‏ Luke 22

The Treachery of Judas

The time for Jesus’ sacrifice, the great moment of redemption, had arrived. This was the time God had planned from eternity, and it was eagerly awaited by those who longed for the salvation of Israel. The events happened during the feast of unleavened bread, the same time of year when God had delivered Israel from Egypt through Moses (Exodus 12:2 ^a). Jesus, the true Passover Lamb, was about to offer Himself for the salvation of the world (Isaiah 63:4 ^b). Here we see how the betrayal of Jesus unfolded.

v. 2: The chief priests and scribes, who were supposed to be holy and learned leaders, plotted to kill Jesus (Luke 22:2 ^c). They looked for a way to do it quietly, because they feared the people, who were growing more devoted to Jesus and His teaching. Their hearts were filled with hatred, and they sought to use any means, whether force or trickery, to destroy Him.

v. 3: Judas Iscariot, one of Jesus’ twelve disciples, joined in this evil plan. Even though Judas had been chosen to be part of this special group, Satan entered into him and took control of his heart (Luke 22:3 ^d). Judas’ betrayal shows how dangerous it is to let sin grow in our hearts. The devil used Judas to try to stop God’s plan, but it only led to Jesus’ victory over sin and death. Anyone who betrays Jesus or His truth is ultimately doing Satan’s work.

v. 4: Judas went to the chief priests and offered to help them arrest Jesus. Judas knew where Jesus often went to pray and rest, and he promised to show them a quiet place to capture Him. This act of betrayal reminds us that even those who appear to follow Christ can sometimes cause great harm to His kingdom.

v. 5: The religious leaders were pleased with Judas’ offer and agreed to pay him money for betraying Jesus (Luke 22:5 ^e). Judas, motivated by greed, began looking for the right opportunity to hand Jesus over to them. He carefully planned how to betray Jesus when the crowds were not around, to avoid causing a public disturbance. Sadly, Judas’ love for money led him to betray the Savior who had loved and called him.

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The Keeping of the Passover

As the feast of unleavened bread arrived, Jesus knew His time to suffer and save had come. Though He had been teaching in the temple and the people listened eagerly, He now had to begin a different, more important work. Even during times of trouble, God can do great things. In this passage, we see Jesus preparing to celebrate the Passover with His disciples and to establish a new covenant.

v. 7–13: On the day the Passover lamb was to be killed, Jesus sent Peter and John to prepare the meal (Luke 22:7 ^f). Jesus followed the law and took part in the Passover, teaching us to respect the things God commands, especially the Lord’s Supper. He gave Peter and John special instructions: they would meet a man carrying water, who would lead them to the place for the meal (Luke 22:9–10 ^g). They were to ask the owner for a room, and he would show them a large upper room, ready for the meal (Luke 22:11–12 ^h). Everything happened just as Jesus said (Luke 22:13 ⁱ). When we trust and obey Jesus, we can be sure He will provide what we need.

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v. 14–16: When the time came, Jesus sat down with all twelve disciples, even Judas. He said, “With desire I have desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer” (Luke 22:15 ^j). Jesus loved His disciples and wanted to share this special meal with them before His death. He also said He would not eat the Passover again until it was fulfilled in the kingdom of God (Luke 22:16 ^k). The Passover pointed to Jesus, the true Lamb of God. After His sacrifice, the old ceremonies would end, and the new celebration, the Lord’s Supper, would begin (1 Corinthians 5:7 ^l). The full meaning of this freedom will be seen in heaven, when all God’s people are saved forever.

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v. 17–18: Jesus took a cup, gave thanks, and told them to share it. He said He would not drink wine again until the kingdom of God came (Luke 22:17–18 ^m). This showed that something new was beginning. Soon, after His death and resurrection, the Holy Spirit would come, and Christians would remember His sacrifice in a new way.

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v. 19–20: Jesus then started the Lord’s Supper. He broke bread and said, “This is my body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of me” (Luke 22:19 ⁿ). The broken bread reminds us that Jesus gave His body as a sacrifice for our sins. The cup of wine represents His blood, which makes the new covenant between God and His people. This covenant gives us forgiveness and every promise of God (Leviticus 17:11; 1 Corinthians 11:25 ^o). When we take the Lord’s Supper, we remember Jesus’ death and trust in His love for us.

