26:20 Now when the even was come, he {h} sat down with the twelve.
(h) Because the Law appointed them to be wearing footwear, and to have their staffs in their hands, as though they were is haste, therefore it is to be gathered that they did not sit down when they ate the Passover, but stood, for normally when they went to eat they took off their shoes: therefore he speaks here in this place, not of the Passover, but of the supper which was celebrated after the Passover was solemnly done.
26:20 When the even was come. The lamb was slain between two evenings, that is, between three and five o'clock (see the margin of Ex 12:6 in the Revised Version). The supper followed on the same night. It was probably dark before the Savior and the twelve came to the guest chamber. The band that sat down to this supper and this occasion have furnished the subject of one of the greatest paintings ever created.
26:20 Mark 14:17; Luke 22:14.
26:17-25 Observe, the place for their eating the passover was pointed out by Christ to the disciples. He knows those hidden ones who favour his cause, and will graciously visit all who are willing to receive him. The disciples did as Jesus had appointed. Those who would have Christ's presence in the gospel passover, must do what he says. It well becomes the disciples of Christ always to be jealous over themselves, especially in trying times. We know not how strongly we may be tempted, nor how far God may leave us to ourselves, therefore we have reason not to be high-minded, but to fear. Heart-searching examination and fervent prayer are especially proper before the Lord's supper, that, as Christ our Passover is now sacrificed for us, we may keep this feast, renewing our repentance, our faith in his blood, and surrendering ourselves to his service.
