Preaching Outline for Matthew Chapter Twenty-Six

Crafting a preaching outline for Matthew Chapter 26 provides a structured approach to navigating one of the most significant portions of the gospel narrative. This chapter is a pivotal moment in the life of Jesus, detailing events from the plot against him to his arrest, and setting the stage for his subsequent crucifixion.

Structuring a sermon around this narrative requires careful attention to various themes such as the intimate Last Supper, the impending betrayal, Jesus’ time of prayer and distress in Gethsemane, the denial by Peter, and the early stages of the crucifixion process. These elements collectively provide rich theological insights and practical lessons for believers.

Related: For more, check out our Preaching Outline On Matthew Chapter Twenty-Five here.

The preacher must draw on the powerful emotional and spiritual moments encapsulated within the text. Central to the chapter is the human portrayal of Jesus as he confronts betrayal and anticipates his suffering.

This chapter also captures the significant teachings of Jesus, contrasted with the failures and weaknesses of his disciples.

Therefore, a preaching outline for this chapter constitutes more than a retelling; it requires an exploration into the lessons engendered within the narrative and an emphasis on their relevance to contemporary faith practice.

Key Takeaways

• Matthew 26 is a critical chapter that sets the foundation for the passionate narrative of Jesus.
• The preaching of this chapter unfolds profound emotional moments and key events leading to the crucifixion.
• Understanding this chapter assists in connecting its messages to modern spiritual life and practice.

Related: For more, check out our Preaching Outline On Matthew Chapter Twenty-Four here.

The Prelude to Betrayal

In Matthew chapter twenty-six, a clear picture is painted of the events leading up to the betrayal of Jesus. The dramatic tension in the narrative escalates as two parallel plots unfold: the scheme by the religious leaders and an intimate act of devotion at Bethany.

The Plot by the Religious Leaders

The religious authorities, comprising the chief priests and the scribes, convene at the residence of Caiaphas, the high priest. Determined to arrest and dispose of Jesus stealthily, they look to avoid public uproar.

Their planning sets in motion a chain of events that lead to the ultimate betrayal of Jesus, as they seek a surreptitious approach to capture him without raising an alarm among the people.

Jesus at Bethany

Meanwhile, Jesus is in Bethany, a village on the Mount of Olives. At the home of Simon the leper, a woman approaches Jesus with an alabaster jar of expensive ointment. She pours it on Jesus’ head, anointing him in a gesture of honor and prophecy.

This act, while controversial among the disciples for its extravagance, is held by Jesus as a preparation for his burial. The woman’s name is not mentioned, but her act is remembered as a significant part of the story.

During this poignant scene, Judas Iscariot decides to approach the chief priests, offering to deliver Jesus into their hands for thirty pieces of silver, fulfilling the monetary and metaphorical price of betrayal.

Related: For more, check out our Preaching Outline On Matthew Chapter Twenty-Three here.

The Last Supper

In Matthew chapter twenty-six, the narrative pivots to the poignant event of the Last Supper, a crucial moment between Jesus and his disciples just before his crucifixion.

This section specifically addresses how Jesus prepares for Passover with his disciples, foretells his betrayal by one among them, and establishes the Eucharist.

Preparation for Passover

Jesus instructed his disciples to prepare for Passover, emphasizing the coming fulfillment of Jewish tradition with His impending sacrifice.

He directed them to a certain man in the city and to say, “The Teacher says: My appointed time is near; I am going to celebrate the Passover with my disciples at your house.” The disciples followed Jesus’s orders, thus preparing for the Passover meal where significant events were to transpire.

Jesus Predicts His Betrayal

During the meal, Jesus solemnly announced that one of the disciples would betray him. This assertion stirred deep concern among them, leading each to introspectively question, “Surely you don’t mean me, Lord?”

It was Judas, who would hand Jesus over to the authorities, to whom Jesus replied, “You have said so,” confirming the impending betrayal.

The Institution of the Eucharist

At the Last Supper, Jesus established the Eucharist through symbolic actions with bread and a cup. He broke the bread, gave thanks, and offered it to his disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is my body.”

He then presented the cup, telling them, “Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.” In these gestures, Jesus was foreshadowing his sacrifice, laying the foundation for a central rite in Christian practice.

Related: For more, check out our Preaching Outline On Matthew Chapter Twenty-Two here.

Jesus’ Emotional Agony in Gethsemane

In the Gospel according to Matthew, chapter twenty-six reveals a poignant picture of Jesus’s emotional struggle in the Garden of Gethsemane.

This passage offers a glimpse into Jesus’s humanity as he grapples with sorrow and seeks solace through prayer just before his betrayal and arrest.

The Prayer of Sorrow

Jesus, fully aware of the impending suffering, retreats to Gethsemane to pray. This moment is characterized by deep agony, where he confides in his disciples about the weight of his sorrow, enough to lead to death.

In solitude, he implores his Father, seeking any possible reprieve from the forthcoming events, yet submits to God’s will with the words, “not as I will, but as you will.” His repeated prayers demonstrate his distress, revealing his struggle between human desire and divine obedience.

• Intensity of Sorrow: Jesus urges Peter, the disciples, and flesh and spirit to watch and pray to avoid temptation.
• Embrace of Divine Will: Through prayer, he resigns himself to God’s will, illustrating his commitment to the path laid out for him.

Jesus Betrayed and Arrested

The ambiance in Gethsemane shifts abruptly as Judas arrives with a crowd to betray Jesus. Jesus, still steeped in the afterglow of prayer, faces his betrayer calmly. The scene escalates when Peter, in a bid to protect Jesus, strikes a servant of the high priest, cutting off his ear.

Jesus’s response underscores his dedication to peace and fulfillment of the Scriptures, rebuking Peter for the use of violence.

He emphasizes that if he wished, he could pray for divine assistance, yet chooses to submit to the arrest, marking the transition from teaching and healing to the path of suffering as the Messiah.

Related: For more, check out our Preaching Outline On Matthew Chapter Twenty-One here.

The Trials of Jesus

The Trials of Jesus in Matthew chapter twenty-six document crucial moments of accusation and denial leading up to His crucifixion, providing a somber look into the human and divine drama that unfolded.

Before Caiaphas and the Sanhedrin

After his arrest, Jesus faced a trial before Caiaphas, the high priest, and the council known as the Sanhedrin. False witnesses came forward with conflicting testimonies, but they could not provide conclusive evidence against Him.

The high priest directly questioned Jesus, seeking a testimony that could be used to condemn Him. It was upon Jesus’ affirmation of being the Messiah and Son of God that Caiaphas accused Him of blasphemy, a charge that in the eyes of the Sanhedrin justified a death sentence.

Peter’s Denial

Meanwhile, outside the high priest’s courtyard, Peter was recognized by bystanders as one of Jesus’ followers. In a series of interactions, he vehemently denied any association with Jesus, ultimately fulfilling Jesus’ prediction that Peter would disown Him three times before the rooster crowed.

This incident starkly contrasts Peter’s earlier certainty and bravado with his subsequent fear and disloyalty at the moment of Jesus’ deepest need for support.

Throughout these trials, key figures like Judas Iscariot, who betrayed Jesus, and the members of the Sanhedrin played significant roles in the lead-up to the crucifixion, highlighting the tension between human schemes and Jesus’ steadfast teaching and purpose.

Related: For more, check out our Preaching Outline On Matthew Chapter Twenty here.

Peter’s Bitter Remorse

In Matthew Chapter Twenty Six, Peter experiences profound remorse. After boldly claiming he would never forsake Jesus, even if all others did, Peter is faced with his own betrayal. The narrative climaxes when he denies knowing Jesus three times, as was foretold by Jesus.

Following the third denial, when the rooster crows, it signifies not only the fulfillment of Jesus’ prediction but also the dawning of a painful realization for Peter. It is in this moment that Peter’s self-assurance crumbles, and he becomes acutely aware of the gravity of his actions.

Weeping ensues as a manifestation of Peter’s regret. Peter’s tears are not simply a transient response but underscore the deep contrition of a disciple who had vowed unwavering loyalty.

They articulate the internal turmoil of knowing he has disowned his teacher and friend at a moment of critical need.

The account of Peter’s remorse underscores an integral message in the Gospel: even the most devoted can falter under pressure. Peter’s example serves as a poignant reminder of human fallibility, and yet it also offers hope for redemption and forgiveness.

His remorse is pivotal in his transformation from a denier to a foundational figure in the early church, demonstrating the power of repentance and grace. Through this passage, readers witness the sincerity of Peter’s penitence and the subsequent path to his restoration.

