◄ Luke 22 ►
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The Plot to Kill Jesus (Matthew 26:1–5; Mark 14:1–2; John 11:45–57) 1Now the Feast of Unleavened Bread,a called the Passover, was approaching, 2and the chief priests and scribes were looking for a way to put Jesus to death, for they feared the people. Judas Agrees to Betray Jesus (Matthew 26:14–16; Mark 14:10–11) 3Then Satan entered Judas Iscariot, who was one of the Twelve. 4And Judas went to discuss with the chief priests and temple officers how he might betray Jesus to them. 5They were delighted and agreed to give him money. 6Judas consented, and began to look for an opportunity to betray Jesus to them in the absence of a crowd. Preparing the Passover (Matthew 26:17–19; Mark 14:12–16) 7Then came the day of Unleavened Bread on which the Passover lamb was to be sacrificed. 8Jesus sent Peter and John, saying, “Go and make preparations for us to eat the Passover.” 9“Where do You want us to prepare it?” they asked. 10He answered, “When you enter the city, a man carrying a jug of water will meet you. Follow him to the house he enters, 11and say to the owner of that house, ‘The Teacher asks: Where is the guest room, where I may eat the Passover with My disciples?’ 12And he will show you a large upper room, already furnished. Make preparations there.” 13So they went and found it just as Jesus had told them. And they prepared the Passover. The Last Supper (Matthew 26:20–30; Mark 14:17–26; 1 Corinthians 11:17–34) 14When the hour had come, Jesus reclined at the table with His apostles. 15And He said to them, “I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before My suffering. 16For I tell you that I will not eat it again until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God.” 17After taking the cup, He gave thanks and said, “Take this and divide it among yourselves. 18For I tell you that I will not drink of the fruit of the vine from now on until the kingdom of God comes.” 19And He took the bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is My body, given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.” 20In the same way, after supper He took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is poured out for you.b 21Look! The hand of My betrayer is with Mine on the table. 22Indeed, the Son of Man will go as it has been determined, but woe to that man who betrays Him.” 23Then they began to question among themselves which of them was going to do this. Who Is the Greatest? 24A dispute also arose among the disciples as to which of them should be considered the greatest. 25So Jesus declared, “The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them, and those in authority over them call themselves benefactors. 26But you shall not be like them. Instead, the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who leads like the one who serves. 27For who is greater, the one who reclines at the table or the one who serves? Is it not the one who reclines? But I am among you as one who serves. 28You are the ones who have stood by Me in My trials. 29And I bestow on you a kingdom, just as My Father has bestowed one on Me, 30so that you may eat and drink at My table in My kingdom and sit on thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. Jesus Predicts Peter’s Denial (Matthew 26:31–35; Mark 14:27–31; John 13:36–38) 31Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift all of you like wheat. 32But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith will not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.” 33“Lord,” said Peter, “I am ready to go with You even to prison and to death.” 34But Jesus replied, “I tell you, Peter, the rooster will not crow today until you have denied three times that you know Me.” 35Then Jesus asked them, “When I sent you out without purse or bag or sandals, did you lack anything?” “Nothing,” they answered. 36“Now, however,” He told them, “the one with a purse should take it, and likewise a bag; and the one without a sword should sell his cloak and buy one. 37For I tell you that this Scripture must be fulfilled in Me: ‘And He was numbered with the transgressors.’c For what is written about Me is reaching its fulfillment.” 38So they said, “Look, Lord, here are two swords.” “That is enough,” He answered. Jesus Prays on the Mount of Olives (Matthew 26:36–46; Mark 14:32–42) 39Jesus went out as usual to the Mount of Olives, and the disciples followed Him. 40When He came to the place, He told them, “Pray that you will not enter into temptation.” 