Matthew 26: Betrayal and Arrest of Jesus

Read Matthew chapter 26

Introduction: Matthew 26 is a extremely important chapter for believers, it the events leading up to Jesus’ crucifixion. This chapter speaks of the betrayal of Judas, the Last Supper, Jesus’ prediction of Peter’s denial, and his arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane. In this outline, we will of Matthew 26, we will look in depth at each verse and how it relates to the overall teachings of the Bible, and we who believe, all know what the cross of Christ means to each of us, a once for all sacrifice by Jesus for the sins of the world.

I. Matthew 26:1-5 – Jesus Predicts his Crucifixion
In these verses, Jesus predicts his crucifixion to his disciples, and the chief priests and elders plot to kill him. This reference to the Passover (Matthew 26:2) connects to Exodus 12:1-14, where the Israelites were instructed to sacrifice a lamb as a sign of their deliverance from Egypt. Jesus is the ultimate, once for all, Passover lamb, sacrificed for the sins of humanity (1 Corinthians 5:7).

II. Matthew 26:6-13 – Woman Anoints Jesus with Oil
Here, a woman anoints Jesus with an expensive ointment. This act is a foreshadowing of Jesus’ burial (Matthew 26:12). It is also a fulfillment of Isaiah 61:1-3, where the Messiah is described as one who brings good news and comfort to the brokenhearted. The woman’s actions are a testament to Jesus’ identity as the Messiah.

III. Matthew 26:14-16 – Judas Agrees to Betray Jesus
Judas agrees to betray Jesus for thirty pieces of silver, fulfilling the prophecy in Zechariah 11:12-13. This act of betrayal is a direct opposite contrast to the woman’s devotion in the previous verses. It also sets the stage for the events that will lead to Jesus’ death on the cross, and Judas’ suicide.

IV. Matthew 26:17-30 – Lord’s Supper Instituted
During the Last Supper, Jesus institutes the Lord’s Supper (Matthew 26:26-28), which is a reminder to all believers of the new covenant established through his blood (Luke 22:20). He also predicts Judas’ betrayal (Matthew 26:21) and Peter’s denial (Matthew 26:34), both of which come to pass in the following verses.

V. Matthew 26:31-35 – Prediction that Disciples will Scatter
Jesus quotes Zechariah 13:7, predicting that his disciples will scatter when he is arrested. Despite Peter saying that he will never deny Jesus, Jesus foretells that Peter will deny him three times before the rooster crows (Matthew 26:34).

VI. Matthew 26:36-46 – Jesus’ Prayer in Garden Gethsemane
In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus prays for the cup of suffering to pass from him (Matthew 26:39). This moment of vulnerability shows Jesus’ humanity and his obedience to the Father’s will (Philippians 2:8). The disciples’ inability to stay awake during Jesus’ time of agony sheds some light on their weakness and foreshadows their abandonment of Jesus.

VII. Matthew 26:47-56 – Judas Betrays Jesus
Judas betrays Jesus with a kiss, and Jesus is arrested. When one of the disciples tries to defend Jesus with a sword, Jesus rebukes him, emphasizing that his kingdom is not of this world (John 18:36). Jesus willingly goes with the arresting party, fulfilling the Scriptures (Matthew 26:54).

VIII. Matthew 26:57-68 – Jesus on Trial Before Sanhedrin
Jesus is put on trial before the Sanhedrin, where false witnesses accuse him. Jesus remains silent until the high priest asks if he is the Messiah. Jesus’ affirmation of his identity (Matthew 26:64) leads to his condemnation for blasphemy. This moment brings to mind Daniel 7:13-14, where the Son of Man is given authority and dominion.

IX. Matthew 26:69-75 – Peter’s Denial
Peter denies knowing Jesus three times, just as Jesus predicted. When the rooster crows, Peter realizes his betrayal and weeps bitterly (Matthew 26:75). This event illustrates the weakness of human resolve and the need for God’s grace.

Conclusion: Matthew 26 is a fulfillment of several hundred prophecies in the Old Testament, and the fulfillment of God’s plan for salvation for the world. From the anointing of Jesus to his arrest and trial, each event points to Jesus’ identity as the Messiah and his mission to save humanity from sin. As we think on these verses, we can be encouraged and inspired by Jesus’ obedience, sacrifice, and the hope of redemption that his death and resurrection bring to a world that is full of wickedness and sin. Jesus is the only hope for a sin sick world!