulations.��857�� b.

The arrest of Jesus was effected as a result of a bribe, namely, the blood-money which Judas received. c. Jesus was asked to incriminate himself. d. In cases of capital punishment, Jewish law did not permit the sentence to be pronounced until the day after the accused had been convicted.) Such and similar points of law have been mentioned again and again and used as arguments to prove the illegality of the entire procedure against Jesus of Nazareth. Attempts have also been made to refute them, one by one. The hair-splitting casuistry of rabbinic law had discovered all kinds of ways to circumvent its own regulations. All Caiaphas had to do was to say that the trial of Jesus at this time and under these conditions was in the interest of the people and of religion.��858��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.49-43.11.52|AUTODETECT|” To any fair-minded individual it must be evident at once that all these legal technicalities were but so many details. They do not touch the heart of the matter. The main point is nothing less than this: it had been decided long ago that Jesus must be put to death 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.49-43.11.52|AUTODETECT|” John 11:49 52) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). And the motive behind this decision was envy. The Jewish leaders just could not take it that they were beginning to lose their hold upon the people and that Jesus of Nazareth had denounced and exposed them publicly. They were filled with rage because the new prophet had laid bare their hidden motives, and had called the temple court from which they derived much of their profit a den of thieves. On the surface, the dignified chief priests, elders, and scribes might try to put on an act by the seeming imperviousness of their demeanor; underneath they were vengefully nettled, convulsively agitated. They were thirsting for blood!) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.59|AUTODETECT|” Hence, this is not a trial but a plot, and the entire plot is their own. They devised it, and they see to it that it is carried out. Their officers take part in the arrest of Jesus. They themselves were present! They seek the witnesses false witnesses, of course against Jesus, in order that they may put him to death 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.59|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 26:59) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.64|AUTODETECT|” ). They all condemn him as being deserving of death 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.64|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:64) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.15.1|AUTODETECT|” ). They (by means of their underlings) bind him and lead him away 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.15.1|AUTODETECT|” Mark 15:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.28|AUTODETECT|” ). They deliver him to Pilate 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.28|AUTODETECT|” John 18:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.20|AUTODETECT|” ). Before Pilate they stir up the people to get Barabbas released in order that Jesus may be destroyed 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.20|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 27:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.19.12|AUTODETECT|” ). They intimidate Pilate, until at last the latter delivers Jesus up, to be crucified 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.19.12|AUTODETECT|” John 19:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.19.16|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.19.16|AUTODETECT|” 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.15.31|AUTODETECT|” ). And even when he hangs upon the cross, they mock him, saying, He saved others, himself he cannot save 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.15.31|AUTODETECT|” Mark 15:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Hence, this in reality is no trial at all. It is murder. Church History offers other sad examples of leaders who were cast out by judges who were filled with envy, and who themselves instigated the witnesses (false witnesses, of course!), in order that certain men whom they (the leaders) hated might be thrown out. The day of judgment will reveal some startling matters! But among all the travesties of justice, none even begins to compare with the one in which the heavenly Highpriest, Jesus Christ, stood before the earthly highpriests, Annas and Caiaphas. For the spotlessly Holy One to be arrayed before such wicked scoundrels, that was suffering!) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.56|AUTODETECT|” Now in order to arrive at a verdict that would hold up, there must be witnesses. Probably some preliminary work had been done to obtain them. However, when the witnesses started to testify it was soon discovered that, though there were many, not even two of them agreed 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.56|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:56) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.35.30|AUTODETECT|” ). Yet, such agreement was absolutely necessary. A person could not be condemned to death on the basis of the testimony of just one witness. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.35.30|AUTODETECT|” Num. 35:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.17.6|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.17.6|AUTODETECT|” Deut. 17:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.19.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.19.15|AUTODETECT|” 19:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.18.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.18.16|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 18:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.5.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.5.19|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 5:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.10.28|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.10.28|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 10:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.2.19|AUTODETECT|” . 60b, 61. But at last two came forward and declared, This fellow said, I am able to destroy the temple of God, and in three days to rebuild it. The allusion is to the veiled saying of Jesus reported in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.2.19|AUTODETECT|” John 2:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.6.14|AUTODETECT|” , Break down this temple [or: sanctuary], and in three days I will raise it up. The Jews who had first heard it had misinterpreted it, as if it referred to nothing else than the physical structure which Jesus had just cleansed. But these two false witnesses, in addition, twisted the saying itself, as if the Lord had declared that he himself was going to destroy the temple. According to their testimony, then, Jesus was a defamer of the temple. In later days a similar false charge would be leveled against Stephen 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.6.14|AUTODETECT|” Acts 6:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.21.28|AUTODETECT|” ) and against Paul 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.21.28|AUTODETECT|” Acts 21:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.49-43.11.50|AUTODETECT|” 62, 63a. And the highpriest arose.