41And He withdrew about a stone’s throw beyond them, where He knelt down and prayed, 42“Father, if You are willing, take this cup from Me. Yet not My will, but Yours be done.” 43Then an angel from heaven appeared to Him and strengthened Him. 44And in His anguish, He prayed more earnestly, and His sweat became like drops of blood falling to the ground.d 45When Jesus rose from prayer and returned to the disciples, He found them asleep, exhausted from sorrow. 46“Why are you sleeping?” He asked. “Get up and pray so that you will not enter into temptation.” The Betrayal of Jesus (Matthew 26:47–56; Mark 14:43–52; John 18:1–14) 47While He was still speaking, a crowd arrived, led by the man called Judas, one of the Twelve. He approached Jesus to kiss Him. 48But Jesus asked him, “Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?” 49Those around Jesus saw what was about to happen and said, “Lord, should we strike with our swords?” 50And one of them struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his right ear. 51But Jesus answered, “No more of this!” And He touched the man’s ear and healed him. 52Then Jesus said to the chief priests, temple officers, and elders who had come for Him, “Have you come out with swords and clubs as you would against an outlaw? 53Every day I was with you in the temple courts,e and you did not lay a hand on Me. But this hour belongs to you and to the power of darkness.” Peter Denies Jesus (Matthew 26:69–75; Mark 14:66–72; John 18:15–18) 54Then they seized Jesus, led Him away, and took Him into the house of the high priest. And Peter followed at a distance. 55When those present had kindled a fire in the middle of the courtyard and sat down together, Peter sat down among them. 56A servant girl saw him seated in the firelight and looked intently at him. “This man also was with Him,” she said. 57But Peter denied it. “Woman, I do not know Him,” he said. 58A short time later, someone else saw him and said, “You also are one of them.” But Peter said, “Man, I am not.” 59About an hour later, another man insisted, “Certainly this man was with Him, for he too is a Galilean.” 60“Man, I do not know what you are talking about,” Peter replied. And immediately, while he was still speaking, the rooster crowed. 61And the Lord turned and looked at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word that the Lord had spoken to him: “Before the rooster crows today, you will deny Me three times.” 62And he went outside and wept bitterly. The Soldiers Mock Jesus (Isaiah 50:4–11; Matthew 27:27–31; Mark 15:16–20; John 19:1–15) 63The men who were holding Jesus began to mock Him and beat Him. 64They blindfolded Himf and kept demanding, “Prophesy! Who hit You?” 65And they said many other blasphemous things against Him. Jesus before the Sanhedrin (Matthew 26:57–68; Mark 14:53–65; John 18:19–24) 66At daybreak the council of the elders of the people, both the chief priests and scribes, met together. They led Jesus into their Sanhedring and said, 67“If You are the Christ, tell us.” Jesus answered, “If I tell you, you will not believe. 68And if I ask you a question, you will not answer. 69But from now on the Son of Man will be seated at the right hand of the power of God.”h 70So they all asked, “Are You then the Son of God?” He replied, “You say that I am.” 71“Why do we need any more testimony?” they declared. “We have heard it for ourselves from His own lips.” Footnotes: 1 a Literally the feast of the Unleavened; see Exodus 12:14–20. 20 b Some manuscripts end verse 19 after This is My body and do not include verse 20. 37 c Isaiah 53:12 44 d Some manuscripts do not include verses 43 and 44. 53 e Literally the temple 64 f BYZ and TR include and were striking Him on the face. 66 g Or their Council 69 h See Psalm 110:1. