Matthew 26

Jesus Is Arrested

47While he was still speaking, Judas, one of the Twelve, arrived. With him was a large crowd carrying swords and clubs, sent by the chief priests and elders of the people. 48The man handing him over had given them a signal: “The one I kiss is the man. Arrest him.” 49He immediately went up to Jesus. “Greetings, Rabbi!” he said, and kissed him. 50Jesus said to him, “Friend, do what you came for.” Then they stepped forward, seized Jesus, and arrested him. 51One of those with Jesus reached for his sword, drew it, and struck the high priest’s slave, cutting off his ear. 52Jesus said to him, “Put your sword back where it belongs. Everyone who takes up the sword will perish by the sword. 53Do you think I cannot appeal to my Father, and he would at once provide me with more than twelve legions of angels? 54But how, then, would the Scriptures be fulfilled, which say it must happen this way?” 55At that moment Jesus said to the crowds, “Have you come out with swords and clubs to arrest me as though I were a bandit? Day after day I sat teaching in the temple, and you did not arrest me. 56But all this has happened so that the writings of the prophets may be fulfilled.” Then all the disciples abandoned him and fled.