Matthew 20:17 - Exposition

Going up. This is the usual expression for travelling to the capital, and was particularly appropriate to a journey to Jerusalem, which was set among hills. This last journey of the Redeemer was indeed a steep ascent, the end of which was Calvary. Took ( παρε ì λαβε , took to himself )… apart ( κατ ἰδι ì αν ). He was accompanied by many followers, but what he had now to impart was not intended to be divulged to all, but was reserved for the chosen twelve. The mass could not have heard it without offence. In the way. The Vulgate omits these words. The Revised Version, on good authority, alters the received order, reading, and in the way he said unto them . Thus Christ prepared the apostles for the coming time of trial, after they had shown fuller faith in his Godhead.