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Luke 22 Summary The Last Supper Verses 1–2 – Plot to Kill Jesus Religious leaders conspire to arrest and kill Jesus as the Passover approaches. Verses 3–6 – Judas Agrees to Betray Satan enters Judas Iscariot, who secretly bargains to hand Jesus over for money. Verses 7–13 – Preparation for the Passover Jesus sends Peter and John to a furnished upper room, following a prophetic sign of a man carrying a water jar. Verses 14–23 – The Last Supper and New Covenant Jesus shares the Passover, re-interprets the bread and cup as His body and blood, and reveals the betrayer. Verses 24–30 – Lesson on True Greatness The disciples argue about status; Jesus teaches that greatness comes through serving and promises them future authority in His kingdom. Verses 31–34 – Jesus Predicts Peter’s Denial Jesus warns that Satan will sift the disciples, prays for Peter’s faith, and foretells Peter’s threefold denial before dawn. Verses 35–38 – Discourse on Readiness and Swords Jesus reminds them of earlier provision, now instructs them to be prepared even to carry swords; two are produced, and He says, “It is enough.” Verses 39–46 – Prayer in Gethsemane On the Mount of Olives Jesus prays in agony, submits to the Father’s will, and strengthens Himself while the disciples sleep. Verses 47–53 – Arrest and Betrayal Judas leads armed men, betrays Jesus with a kiss; Jesus heals the high priest’s servant’s ear and allows Himself to be taken. Verses 54–62 – Peter Denies Jesus Peter follows at a distance, denies knowing Jesus three times; the rooster crows, Jesus looks at him, and Peter weeps bitterly. Verses 63–65 – Mocking the Messiah Guards beat, blindfold, and ridicule Jesus, demanding prophecy. Verses 66–71 – Trial before the Sanhedrin At daybreak the council asks if He is the Christ; Jesus affirms He is the Son of Man who will sit at God’s right hand, leading them to declare Him guilty. Luke 22 is a pivotal chapter in the Gospel narrative, marking the shift from Jesus' public ministry to His passion. It begins with a dark plot to kill Jesus, progresses through the intimacy of the Last Supper and the prediction of Peter's denial, followed by Jesus' anguished prayer at the Mount of Olives, His arrest, and Peter's actual denial of Jesus. The chapter concludes with Jesus' trial before the council of elders. Historical Context: Passover and Unleavened Bread • Passover (Exodus 12) commemorated Israel’s deliverance from slavery. By Jesus’ day, it drew hundreds of thousands of pilgrims to Jerusalem. • Unleavened Bread followed immediately, forming an eight-day festival. Luke uses “Passover” to cover the entire period. • Sacrificial lambs were slain in the temple late on the 14th of Nisan; families then ate the meal after sunset—exactly when Jesus gathered His disciples. Judas, the Adversary’s Pawn • Luke 22:3: “Then Satan entered Judas…”. The wording stresses a personal, spiritual invasion, echoing Genesis 3’s deceit and 1 Peter 5:8’s warning that the devil prowls. • Zechariah 11:12-13 predicted betrayal for silver. Matthew records thirty pieces (Matthew 26:15), matching Exodus 21:32’s price for a slave—showing how cheaply the Messiah was valued. • Judas’s motives mix greed (John 12:6) and disillusionment; Scripture keeps the focus on moral choice despite Satanic influence. The Upper Room: Archaeological Notes • Traditional site—the Cenacle—rests above the tomb of David complex on Mount Zion. The current Gothic hall dates to the Crusaders, yet first-century foundations remain beneath. • A man carrying a water jar (22:10) was unusual, as women normally fetched water. The sign provided secrecy so Judas could not tip off the authorities prematurely. The Bread and Cup: Echoes of the Exodus • Bread: “This is My body given for you” (22:19). Unleavened bread symbolized haste and purity; now it points to Jesus’ sinless life willingly broken. • Cup: “This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is poured out for you” (22:20). Jeremiah 31:31-34 foretold a covenant written on hearts. • Cross-references: – Exodus 24:8, Moses sprinkles blood to seal the old covenant. – Hebrews 9:15, Christ mediates the new covenant through His death. – 1 Corinthians 11:23-25, Paul repeats Jesus’ words, showing the meal as ongoing remembrance. Servant Leadership vs. Earthly Greatness • Luke 22:26: “The greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves.” • Jesus models this in John 13 by washing feet. • Philippians 2:5-8 calls believers to the same mindset of humble obedience. • Future reward: “You will sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel” (22:30) ties back to Matthew 19:28 and Revelation 21:14. Sifting of Peter and the Role of Intercession • “Satan has demanded to sift all of you like wheat” (22:31) recalls Job 1-2. • Jesus’ prayer—“but I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith