Matthew 26:17-25 relates the beginning of Jesus’ final meal with the twelve. First, the Passover feast was prepared—“On the first day of the Feast of the Unleavened Bread the disciples came to Jesus, saying

to Him, ‘Where do You want us to prepare for You to eat the Passover?’” (v. 17) Jesus ate the Passover at the usual time appointed by God, and observed by the Jews. Jesus had the place already planned for when His disciples asked Him about where to prepare the meal. He would eat the Passover, regardless of the fact that He was in danger. He would not be intimidated from His commitment by fear or any hindrance. Jesus was in total control of the details of His own crucifixion. Second, the Passover fellowship was purified—“When evening had come, He sat down with the twelve. Now as they were eating, He said, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, one of you will betray Me.’ … Then Judas, who was betraying Him, answered and said, ‘Rabbi, is it I?’ He said to him, ‘You have said it.’” (vv. 20-21, 25) We have no idea what problems will come into our lives, when they will occur, or how they will arrive; but Jesus knew all of His. Amazing is the fact that although He knew, He didn’t shy away from it. He foresaw the treachery (from one of His own) and went on. He even continued to include the very one who would betray Him, Judas. The formula for observing the Lord’s Supper includes instruction to examine and judge ourselves, and so to eat of that bread, and drink of that cup. Jesus answers their self-examination with further information—the traitor was a familiar friend; “He who dipped his hand with Me in the dish will betray Me.” (v. 23) Although God serves His own purposes at times by the sins of men, that does not make the sinner’s action any more acceptable. Turn to the Lord from where you are: He will move toward you to receive you.

Sin cera, Erik

Erik O. Garthe is Associate Pastor at Canton Baptist Church in Baltimore, Maryland.

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