In this study we are continuing our verse-by-verse study through the Gospel of Matthew. We will be spending our time in Matthew 26:31–56. This passage brings us into the final hours leading up to Jesus’ arrest — a time filled with warnings, prayer, fear, and ultimately, surrender.
In this section, Jesus speaks honestly to His disciples about their coming failure, in deep anguish He prays in the garden, and then He steps forward as His betrayal and arrest unfold. It’s a sobering portion of Scripture, but also a very encouraging one.
As we spend time in this passage, you may wrestle with questions like:
-Why aren't good intentions the same as spiritual strength?
-What does Jesus teach us about prayer when we are under extreme pressure?
-Why does our tendency to rely on ourselves often lead to failure?
-How did Jesus remain steady and obedient when everyone else ran?
This section of scripture gently exposes our weakness, but it also points us to where true strength is found. It reminds us that when fear rises and confidence fades, Jesus is still standing firm.
