Matthew 26:31-35 - Homilies By J.a. Macdonald

Strength and weakness.

After the admonitory incident of the last Passover, which separated the unhappy Iscariot from the apostleship, Jesus, journeying with the eleven towards the Mount of Olives, proceeded to caution them against the weakness which he discerned in them. He is not our truest friend who conceals from us our faults.

I. IN JESUS WE SEE THE ENSHRINEMENT OF DIVINE STRENGTH .

1 . In his all-comprehensive knowledge.

2 . In his all-enduring compassion.

II. IN THE DISCIPLES WE SEE AN EMBODIMENT OF WEAKNESS ,

1 . Their weakness appears in their self-confidence.

"Beware of Peter's word,

Nor confidently say,

'I never will deny thee, Lord,

But, 'Grant I never may.'

Man's wisdom is to seek

His strength in God alone;

And e'en an angel would be weak

Who trusted in his own."

2. Their weakness appears in their unbelief.