will not fail” (22:32)—shows His ongoing intercession (Romans 8:34; Hebrews 7:25). • Peter’s later letters (1 Peter 5:10) reflect the matured strength Jesus predicted: “When you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.” Two Swords: Why Jesus Mentioned Them • Jesus’ earlier mission forbade extra supplies (Luke 9:3); now danger loomed. • Isaiah 53:12 must be fulfilled: “He was numbered with the transgressors.” Being arrested among armed men fit that prophecy. • When the disciples produce two swords, Jesus says, “It is enough” (22:38). He is not commanding violence; He is closing the discussion. In the garden He halts Peter’s strike (22:51; Matthew 26:52). Gethsemane: The Crushing Place • “Gethsemane” means “oil press,” fitting Jesus’ spiritual crushing. • Luke alone notes angelic strengthening and sweat “like drops of blood” (22:44). Medical studies call this rare condition hematidrosis, reflecting extreme stress. • Mount of Olives tombs from the period confirm heavy night traffic was possible; Jesus could pray in seclusion yet be found quickly. The Arrest: Legal Irregularities • Nighttime arrest violated normal Jewish practice (Deuteronomy 16:18). • Temple police, not Roman soldiers, led the seizure (John 18 adds Romans joined). • Jesus exposes the cowardice: “This is your hour—when darkness reigns” (22:53). Peter’s Denial and Restoration Themes • Courtyard excavation south of today’s Old City reveals first-century priestly homes with fire pits, matching the setting for Peter’s denial. • Luke’s detail that “the Lord turned and looked at Peter” (22:61) is unmatched elsewhere, emphasizing personal conviction. • Restoration: John 21 records Jesus’ triple affirmation, mirroring the triple denial. Messianic Prophecies Fulfilled in Luke 22 • Betrayal – Psalm 41:9; Zechariah 11:12-13. • Silent submission and beating – Isaiah 50:6; 53:5. • “Son of Man seated at the right hand of the mighty God” (22:69) – Daniel 7:13-14; Psalm 110:1. • Numbered with transgressors – Isaiah 53:12. • Striking of the shepherd, scattering of sheep (22:31-34) – Zechariah 13:7. Luke 22 propels the narrative from quiet table fellowship to public trial, weaving ancient prophecy into each moment and setting the stage for the cross that will inaugurate the promised new covenant for all who believe. Connections to Additional Scriptures Betrayal and Forgiveness Matthew 6:14-15 emphasizes the importance of forgiving others as God forgives us. Servant Leadership Mark 10:43-45 reinforces the call to serve others as Jesus did. Prayer in Trials Philippians 4:6-7 encourages believers to pray and seek God's peace in difficult times. Human Weakness and Grace 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 speaks to the sufficiency of God's grace in our weaknesses. Teaching Points The Plot to Kill Jesus Luke 22:1-6 describes the chief priests and scribes seeking to kill Jesus, and Judas Iscariot's betrayal. This highlights the spiritual warfare and human sinfulness at play. The Last Supper In verses 7-23, Jesus institutes the Lord's Supper, symbolizing the New Covenant in His blood. This act fulfills Old Testament prophecy and establishes a new way for believers to remember His sacrifice. Servant Leadership Jesus teaches about true greatness in verses 24-30, emphasizing that leadership in His kingdom is marked by servanthood, not power. Jesus' Prayer on the Mount of Olives Verses 39-46 show Jesus' humanity and submission to the Father's will, as He prays for strength to endure the coming suffering. Peter's Denial Foretold and Fulfilled Jesus predicts Peter's denial in verses 31-34, and it is fulfilled in verses 54-62, illustrating human weakness and the need for divine grace. Jesus' Arrest and Trial The chapter concludes with Jesus' arrest and the beginning of His trial (verses 47-71), setting the stage for His ultimate sacrifice. Practical Applications Reflect on Betrayal and Forgiveness Consider how Jesus responded to betrayal with love and forgiveness, and apply this to your own relationships. Embrace Servanthood Seek opportunities to serve others selflessly, following Jesus' example of leadership through service. Commit to Prayer Like Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane, prioritize prayer in times of trial, seeking God's strength and guidance. Acknowledge Human Weakness Recognize your own weaknesses and rely on God's grace, as Peter's account reminds us of the need for repentance and restoration. People 1. Jesus Central figure in the chapter, Jesus is preparing for His impending crucifixion. He institutes the Lord's Supper and prays on the Mount of Olives. The name "Jesus" (Ἰησοῦς in Greek) is derived from the Hebrew name Yeshua, meaning "Yahweh is salvation." 