The man of St Matthew

THE GOSPEL OF MATTHEW

THE PASSION

The Supper: Mt 26,17-29

Begin by reading through and noting down the three scenes which make up this epsiode of the Last Supper.

Preparation: 26,17-19

The scene is introduced in verse 17 as the feast of unleavened bread: see Ex 12,7; 34,18. Why is it given this name here? Notice how the other name for the feast is then used. See Exodus 12,1-20. How does this set the scene for what follows.

Who is taking the initiative here? Note 14,35. See Lk 22,8.

See how verse 18 has been altered from Mk 14,13-15.

What is the message of verse 19, how has Matthew tightened up Mk 14,16?

Betrayal: 26,20-25

Who are present at the meal, verse 20? Note the time. See Ex 12,3.

Note the key word in these verses. See 26,2.

Verse 21 us a solemn announcement. See Ps 41,9.

See how verses 21-25 are made up of two parallel exchanges. What are the significant differences?

Verse 24 provides an explanation by Jesus. What is meant by the first half of the verse? How are we to understand the strong language of the second part? Look ahead to 27,5.

See how verse 25 is the climax especially as it is unique to Matthew (Mk 14,21).?

Having read these first two parts, it is time to look at my response.

Eat and Drink: 26,26-29

Verse 26 is simply an echo of verse 21.
For Jesus' actions with the bread compare 14,19. How has Matthew altered Mark (Mk 14,22)?

See how verse 27 is similar to verse 26.

The meaning of the cup is drawn out in verse 28 with sacrificial and covenant echoes from the Old Testament.
Wine and blood are associated. See for example Gen 49,11 or Sirach 39,26.
For blood, see Exodus 24,8. See also Leviticus 17,11.
For the covenant see Jeremiah 31,31-34.
The forgiveness of sins is special to Matthew and recalls 1,21. "Many" - see Is 53,12.

Verse 29 then looks to the future (Is 25,6). In what way in this scene therefore are past, present and future brought together?

Take a look at my response.

We now continue our reading of the Passion, as in verse 30 they sing a hymn and leave for the Mount of Olives.