Bible Verse Meaning: Matthew 26:31

Verse Text: "Then saith Jesus unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered abroad."

This verse carries profound significance in the context of the Last Supper and the impending crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It illustrates themes of prophecy, betrayal, and the fragility of faith. Below is a detailed examination derived from various esteemed public domain commentaries.

Meaning of the Verse

In Matthew 26:31, Jesus foretells the scattering of His disciples following His arrest. This prediction alludes to the fulfillment of Zechariah 13:7, where God commands the shepherd to be struck down, resulting in the scattering of the flock. The disciples, who initially proclaim their unwavering loyalty to Jesus, learn that they will face fear and uncertainty, leading to their abandonment of Him in His greatest hour of need.

Bible Verse Interpretations

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry emphasizes the prophetic nature of this verse, noting that Jesus’ words foreshadow the disciples' actions, which reveal human weaknesses and the challenges of faithfulness. His commentary highlights how the scattering is not just a physical departure but speaks to the spiritual trials believers face. The use of "offended" gives weight to the psychological and emotional distress the disciples experienced.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes expounds on the scriptural fulfillment of this prophecy, asserting the necessity of Jesus' suffering as part of divine redemption. He offers insights into the fulfillment of scripture and how it reassures believers of God's sovereign plan, even amid moments of despair. Barnes also points to the charge of “offense,” denoting a stumbling or falling away, suggesting a spiritual crisis for the disciples.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke delves into the implications of the scattering, suggesting that it reflects the frailty of human convictions when faced with peril. His analysis provides context on how fear for one's safety overrides loyalty, and emphasizes the necessity of the disciples’ scattering for the larger divine plan to unfold — allowing them ultimately to witness the resurrection.

Understanding Scripture

The context and setting of this verse during the Last Supper are crucial for proper interpretation. Jesus is addressing His closest followers, preparing them for the imminent trials they will face. The mention of being "offended" connects to the broader theme of trials and tests of faith prevalent throughout the New Testament.

Significance of This Verse

This verse serves as a pivotal moment in the passion narrative, setting the stage for the events that will lead to Jesus' crucifixion. It acts as both a warning and a reassurance, as it reveals the human condition of fear and doubt contrasted with divine prophecy and purpose.

Application of Bible Verses to Daily Life

For modern-day believers, this passage is a reminder of the challenges one may face in maintaining faith. It encourages individuals to seek strength from God during adversity, knowing that even the closest followers of Christ struggled. This realization can foster compassion and resilience in the face of spiritual challenges.

Cross References

• Zechariah 13:7: "Awake, O sword, against my shepherd, and against the man that is my fellow, saith the Lord of hosts: smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered."
• Mark 14:27: “And Jesus saith unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered."
• John 16:32: “Behold, the hour cometh, yea, is now come, that ye shall be scattered, every man to his own, and shall leave me alone: and yet I am not alone, because the Father is with me.”

Conclusion

Matthew 26:31 encapsulates a crucial moment in the journey of Christ and His disciples, drawing attention to the themes of abandonment, prophecy, and the human experience of doubt. Through a comprehensive analysis of this scripture, we gain insights into the nature of faith and the importance of reliance on God in times of trial.

This examination aids in understanding the profound depths of the Bible, facilitating deeper connections with Scripture and fostering discussions in Bible study groups and resources.