John Calvin Commentary Matthew 26:47

"And while he yet spake, lo, Judas, one of the twelve, came, and with him a great multitude with swords and staves, from the chief priest and elders of the people." — Matthew 26:47 (ASV)

While he was still speaking. The Evangelists are careful to state that our Lord foresaw what happened. From this, it may be inferred that He was not dragged to death by external violence, except to the extent that wicked men carried out the secret purpose of God.

Therefore, although a melancholy and frightful spectacle was exhibited to the disciples, they nevertheless received, at the same time, grounds for confidence to strengthen them. This confidence arose because the event itself showed that nothing occurred by chance, and because Christ’s prediction directed them to contemplate the glory of his divinity.

The fact that an armed multitude was sent by the chief priests, and that a captain and band were obtained by request from Pilate, makes it evident that an evil conscience wounded and tormented them, so that they did everything in a state of terror.

For what need was there for so great a force to take Christ, whom they knew had no defensive arms? The reason for such careful preparation was that the divine power of Christ, which they had been compelled to feel by numerous proofs, inwardly tormented them. But, on the other hand, it is a display of amazing rage that they, relying on the power of arms, do not hesitate to rise up against God.