2025.10.19. Sermon Notes. When Night Comes – Your Identity is secure in Christ. Matthew 26.31-56
William Akehurst, HSWC
Sermon Script: When the Night Comes - Your Identity Is Secure in Christ
Matthew 26:31-56
Theme: Encouragement and Identity in GOD
Big Idea: Even when we stumble in weakness, fear, or failure, our identity remains secure in Christ. Through faith, obedience, and prayer, we discover that GOD’s grace, love, and faithfulness redefine our story. Our worth is not measured by mistakes but by His redemption and purpose, giving us hope, courage, and lasting encouragement to live with confidence in who we are in Him.
Even in moments of fear, betrayal, and apparent defeat, GOD’s plan is unfolding, and we are called to trust Him, stand firm in faith and know our identity is secure in Christ, as we follow HIS example of obedience.
OPENING
Have you ever felt like a failure? Maybe you made a mistake, disappointed someone, or felt powerless in a difficult situation. If so, this morning’s message is for you.
Think of a child learning to walk. They stumble, fall, maybe even cry. Do we say, “You’re a failure”? No. We cheer them on because we see their potential. That’s exactly how GOD sees you - even when you stumble, your identity is secure in Christ.
INTRODUCTION
Today, we are diving into Matthew 26:31–56. Here we see Jesus preparing His disciples for one of the darkest nights of their lives. He predicts their fear, their failure, even their betrayal - but He assures them that GOD’s plan will prevail.
Like the disciples, we face times of fear, trials, and betrayal. But GOD’s message to us is clear: Your identity is secure in Christ. No failure, fear, or rejection can change that.
*****
I. GOD SEES BEYOND OUR FAILURES (vv. 31–35)
31-35 Jesus Predicts Peter’s Denial
31 Then Jesus said to them, “All of you will be made to stumble because of Me this night, for it is written:
I will strike the Shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.’
32 But after I have been raised, I will go before you to Galilee.”
33 Peter answered and said to Him, “Even if all are made to stumble because of You, I will never be made to stumble.”
34 Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you that this night, before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.”
35 Peter said to Him, “Even if I have to die with You, I will not deny You!”
And so said all the disciples.
THE PREDICTION OF SCATTERING
Jesus quotes Zechariah 13:7: “I will strike the Shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.”
POINT: Here, Jesus predicts that the disciples will fail and falter.
• They will scatter in fear. Yet He reassures them that GOD’s plan is unstoppable. GOD’s plan is greater than our failure.
• Peter confidently insists he will not fail.
• The contrast reveals human confidence versus divine insight. Peter’s bold claim shows devotion - but Jesus knows the weakness that will surface.
ILLUSTRATION: A shepherd’s rod guides sheep; even when they scatter, the shepherd knows the path.
SELF EXAMINATION: Have you ever felt like you let GOD down? Like your mistakes disqualify you?
Have you ever been as sure as Peter - only to discover your weakness later?
APPLICATION: GOD sees beyond our confident promises and our failures. Even when we overestimate our strength, He still works through us. Your identity is not defined by your mistakes, your boast or your fall – but by Christ. Your Identity is secure in Christ.
Recognize that our weakness does not nullify GOD’s purpose; He works through our failures.
Supporting Scriptures:
John 16:33 “In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”
1 Corinthians 10:13 “No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but GOD is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able…”
THE REUNION AFTER RESURRECTION
GOOD NEWS: vs. 32 “after I have been raised, I will go before you to Galilee.”
POINT: JESUS doesn’t leave them hanging. HE promises not only Resurrection, but also a meeting place to reunite with them after HIS death.
John 14:2-3 2 In My Father’s house are many mansions;… I go to prepare a place for you. 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.
*****
II. PRAYER IN TIMES OF TRIAL (vv. 36-46)
THE CALL TO WATCH AND PRAY
Matthew 26:36-46 THE PRAYER IN THE GARDEN
36-46 The Prayer in the Garden (Mark 14:32-42; Luke 22:39-46)
36 Then Jesus came with them to a place called Gethsemane, and said to the disciples, “Sit here while I go and pray over there.” 37 And He took with Him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and He began to be sorrowful and deeply distressed. 38 Then He said to them, “My soul is exceedingly sorrowful, even to death. Stay here and watch with Me.”
39 He went a little farther and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.”
40 Then He came to the disciples and found them sleeping, and said to Peter, “What! Could you not watch with Me one hour? 41 Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
42 Again, a second time, He went away and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if this cup cannot pass away from Me unless I drink it, Your will be done.” 43 And He came and found them asleep again, for their eyes were heavy.
44 So He left them, went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same words. 45 Then He came to His disciples and said to them, “Are you still sleeping and resting? Behold, the hour is at hand, and the Son of Man is being betrayed into the hands of sinners. 46 Rise, let us be going. See, My betrayer is at hand.”
KEY VERSE: 41 “Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
POINTS: Prayer is the believer’s weapon in times of spiritual testing.
• JESUS’ humanity is evident; He wrestles with the weight of the cross.