2. Judas Iscariot One of the twelve apostles, Judas agrees to betray Jesus to the chief priests and officers. His name "Judas" (Ἰούδας in Greek) is the Greek form of Judah, meaning "praised." 3. Peter Also known as Simon Peter, he is one of Jesus' closest disciples. He vows to remain loyal to Jesus but later denies Him three times. The name "Peter" (Πέτρος in Greek) means "rock." 4. John One of the twelve apostles, traditionally understood to be the "disciple whom Jesus loved." He is present at the Last Supper. 5. James Another of the twelve apostles, often mentioned alongside his brother John. His name "James" (Ἰάκωβος in Greek) is equivalent to Jacob, meaning "supplanter." 6. The Chief Priests and Scribes Religious leaders who conspire to arrest and kill Jesus. They are part of the Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling council. 7. The Disciples Refers collectively to the twelve apostles who follow Jesus and are present at the Last Supper. 8. The Servant of the High Priest During Jesus' arrest, Peter cuts off the ear of this servant, whom John identifies as Malchus in his Gospel. 9. The Crowd A group that comes to arrest Jesus, led by Judas. They are armed with swords and clubs. 10. The Officers of the Temple Guard They assist in the arrest of Jesus and are part of the group that comes with Judas. 11. Pilate Although not directly mentioned in Luke 22, he is the Roman governor to whom Jesus is brought after His arrest, as seen in the following chapter. 12. Herod Also not directly mentioned in Luke 22, Herod Antipas is the ruler of Galilee who plays a role in Jesus' trial, as described later. Places 1. Jerusalem Jerusalem is the central location for the events in Luke 22. It is where the Passover is to be celebrated, and it holds significant religious importance as the city of David and the site of the Temple. The Greek term used is "Ἱεροσόλυμα" (Hierosolyma). 2. Mount of Olives After the Last Supper, Jesus and His disciples go to the Mount of Olives. This location is significant as a place of prayer and prophecy. The Greek term is "Ὄρος τῶν Ἐλαιῶν" (Oros tōn Elaiōn). 3. Upper Room While not explicitly named in Luke 22, the "upper room" is traditionally understood as the place where Jesus and His disciples shared the Last Supper. This room is prepared for the Passover meal. The Greek term for "upper room" is "ἀνώγεον" (anōgeon), though it is not directly used in this chapter. Events 1. The Plot to Kill Jesus (Luke 22:1-2) The chief priests and scribes seek a way to put Jesus to death, fearing the people's reaction. The Greek term "ζητοῦντες" (zētountes) indicates their active search for a solution. 2. Judas Agrees to Betray Jesus (Luke 22:3-6) Satan enters Judas Iscariot, prompting him to conspire with the chief priests to betray Jesus. The Greek word "παραδιδόναι" (paradidonai) means to hand over or betray. 3. The Preparation for the Passover (Luke 22:7-13) Jesus instructs Peter and John to prepare the Passover meal. The term "ἑτοιμάσατε" (hetoimasate) means to make ready or prepare. 4. The Last Supper (Luke 22:14-20) Jesus shares the Passover meal with His disciples, instituting the Lord's Supper. The phrase "τοῦτο ποιεῖτε" (touto poieite) means "do this" in remembrance of Him. 5. The Dispute about Greatness (Luke 22:24-30) The disciples argue about who among them is the greatest. Jesus teaches them about true greatness through service, using the Greek "διακονῶν" (diakonōn), meaning serving. 6. Jesus Predicts Peter's Denial (Luke 22:31-34) Jesus warns Peter that he will deny Him three times before the rooster crows. The Greek "ἀπαρνήσῃ" (aparnēsē) means to deny or disown. 7. Instructions for the Time of Crisis (Luke 22:35-38) Jesus advises His disciples to prepare for the coming challenges, indicating a shift from previous instructions. 8. Jesus Prays on the Mount of Olives (Luke 22:39-46) Jesus prays earnestly, asking for the cup to be taken from Him, yet submits to the Father's will. The Greek "ἀγωνία" (agōnia) reflects His intense anguish. 