Related: For more, check out our Preaching Outline On Matthew Chapter Nineteen here.

The Preparations for Crucifixion

In Matthew Chapter Twenty Six, the narrative builds towards the climax of Jesus’ ministry with pivotal events that preface the crucifixion.

These events set the stage for the fulfilment of Old Testament prophecies and the culmination of Jesus’ earthly mission.

Judas’ Death

Judas Iscariot’s role in Jesus’ path to the cross is critical. He, disillusioned or motivated by other factors, struck a bargain with the priests of the temple to betray Jesus for thirty pieces of silver.

Once Jesus was arrested, Judas, grappling with the gravity of his betrayal, returned the money and took his own life, an act which set a somber tone leading up to the crucifixion.

Jesus Before Pilate

Pilate, the Roman governor, found himself in a politically precarious situation as he interrogated Jesus of Nazareth. Despite his initial reluctance to condemn Jesus, Pilate ultimately capitulated to the vehement demands of the crowd and the religious leaders. He acquiesced to the public clamor, washing his hands of the matter in a symbolic gesture of abdicating responsibility.

The Sentencing of Jesus

The sentencing of Jesus was a defining moment where Pilate presented Jesus to the populace, offering to release a prisoner as per the custom of the Passover feast.

The crowd chose to free Barabbas, leaving Jesus to face the punishment of being crucified. This marked the final legal step in preparing for the crucifixion as Jesus was handed over to be nailed to the cross, affirming his title “King of the Jews” in a tragic twist of irony.

Related: For more, check out our Preaching Outline On Matthew Chapter Eighteen here.

The Crucifixion and Death of Jesus

In Matthew chapter twenty-six, the narrative reaches its climax with the arrest, trial, and crucifixion of Jesus. This section outlines the momentous events leading to the death of the “Son of Man,” as described in the Gospel.

The Way to the Cross

After the Last Supper, Jesus is betrayed and arrested following the plot by the chief priests. In the scripture, His path is marked by trials and denials, highlighting human frailty and divine foreknowledge.

This period also illustrates the fulfillment of earlier predictions Jesus made concerning his suffering and death.

The Calvary Scene

The place of the skull, Golgotha, becomes the stage for the crucifixion, where Jesus is crucified between two robbers.

The scene is one of torment and mockery, but also of profound theological significance. It is here that some of the prophecies about the Messiah are witnessed by onlookers and later written into the canon of the New Testament.

Jesus’ Last Moments

In His last moments on the cross, Jesus expresses feelings of abandonment yet remains in communion with the Father. It is also during this time that the Gospel of Matthew notes the presence of Mary and other women, standing at a distance, bearing witness to the crucifixion.

Jesus’ final words, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” echo the beginning of Psalm 22, before he yields up his spirit, completing his earthly mission of performing miracles and teaching as the Son of Man.

Related: For more, check out our Preaching Outline On Matthew Chapter Seventeen here.

The Resurrection Proclamation

In Matthew chapter twenty-six, the Resurrection Proclamation presents the pivotal moment of the empty tomb and the divine message delivered by an angel.

This proclamation is a cornerstone of Christian faith, signifying Jesus’ victory over death and His divine nature as the Son of God.

The Empty Tomb

Mary Magdalene and the other Mary approached the tomb, encountering the extraordinary sight of the stone rolled away. This miracle set the stage for the profound revelation of resurrection, symbolizing a new dawn for humanity.

The empty tomb serves as a silent testament to the miraculous powers beyond human understanding, and the sight left an indelible mark on the disciples and followers of Jesus.

The Angelic Message

An angel, with an appearance like lightning, communicated the astonishing news of Jesus’ resurrection.

The message, “He is not here; for he has risen,” was not just for those present but extended to all nations, affirming Jesus’ teachings in Galilee and the mission of the followers to disseminate this hope.

The angel urged the women to convey the message to the disciples, setting in motion the global proclamation of the risen Christ, a message that has resonated through millennia.

Related: For more, check out our Preaching Outline On Matthew Chapter Sixteen here.

Frequently Asked Questions

The twenty-sixth chapter of the Book of Matthew is rich with narrative and theological density, detailing pivotal moments like Jesus’s anointing, Last Supper, betrayal, and Peter’s denial. This section explores these events and their profound implications.