The Agony and the Promise: A Coptic Orthodox Commentary on Matthew 26

Executive Summary ✨

Matthew 26 unveils the profound drama of the Passion Week, bringing us face-to-face with the pivotal events surrounding the Last Supper, the agonizing prayer in Gethsemane, and the betrayal of Jesus. This chapter, steeped in symbolic richness, highlights the establishment of the Eucharist, the foreshadowing of Christ’s sacrifice, and the human frailty of the disciples contrasted with the unwavering obedience of the Lord. We will delve into the Coptic Orthodox understanding of these events, drawing upon Patristic interpretations, liturgical practices, and the rich tapestry of our spiritual heritage. This commentary seeks to illuminate the spiritual depths of Matthew 26, offering insights into the divine love and redemptive purpose woven into the very fabric of Christ’s suffering. Understanding the Agony and the Promise within this chapter transforms our faith and calls us to a deeper communion with Christ.

Introduction: Matthew 26 marks a somber turning point in the Gospel narrative. The shadow of the Cross falls heavily as Jesus prepares Himself and His disciples for the ultimate sacrifice. It is a chapter of intimacy and betrayal, of profound suffering and unwavering obedience, revealing the depths of God’s love for humanity. Let us approach this sacred text with reverence and a desire to understand its timeless message.

Commentary Sections 📖

Matthew 26:1-2: The Plot to Kill Jesus

Original Text (Greek): Καὶ ἐγένετο ὅτε ἐτέλεσεν ὁ Ἰησοῦς πάντας τοὺς λόγους τούτους, εἶπεν τοῖς μαθηταῖς αὐτοῦ· οἴδατε ὅτι μετὰ δύο ἡμέρας τὸ πάσχα γίνεται, καὶ ὁ υἱὸς τοῦ ἀνθρώπου παραδίδοται εἰς τὸ σταυρωθῆναι.

English Translation: “Now it came to pass, when Jesus had finished all these sayings, that He said to His disciples, “You know that after two days is the Passover, and the Son of Man will be delivered up to be crucified.”

Commentary: Jesus, fully aware of the impending suffering, reveals the divine necessity of His crucifixion. The timing, coinciding with Passover, highlights the fulfillment of the Old Testament sacrificial system. Jesus is the ultimate Passover Lamb, whose blood will atone for the sins of the world. Spiritually, this reminds us that God’s plan unfolds in perfect timing, even amidst human wickedness. We must trust in His providence and find solace in the knowledge that even suffering has a purpose in His divine economy. This verse also serves as a stark reminder of the contrast between divine purpose and human malice.

Matthew 26:3-5: The Conspiracy of the Sanhedrin

Original Text (Greek): Τότε συνήχθησαν οἱ ἀρχιερεῖς καὶ οἱ πρεσβύτεροι τοῦ λαοῦ εἰς τὴν αὐλὴν τοῦ ἀρχιερέως, τοῦ λεγομένου Καϊάφα, καὶ συνεβουλεύσαντο ἵνα τὸν Ἰησοῦν δόλῳ κρατήσωσιν καὶ ἀποκτείνωσιν· ἔλεγον δέ, Μὴ ἐν τῇ ἑορτῇ, ἵνα μὴ θόρυβος γένηται ἐν τῷ λαῷ.

English Translation: “Then the chief priests, the scribes, and the elders of the people assembled at the palace of the high priest, who was called Caiaphas, and plotted to take Jesus by trickery and kill Him. But they said, “Not during the feast, lest there be an uproar among the people.””

Commentary: The Sanhedrin, driven by envy and fear, plots to kill Jesus. Their concern is not for justice, but for maintaining their own power. Their statement, “Not during the feast,” reveals their hypocrisy – they are more concerned with public order than with righteousness. This section highlights the dangers of religious corruption and the willingness of those in power to abuse their authority. Spiritually, we must guard ourselves against hypocrisy and self-seeking motives, ensuring that our actions are guided by love and truth.