& Of course, Jesus could have exposed the totally unwarranted character of the accusation. He could have shown that it was both a misinterpretation and a distortion of what he had said. But he knows very well that the purpose of this trial is not to vindicate the right, but rather to cause the wrong to triumph. So he remains silent. This irritates Caiaphas. That presiding officer has taken it upon himself to go way beyond presiding over a meeting. Instead, he is using this session of the Sanhedrin as a tool for the realization of his own pronounced intention 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.49-43.11.50|AUTODETECT|” John 11:49 50) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.42.1-23.42.4|AUTODETECT|” ) to destroy Jesus. So, visibly agitated, he rises from his seat and said to him, You don t answer? What are these men testifying against you? As if to say, A serious charge is this. It certainly requires an answer! But Jesus remained silent. He is again fulfilling the prophecy of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.42.1-23.42.4|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 42:1 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.18-40.12.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.18-40.12.21|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 12:18 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.7|AUTODETECT|” ; and even more specifically, of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.7|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 53:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.19.11|AUTODETECT|” . See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.19.11|AUTODETECT|” I Kings 19:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.19.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.19.12|AUTODETECT|” 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.57.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.57.15|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 57:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.9.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.9.9|AUTODETECT|” Zech. 9:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.7-40.5.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.7-40.5.9|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 5:7 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.21.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.21.5|AUTODETECT|” 21:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.24|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.24|AUTODETECT|” Luke 23:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.12|AUTODETECT|” . For similar behavior on the part of Jesus on this day it is already Friday see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.12|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 27:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.14|AUTODETECT|” 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.9|AUTODETECT|” Luke 23:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.19.9|AUTODETECT|” b; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.19.9|AUTODETECT|” John 19:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.44|AUTODETECT|” b. But not only was he fulfilling prophecy; he was in so doing also suffering intensely because of this assault on himself the Truth by Satan, the father of the lie 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.44|AUTODETECT|” John 8:44) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.51|AUTODETECT|” When it seemed as if the trial would turn out to be a failure, Caiaphas all of a sudden leaps to the rescue by as it were waiving all secondary considerations and asking the main question, the one which had been on the minds of the leaders for a long time. Matthew reports this dramatic development in these words: 63b. And the highpriest said to him, I adjure you by the living God that you tell us whether you are the Christ, the Son of God. That was the clincher, the decisive question. Did this question suddenly suggest itself to his mind, or had he thought of it previously and kept it in reserve, to be used if necessary? Did it, perhaps, have a divine origin? In passing, it might be observed that this idea cannot be entirely discarded 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.51|AUTODETECT|” John 11:51) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). If it was heavenly in origin, the highpriest himself, not heaven, would still be fully responsible for his sinister motive in asking it.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.25|AUTODETECT|” In order to emphasize the ominous gravity of the question and the impossibility of refusing an answer, the highpriest places Jesus under oath, the weightiest oath of all, namely, by the living God. He demands a clear and straightforward reply to the question, Do you really claim to be the long-expected Messiah? Now it cannot be said that up to this time Jesus had never revealed himself as such. In his conversation with the Samaritan woman had he not very definitely declared himself to be indeed the Messiah? See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.25|AUTODETECT|” John 4:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.26|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.26|AUTODETECT|” 26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.21.15|AUTODETECT|” . Had he not defended those who addressed him as the Son of David 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.21.15|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 21:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.21.16|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.21.16|AUTODETECT|” 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 )? Had he not, by implication, referred to himself as the stone rejected by the builders but made the cornerstone (21:42)? Had he not pointed to himself as the Son of man destined one day to judge all men (25:31 46)?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.21.15|AUTODETECT|” All of this is true. But it could be argued that a declaration made in Samaria did not necessarily reach the Jews; that ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.21.15|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 21:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.21.16|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.21.16|AUTODETECT|” 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.21.37-40.21.39|AUTODETECT|” was not a direct claim but only a reflection on an exclamation made by others; that ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.21.37-40.21.39|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 21:37 39) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.21.42|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.21.42|AUTODETECT|” 21:42) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.15|AUTODETECT|” are parabolic, hence not direct; and that the term Son of man was not interpreted in the same way by everybody. It can even be added that there were definite reasons why during the earlier part of his ministry Jesus did not openly declare to the Jews, I am the Messiah. See on 8:4; 9:30; 17:9. They would certainly have misunderstood it. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.15|AUTODETECT|” John 6:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.14|AUTODETECT|” . But now that the events that were happening with reference to him were making it clear that his messiahship was that of the Suffering Servant, as he had himself declared again and again to his disciples 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.14|AUTODETECT|” John 3:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), the moment had also arrived to come forth with a very clear statement, made before the highest authorities of the Jewish nation. Accordingly, when Caiaphas asked what he must have considered a question that would drive his enemy into a corner, he was actually in the providence of God giving the Son of man the opportunity for which he was looking.) 1 4 2 8 0 0 We are not surprised therefore that, without the least hesitancy, in answer to the highpriest s question, Are you the Christ, the Son of God? 64. Jesus replied, You said (it). In other words, Yes indeed! That this is actually the meaning of Christ s answer is clear from 26:25, which allows no other interpretation.��859�� Jesus immediately reminds the highpriest and all those present that though right at this moment he is their prisoner, the period of his humiliation will soon be ended. By means of his very suffering he, the Son of God who is also the Son of man for which see on 8:20, pp. 403 407 will attain to glory: but I tell you, from now on you shall see) the Son of man) sitting at the right hand of the Power) and coming on the clouds of heaven.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.13|AUTODETECT|” That is the way in which Daniel had seen the coming Redeemer 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.13|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 7:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.14|AUTODETECT|” 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.110.1|AUTODETECT|” ). It was thus that David sang of him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.110.1|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 110:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.27|AUTODETECT|” ), and thus also that Jesus had himself described himself 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.27|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 16:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.22.41-40.22.46|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.22.41-40.22.46|AUTODETECT|” 22:41 46) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.30|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.30|AUTODETECT|” 24:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), be it previously only to his disciples. Jesus is looking down history s lane. He sees the miracles of Calvary, the resurrection, the ascension, the coronation at the Father s right hand , Pentecost, the glorious return on the clouds of heaven, the judgment day, all rolled into one, manifesting his power and glory. On the final day of judgment he, even Jesus, will be the Judge, and these very men Caiaphas and his partners will have to answer for the crime they are now committing. Christ s prophecy is also a warning!) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.13|AUTODETECT|” 65. Then the highpriest tore his robes, saying, He has blasphemed. Here the hypocrisy of the highpriest becomes very clear. He acts as if he is overwhelmed with grief, though he could have shouted for joy. The man puts on a real show. He tears his highpriestly robe,��860�� and says, He has blasphemed, using the word blasphemed in its gravest sense: unjustly he has claimed for himself the prerogatives that belong to God alone. See on 9:3. Not that claiming to be the Messiah would in and by itself constitute blasphemy. But representing oneself as the fulfilment of Daniel s prophecy, that is, as the One who, coming with the clouds of heaven, would receive a. authority to judge all the nations, and b. everlasting dominion 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.13|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 7:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.14|AUTODETECT|” 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.24.16|AUTODETECT|” ); such a claim and it was indeed this claim that Jesus was making could be made only by God! Hence, either a. Jesus was indeed divine, the Son of God, in the fullest sense of that term, or else b. he was guilty of blasphemy, punishable by death 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.24.16|AUTODETECT|” Lev. 24:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.49|AUTODETECT|” ). Caiaphas has chosen the second alternative, as we could have expected him to do. At the same time he is hardly able completely to conceal his elation. Bubbling over with excitement, like an explorer who after many dreary and disappointing weeks suddenly sights land, he exclaims, What need do we still have of witnesses? Look, now you have heard his blasphemy, as if to say, We ve got him now. Why continue the search for witnesses when all of us are witnesses? He adds, 66. What do you think? So jubilant is he and so sure of himself that now for once he is willing to give the others an opportunity to express their opinion. In another situation he would, instead, have told them, You don t know anything 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.49|AUTODETECT|” John 11:49) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.64|AUTODETECT|” ). But this is different. The others, glad that a solution of their problem had at last been found and perhaps anxious to enjoy a few hours of sweet slumber; it is nearly three A.M. (see on verse 34) quickly agree. They answered, Deserving of death is he. The verdict was unanimous 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.64|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:64) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.50|AUTODETECT|” ). We assume that one member was absent 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.50|AUTODETECT|” Luke 23:50) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.51|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.51|AUTODETECT|” 51) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). There may have been others.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 This unanimous verdict was not as yet a formal sentence. Declaring a person guilty and sentencing him are two different matters. In order to create at least a semblance of legality, a short period of time must elapse between these two actions. As was pointed out earlier, according to existing regulations that interval should have been a day. But as the Sanhedrists see it, such a prolonged delay would have been too dangerous. It could have given the friends of Jesus enough time to organize a revolt in his behalf.

