New Testament
Matthew 26:17
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On the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the disciples came to Jesus and asked, "Where do you want us to prepare the Passover meal for you?"
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Now the first day of the feast of unleavened bread the disciples came to Jesus, saying unto him, Where wilt thou that we prepare for thee to eat the passover?
What Matthew 26:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the disciples approach Jesus on the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, a significant Jewish festival that commemorates the Exodus from Egypt. They ask Him where He wants them to prepare the Passover meal, which is a ritual meal celebrating the Israelites' deliverance from slavery. This moment highlights the disciples' obedience and willingness to serve Jesus, as they seek His guidance for an important religious observance. The Passover meal is central to Jewish tradition, symbolizing freedom and God's faithfulness. By asking this question, the disciples demonstrate their commitment to fulfilling the customs of their faith while also preparing for a pivotal moment in Jesus' ministry, as this meal will precede His crucifixion. This interaction sets the stage for the Last Supper, where Jesus will reveal deeper meanings about sacrifice and redemption.
How to apply Matthew 26:17 to your life
This verse encourages us to seek guidance from God in our preparations and decisions. Just as the disciples asked Jesus where to prepare the Passover, we should approach our lives with a spirit of inquiry and readiness to follow His direction in our daily tasks and spiritual practices.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Last Supper (Matthew 26:17–30)
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What is the significance of the Feast of Unleavened Bread in Matthew 26:17?
The Feast of Unleavened Bread is a key Jewish festival that commemorates the Israelites' hasty departure from Egypt during the Exodus. It symbolizes freedom from slavery and God's deliverance. In Matthew 26:17, this feast sets the context for the Passover meal, which Jesus will share with His disciples, marking a pivotal moment in His ministry and foreshadowing His sacrifice.
Why did the disciples ask Jesus where to prepare the Passover meal?
The disciples' question reflects their obedience and desire to serve Jesus. By asking where to prepare the Passover meal, they demonstrate their commitment to fulfilling Jewish customs and traditions. This moment also highlights their role in the unfolding events leading to the Last Supper, where Jesus will reveal profound truths about His impending sacrifice.
How does Matthew 26:17 relate to the Last Supper?
Matthew 26:17 sets the stage for the Last Supper, which occurs shortly after this interaction. The disciples' inquiry about preparing the Passover meal leads directly to the gathering where Jesus shares significant teachings about His body and blood, establishing the foundation for the Christian practice of communion. This moment is crucial as it connects Jewish tradition with the new covenant Jesus is establishing.
What can we learn about obedience from Matthew 26:17?
Matthew 26:17 illustrates the importance of seeking guidance from God in our actions. The disciples' willingness to ask Jesus where to prepare the Passover meal shows their readiness to follow His direction. This teaches us that in our own lives, we should approach decisions and preparations with a spirit of inquiry, seeking God's will and being obedient to His guidance.
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