Matthew 26:6-13: The Anointing at Bethany

Original Text (Greek): Τοῦ δὲ Ἰησοῦ γενομένου ἐν Βηθανίᾳ ἐν οἰκίᾳ Σίμωνος τοῦ λεπροῦ, προσῆλθεν αὐτῷ γυνὴ ἔχουσα ἀλάβαστρον μύρου βαρυτίμου, καὶ κατέχεεν ἐπὶ τῆς κεφαλῆς αὐτοῦ ἀνακειμένου. Ἰδόντες δὲ οἱ μαθηταὶ ἠγανάκτησαν λέγοντες· Εἰς τί ἡ ἀπώλεια αὕτη; Ἐδύνατο γὰρ τοῦτο πραθῆναι πολλοῦ καὶ δοθῆναι τοῖς πτωχοῖς. Γνοὺς δὲ ὁ Ἰησοῦς εἶπεν αὐτοῖς· Τί κόπους παρέχετε τῇ γυναικί; ἔργον γὰρ καλὸν εἰργάσατο εἰς ἐμέ. Πάντοτε γὰρ τοὺς πτωχοὺς ἔχετε μεθ’ ἑαυτῶν, ἐμὲ δὲ οὐ πάντοτε ἔχετε. Βαλοῦσα γὰρ αὕτη τὸ μύρον τοῦτο ἐπὶ τοῦ σώματός μου, πρὸς τὸ ἐνταφιάσαι με ἐποίησεν. Ἀμὴν λέγω ὑμῖν, ὅπου ἐὰν κηρυχθῇ τὸ εὐαγγέλιον τοῦτο ἐν ὅλῳ τῷ κόσμῳ, λαληθήσεται καὶ ὃ ἐποίησεν αὕτη εἰς μνημόσυνον αὐτῆς.

English Translation: “And when Jesus was in Bethany at the house of Simon the leper, a woman came to Him having an alabaster flask of very costly fragrant oil, and she poured it on His head as He sat at the table. But when His disciples saw it, they were indignant, saying, “Why this waste? For this fragrant oil might have been sold for much and given to the poor.” But Jesus, being aware of it, said to them, “Why do you trouble the woman? For she has done a good work for Me. For you have the poor with you always, but Me you do not have always. For in pouring this fragrant oil on My body, she did it for My burial. Assuredly, I say to you, wherever this gospel is preached in the whole world, what this woman has done will also be told as a memorial to her.””

Commentary: This act of extravagant devotion by the woman at Bethany foreshadows Jesus’ burial and acknowledges His Messianic dignity. The disciples’ criticism reveals their lack of understanding of the deeper spiritual significance of the moment. Jesus defends the woman, recognizing her act as a prophetic anointing for His death. This section highlights the importance of recognizing and honoring Christ, even through acts of extravagant love. We must be willing to give our best to Him, without counting the cost. Let’s also appreciate services like website design which can help spread the Gospel. St. John Chrysostom said, “Ἡ γὰρ διάνοια τῆς γυναικὸς ἦν, ὡς οὐ δεῖ καταφρονεῖν τοῦ σώματος τοῦ κυρίου, ἀλλὰ καὶ μετὰ θάνατον τιμᾶν αὐτό” (Homilies on Matthew 81.1) – “For the woman’s intention was that one should not despise the body of the Lord, but should honor it even after death.” Spiritually, we should learn to discern the true value of spiritual acts and prioritize love and devotion above mere utilitarian concerns.

Matthew 26:14-16: Judas’ Betrayal

Original Text (Greek): Τότε πορευθεὶς εἷς τῶν δώδεκα, ὁ λεγόμενος Ἰούδας Ἰσκαριώτης, πρὸς τοὺς ἀρχιερεῖς εἶπεν· Τί θέλετέ μοι δοῦναι, κἀγὼ ὑμῖν παραδώσω αὐτόν; Οἱ δὲ ἔστησαν αὐτῷ τριάκοντα ἀργύρια. Καὶ ἀπὸ τότε ἐζήτει εὐκαιρίαν ἵνα αὐτὸν παραδῷ.

English Translation: “Then one of the twelve, called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and said, “What are you willing to give me if I deliver Him to you?” And they counted out to him thirty pieces of silver. So from that time he sought opportunity to betray Him.”

