Matthew 26:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 26:2
2 Ye know that after two days is the feast of the passover, and the Son of man is betrayed to be crucified.
Chapter Context
Matthew 26 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of worship, grace, judgment. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-90 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christianity was separating from Judaism following Jerusalem's destruction.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-75: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Matthew and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Matthew 26:2
2 Ye know that after two days is the feast of the passover, and the Son of man is betrayed to be crucified.
Analysis
After two days is the feast of the passover (Greek: pascha, πάσχα)—Jesus precisely knows the divine timetable. The Passover commemorated Israel's deliverance from Egypt (Exodus 12), when the lamb's blood on doorposts spared the firstborn. Now the true Passover Lamb will be slain.
The Son of man is betrayed to be crucified—The Greek paradidotai (παραδίδοται) means 'handed over' or 'delivered up,' the same word used of God giving up His Son (Romans 8:32). Jesus uses His messianic title 'Son of man' (Daniel 7:13-14) while predicting crucifixion, Rome's method for executing slaves and rebels—the ultimate humiliation for Israel's King.
Historical Context
Passover (Nisan 14-15) was one of three pilgrim festivals requiring Jewish males to travel to Jerusalem. The city swelled from 50,000 to over 250,000 people. Jesus's prediction combines Jewish betrayal with Roman execution—both powers would collaborate in killing the Messiah.
Reflection
- How does the Passover typology illuminate Christ as our sacrificial Lamb who delivers us from bondage to sin?
- What does Jesus's precise foreknowledge of His death reveal about His voluntary nature of His sacrifice?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Matthew 17:22, John 11:55, 18:2