Albert Barnes Commentary Matthew 26:40

"And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them sleeping, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with me one hour?" — Matthew 26:40 (ASV)

And finds them asleep. It may seem remarkable that, in such circumstances, with a suffering, pleading Redeemer near, surrounded by danger, and having received a special instruction to watch (that is, not to sleep), they should have fallen asleep so soon. It is frequently supposed that this was proof of remarkable stupidity and indifference to their Lord's sufferings.

The truth is, however, that it was just the reverse; it was proof of their great attachment, and their deep sympathy in His sorrows. Luke has added that He found them sleeping FOR SORROW. That is, on account of their sorrow: their grief was so great that they naturally fell asleep.

Many facts might be brought to show that this is in accordance with the regular effects of grief. Dr. Bush says, "There is another symptom of grief, which is not often noticed, and that is profound sleep. I have often witnessed it even in mothers, immediately after the death of a child. Criminals, we are told by Mr. Akerman, the keeper of Newgate in London, often sleep soundly the night before their execution. The son of General Custine slept nine hours the night before he was led to the guillotine in Paris." Diseases of the Mind, page 319.

Says to Peter, etc. This reproof was administered to Peter particularly, on account of his warm professions, his rash zeal, and his self-confidence. If he could not keep awake and watch with the Saviour for one hour, how little probability was there that he would adhere to Him in all the trials through which He was soon to pass!