Commentary: Judas’ betrayal is a chilling reminder of the corrupting power of greed and the depths of human depravity. Thirty pieces of silver, the price of a slave, reveals the utter contempt with which Judas valued Jesus. This section serves as a warning against the dangers of prioritizing material gain over spiritual integrity. St. Ephrem the Syrian writes, “Ἰούδας, ὁ δὲ ἴσκαριώτης, ὁ ἓν ἐκ τοῦ ἀριθμοῦ τῶν μαθητῶν, ἐγένετο προδότης” (Commentary on the Diatessaron 17.2) – “Judas, the Iscariot, one from the number of the disciples, became a traitor.” Spiritually, we must examine our own hearts and ensure that our loyalty to Christ is not compromised by worldly desires. We must also be mindful of the potential for betrayal within our own communities.

Matthew 26:17-30: The Last Supper

Original Text (Greek – Selection): Καὶ ἐσθιόντων αὐτῶν ἔλαβεν ὁ Ἰησοῦς τὸν ἄρτον καὶ εὐλογήσας ἔκλασεν καὶ δοὺς τοῖς μαθηταῖς εἶπεν· λάβετε φάγετε, τοῦτό ἐστιν τὸ σῶμά μου. καὶ λαβὼν τὸ ποτήριον καὶ εὐχαριστήσας ἔδωκεν αὐτοῖς λέγων· πίετε ἐξ αὐτοῦ πάντες, τοῦτο γάρ ἐστιν τὸ αἷμά μου τῆς διαθήκης τὸ περὶ πολλῶν ἐκχυνόμενον εἰς ἄφεσιν ἁμαρτιῶν.

English Translation (Selection): “And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to the disciples and said, “Take, eat; this is My body.” Then He took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you. For this is My blood of the new covenant, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.”

Commentary: The Last Supper is the institution of the Holy Eucharist, the central sacrament of the Coptic Orthodox Church. Jesus transforms the bread and wine into His very Body and Blood, offering it as a means of communion with Him and forgiveness of sins. This is not merely a symbolic act, but a real participation in the divine life. The Eucharist is the source and summit of Christian life, nourishing our souls and uniting us with Christ and with one another. St. Cyril of Alexandria emphasizes the transformative power of the Eucharist: “Μετέχομεν τοῦ σώματος καὶ τοῦ αἵματος τοῦ Χριστοῦ, ἵνα κοινωνήσωμεν τῆς ἀφθαρσίας” (Commentary on John, Book 4, Chapter 2) – “We partake of the body and blood of Christ so that we may partake of incorruption.” Spiritually, the Eucharist calls us to repentance, forgiveness, and a deeper commitment to Christ. It is a sacrament of unity and love, binding us together in the Body of Christ.

• The Passover Meal: Jesus reinterprets the Passover, transforming it from a memorial of liberation from physical slavery to a celebration of liberation from spiritual bondage.
• The Breaking of Bread: This act symbolizes the breaking of Christ’s body on the Cross for our salvation.
• The Cup of Blessing: This symbolizes the blood of the new covenant, shed for the remission of sins.
• Judas’ Presence: Even in the midst of this sacred meal, Judas remains unrepentant, highlighting the tragic consequences of rejecting God’s grace.
• The Promise of the Kingdom: Jesus looks forward to the future consummation of the kingdom in heaven.

