What is the meaning of Matthew 26:46?

Rise

• Moments earlier Jesus had found the disciples asleep (Matthew 26:45: “Are you still sleeping and resting? Look, the hour is near…”). Now He calls them to get up—both physically and spiritually.

• The command echoes God’s continual summons to alertness: “Wake up, O sleeper” (Ephesians 5:14). Slumber must give way to readiness; the decisive hour has arrived.

• By rising, the disciples physically position themselves to witness the Passion and spiritually move from passivity to participation in God’s plan.

---

let us go!

• Jesus does not say, “Run away,” but “let us go!” He leads, inviting the disciples to follow Him into the unfolding trial.

• His willingness is voluntary, not forced. John 14:31 records a similar moment: “Get up, let us go from here,” underscoring obedience to the Father’s will.

• The phrase shows courageous resolve. John 18:1 describes Him going out across the Kidron Valley toward Gethsemane; He is walking straight toward the cross (John 10:18).

---

See,

• “See” (or “Behold”) draws attention. Jesus wants His friends to grasp the gravity of what He already knows: the betrayal is no surprise.

• Throughout the Gospels He alerts followers to watchfulness—“Keep watch” (Matthew 24:42). Here, awareness replaces confusion; clarity replaces drowsiness.

• The disciples are invited to witness prophecy unfolding before their eyes.

---

My betrayer is approaching!

• Judas, once counted among the Twelve, now comes with a mob (Luke 22:47). Jesus identifies him plainly yet calmly: “My betrayer.”

• Scripture had foreseen this treachery: “Even my close friend…has lifted up his heel against me” (Psalm 41:9); Zechariah 11:12–13 foreshadows the thirty pieces of silver.

• Jesus’ knowledge underscores His sovereignty. Nothing catches Him off guard; He chooses to embrace the cup the Father gives (Matthew 26:39).

• By announcing the betrayal before it happens, He strengthens the disciples’ faith for the dark hours ahead (John 13:19).

---

summary

Matthew 26:46 reveals a Savior fully awake, fully willing, and fully aware. He rouses sleepy followers, leads them toward the Father’s purpose, points their eyes to unfolding prophecy, and names the betrayer approaching. The verse invites believers today to rise from spiritual slumber, step forward in obedience, keep vigilant eyes on God’s plan, and trust the Lord who faces every foe with unwavering resolve.