Matthew 26:31
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 26:31
31 Then saith Jesus unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered abroad.
Chapter Context
Matthew 26 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of creation, worship, prayer. 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 illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. 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 26:31
31 Then saith Jesus unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered abroad.
Analysis
All ye shall be offended because of me this night (πάντες ὑμεῖς σκανδαλισθήσεσθε ἐν ἐμοὶ ἐν τῇ νυκτὶ ταύτῃ, pantes hymeis skandalisthēsesthe en emoi en tē nykti tautē)—The verb skandalizō means 'to cause to stumble, fall away.' Jesus prophesies total apostasy: all would temporarily abandon Him, fulfilling divine necessity while indicting human weakness.
Jesus quotes Zechariah 13:7: I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered. God Himself strikes the shepherd (depicting Christ's death under divine wrath for sin), causing the sheep's scattering. This isn't mere persecution but the prophesied moment when God's Lamb bears iniquity, isolating Him even from His closest followers.
Historical Context
Zechariah 13:7 was recognized as messianic prophecy in first-century Judaism. The 'smitten shepherd' connected to Isaiah 53's suffering servant. Jesus's citation showed the disciples that their coming failure was both prophesied and necessary to the divine plan, though not excusing their cowardice.
Reflection
- How does Jesus's forewarning of the disciples' failure demonstrate pastoral care even in crisis?
- What does the fulfillment of Zechariah 13:7 teach about Christ bearing God's wrath for sin?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Matthew 11:6, 26:56, Psalms 38:11, 69:20, 88:18, Isaiah 53:10