9. The Betrayal and Arrest of Jesus (Luke 22:47-53) Judas betrays Jesus with a kiss, leading to His arrest. The term "προδίδωσιν" (prodidosin) is used for betrayal. 10. Peter Denies Jesus (Luke 22:54-62) Peter denies knowing Jesus three times, fulfilling Jesus' prediction. The Greek "ἠρνήσατο" (ērnēsato) is used for Peter's denial. 11. The Mocking and Beating of Jesus (Luke 22:63-65) Jesus is mocked and beaten by those holding Him. The Greek "ἐμπαίζοντες" (empaizontes) means to mock or ridicule. 12. Jesus Before the Sanhedrin (Luke 22:66-71) Jesus is brought before the council and questioned about His identity as the Son of God. The Greek "εἶπεν" (eipen) means He said or declared. Lessons from Luke 22 1. The Power of Humble Service In Luke 22, Jesus demonstrates the power of humble service by washing the feet of His disciples. This act of humility is a profound lesson in leadership and love. Jesus teaches us that true greatness comes from serving others, not from seeking power or prestige. As He says, "But I am among you as one who serves" (Luke 22:27). Embrace opportunities to serve those around you, reflecting Christ's love in your daily interactions. 2. The Importance of Prayer in Times of Trial When faced with impending suffering, Jesus retreats to the Mount of Olives to pray. His example underscores the importance of seeking God's strength and guidance during challenging times. "Pray that you will not enter into temptation" (Luke 22:40), He advises His disciples. Make prayer a cornerstone of your life, especially when facing trials, to draw closer to God and find peace. 3. The Reality of Betrayal Judas Iscariot's betrayal of Jesus is a sobering reminder of human frailty and the consequences of turning away from God. Despite being one of the twelve, Judas chose to betray Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. This teaches us to guard our hearts and remain steadfast in our faith, always seeking God's will over worldly temptations. 4. The Fulfillment of Prophecy Luke 22 highlights the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, as Jesus prepares for His crucifixion. He tells His disciples, "For I tell you that this Scripture must be fulfilled in Me: ‘And He was numbered with the transgressors’" (Luke 22:37). This reminds us of the divine plan and the reliability of Scripture, encouraging us to trust in God's promises. 5. The Significance of the Last Supper The Last Supper is a pivotal moment where Jesus institutes the Lord's Supper, symbolizing His body and blood given for us. "Do this in remembrance of Me" (Luke 22:19), He instructs. This sacred act is a powerful reminder of Christ's sacrifice and a call to remember His love and grace in our lives. 6. The Call to Watchfulness Jesus warns His disciples to stay alert and pray, emphasizing the need for spiritual vigilance. "Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation" (Luke 22:46). This lesson encourages us to be mindful of our spiritual state, always ready to resist temptation and stand firm in our faith. 7. The Strength Found in Community In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus seeks the support of His closest disciples during His time of anguish. This highlights the importance of community and fellowship in our spiritual journey. Surround yourself with fellow believers who can support and encourage you, especially during difficult times. 8. The Courage to Stand for Truth Peter's denial of Jesus is a poignant reminder of the struggle to stand for truth in the face of fear. Despite his initial failure, Peter's story ultimately becomes one of redemption and courage. Let this inspire you to boldly proclaim your faith, trusting in God's strength to overcome fear. 9. The Sovereignty of God's Plan Even as Jesus faces arrest and crucifixion, He remains confident in God's sovereign plan. "But this is your hour—when darkness reigns" (Luke 22:53), He tells His captors. This reassures us that, even in the darkest moments, God is in control and His purposes will prevail. 10. The Promise of Redemption Finally, Luke 22 points to the hope of redemption through Christ's sacrifice. Jesus willingly endures suffering for our salvation, offering us the promise of eternal life. Embrace this gift with gratitude, and let it transform your life as you live in the light of His resurrection. Topics 1. The Plot to Kill Jesus In Luke 22:1-6, the chief priests and scribes are seeking a way to put Jesus to death. Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve disciples, agrees to betray Jesus for money. The Greek term "συνεβουλεύσαντο" (sunebouleusanto) indicates a deliberate and calculated plan. 2. The Last Supper Preparations Verses 7-13 describe Jesus instructing Peter and John to prepare the Passover meal. The term "ἑτοιμάσατε" (hetoimasate) emphasizes the careful preparation required for this significant event. 3. The Last Supper In verses 14-23, Jesus shares the Passover meal with His disciples, instituting the Lord’s Supper. The phrase "τοῦτο ποιεῖτε εἰς τὴν ἐμὴν ἀνάμνησιν" (touto poieite eis tēn emēn anamnēsin) highlights the command to remember His sacrifice. 4. Dispute about Greatness Verses 24-30 recount a dispute among the disciples about who is the greatest. Jesus teaches them about true greatness, using the Greek word "διακονῶν" (diakonōn), meaning "serving," to redefine leadership. 5. Jesus Predicts Peter’s Denial In verses 31-34, Jesus predicts that Peter will deny Him three times. The Greek word "ἐξῃτήσατο" (exētēsato) indicates Satan's demand to test Peter, showing the spiritual battle at play. 6. Instructions for the Road Verses 35-38 contain Jesus’ instructions to His disciples about being prepared for the challenges ahead. The term "μάχαιραν" (machairan), meaning "sword," symbolizes readiness for spiritual and physical trials. 7. The Prayer on the Mount of Olives In verses 39-46, Jesus prays earnestly on the Mount of Olives. The Greek word "ἀγωνία" (agōnia) describes His intense struggle, reflecting His human and divine natures. 8. The Betrayal and Arrest of Jesus Verses 47-53 detail Judas’ betrayal and Jesus’ arrest. The term "προδίδωμι" (prodidōmi) is used for betrayal, highlighting the gravity of Judas’ actions. 9. Peter Denies Jesus In verses 54-62, Peter denies knowing Jesus three times, fulfilling Jesus’ earlier prediction. The Greek word "ἀρνήσῃ" (arnēsē) underscores the act of denial. 10. The Mocking and Beating of Jesus Verses 63-65 describe how Jesus is mocked and beaten by the guards. The term "ἐμπαίζοντες" (empaizontes) conveys the scorn and ridicule He endured. 11. Jesus Before the Sanhedrin In verses 66-71, Jesus is brought before the Sanhedrin. The Greek term "συνέδριον" (synedrion) refers to the council, emphasizing the formal judicial setting of this trial. Themes 1. The Plot to Kill Jesus The chapter begins with the chief priests and scribes seeking a way to put Jesus to death, highlighting the theme of opposition and betrayal. This is seen in Luke 22:2, "And the chief priests and scribes were looking for a way to put Him to death, for they feared the people." 2. Judas’ Betrayal Judas Iscariot's agreement to betray Jesus is a significant theme, emphasizing the gravity of betrayal by one of Jesus' own disciples. Luke 22:4-6 states, "He went away and conferred with the chief priests and officers of the temple guard how he might betray Jesus to them. They were delighted and agreed to give him money." 3. The Last Supper The institution of the Lord’s Supper is a central theme, symbolizing the new covenant in Jesus' blood. Luke 22:19-20 records, "And He took bread, gave thanks, broke it, and gave it to them, saying, 'This is My body, given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.' In the same way, after supper He took the cup, saying, 'This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is poured out for you.'" 4. Servant Leadership Jesus teaches about true greatness through servanthood, contrasting worldly authority with the humility expected of His followers. Luke 22:26-27 says, "But you shall not be like them. Instead, the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who leads like the one who serves." 5. Peter’s Denial Foretold Jesus predicts Peter’s denial, illustrating themes of human weakness and the need for repentance. In Luke 22:34, Jesus tells Peter, "I tell you, Peter, the rooster will not crow today until you have denied three times that you know Me." 6. Prayer and Agony in Gethsemane Jesus’ prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane reveals His submission to the Father’s will, highlighting themes of obedience and sacrifice. Luke 22:42 captures this, "Father, if You are willing, take this cup from Me. Yet not My will, but Yours be done." 7. Jesus’ Arrest The arrest of Jesus marks the beginning of His passion, underscoring themes of fulfillment of prophecy and the unfolding of God’s redemptive plan. Luke 22:52-53 notes, "Then Jesus said to the chief priests, temple officers, and elders who had come for Him, 'Have you come out with swords and clubs as you would against an outlaw? Every day I was with you in the temple courts, and you did not lay a hand on Me. But this is your hour—when darkness reigns.'" 