Matthew 26:5
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 26:5
5 But they said, Not on the feast day, lest there be an uproar among the people.
Chapter Context
Matthew 26 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of righteousness, mercy, holiness. 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 addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. 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 26:5
5 But they said, Not on the feast day, lest there be an uproar among the people.
Analysis
Not on the feast day, lest there be an uproar among the people—Their political calculation shows fear of popular uprising (thorubos, θόρυβος, 'tumult' or 'riot'). The leaders recognize Jesus's popularity with the crowds, especially pilgrims from Galilee. Yet God's sovereign plan overrules their scheming—Jesus will die precisely on Passover as the true Lamb.
This reveals divine irony: they plan to avoid the feast, but God orchestrates Christ's death during Passover to fulfill all the typology. The leaders plot in vain (Psalm 2:1-4)—God laughs at their conspiracy while accomplishing His eternal redemptive purpose.
Historical Context
During Passover, Roman prefects came from Caesarea to Jerusalem with extra troops to prevent riots. The city was a tinderbox of messianic expectation and nationalist fervor. The religious leaders feared losing their positions if Rome suppressed an uprising sparked by Jesus's arrest (John 11:48).
Reflection
- How does God's sovereignty work through human decisions—even evil ones—to accomplish His redemptive purposes?
- What does the leaders' fear of the crowd reveal about the difference between worldly power and true spiritual authority?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Matthew 14:5, 21:26, 27:24, Proverbs 19:21, 21:30, Isaiah 46:10