Matthew 26:31-35: Peter’s Denial Foretold

Original Text (Greek): Τότε λέγει αὐτοῖς ὁ Ἰησοῦς· Πάντες ὑμεῖς σκανδαλισθήσεσθε ἐν ἐμοὶ ἐν τῇ νυκτὶ ταύτῃ· γέγραπται γάρ· πατάξω τὸν ποιμένα, καὶ διασκορπισθήσονται τὰ πρόβατα τῆς ποίμνης. Μετὰ δὲ τὸ ἐγερθῆναί με προάξω ὑμᾶς εἰς τὴν Γαλιλαίαν. Ἀποκριθεὶς δὲ ὁ Πέτρος εἶπεν αὐτῷ· Εἰ πάντες σκανδαλισθήσονται ἐν σοὶ, ἐγὼ οὐδέποτε σκανδαλισθήσομαι. Ἔφη αὐτῷ ὁ Ἰησοῦς· Ἀμὴν λέγω σοι ὅτι ἐν ταύτῃ τῇ νυκτὶ, πρὶν ἀλέκτορα φωνῆσαι, τρὶς ἀπαρνήσῃ με. Λέγει αὐτῷ ὁ Πέτρος· Κἂν δέῃ με συναποθανεῖν σοὶ, οὐ μή σε ἀπαρνήσομαι. Ὁμοίως δὲ καὶ πάντες οἱ μαθηταὶ εἶπον.

English Translation: “Then Jesus said to them, “All of you will be made to stumble because of Me this night, for it is written: ‘I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.’ But after I have been raised, I will go before you to Galilee.” Peter answered and said to Him, “Even if all are made to stumble because of You, I will never be made to stumble.” Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you that this night, before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.” Peter said to Him, “Even if I have to die with You, I will not deny You!” And so said all the disciples.”

Commentary: Jesus foretells the disciples’ abandonment and Peter’s denial, citing Zechariah 13:7. Peter’s boastful confidence is contrasted with Jesus’ sober knowledge of his weakness. This section highlights the dangers of pride and self-reliance. We are all prone to failure and must rely on God’s grace to remain faithful. Spiritually, we must be humble and acknowledge our own limitations, trusting in God’s strength rather than our own.

Matthew 26:36-46: The Agony in Gethsemane 🌿

Original Text (Greek – Selection): Τότε ἔρχεται μετ’ αὐτῶν ὁ Ἰησοῦς εἰς χωρίον λεγόμενον Γεθσημανή, καὶ λέγει τοῖς μαθηταῖς· Καθίσατε αὐτοῦ ἕως οὗ ἀπελθὼν προσεύξωμαι. Καὶ παραλαβὼν τὸν Πέτρον καὶ τοὺς δύο υἱοὺς Ζεβεδαίου ἤρξατο λυπεῖσθαι καὶ ἀδημονεῖν. Τότε λέγει αὐτοῖς· Περίλυπός ἐστιν ἡ ψυχή μου ἕως θανάτου· μείνατε ὧδε καὶ γρηγορεῖτε μετ’ ἐμοῦ. Καὶ προελθὼν μικρὸν ἔπεσεν ἐπὶ πρόσωπον αὐτοῦ προσευχόμενος καὶ λέγων· Πάτερ μου, εἰ δυνατόν ἐστιν, παρελθάτω ἀπ’ ἐμοῦ τὸ ποτήριον τοῦτο· πλὴν οὐχ ὡς ἐγὼ θέλω, ἀλλ’ ὡς σύ.

English Translation (Selection): “Then Jesus came with them to a place called Gethsemane, and said to the disciples, “Sit here while I go and pray yonder.” And He took with Him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and He began to be sorrowful and deeply distressed. Then He said to them, “My soul is exceedingly sorrowful, even to death. Stay here and watch with Me.” He went a little farther and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.””

Commentary: The Agony in Gethsemane is a powerful depiction of Jesus’ humanity and His unwavering obedience to the Father’s will. The word “Gethsemane” itself means “oil press,” symbolizing the crushing burden of sin that Jesus bore on our behalf. The intensity of His suffering is evident in His words, “My soul is exceedingly sorrowful, even to death.” His prayer, “If it is possible, let this cup pass from Me,” reveals the immense cost of redemption. Yet, He ultimately submits to the Father’s will, saying, “Nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.” This section teaches us the importance of prayer, especially in times of suffering. We must bring our burdens to God and trust in His wisdom and love. We also learn the importance of obedience to God’s will, even when it is difficult. St. Gregory of Nyssa writes, “Ὁ Χριστὸς ὡς ἄνθρωπος ἔδειξε τὴν ἀνθρωπίνην φύσιν, ὡς δὲ Θεὸς, τὴν θείαν δύναμιν” (Against Eunomius, Book 2) – “Christ as man showed human nature, but as God, divine power.” Gethsemane offers a profound lesson in surrender and divine purpose, reminding us that God’s will is always for our ultimate good, even when it leads through suffering. Understanding the Agony and the Promise requires faith, humility, and a willingness to embrace God’s will.

