Matthew 26 - Audio Bible (NASB) with Scrolling Text

In Matthew Chapter 26, the events leading up to Jesus' crucifixion unfold. The chapter begins with Jesus predicting His impending arrest and crucifixion during the Passover. The religious leaders plot to arrest Jesus secretly and kill Him. In Bethany, a woman anoints Jesus with expensive perfume, which He acknowledges as preparation for His burial. Judas Iscariot then agrees to betray Jesus to the chief priests for thirty pieces of silver.

During the Last Supper, Jesus shares the Passover meal with His disciples, instituting the Lord's Supper by breaking bread and sharing wine, symbolizing His body and blood. He predicts His betrayal by one of the disciples and Peter's denial. After the meal, Jesus prays fervently in the Garden of Gethsemane, expressing deep anguish and submission to the Father's will. Judas arrives with a crowd to arrest Jesus, and Peter cuts off the ear of the high priest's servant, which Jesus heals.

Jesus is taken to the house of Caiaphas, the high priest, where He faces false accusations and is condemned for blasphemy. Peter follows at a distance and, as predicted, denies knowing Jesus three times before the rooster crows. The chapter ends with Peter weeping bitterly over his denial. This chapter highlights the betrayal, arrest, and initial trials of Jesus, setting the stage for His crucifixion.