The Betrayal and Arrest of Jesus

Matthew 26

Matthew 26:47 While he was still speaking, behold, Judas, one of the twelve, arrived, and with him was a large crowd with swords and clubs, sent from the leaders of the priests and the elders of the people.

Matthew 26:48 And he who betrayed him gave them a sign, saying: “Whomever I will kiss, it is he. Take hold of him.”

Matthew 26:49 And quickly drawing close to Jesus, he said, “Hail, Master.” And he kissed him.

Matthew 26:50 And Jesus said to him, “Friend, for what purpose have you come?” Then they approached, and they put their hands on Jesus, and they held him.

Matthew 26:51 And behold, one of those who were with Jesus, extending his hand, drew his sword and struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his ear.

Matthew 26:52 Then Jesus said to him: “Put your sword back in its place. For all who take up the sword shall perish by the sword.

Matthew 26:53 Or do you think that I cannot ask my Father, so that he would give me, even now, more than twelve legions of Angels?

Matthew 26:54 How then would the Scriptures be fulfilled, which say that it must be so?”

Matthew 26:55 In that same hour, Jesus said to the crowds: “You went out, as if to a robber, with swords and clubs to seize me. Yet I sat daily with you, teaching in the temple, and you did not take hold of me.

Matthew 26:56 But all this has happened so that the Scriptures of the prophets may be fulfilled.” Then all the disciples fled, abandoning him.