Definition: And they were exceeding sorrowful, and began every one of them to say unto him, Lord, is it I?
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this very important verse from Matthew 26:22. It’s a deeply moving moment in Jesus's life and speaks volumes about the impending tragedy. Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Situation: Jesus is facing his final moments. He’s being arrested by the Jewish authorities, and he knows that soon he will be crucified. What Happened Next: “They were exceeding sorrowful” : This immediately tells us how deeply upset Jesus and his followers were. It wasn't just a little disappointed; they were experiencing overwhelming sadness, grief, and despair. “And began every one of them to say unto him…” : This is the crucial part. Each of the disciples – Jesus’s closest friends – started questioning him. They weren't just thinking about it; they were asking him directly. “Lord, is it me ?” The Core Meaning: The verse essentially says that Jesus felt a profound sense of betrayal and abandonment. He was asking himself if he was somehow responsible for his own death. It’s a moment of intense self-doubt and questioning, recognizing the immense weight of his impending fate. Why it's significant: It shows Jesus's vulnerability: He wasn’t just passively accepting his fate; he was wrestling with it, expressing his pain. It highlights the disciples’ faith: Their question demonstrates that they were deeply committed to him and believed in his sacrifice. They weren't simply complaining; they were seeking reassurance. It sets the stage for a dramatic event: This questioning is a pivotal moment that triggers the events leading up to Jesus’s crucifixion – the arrest, the investigation, and ultimately, his agonizing death. In short, this verse captures a moment of intense emotional distress as Jesus anticipates his final moments, acknowledging his own role in them. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of Matthew 26? Provide context for the time period? Explore the significance of the verse within the larger story of Jesus’s life and teachings?