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The Disciples Admonished; Peter’s Frailty Predicted

After the Last Supper, Jesus had a serious talk with his disciples. He wanted them to understand the dangers ahead, the importance of humility, and the need to rely on God’s grace. Jesus also warned Peter about his coming denial, showing both his knowledge of the future and his care for his followers.

v. 21: Jesus said that the one who would betray him was at the table with them. Even though they had just celebrated the Passover and shared the Lord’s Supper, there was a traitor among them. This shows that people can be outwardly close to Jesus but still have a wrong heart.

v. 22: Jesus explained that his suffering and death were part of God’s plan—he would go as it was determined. But he also warned that the person who betrayed him would be held responsible. God’s plan does not excuse a person’s bad choices; each person is responsible for their own actions.

v. 23: The disciples were shocked and started to ask each other which of them could possibly do such a thing. Instead of judging each other, they looked inward and questioned themselves. This is a good example for us—to examine our own hearts instead of blaming others.

v. 24: Then, the disciples began to argue about which of them was the greatest. Even after Jesus talked about betrayal, they were still concerned about their own honor and position. This shows how pride can sneak in even at holy times.

v. 25: Jesus told them that people in the world love to rule over others and be called “Benefactors.” But that is not how God’s kingdom works. True greatness is not about power or titles.

v. 26–27: Jesus said that the greatest among them should be like the youngest, and the leader should be like a servant. He reminded them that he himself came to serve, not to be served. Jesus set the example by living a life of humility and service.

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v. 28–30: Jesus encouraged his disciples, saying that they had stayed with him through his troubles. He promised them a kingdom, where they would eat and drink at his table and sit on thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. Their faithfulness would be rewarded, not with worldly power, but with honor in God’s kingdom.

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v. 31–32: Jesus specifically warned Simon Peter that Satan wanted to test all the disciples like wheat is sifted. But Jesus had prayed for Peter, that his faith would not completely fail. Jesus encouraged Peter that after his own failure and repentance, he should help strengthen his fellow disciples.

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v. 33: Peter boldly declared that he was ready to go to prison and even die with Jesus. He was sincere, but did not realize his own weakness.

v. 34: Jesus predicted that Peter would deny knowing him three times before the rooster crowed that day. Jesus knows our weaknesses, even before we do, but he also offers forgiveness and restoration.

v. 35: Jesus reminded the disciples that when he sent them out before, without money or supplies, they never lacked anything. God had always provided for their needs.

v. 36: Now, Jesus told them the situation was changing. They would face more danger and difficulty, so they should be prepared, even to the point of carrying a sword for protection. This was a sign that their mission would be hard and they would face opposition.

v. 37: Jesus said that what was written about him in Scripture must be fulfilled: “He was numbered with the transgressors.” He would be treated like a criminal, and everything written about him would happen.

v. 38: The disciples showed him that they had two swords, but Jesus replied, “It is enough.” He did not mean for them to rely on violence; rather, he was showing them to be ready for the challenges ahead, but to trust in God’s plan.

The Agony in the Garden

This passage tells the powerful story of Jesus’ agony in the Garden of Gethsemane, just before He was betrayed. Here, Jesus prepared Himself for the suffering He would face as He became the sacrifice for our sins. He felt deep sorrow and the weight of God’s judgment against sin. In this moment, Jesus also faced the powers of darkness and overcame them, even in His weakness.

v. 39–40: Jesus went out to the Mount of Olives, as He often did, and His disciples followed Him. Even though it was night and a long walk, they stayed with Him. Jesus told them, “Pray that you may not enter into temptation” (Luke 22:40 ^p). He wanted them to pray so they would not fall into sin during the coming trial.

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v. 41–42: Jesus went a little farther away from the disciples, about a stone’s throw, and knelt down to pray. He asked God, “Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me; nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done” (Luke 22:42 ^q). Jesus showed His true humanity by feeling fear and pain, but He also showed perfect obedience by submitting to God’s will (Psalm 40:7–8 ^r).

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v. 43: While Jesus was in agony, an angel from heaven appeared and strengthened Him (Luke 22:43 ^s). This shows Jesus’ deep humility—He accepted help from an angel. God did not take away His suffering, but gave Him strength to endure it. Sometimes, God answers our prayers not by removing our troubles, but by giving us the strength to bear them (Psalm 138:3 ^t).

v. 44: Jesus’ agony grew so intense that He prayed even more earnestly. His sweat became like great drops of blood falling to the ground (Luke 22:44 ^u). This shows how deeply He suffered for us. Some believe this was real blood mixed with sweat, showing the extreme stress He was under (Genesis 3:19 ^v). Jesus’ suffering was part of the price He paid to save us.

v. 45: When Jesus finished praying, He found His disciples sleeping. They were not just tired, but also overwhelmed with sorrow (Luke 22:45 ^w). Sometimes, sadness can make us weak and unable to do what we should. Jesus was patient with them and understood their weakness.

v. 46: Jesus woke them and said, “Why are you sleeping? Rise and pray that you may not enter into temptation” (Luke 22:46 ^x). He encouraged them to pray for strength, just as He had done. When we face hard times or temptations, we should pray and ask God for help, so we can stand strong.

The Treachery of Judas

In this passage, we see how Satan, after failing to frighten Jesus, now uses force and betrayal to try to stop Him. Judas leads a group to arrest Jesus, showing how evil can work through both fear and violence. Even in this dark moment, Jesus remains calm and in control.

v. 47–48: Judas arrived with a crowd to arrest Jesus. He was the guide for those who wanted to capture Jesus, because they did not know where to find Him. Judas used a kiss, a sign of friendship, to show them who Jesus was. Jesus asked him, “Judas, betrayest thou the Son of man with a kiss?” (Luke 22:48 ^y). This was a great insult—using a sign of love to commit an act of betrayal. It reminds us that pretending to love Jesus while acting against Him is a serious offense.

