Matthew 26:20

Now when the even was come, he sat down with the twelve.

Now {G1161} when the even {G3798} was come {G1096}, he sat down {G345} with {G3326} the twelve {G1427}.

When evening came, Yeshua reclined with the twelve talmidim;

When evening came, Jesus was reclining with the twelve disciples.

Now when even was come, he was sitting at meat with the twelve disciples;

Matthew 26:20 marks a pivotal moment in the Passion narrative, setting the stage for the Last Supper, one of the most significant events in Christian theology. This verse describes Jesus and His twelve disciples gathering for what would be their final meal together before His crucifixion.

Context

This verse immediately follows the disciples' preparations for the Passover meal, as instructed by Jesus (Matthew 26:17-19). The phrase "when the even was come" signifies the traditional time for the commencement of the Passover Seder, which began at twilight on the 14th day of Nisan. This ancient Jewish feast commemorated God's deliverance of Israel from slavery in Egypt (see Exodus 12), and Jesus chose this very setting to institute the New Covenant through His body and blood.

Key Themes

  • Divine Timing and Purpose: The precise timing—"when the even was come"—highlights God's sovereign plan unfolding. This meal was not coincidental but divinely appointed as the prelude to Christ's ultimate sacrifice.
  • Fellowship and Intimacy: Jesus sharing this final meal with His disciples underscores the deep bond of fellowship, even as He knew one among them would betray Him. It portrays His unwavering commitment to His chosen ones.
  • Anticipation of the New Covenant: While observing the traditional Passover, Jesus would soon transform its meaning, pointing to His own sacrifice as the true Lamb of God. This meal serves as a bridge between the Old Covenant and the institution of the New Covenant.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "when the even was come" translates the Greek word opsia (ὀψία), which refers to the late afternoon or early evening. This was the customary time for the Passover lamb to be slaughtered and the meal to begin. The phrase "he sat down" translates anakeimai (ἀνάκειμαι), which implies reclining at a table, a common posture for eating festive meals in that culture, signifying a relaxed and intimate setting, rather than sitting upright on chairs. This posture was especially characteristic of the Passover Seder, emphasizing freedom and rest.

Practical Application

Matthew 26:20 reminds us of the profound significance of communal meals and shared fellowship in the Christian faith. Just as Jesus gathered with His disciples, believers today are called to gather, remembering His sacrifice and anticipating His return. This verse also highlights Jesus' incredible grace and steadfastness, as He willingly entered into this intimate setting, fully aware of the impending betrayal and suffering. It encourages us to approach communion with reverence and gratitude, reflecting on the profound love demonstrated by Christ in His final hours.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Mark 14:17

    And in the evening he cometh with the twelve.

  • Mark 14:21

    The Son of man indeed goeth, as it is written of him: but woe to that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed! good were it for that man if he had never been born.

  • John 13:21

    When Jesus had thus said, he was troubled in spirit, and testified, and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me.

  • Luke 22:14

    And when the hour was come, he sat down, and the twelve apostles with him.

  • Luke 22:16

    For I say unto you, I will not any more eat thereof, until it be fulfilled in the kingdom of God.

  • Song Of Solomon 1:12

    ¶ While the king [sitteth] at his table, my spikenard sendeth forth the smell thereof.

  • Exodus 12:11

    And thus shall ye eat it; [with] your loins girded, your shoes on your feet, and your staff in your hand; and ye shall eat it in haste: it [is] the LORD'S passover.

Add TrulyRandomVerse to your Home Screen for quick access!

← Back