Matthew 26:51

Listen to Matthew 26:51
51 At this, one of Jesus’ companions drew his sword and struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his ear.

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Matthew 26:51 Meaning and Commentary

Matthew 26:51

And behold one of them which were with Jesus
Either one of the three that Jesus took with him whilst he was in his agony, leaving the other eight at some distance; or of the eleven, who might now be all with him: however, it is certain, Peter is the person meant; for though he is not named here, nor by Mark, nor Luke, he is by John, ( John 18:10 ) ; whose Gospel being wrote last, and many years after the rest, there was no danger like to accrue, by telling who it was that did the following action: he being now thoroughly awaked with the rest, by what Christ had said to him; and more so by the surprise of the multitude of armed men about him; and remembering his solemn protestations of abiding by his master; and seeing him just now ready to be seized, and carried away; without knowing his master's mind, or waiting his answer to the question the other disciples put,

stretched out his hand, and drew his sword, and struck a servant of
the high priest's, and smote off his ear.
It seems he had a sword by his side, upon what account is not certain; this he drew, and struck at a servant of the high priest's, who might show great malignity against Christ, and was foremost, and most busy in apprehending him. The blow was levelled at his head, and with an intention, no doubt, to have, cleaved him down, but sloping on one side took off his ear. The servant's name was Malchus, as John says; and it was his right ear that was cut off, as both he and Luke relate, ( John 18:10 ) ( Luke 22:50 ) .

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Matthew 26:51 In-Context

49 Going directly to Jesus, he said, “Greetings, Rabbi!” and kissed Him.
50 “Friend,” Jesus replied, “do what you came for.” Then the men stepped forward, seized Jesus, and arrested Him.
51 At this, one of Jesus’ companions drew his sword and struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his ear.
52 “Put your sword back in its place,” Jesus said to him. “For all who draw the sword will die by the sword.
53 Are you not aware that I can call on My Father, and He will at once put at My disposal more than twelve legions of angels?
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