• He encourages His disciples: “Watch and pray, that you may not enter into temptation.”
JESUS models prayer in HIS darkest hour. Even the Son of GOD needed strength from the FATHER.
ILLUSTRATION: Soldiers on guard prepare and stay alert; their vigilance keeps them ready for battle. In the same way, prayer keeps our hearts aligned with GOD’s will and strengthens us to face trials. SPIRITUAL VIGILANCE.
SELF EXAMINATION: When fear comes knocking, do you run to GOD in prayer - or try to face it alone?
Are we spiritually alert, or are we sleeping through our trials?
APPLICATION: Cultivate a consistent prayer life to resist temptation and stay aligned with GOD’s will.
Make prayer your lifeline. In moments of fear, bring your heart to GOD. Your identity in CHRIST gives you courage to face trials.
• Luke 22:40-44 40 When He came to the place, He said to them, “Pray that you may not enter into temptation.”
41 And He was withdrawn from them about a stone’s throw, and He knelt down and prayed,
42 saying, “Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done.”
43 Then an angel appeared to Him from heaven, strengthening Him.
44 And being in agony, He prayed more earnestly. Then His sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground.
KEY Vs. 44. 44 And being in agony, He prayed more earnestly. Then His sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground.
SWEATING DROPS OF BLOOD
Medically known as Hematidrosis. This is a natural reaction to a perceived threat. When someone is facing death or intense stress, their body may go into flight-or-fight mode. In rare instances, the flight-or-fight response can trigger the rupture of blood capillaries around the sweat glands. In cases of severe fear or stress, these tiny blood vessels can burst and cause blood to exit the body through the sweat glands, especially when the effect is extreme and intensive.
POINT: Think of what our Savior was taking on HIMSELF… “the sins of the world”
John 1:29 The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!
1 Peter 2:24 who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness—by whose stripes you were healed.
CRUSHED
Isaiah 53:5 But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed.
Supporting Scriptures:
Luke 22:40-44
Ephesians 6:18 “Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful…”
*****
III. BETRAYAL DOES NOT DEFINE YOU (vv. 47–50)
Matthew 26:47-50 Betrayal and Arrest in Gethsemane
47 And while He was still speaking, behold, Judas, one of the twelve, with a great multitude with swords and clubs, came from the chief priests and elders of the people.
48 Now His betrayer had given them a sign, saying, “Whomever I kiss, He is the One; seize Him.” 49 Immediately he went up to Jesus and said, “Greetings, Rabbi!” and kissed Him.
50 But Jesus said to him, “Friend, why have you come?”
Then they came and laid hands on Jesus and took Him.
THE REALITY OF BETRAYAL
POINT: Sin often comes through familiar faces; discernment is essential.
• Judas approaches with a kiss - the ultimate act of betrayal.
• Betrayal can come from those closest to us. Judas’ kiss shows how betrayal can be disguised as friendship.
ILLUSTRATION: A friend who spreads gossip betrays trust quietly; evil can appear friendly.
But a parent continues to love a child who makes poor choices. That love does not waver, and GOD’s love does not waver toward us.
SELF EXAMINATION: Have you ever felt betrayed or let down? Felt like GOD might be disappointed in you?
Are we aware of the subtle betrayals around us - anger, envy, or compromise?
APPLICATION: Your worth and identity are not based on the actions of others. Stay rooted in GOD’s Word. You are secure in Christ.
Guard your heart and walk in integrity; rely on GOD to discern truth.
Supporting Scriptures:
Proverbs 27:6 “Faithful are the wounds of a friend, but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.”
Psalm 41:9 “Even my own familiar friend in whom I trusted, who ate my bread, has lifted up his heel against me.”
*****
IV. OBEDIENCE SECURES YOUR IDENTITY (vv. 51–56)
Matthew 26:51-56
51-56 Prophecy Fulfilled
51 And suddenly, one of those who were with Jesus stretched out his hand and drew his sword, struck the servant of the high priest, and cut off his ear.52 But Jesus said to him, “Put your sword in its place, for all who take the sword will perish by the sword. 53 Or do you think that I cannot now pray to My Father, and He will provide Me with more than twelve legions of angels? 54 How then could the Scriptures be fulfilled, that it must happen thus?”
55 In that hour Jesus said to the multitudes, “Have you come out, as against a robber, with swords and clubs to take Me? I sat daily with you, teaching in the temple, and you did not seize Me. 56 But all this was done that the Scriptures of the prophets might be fulfilled.”
Then all the disciples forsook Him and fled.
• John 18:10 Then Simon Peter, having a sword, drew it and struck the high priest’s servant, and cut off his right ear. The servant’s name was Malchus.
• Luke 22:50-51 50 And one of them struck the servant of the high priest and cut off his right ear.
51 But Jesus answered and said, “Permit even this.” And He touched his ear and healed him.
IMPORTANCE:
• Peter acted impulsively, cutting off the servant’s ear (Luke 22:50). This could have led to his death, as the soldiers were armed. And striking one of the Priests Servants would have been a capital offense.
• Jesus immediately healed the servant (Luke 22:51), removing all proof of the incident and protecting Peter from certain death.
THE CHOICE OF OBEDIENCE
POINT: True faithfulness is trusting GOD’s plan rather than resisting earthly trials.
• Peter’s sword cannot change GOD’s plan.
• Jesus submits: “All this has happened that the Scriptures of the prophets might be fulfilled.”
LESSONS:
1. Jesus intercedes for us: Even when we act in fear or make mistakes.
2. Mercy triumphs over judgment: Healing the servant demonstrates restoration, not retaliation.
3. Obedience preserves our identity: GOD’s plan unfolds without human interference. Jesus chooses obedience to GOD’s plan over human retaliation. He fulfills Scripture even in arrest.
4. JESUS not only forgives, but restores. As JESUS did with Peter, HE removes all proof of our sin, making us right with GOD.
ILLUSTRATION: A captain on a sinking ship follows orders to save lives; Similarly we must follow GOD’s plan, even if it costs us comfort or safety.
SELF EXAMINATION: Are you obeying GOD fully, even when fear or pride tempts you? Do we resist GOD’s will or trust Him in difficult times?
APPLICATION: Stand firm in faith, obey GOD, and remember His promises even when facing trials. Stand firm in faith, trust GOD’s plan, and remember your identity is secure in Christ. Obedience and reliance on Jesus protect you from the consequences of impulsive actions. Obedience strengthens your faith and confirms your identity in Christ. Stand firm, even in trials
Supporting Scriptures:
Isaiah 53:7 “He was oppressed and He was afflicted, yet He opened not His mouth; He was led as a lamb to the slaughter.”
Hebrews 12:2 “Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith…”
LIFE APPLICATIONS
1. Trust GOD’s Plan: Your failures do not cancel His purposes. Trust GOD when your plans fail; His purposes are higher.
2. Pray Consistently: Prayer connects you to your true identity in Christ. Engage in persistent prayer and vigilance to resist temptation.
3. Embrace GOD’s Love: Your worth is not based on mistakes or betrayal. Guard against betrayal by staying in GOD’s Word and discernment.
4. Obey GOD Fully: Following Him in obedience anchors your identity and faith. Obey GOD’s will fully, even when it requires personal sacrifice.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Jesus’ night in Gethsemane reminds us that trials are inevitable, betrayal is real, and fear is human. Yet through prayer, obedience, and trust in GOD’s plan, we can face life’s darkest moments with hope and courage. The resurrection confirms that GOD’s purposes cannot be thwarted by human weakness or sin.
Matthew 26:31–56 reminds us
Trials, betrayal, and fear are part of life. Yet our identity is not defined by failure or fear …it is secure in Christ. GOD sees your heart, potential, and faithfulness. You are His beloved, chosen, and never a disappointment.
Let’s Pray,
Heavenly FATHER,
Thank YOU that our identity is secure in CHRIST JESUS. Strengthen us to trust YOUR plan, pray continually, embrace YOUR love, and obey YOUR will. Remind us daily that our worth is not based on our failures but on YOUR faithfulness and grace. Help us to walk boldly in YOUR purpose. In JESUS’ Name, Amen.
Be Blessed and Be a Blessing,
Bill
Hymn Suggestions
• 397 “What a Friend We Have in Jesus”
• 11 “Great Is Thy Faithfulness”
• 227 “Amazing Grace”
Key Scripture List
• Matthew 26:31-32 - Jesus predicts the disciples’ scattering but affirms His resurrection.
• Matthew 26:36-46 - Jesus in Gethsemane: prayer and submission to GOD’s will.
• Matthew 26:47-50 - Judas’ betrayal; the power of choice in serving GOD or man.
• Matthew 26:52-56 - Jesus’ obedience and the fulfillment of Scripture, even in arrest.
Supporting Scriptures: Matthew 26:21-56, John 16:33, 1 Corinthians 10:13, John 18:10, Luke 22:40-44, Ephesians 6:18, Proverbs 27:6, Psalm 41:9, Isaiah 53:7, Hebrews 12:2, John 1:29, 1 Peter 2:24, John 14:2-3, Isaiah 53:5
Key Word List
• Betrayal - The act of being turned against, often by someone trusted (v. 14-16, 47-50).
• Fear - The natural human reaction to danger, uncertainty, and spiritual testing (v. 31, 40-41).
• Obedience - Submission to GOD’s will above personal comfort or safety (v. 39).
• Faithfulness - Remaining loyal to GOD despite trials (v. 54-56).
• Prayer - The believer’s source of strength in times of spiritual struggle (v. 36-46).
KEY WORDS: Betrayal, Fear, Obedience, Faithfulness, Prayer, Identity, Encouragement, Failure, Faith, Restoration, Security, Grace, Purpose, Courage, Redemption, Trust, Hope, Confidence, Forgiveness, Weakness, Strength, Love
