New Testament
Matthew 26:37
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He took Peter and the 2 sons of Zebedee with him, and deep sorrow and anguish came over him.
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And he took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and very heavy.
What Matthew 26:37 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus is in a moment of deep emotional turmoil as he prepares for his impending crucifixion. He chooses to bring along Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, James and John, to share in this significant moment. The phrase 'deep sorrow and anguish' highlights the intense emotional struggle Jesus is experiencing. This moment reveals his humanity, showing that even the Son of God felt overwhelming sadness and distress. It emphasizes the importance of companionship during difficult times, as Jesus sought the support of his closest friends. This scene sets the stage for the events leading to his arrest and crucifixion, illustrating the weight of the sacrifice he is about to make for humanity's sake.
How to apply Matthew 26:37 to your life
This verse encourages us to seek support from friends and loved ones during our own times of sorrow. Just as Jesus shared his struggles with his closest disciples, we too can find strength in community. It reminds us that it is okay to express our emotions and seek help when facing difficult situations.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Prayer in Gethsemane (Matthew 26:36–46)
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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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Bethlehem
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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 does Matthew 26:37 mean?
Matthew 26:37 describes a moment when Jesus, facing his impending crucifixion, experiences deep sorrow and anguish. He takes Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, James and John, with him, highlighting his need for companionship during this emotional struggle.
What is the significance of Jesus' sorrow in Matthew 26:37?
The sorrow Jesus feels in Matthew 26:37 emphasizes his humanity and the emotional weight of his upcoming sacrifice. It shows that even the Son of God experienced profound distress, making his sacrifice more relatable to human experiences of pain and grief.
Who are the two sons of Zebedee mentioned in Matthew 26:37?
The two sons of Zebedee mentioned in Matthew 26:37 are James and John, who were among Jesus' closest disciples. Their presence during this moment of sorrow indicates the importance of friendship and support in times of distress.
What does 'deep sorrow and anguish' mean in Matthew 26:37?
'Deep sorrow and anguish' in Matthew 26:37 refers to the intense emotional pain and distress Jesus felt as he faced his crucifixion. This phrase highlights the gravity of the moment and the weight of the sacrifice he was about to make.
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