Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Matthew 26:45

"Then cometh he to the 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 (ASV)

Jesus’ words here form a gently ironic command. The hour of the Passion is near: it is too late to pray and gain strength for the temptations ahead. His disciples may as well sleep. He who is the resplendent, messianic King takes the path of suffering. Doubtless Jesus could see and hear the party approaching as it crossed the Kidron with torches and climbed up the path to Gethsemane. The sleepers for whom he would die have lost their opportunity to gain strength through prayer. By contrast Jesus has prayed in agony but now rises with poise and advances to meet his betrayer.