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v. 49–51: When the disciples saw what was happening, they asked Jesus if they should fight back with swords. Without waiting for an answer, Peter struck the servant of the high priest and cut off his right ear. Jesus stopped the violence, saying, “Suffer ye thus far” (Luke 22:51 ^z). He then healed the servant’s ear, showing both His power and His mercy. Jesus taught us to do good even to those who hurt us, and to trust God instead of fighting back.

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v. 52–53: Jesus spoke to the chief priests, temple officers, and elders who came to arrest Him. He asked why they came with swords and clubs as if He were a criminal. Jesus reminded them that He had been teaching openly in the temple every day, but they never tried to arrest Him then. He explained, “This is your hour, and the power of darkness” (Luke 22:53 ^aa). Jesus accepted that this was the time God allowed evil to seem strong, but only for a short while. Darkness would not win in the end, because God’s light and power are greater.

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The Fall of Peter

This section tells the sad story of Peter denying Jesus. While Jesus was being taken to the high priest’s house, Peter followed at a distance. The leaders were preparing to accuse Jesus before the council. The way Jesus was led from place to place shows the confusion and fear of those arresting Him. Even in this time of trouble, Peter’s weakness is shown, but also the mercy of Jesus in restoring him.

v. 54–55: The guards took Jesus and brought Him to the house of the high priest (Luke 22:54 ^ab). Peter followed, but not too closely. He wanted to stay safe, so he kept his distance. When the servants made a fire in the courtyard, Peter sat down with them, blending in with the crowd instead of standing by Jesus.

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v. 56–57: A servant girl saw Peter by the fire and stared at him. She said, “This man was also with him.” Peter denied it, saying, “Woman, I know him not.” Fear made Peter pretend he did not know Jesus at all.

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v. 58: A little later, someone else saw Peter and said, “You are also one of them.” But Peter replied, “Man, I am not.” Peter was still afraid and would not admit he was a follower of Jesus.

v. 59–60: About an hour later, another person insisted Peter was with Jesus, saying, “Certainly this fellow also was with him, for he is a Galilean.” Peter answered, “Man, I know not what you say.” At that moment, while Peter was still speaking, a rooster crowed (Luke 22:60 ^ac). Peter’s fear led him to deny Jesus three times, just as Jesus had predicted.

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v. 61: The Lord turned and looked at Peter. This look was full of meaning—conviction, correction, compassion, and direction. Even while on trial, Jesus noticed Peter’s actions. This look reminded Peter of Jesus’ words and touched his heart. Sometimes, just a look or a word from the Lord can reach us deeply and lead us back to Him.

v. 62: Peter remembered what Jesus had said about his denial. He went outside and wept bitterly. Peter was truly sorry for his sin, and his tears showed real repentance. Jesus’ look, together with the grace of God, brought Peter back to his senses and to faith.

Christ Abused and Insulted

This passage describes how Jesus was mistreated and mocked after His arrest. The servants of the high priest showed Him no kindness or respect. Instead, they made fun of Him, hurt Him, and spoke evil things against Him. Even though Jesus was innocent and had done nothing wrong, He suffered quietly and did not fight back. This was a time of great shame and pain for Jesus, but He endured it for our sake.

v. 63–65: The men who held Jesus mocked Him and beat Him (Luke 22:63 ^ad). They blindfolded Him, hit Him on the face, and then challenged Him to guess who had struck Him (Luke 22:64 ^ae). They did this to insult His claim to be a prophet. Many other cruel and blasphemous things were said against Him (Luke 22:65 ^af). Those who accused Jesus of blasphemy were themselves guilty of the worst blasphemy.

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v. 66–67: Early in the morning, the elders, chief priests, and scribes gathered as the council to judge Jesus. They asked Him, “Are you the Christ?” (Luke 22:67 ^ag). They did not really want to believe in Him, but only wanted to trap Him with His words.

v. 67–68: Jesus pointed out their unfairness. He said that even if He told them plainly that He was the Christ, they would not believe Him. If He asked them questions, they would not answer. They were not interested in the truth, but only wanted to condemn Him.

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v. 69: Jesus told them that one day they would see Him, the Son of Man, sitting at the right hand of the power of God (Luke 22:69 ^ah). Even though they rejected Him now, He would one day be shown as the true Messiah and Judge.

v. 70: They then asked, “Are you then the Son of God?” Jesus answered, “You say that I am,” meaning He agreed with what they said (Luke 22:70 ^ai). Jesus was not afraid to confess the truth, even though it would cost Him His life.

v. 71: The council decided that they did not need any more witnesses. They believed Jesus had spoken blasphemy by claiming to be the Son of God, and so they condemned Him (Luke 22:71 ^aj). They did not stop to consider if He really was the Messiah, but rushed to judgment because He did not fit their expectations.