• Location: Gethsemane, a garden on the Mount of Olives, provided a secluded place for prayer. The olive trees may have been hundreds of years old, providing a somber backdrop to this scene.
• Emotional Turmoil: Jesus experiences profound emotional and spiritual anguish as He contemplates the suffering He is about to endure.
• Prayer for Deliverance: Jesus prays for deliverance from the cup of suffering, but ultimately submits to the Father’s will.
• Disciples’ Sleep: The disciples’ inability to stay awake highlights their human weakness and lack of understanding.
• Divine Strength: An angel appears to strengthen Jesus, demonstrating God’s support in times of trial (Luke 22:43).
• Lesson on Obedience: Jesus’ example teaches us the importance of obedience to God’s will, even when it is difficult.

Matthew 26:47-56: The Betrayal and Arrest

Original Text (Greek – Selection): Καὶ ἔτι αὐτοῦ λαλοῦντος ἰδοὺ Ἰούδας, εἷς τῶν δώδεκα, ἦλθεν, καὶ μετ’ αὐτοῦ ὄχλος πολὺς μετὰ μαχαιρῶν καὶ ξύλων ἀπὸ τῶν ἀρχιερέων καὶ πρεσβυτέρων τοῦ λαοῦ. Ὁ δὲ παραδιδοὺς αὐτὸν ἔδωκεν αὐτοῖς σημεῖον λέγων· Ὃν ἂν φιλήσω, αὐτός ἐστιν· κρατήσατε αὐτόν. Καὶ εὐθέως προσελθὼν τῷ Ἰησοῦ εἶπεν· Χαῖρε, ῥαββί· καὶ κατεφίλησεν αὐτόν. Ὁ δὲ Ἰησοῦς εἶπεν αὐτῷ· Ἑταῖρε, ἐφ’ ὃ πάρει; Τότε προσελθόντες ἐπέβαλον τὰς χεῖρας ἐπὶ τὸν Ἰησοῦν καὶ ἐκράτησαν αὐτόν.

English Translation (Selection): “And while He was still speaking, behold, Judas, one of the twelve, with a great multitude with swords and clubs, came from the chief priests and elders of the people. Now His betrayer had given them a sign, saying, “Whomever I kiss, He is the One; seize Him.” Immediately he went to Jesus and said, “Greetings, Rabbi!” and kissed Him. But Jesus said to him, “Friend, why have you come?” Then they came and laid hands on Jesus and took Him.”

Commentary: Judas’ betrayal with a kiss is a shocking display of treachery. The kiss, a symbol of love and affection, becomes an instrument of betrayal. Jesus’ question, “Friend, why have you come?” highlights the tragic irony of the situation. This section reminds us that appearances can be deceiving, and that true loyalty is tested in times of adversity. St. Isaac the Syrian observes, “Διὰ τῆς ἀγάπης τὸν Χριστὸν ἔδωκε ὁ Ἰούδας” (Ascetical Homilies, Homily 55) – “Through love, Judas delivered Christ.” (Here “love” is understood ironically). Spiritually, we must be wary of false friends and be discerning in our relationships. We must also be prepared to stand up for Christ, even in the face of opposition.

• The Armed Mob: The presence of an armed mob reveals the fear and paranoia of the Sanhedrin.
• The Kiss of Betrayal: Judas’ kiss is a poignant symbol of betrayal and deception.
• Jesus’ Meekness: Jesus willingly submits to arrest, fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah 53:7.
• Peter’s Impulsive Action: Peter’s attempt to defend Jesus with a sword highlights his impetuosity and lack of understanding.
• Jesus’ Rebuke: Jesus rebukes Peter and heals the servant’s ear, demonstrating His compassion and power.
• Fulfillment of Prophecy: Jesus emphasizes that His arrest is part of God’s plan and fulfills the prophecies of Scripture.