Now is the time to act. Early in the morning the Sanhedrin will have to be convened once more. See on 27:1. That will be for the purpose of sentencing. And even that action will not be final. It must still be approved by Pilate, the governor.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.63|AUTODETECT|” 67a. Then they spat in his face and struck him with the fist. Verse 67a emphasizes the cruelty that followed the reaching of the verdict. What follows in 67b, 68 stresses the mockery. Of course, even that mockery was cruel! The cruelty was perpetrated by those who had captured Jesus and were now holding him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.63|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:63) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Temple police and palace guards had not yet left.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 The face which these underlings with the wholehearted permission and co-operation of their utterly selfish, sadistic, and envious superiors now covered with their spittle was the one that had smiled upon large throngs of people whom he instructed to love even their enemies. It was the face which used to break into a smile at the approach of a child. It had been in the habit of beaming graciously upon publicans who became penitents. It could glow with righteous indignation when the Father s house was being desecrated, or when the widow s rights were violated, her needs ignored. In days gone by, it had become overspread with gladness when something good could be said about a friend. Above all, it was the face that mirrored the heart of the heavenly Father in all his holiness, displeasure with sin, and last but not least love and tenderness.

It was into this face that these men were spitting! Surely, unless by the miracle of God s grace they should still repent, they would, on this day of the ultimate fulfilment of the prophecy (26:64) of him who was now a prisoner, be saying to the mountains and to the rocks, Fall on us and hide us from the face of the One who sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.65|AUTODETECT|” The wretches for that s what they were even struck this (voluntarily) helpless victim with their fists. And now cruelest, perhaps, of all: 67b, 68. Others slapped him and said, Prophesy to us, Christ, who was it that hit you? They covered his face 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.65|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:65) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.64|AUTODETECT|” ); they blindfolded him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.64|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:64) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.22.6|AUTODETECT|” ). Then they slapped him again and again, and as each one did this he would say, You are the Christ, are you? Well, then you must know who I am. Tell me, will you? They were playing a game at his expense. The game was their wicked variety of Blind Man s Buff. Throughout it all, however, it was he that was triumphing. This very cruelty and mockery was for him a firm attestation of being indeed the Messiah, the Father s beloved Son in whom prophecies those uttered by others ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.22.6|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 22:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.22.7|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.22.7|AUTODETECT|” 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.50.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.50.6|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 50:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.34|AUTODETECT|” and by himself ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.34|AUTODETECT|” Mark 10:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.18.32|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.18.32|AUTODETECT|” Luke 18:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 were being fulfilled.) 1 3 2 8 0 0 Isaiah was right: He was despised and rejected by men (53:3). He was right again when he continued, But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities. Hallelujah, what a Savior!) ) 26:69 75 Peter s Threefold Denial) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.66-41.14.72|AUTODETECT|” Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.66-41.14.72|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:66 72) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.56-42.22.62|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.56-42.22.62|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:56 62) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.15-43.18.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.15-43.18.18|AUTODETECT|” John 18:15 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.25-43.18.27|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.25-43.18.27|AUTODETECT|” 25 27) 1 4 2 8 0 0 69 Now Peter was sitting outside in the courtyard when there came up to him a servant-girl, saying, You too were with Jesus of Galilee. 70 But before everybody he denied (it), saying, I don t know what you re talking about. 71 Now when he had gone out toward the gateway, another girl saw him and said to the people who were there, This fellow was with Jesus the Nazarene. 72 Again he denied with an oath, (saying), I don t know the man. 73 A little while later those who were standing around came up to Peter and said, Certainly you also are one of them, for your accent gives you away. 74 Then he began to call down a curse on himself and to swear, I don t know the man. At once a rooster crowed. 75 And Peter recalled the word spoken by Jesus, Before a rooster crows you shall deny me three times. And he went outside and wept bitterly.) ) The theme Peter s experiences, words, and deeds during the night of Christ s betrayal and shortly afterward would provide material for several sermons. The points might be: Peter s boast, Christ s prediction concerning him, his boast repeated and strengthened, his failure in Gethsemane, his three denials, his bitter tears, and his restoration.) The present paragraph contains the story of Peter s three denials, the last one followed by bitter tears. For a somewhat different arrangement of these denials in the Gospel according to John see N.T.C. on that Gospel, Vol. II, pp. 388 390.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.22.56|AUTODETECT|” The background of the first denial has already been indicated; see above on 26:58, where the parallel passages for this denial are also listed. The story is continued here in 69. Now Peter was sitting outside in the courtyard when there came up to him a servant-girl, saying, You too were with Jesus of Galilee. It would seem that the very moment when Peter had entered the palace the portress, viewing him from her nook in the vestibule, had her suspicions. The fact that she had admitted him at the request of John seemed to indicate that Peter too was a disciple of Jesus. The uneasiness that could be read on his face confirms her suspicions.

So, about to be relieved by another gate-keeper, she walks toward Peter, who has already entered the open courtyard. She fixes her eyes on him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.56|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:56) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.17|AUTODETECT|” ). Then, stepping even closer, she says to him, You too were with Jesus of Galilee. That the words she uses are reported somewhat differently in John s Gospel presents no difficulty. It must not be taken for granted that either or any Gospel, all by itself, reports all the words spoken by this girl. Her accusing jabber may have included the following lines: You surely are not also one of this man s disciples, are you? Why, I m sure you were also with Jesus of Galilee. 70. But before everybody he denied (it), saying, I don t know what you re talking about. Here, too, I am not of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.17|AUTODETECT|” John 18:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.70|AUTODETECT|” combines very easily with what is found in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.70|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 26:70) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . Peter evidently has been floored. The unexpectedness and boldness of the servant-girl s incriminating statement catches him off guard. In spite of all his loud and repeated promises of unswerving loyalty to Jesus, boasts made only a few hours earlier (26:33, 35), he is now thoroughly frightened. One might say: he panics. Evidently he had failed to take to heart Christ s admonition (26:41).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.69|AUTODETECT|” The second denial follows very closely upon the first. 71. Now when he had gone out toward the gateway, another girl saw him and said to the people who were there, This fellow was with Jesus the Nazarene. See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.69|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:69) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.70|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.70|AUTODETECT|” 70) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.58|AUTODETECT|” a and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.58|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:58) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.54|AUTODETECT|” . It seems that in his frustration as a result of the first embarrassment, Peter tried to get out of the building. He had been in the roofless courtyard, among the palace servants and temple guards, warming himself by the fire 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.54|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:54) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), but now things are becoming too hot for him. He is probably afraid that at any moment an underling may grab him and make him a prisoner. Perhaps the thought occurs to him, What will happen to me if they find out that I m the man who slashed off the ear of Malchus? So he must try to escape from the palace as quickly as possible.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.71|AUTODETECT|” However, the portresses are unwilling to let him out. He gets no farther than the entranceway or vestibule which via the gate leads to the road. Several people are standing around. It would seem that the portress who is about to go off duty has already told the news about Peter to the girl who has come to relieve her. So both of these girls 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.71|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 26:71) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.69|AUTODETECT|” and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.69|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:69) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.46|AUTODETECT|” ) now say to those who are standing around, This fellow was with Jesus the Nazarene. The constant reference to of Galilee, the Nazarene may imply scorn, but this is by no means certain. See on 2:23 and also on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.46|AUTODETECT|” John 1:46) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.58|AUTODETECT|” . At least one male bystander chimes in with what the girls are saying 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.58|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:58) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). 72. Again he denied with an oath, (saying), I don t know the man. Note the man, as if Jesus were a complete stranger to him. This time Simon is beside himself with rage and frustration. He does something that he had not done during the first denial. With an oath he begins to deny his connection with Jesus. Forcefully he maintains, I don t know the man. Christ s oath (26:63, 64) and Peter s (26:72, 74), what a contrast! The former confirms the truth; the latter sanctions the lie!) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.59|AUTODETECT|” Having been refused exit, Peter returns to the open courtyard. An hour elapses 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.22.59|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:59) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). It would seem, therefore, that the first two denials took place during Christ s appearance before Annas. Now the situation changes somewhat: Jesus has been brought before Caiaphas and the entire Sanhedrin. Christ s first trial before this body is almost over.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 73. A little while later those who were standing around came up to Peter and said, Certainly you also are one of them, for your accent gives you away. During the interval of an hour the news about Peter has been spreading. Now the palace servants and the officers, the men who are standing around the fire with Peter, begin to tell him that he is one of Christ s disciples, and that his very brogue identifies him as a Galilean.��861�� A comparison of the Gospel accounts shows that some people are talking to Peter; others, about him. Accusations are flying in from every side. This was enough to get anyone excited, especially excitable Simon!

As if all this were not enough, a relative of Malchus blurts out, Did I not see you in the garden with Jesus? For this story see N.T.C. on the Gospel according to John, Vol. II, pp. 399, 400. 74a. Then he began to call down a curse on himself and to swear, I don t know the man. He must have said something like, May God do this or that to me if it be true that I am or ever was a disciple of Jesus. He stands there invoking upon himself one curse after another.

And the louder this Galilean talks, the more, without realizing it, he is saying to all those standing around, I m a liar. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.61|AUTODETECT|” In his infinite and tender mercy the Lord, who in his sovereign providence controls all things, comes to the rescue: 74b, 75. At once a rooster crowed. And Peter recalled the word spoken by Jesus, Before a rooster crows you shall deny me three times. From ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.61|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:61) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 we gather that at the very moment when the rooster crowed, or at least very nearly at that moment, someone is looking straight into Peter s eyes. It is Jesus, his face very likely still covered with spittle, and black and blue because of the blows it has received. It seems that the Master, his trial ended, is being led across the court to his prison cell, from which within a few hours he will be led once more before the Sanhedrin.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 When Peter hears the crowing of the rooster, and sees Jesus looking at him, with eyes so full of pain, yet also of pardon, his memory of Christ s warning prediction (verse 34) is suddenly awakened. And he went outside and wept bitterly. How it came about that Peter is at last permitted to leave the palace is not stated. Can it have been because now the attention of all the underlings, and perhaps of everybody else, is fixed upon Jesus? However that may be, Peter goes out and weeps as only Peter can weep: bitterly, profusely, meaningfully, his heart being filled with genuine sorrow for what he has done.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.17.9|AUTODETECT|” How deceitful is man s heart! It is exceedingly corrupt. Who can know it? 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.17.9|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 17:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.8.13|AUTODETECT|” ). See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.8.13|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 8:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ; cf. verse 15. Think of it: Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. I don t even know the man. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.55.12-19.55.14|AUTODETECT|” How Christ must have suffered! No doubt much more because of these denials by a highly favored disciple and friend than because of the blows and the mockery inflicted on him by his declared enemies. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.55.12-19.55.14|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 55:12 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.1.18|AUTODETECT|” How God s pardoning grace and the Savior s forgiving love are here revealed! See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.1.18|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 1:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.6|AUTODETECT|” 53:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.55.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.55.6|AUTODETECT|” 55:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.55.7|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.55.7|AUTODETECT|” 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 9 2 8 0 0 Summary of Chapter 26) Chapter 25 closed with the indication of a sharp contrast between the wicked, headed for everlasting punishment, and the righteous destined for everlasting life. That contrast is again strikingly revealed at the beginning of chapter 26: the rulers plotting Christ s death (verses 1 5) are placed over against Mary of Bethany, pouring her precious perfume the evidence of her love and devotion on Christ s head (verses 6:13).) As the Outline on p. 894 indicates, chapter 26 may be divided into ten paragraphs, as follows (for references see the indicated outline):) 1. Not at the Festival, said the plotters. At the Festival (Passover), said the Almighty, echoed by Jesus. And so it happened.) 2. In connection with Mary s generous, thoughtful, and timely deed we are shocked by the disciples inexcusable criticism, Why this waste?

What is especially striking is the emphatic manner in which Jesus rushes to her defense with the words, Wherever this gospel is preached in the whole world, also what she had done shall be told in memory of her. ) 3. Mary receives the Master s everlasting praise. Judas receives thirty pieces of silver and even this for only a few days at the most. Blessed assurance was Mary s portion. Gnawing remorse was the traitor s reward.) 4. This was the Passover that ended all meaningful Passovers.

It was during this Passover meal that Jesus pointed out the betrayer. He did it, however, in such a remarkable manner that all the disciples were given an opportunity to examine themselves. Divine sovereignty and human responsibility are beautifully joined in Christ s saying, The Son of man goes as it is written concerning him, but woe to that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed. ) 5. Toward the end of the meal Jesus instituted what became known as the Lord s Supper. For its meaning see pp. 908 912.) 6. Jesus predicted that all his disciples would become untrue to him.

All protested, professing their unflinching loyalty. But in Gethsemane Christ s prediction was verified: they all left him and fled. At the Supper the leader in promising unswerving faithfulness was Peter. It was to him that Jesus said, This very night, before the rooster crows, you shall deny me three times. Paragraph 10 shows that this was exactly what happened.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.5.8|AUTODETECT|” 7. In Gethsemane Jesus a. agonized, b. agonized and prayed, c. prayed and kept watch. As to his prayers, by a change in the main clause from Let this cup pass from me to Thy will be done Jesus, the ever sinless One, reveals his obedience in a progressively glorious manner. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.5.8|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 5:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.11|AUTODETECT|” 8. What is especially significant is the fact that Jesus allows himself to be seized, bound, and led away. The Victim is Victor 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.11|AUTODETECT|” John 10:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.15|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.15|AUTODETECT|” 15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.16.33|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.16.33|AUTODETECT|” 16:33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.10|AUTODETECT|” b). His life is an offering which he renders 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.10|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 53:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 9 2 8 0 0 9. Before the Sanhedrin Jesus, in answer to the highpriest s question, definitely and under oath declares himself to be the Messiah, who, after his death, will rise triumphantly from the grave (implied). Enthroned in heaven, he will rule over all his enemies and gloriously return one day upon the clouds of heaven, in fulfilment of Daniel s prophecy. Then the highpriest tore his robes, saying, He has blasphemed. What need do we still have of witnesses? & They answered, Deserving of death is he. Mockery and cruelty follow.) 10.

A brief summary of the story of Peter s Threefold Denial has been suggested on p. 935.) ) ) ) ) N.T.C. W. Hendriksen, New Testament Commentary) 832 This, rather than open courtyard (26:69), seems to be the meaning of �P�� here. The inner court of the palace, with servants passing in and out, would not have suited the scheming and plotting that was taking place. See also footnote 732 on p. 772.) 833 Here again, for the evidence pointing in this direction I must refer to N.T.C. on John, Vol. II; this time see p. 391.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.0|AUTODETECT|” 834 This story must not be confused with that of the sinful woman of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.0|AUTODETECT|” Luke 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . For the arguments in favor of rejecting this identification theory see N.T.C. on the Gospel according to John, Vol. II, pp. 174, 175.) 1 3 2 8 0 0 835 See, for example, A. H. McNeile, The Gospel according to St. Matthew, London, 1915, p. 375.) 836 As various commentaries and also L.N.T. (A. and G.), p. 383, clearly indicate, the verb ������ 3rd per. pl. aor. indic. of 5�����, basically set or fixed, can be interpreted to mean either offered or weighed out (on the scales). For the reasons given in the text I accept the latter meaning as being the correct one.) 837 For more on coins, etc. see on 10:29; 17:24, 27; 18:24, 28; and 20:9, 10. For the thirty pieces of silver see on 27:3 10.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.21.37|AUTODETECT|” 838 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.21.37|AUTODETECT|” Luke 21:37) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 may give a hint, but this is not certain.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.51|AUTODETECT|” 839 According to Zahn this man was John Mark s father, then still alive. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.51|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:51) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.52|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.52|AUTODETECT|” 52) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.12.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.12.12|AUTODETECT|” Acts 12:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . Grosheide also calls attention to this possibility, but does not necessarily endorse it. His as well as my position is: we do not know. This holds also with respect to the theory that the man carrying the pitcher was John Mark himself. All such embellishments are nothing but speculation.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.21|AUTODETECT|” 840 According to this view Judas did not partake of the Lord s Supper. Thus also Lenski, op. cit., p. 1001; A. T. Robertson, Word Pictures, Vol. I, p. 208; H. N. Ridderbos, op. cit., Vol. II, p. 186. When The Belgic Confession, article 35, states, even as Judas & indeed received the sacrament, must not this line, unless it is deleted, be referred to the sacrament of the Passover? Judas did indeed at least to some extent partake of that sacrament. And the main emphasis of this article, namely, The ungodly indeed receives the sacrament to his condemnation, but he does not receive the truth of the sacrament can be fully maintained. In the sense indicated, it applied to Judas also. The problem regarding ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.21|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , which might seem to imply that Judas too received the Lord s Supper, is solved, as I see it, by Lenski, Interpretation of Luke s Gospel, Columbus, 1934, p. 662.) 1 4 2 8 0 0 841 Form for The Lord s Supper, belonging to the Liturgy of the Christian Reformed Church. See Psalter Hymnal (Centennial Edition), Doctrinal Standards and Liturgy of the Christian Reformed Church, Grand Rapids, 1959, p. 94 of the Liturgical Forms.) 842 For more on this covenant, its one-sidedness or two-sidedness, the relation of covenant to testament, etc., see N.T.C. on Galatians, p. 134 (including footnote 98) and on Ephesians, pp. 129, 130; also the author s book, The Covenant of Grace, Grand Rapids, 1932.) 843 First ���, 1st per. sing. aor. subjunctive of ����; then ����, 1st per. sing. present subjunctive .) 844 See the article by B. S. Easton, Wine, Wine Press, I.S.B.E., Vol. V, pp. 3086 3088, noting particularly the Jewish sources on p. 3087. See also Seesemann s article on �6��� Th.D.N.T., Vol.

V, pp. 162 166, in which the author contends, correctly I believe, that the very term fruit of the vine was borrowed from Judaism and indicates wine; and note the sources indicated in his footnote 17 on p. 164. While maintaining that in our present-day observance of communion we should retain all the essential elements of the sacrament as instituted by Christ, does this mean that if anything but actual wine is used in the celebration of the Lord s Supper, the sacrament is thereby rendered invalid, as Lenski (op. cit., p. 1007) argues? Should not the main emphasis be placed on the thing signified ?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.0|AUTODETECT|” 845 Think of all the dramatic happenings that took place in the Upper Room, as recorded in the Synoptics, and add to this the discourses recorded in John 14 16, plus the Highpriestly Prayer 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.0|AUTODETECT|” John 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.3|AUTODETECT|” ) and the closing hymns. Also, in spite of the period of the full moon, those who went to capture Jesus carried lanterns and torches 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.3|AUTODETECT|” John 18:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.30|AUTODETECT|” ). Besides, when Judas had left, it was already night 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.30|AUTODETECT|” John 13:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 846 Thus interpreted the sense is not far removed from that which the verb has in 11:6 and 13:57; see on these passages.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.5.8|AUTODETECT|” 847 See the excellent treatment of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.5.8|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 5:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 by F. F. Bruce, op. cit., pp. 102 104.) 1 11 2 8 0 0 A.V. Authorized Version (King James)) A.R.V. American Standard Revised Version) 848) a. This is irony, perhaps even satire. A cross section of this view translates 45a somewhat as follows, As far as I am concerned, go right ahead now and sleep, you dreadful sleepers. I do not need you any longer.

Along this line Lenski, op. cit., p. 1024; cf. Robertson, Word Pictures, Vol. I, p. 214.) Objection: Is this in line with Christ s character as revealed in the Gospels? Besides, was not the occasion too serious for irony?) b. This is a question: Are you still sleeping? Or, it is an exclamation, You still sleeping!

Note the word still in both of these attempts. Along this line most modern English translators.) Objection: Lenski op. cit., p. 1024 has pointed out I believe correctly that �x ������ does not mean still. Grosheide op. cit., p. 403 states, ������ makes it impossible to regard ���������, to which it belongs, as a question. ) 849 With individual variations some placing a break between verses 45 and 46; others, after the word rest this construction of the meaning of the passage can also be found in the following: G. C. Morgan, op. cit., p. 304; A. Edersheim, Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah, Vol.

II, p. 541; J. Bishop, The Day Christ Died, New York and Evanston, 1957, p. 215; and R. C. Foster, Studies in the Life of Christ, The Final Week, Grand Rapids, 1966, p. 181.) 850 Or: insurrectionist, revolutionary.) 851 It is a well-known fact that the prefixes in such compounds as the one here used ����������� often lose their intensive force. Nevertheless, the use of the simple form of the verb in verse 48 ������ first per. sing. aor. subjunctive of ����� contrasted with the compound form in the next verse, probably points to the strengthened connotation in this second case.) 852 In Josephus Jewish War II.615, he proceeded to carry out ��E ����� obviously means that for which he had come. The nearby similar � E ����� probably has the same meaning.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.66|AUTODETECT|” 855 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.66|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:66) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.1|AUTODETECT|” 23:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.1|AUTODETECT|” do not belong here but parallel ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.1|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 27:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.15.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.15.1|AUTODETECT|” Mark 15:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . John 18:12 14, 19 23 do not belong here either but describe Christ s preliminary hearing before Annas.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 853 Or: sanctuary.) 854 Or: I charge you on oath. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.66|AUTODETECT|” 856 See, however, P. Valentin, Les Comparutions de Jesus devant le Sanhedrin, RSR 59 (2, 71), pp. 230 236. According to the author, during the night Jesus is taken to Annas, then to Caiaphas, who is surrounded by some members of the Sanhedrin and some scribes. Not until the next morning 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.66|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:66) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) is Jesus led to the entire Sanhedrin. Does this view do justice to the expression the entire ��������� here in verse 59?) 1 2 2 8 0 0 857 See Mishna, Sanhedrin IV. 1.) 858 See G. Dalman, Jesus-Jeshua, New York, 1929, pp. 98 100. S. Rosenblatt, who in his article, The Crucifixion of Jesus from the Standpoint of Pharisaic Law, JBL 75 (Dec. 1956), pp. 315 321, denies the account of the trial of Jesus as presented in the Gospels, nevertheless admits (p. 319) that although the details of the trial given in the New Testament were definitely contrary to Pharisaic law, a way of removing an undesirable enemy is usually found when the will is there. That is exactly the point.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.11|AUTODETECT|” 859 According to the Synoptics 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.11|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 27:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.15.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.15.2|AUTODETECT|” Mark 15:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.3|AUTODETECT|” Luke 23:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.6.13|AUTODETECT|” ), the only recorded word that issued from the lips of Jesus and was addressed to Pilate was, You said (it). Nevertheless, Paul states that, before Pilate, Jesus made the good [noble or beautiful] confession 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.6.13|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 6:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.37|AUTODETECT|” ). Unless the apostle is referring also to a tradition preserved and after Paul s death recorded by the apostle John 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.37|AUTODETECT|” John 18:37) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.19.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.19.11|AUTODETECT|” 19:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), which is possible, he also is ascribing a positive meaning to the expression You said (it). ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.10.6|AUTODETECT|” 860 In spite of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.10.6|AUTODETECT|” Lev. 10:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.21.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.21.10|AUTODETECT|” 21:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ? But commentators are not agreed on the question whether this prohibition was absolute in its application.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 861 A. T. Robertson, Word Pictures, Vol. I, p. 220, mentions difficulty with the pronunciation of gutturals as a characteristic of Galilean speech. G. Dalman, op. cit., p. 24, simply states that Peter s language may in some details have been somewhat different. )