8. Peter’s Denial The fulfillment of Jesus’ prediction about Peter’s denial serves as a poignant reminder of human frailty and the need for divine grace. Luke 22:61-62 describes, "And the Lord turned and looked at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word the Lord had spoken to him: 'Before the rooster crows today, you will deny Me three times.' And he went outside and wept bitterly." 9. Mocking and Beating of Jesus The mistreatment of Jesus by the guards highlights themes of suffering and the fulfillment of messianic prophecies. Luke 22:63-65 states, "The men who were holding Jesus began to mock Him and beat Him. They blindfolded Him and kept demanding, 'Prophesy! Who hit You?' And they said many other blasphemous things against Him." 10. Jesus Before the Sanhedrin Jesus’ trial before the Sanhedrin underscores themes of injustice and the fulfillment of His role as the suffering Messiah. Luke 22:70-71 concludes, "So they all asked, 'Are You then the Son of God?' He replied, 'You say that I am.' 'Why do we need any more testimony?' they declared. 'We have heard it for ourselves from His own lips.'" Prayer Points Pray for the strength to forgive those who have wronged you, following Jesus' example. Ask God to cultivate a servant's heart within you, enabling you to lead by serving others. Seek God's guidance and peace through prayer, especially in challenging circumstances. Confess your weaknesses to God and ask for His grace to overcome them, trusting in His power to restore and strengthen you. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Luke 22:36, why does Jesus instruct His followers to buy swords if His message is peace? 2. How could Jesus’ sweat become “as great drops of blood” (Luke 22:44) without medical evidence supporting such an extreme condition? 3. Luke 22:43 mentions an angel strengthening Jesus—why is there no corroboration of this miraculous event in other sources or gospel accounts? 4. If Jesus prophesied Peter’s denial before the rooster crowed (Luke 22:34), why do different gospels count the rooster crows differently? 5. Luke 22:15–20 presents the institution of the Lord’s Supper—why are the details (like the cup and wording) not fully consistent with parallel accounts? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Judas' betrayal of Jesus challenge your understanding of loyalty and trust? 2. How do you interpret the symbolism of the bread and wine in the Last Supper? 3. What lessons can you learn from Jesus' prediction of Peter's denial? 4. How does Jesus' prayer at the Mount of Olives demonstrate His submission to God's will? 5. How can Jesus' response to His arrest inspire us in moments of injustice? 6. In what ways can we identify with Peter's denial of Jesus? 7. How can you apply the lessons from Jesus' trial in your personal life? 8. How does this chapter deepen your understanding of Jesus' love and sacrifice? 9. How can we maintain faithfulness in situations that may lead us to deny our beliefs? 10. How does Jesus' healing of the high priest's servant speak to His character? 11. What can we learn from the disciples' struggle to stay awake during Jesus' prayer? 12. How can Jesus' responses to betrayal, denial, and trial shape our responses to similar situations? 13. In what ways does the plot to kill Jesus reflect the darkness of human sin? 14. What steps can we take to avoid spiritual betrayal as Judas did? 15. How can the reality of Jesus' suffering and sacrifice impact your daily life? 16. How does Peter's bitter remorse after his denial speak to our own experiences of regret? 17. How does Jesus' affirmation of His identity during His trial inspire your confession of faith? 18. How should the events of this chapter affect our communion practices today? 19. How can we apply Jesus' submission to God's will in our decision-making processes? 20. How can we cultivate a prayer life that emulates Jesus' fervent communication with the Father? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions