Matthew 26:45
Then cometh he to his disciples, and saith unto them, Sleep on now, and take your rest: behold, the hour is at hand, and the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners.
MATTHEW 26:45
“Sleep on now, and take your rest: behold, the hour is at hand, and the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners.” Jesus awakens the disciples one final time, signaling the near fulfillment of the crisis. The phrase “sleep on” can carry a paradox: it is both a commission to rest and a warning of impending betrayal. The timing—“the hour is at hand”—underscores that the Passover moment has arrived and the arrest will soon follow. Jesus’ calm instruction contrasts with the turmoil surrounding him, illustrating his sovereign grip on events. The betrayal by Judas is imminent, and the disciples’ fatigue becomes a human counterpoint to the sovereign plan unfolding under the Father’s watch.
This moment reinforces Christ’s mastery over destiny and the faithful acceptance of suffering. It highlights the human inability to fully anticipate or prevent divine predestination, while remaining faithful within it. Theologically, the command to rest juxtaposed with the approaching betrayal emphasizes the paradox of peace in the midst of crisis. It also foreshadows the role of the disciples—called to steadiness and support, yet imperfect in their endurance. The broader point is that God can work through human weakness, relying on his own faithfulness to bring about salvation.
When life presses in and rest seems necessary, listen to Jesus’ balance of rest and readiness. Plan regular breaks to recharge—physically, emotionally, and spiritually—while maintaining readiness to act when God calls. In practice: maintain a Sabbath rhythm or intentional downtime, paired with a plan for urgent action if needed (e.g., a decision or conversation that must occur). The call is not to push through exhaustion indefinitely but to recognize that God maintains control even as we sleep. Use the moment to reflect on your own “hour is at hand” situations—confrontations, decisions, or endings—and prepare with wise counsel, prayer, and a clear sense of God’s presence.
Cross-References: John 13:21-30; Mark 14:41-42; Luke 22:46; 2 Thessalonians 3:13; Psalm 46:10