Question 1

What does Matthew 26:20 mean?

Accepted Answer

Matthew 26:20 describes Jesus sitting down to eat with his twelve closest followers when evening arrived. This verse sets the scene for the Last Supper, marking the beginning of a significant moment in Jesus’ final hours with his disciples. In this passage, Jesus and the twelve disciples are gathered together in a private room in Jerusalem as night falls. The verse highlights the intimacy and importance of this gathering, as Jesus prepares to share a meal and deliver important teachings and revelations to those closest to him before his arrest.

Question 2

The Greek behind Matthew 26:20

Accepted Answer

The word "even" (ὀψία, opsia) refers specifically to the evening, indicating the time of day when this meal took place. This detail helps us understand the timing of the Last Supper in relation to the Passover celebration. The word "with" (μετά, meta) emphasizes that Jesus was not alone but intentionally gathered together with the twelve, underlining the closeness and unity of this group at a pivotal moment.

Question 3

Why Matthew 26:20 matters

Accepted Answer

This verse clarifies that all twelve disciples were present with Jesus at the start of the Last Supper, even though betrayal would soon be revealed among them. The mention of evening and the act of sitting down together connects this event to the traditional Passover meal, anchoring it in Jewish custom and prophecy. By setting the scene so specifically, Matthew 26:20 prepares the reader for the significant teachings and events that will unfold in the following verses.

Matthew 26:20 (KJV)