What does the disciples' response in Matthew 26:22 reveal about their relationship with Jesus? Setting the Scene Matthew 26 records the Passover meal just hours before the cross. Jesus has just declared, “Truly I tell you, one of you will betray Me” (v. 21). Text of Matthew 26:22 “They were deeply grieved and began to ask Him one after another, ‘Surely not I, Lord?’ ” Noticing the Components of Their Response • Deep grief—an emotional reaction, not indifference • “One after another”—each disciple speaks personally • A question, not a denial—“Surely not I?” • The honorific “Lord”—recognition of His authority and deity What Their Response Reveals About Their Relationship with Jesus • Tender-hearted sensitivity to His words – His statement cuts them to the heart; they take Him with absolute seriousness. • Personal humility and self-examination – Instead of pointing at others, each looks inward (cf. 2 Corinthians 13:5). • Recognition of Jesus’ perfect knowledge – They assume He sees what they themselves cannot (cf. John 2:25). • Trust in His righteousness and fairness – No defensiveness; they invite His verdict on their hearts. • Use of “Lord” underscores allegiance and worship – They approach Him as Master, not as a mere teacher. • Awareness of human weakness – Even after years with Jesus, they know betrayal is possible apart from His sustaining grace (cf. John 15:5). Supporting Passages • Mark 14:19 and Luke 22:23 echo the same question, showing the response was unanimous. • Peter’s earlier confession: “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord” (Luke 5:8) displays the same humility. • “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life” (John 6:68) shows their settled trust in His authority. Takeaways for Today • A healthy relationship with Jesus is marked by quick, honest self-examination when confronted by His Word. • Reverence (“Lord”) and intimacy (“Is it I?”) are not opposites; they belong together. • Dependence on Christ’s knowledge of our hearts guards us from pride and presumption. |
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