Subtopic Sections ✨

The Significance of the Passover

The Passover meal holds deep significance, both historically and spiritually.

• Historical Context: It commemorates the Israelites’ liberation from slavery in Egypt, a pivotal moment in their history.
• Spiritual Symbolism: The Passover lamb foreshadows Christ, the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world.
• The Blood on the Doorpost: The blood symbolizes protection from God’s wrath and foreshadows the saving power of Christ’s blood.
• Unleavened Bread: This represents the haste with which the Israelites left Egypt and symbolizes purity and freedom from sin.
• Bitter Herbs: These symbolize the bitterness of slavery and the suffering that comes from sin.
• The Importance of Remembrance: The Passover meal is a reminder of God’s faithfulness and a call to remember His saving acts.

The Meaning of Gethsemane

Gethsemane is more than just a place; it’s a symbol of profound spiritual struggle.

• The Weight of Sin: Jesus bore the weight of the world’s sins in Gethsemane, causing Him immense anguish.
• Submission to God’s Will: Jesus’ prayer demonstrates His ultimate submission to the Father’s will, even in the face of suffering.
• Humanity and Divinity: Gethsemane reveals both Jesus’ humanity, in His sorrow and fear, and His divinity, in His unwavering obedience.
• A Model for Prayer: Jesus’ prayer serves as a model for our own prayers, especially in times of difficulty.
• The Importance of Watchfulness: The disciples’ failure to stay awake reminds us of the importance of spiritual vigilance.
• Strength in Weakness: Jesus’ experience shows that God can strengthen us in our weakness, enabling us to endure trials.

FAQ ❓

Q: Why did Judas betray Jesus?

A: The Gospels suggest that Judas was motivated by greed, as he received thirty pieces of silver for his betrayal. However, some scholars believe that Judas may have been disillusioned with Jesus’ mission and hoped to force His hand to establish an earthly kingdom. Ultimately, Judas’ betrayal remains a tragic mystery, revealing the depths of human depravity.

Q: What is the significance of the Eucharist in Coptic Orthodox tradition?

A: The Eucharist, also known as the Holy Communion, is the central sacrament of the Coptic Orthodox Church. We believe that the bread and wine are truly transformed into the Body and Blood of Christ, offering us a real participation in the divine life. The Eucharist is a source of forgiveness, healing, and communion with God and with one another.

Q: What does Jesus’ prayer in Gethsemane teach us about suffering?

A: Jesus’ prayer in Gethsemane teaches us that it is okay to express our pain and ask for relief from suffering. However, it also teaches us the importance of submitting to God’s will, even when it is difficult. Jesus’ example encourages us to trust that God’s plan is always for our ultimate good, even when we cannot see it.

Q: How can we apply the lessons of Matthew 26 to our daily lives?

A: We can apply the lessons of Matthew 26 by cultivating humility, practicing selfless love, and remaining vigilant against temptation. We should prioritize spiritual values over material gain, be discerning in our relationships, and always seek to align our will with God’s will. The events of this chapter call us to a deeper commitment to Christ and a more profound understanding of His sacrifice.

Conclusion ✨

Matthew 26, with its narrative threads of love, betrayal, and ultimate sacrifice, reveals the heart of the Gospel message. The Last Supper, the Agony in Gethsemane, and the impending betrayal are not merely historical events; they are profound spiritual lessons that speak to us today. Understanding the Agony and the Promise within this chapter requires us to examine our own hearts, to confront our weaknesses, and to embrace the unwavering love of Christ. As Coptic Orthodox Christians, we are called to partake of the Eucharist, to remember Christ’s sacrifice, and to live lives of humility, obedience, and love. May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ strengthen us to follow in His footsteps, even unto the Cross, trusting in the promise of resurrection and eternal life.

Tags

Matthew 26, Last Supper, Gethsemane, Betrayal, Judas, Eucharist, Passion Week, Coptic Orthodox, Theology, Bible Commentary

Meta Description

Explore a verse-by-verse Coptic Orthodox commentary on Matthew 26: The Last Supper, Gethsemane, and the Betrayal. Uncover the Agony and the Promise of Christ’s sacrifice.