Matthew 26: The Betrayal of the King
ON THE DRIZZLY day of October 16, 1555, Hugh Latimer and Nicholas Ridley, two influential English reformers, were tied to the stake and bundles of sticks were piled at their feet. The crowd strained to hear what the two men were saying. Would they recant or would they persist in dying as heretics? As the executioner pushed a torch into the wood, Latimer said, "Be of good comfort, Master Ridley, and play the man; we shall this day light such a candle, by God's grace, in England, as I trust shall never be put out." Suffering and temptation reveal the quality of our discipleship. Nowhere is this more evident than in Matthew 26, as we move into the climax of the book.
Warming Up to God
Have you ever been tempted to stop following Christ? Explain.
Read Matthew 26. »
Discovering the Word
- How do verses 1-16 set the stage for Jesus' betrayal and death?
- In verses 17-30 Jesus celebrates the Passover with his disciples. How is this occasion both ominous and hopeful?
- What insights can we gain about Jesus during his time in Gethsemane (vv. 36-45)?
- Jesus' betrayal comes at the hand of one of his own disciples (vv. 47-50). As you look over the role of Judas in this chapter, why do you think the religious leaders used him?
- Why do you think Jesus remained silent during the first part of his trial (vv. 57-63)?
- In answer to the high priest's question (v. 63), Jesus declares that he is the Christ (alluding to Dan 7:13-14). Describe the immediate—and ultimate—impact of Jesus' words on those present (vv. 65-68).
Applying the Word
- When have you been confronted with the weakness of your commitment to the Lord?
- Both Jesus and the disciples faced temptation in this chapter. How can Jesus' example and the disciples' failures help us withstand temptation and testing?
Responding in Prayer
Ask God to give you the courage to claim allegiance to Christ.
For Further Study
Temptation by Tom L. Eisenman