Chapter 26
Chapter Outline
The rulers conspire against Christ. (1–5)
Christ anointed at Bethany. (6–13)
Judas bargains to betray Christ. (14–16)
The Passover. (17–25)
Christ institutes his holy supper. (26–30)
He warns his disciples. (31–35)
His agony in the garden. (36–46)
He is betrayed. (47–56)
Christ before Caiaphas. (57–68)
Peter denies him. (69–75)Verses 1–5
Our Lord had often told of his sufferings as at a distance, now he speaks of them as at hand. At
the same time the Jewish council consulted how they might put him to death secretly. But it pleased
God to defeat their intention. Jesus, the true paschal Lamb, was to be sacrificed for us at that very
time, and his death and resurrection rendered public.
Verses 6–13
The pouring ointment upon the head of Christ was a token of the highest respect. Where there
is true love in the heart to Jesus Christ, nothing will be thought too good to bestow upon him. The
more Christ's servants and their services are cavilled at, the more he manifests his acceptance. This
act of faith and love was so remarkable, that it would be reported, as a memorial of Mary's faith
and love, to all future ages, and in all places where the gospel should be preached. This prophecy
is fulfilled.
Verses 14–16
There were but twelve called apostles, and one of them was like a devil; surely we must never
expect any society to be quite pure on this side heaven. The greater profession men make of religion,
the greater opportunity they have of doing mischief, if their hearts be not right with God. Observe,
that Christ's own disciple, who knew so well his doctrine and manner of his life, and was false to
him, could not charge him with any thing criminal, though it would have served to justify his
treachery. What did Judas want? Was not he welcome wherever his Master was? Did he not fare
as Christ fared? It is not the lack, but the love of money, that is the root of all evil. After he had