Matthew 26:2 - “You know that after two days the Passover is coming, and the Son of Man will be delivered up to be crucified.”

Generated Verse: Matthew 26:2

What does "Matthew 26:2" mean?


This verse from Matthew 26:2 is a crucial point in the narrative leading up to the crucifixion of Jesus. Let's break down its meaning:

"You know that after two days the Passover is coming...": Jesus is telling his disciples that the Jewish festival of Passover is about to begin in two days. Passover was (and is) a major religious holiday commemorating the Israelites' liberation from slavery in Egypt. It was a time of great significance and pilgrimage to Jerusalem.

"...and the Son of Man will be delivered up to be crucified.": This is a direct prediction of Jesus's imminent arrest, trial, and crucifixion.

"Son of Man": This is a title Jesus frequently used to refer to himself. While it can simply mean "human being," it also carried deeper connotations. In the Book of Daniel, the "Son of Man" is a messianic figure who will receive dominion and glory.
"Delivered up": This implies betrayal or handing over. It foreshadows Judas Iscariot's role in betraying Jesus to the authorities.
"Crucified": This explicitly states the method of Jesus's execution - a Roman form of capital punishment typically reserved for criminals and slaves.

In summary, the verse means:

Jesus is informing his disciples that the Passover festival is quickly approaching, and at that time, he, as the Son of Man, will be betrayed and put to death by crucifixion. This is a clear and intentional foreshadowing of his impending suffering and death.

Significance:

Fulfillment of Prophecy: Many Christians believe this prediction is a fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah suffering and dying for the sins of humanity.
Jesus's Awareness of His Fate: This verse demonstrates Jesus's awareness of the suffering that awaits him. He is not a victim of circumstance but willingly embraces his destiny.
Theological Importance: Jesus's death is seen as a pivotal event in Christian theology, offering atonement for sins and reconciliation between God and humanity.

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