Matthew 26 captures the events leading up to Jesus’ betrayal and arrest. Jesus tells His disciples that in two days, He will be crucified during the Passover feast. The chief priests and elders conspire to kill Him. Meanwhile, Jesus is anointed with precious ointment by a woman in Bethany, and He declares that this act is in preparation for His burial.
Judas Iscariot, one of Jesus’ disciples, bargains with the chief priests to betray Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. During the Passover meal, Jesus reveals that one of the disciples will betray Him, causing them all to question themselves. Jesus institutes the sacrament of communion, symbolizing His body and blood.
In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus prays to God, feeling deeply distressed. He asks His disciples to keep watch, but they fall asleep. Jesus is eventually betrayed by Judas, who identifies Him with a kiss. Jesus is taken before the high priest, where false witnesses testify against Him. When asked if He is the Son of God, Jesus confirms it, leading to accusations of blasphemy.
The chapter ends with Peter denying Jesus three times, just as Jesus predicted. Peter weeps bitterly, realizing his betrayal. This sets the stage for the next chapter, which delves into Jesus’ trial and crucifixion.