Mark 14:12

On the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, when the Passover lamb was to be sacrificed, Jesus' disciples asked Him, "Where do You want us to prepare for You to eat the Passover?"

Study Bible

On the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread
This phrase sets the scene within the Jewish liturgical calendar. The Feast of Unleavened Bread, known in Hebrew as "Chag HaMatzot," begins on the 15th day of Nisan and lasts for seven days. However, the preparation for this feast begins on the 14th of Nisan, which is also the day of the Passover. This feast commemorates the Israelites' exodus from Egypt, when they left in haste and did not have time to let their bread rise. Theologically, this symbolizes purity and the removal of sin, as leaven often represents sin in the Bible. The historical context here is crucial, as it ties Jesus' impending sacrifice to the deliverance of Israel, foreshadowing the ultimate deliverance from sin through His death.

when the Passover lamb was to be sacrificed
The Passover lamb, or "Pesach" in Hebrew, is central to the Passover celebration. According to Exodus 12, the lamb was to be without blemish, symbolizing purity and foreshadowing Christ, the Lamb of God, who is without sin. The sacrifice of the lamb was a pivotal act of obedience and faith for the Israelites, marking their homes with its blood to be spared from the plague of the firstborn. In the New Testament context, this prefigures Jesus' sacrifice, where His blood marks believers for salvation. The historical practice involved the lamb being sacrificed in the Temple, a solemn and sacred act that underscored the gravity of sin and the need for atonement.

Jesus’ disciples asked Him
The disciples, or "mathetes" in Greek, were learners and followers of Jesus. Their inquiry reflects their role as obedient servants, seeking guidance from their Master. This moment highlights the relational dynamic between Jesus and His disciples, emphasizing trust and dependence. It also sets the stage for the Last Supper, where Jesus will impart crucial teachings and establish the New Covenant. Theologically, this interaction underscores the importance of seeking divine direction in spiritual matters.

'Where do You want us to prepare for You to eat the Passover?'
This question reveals the disciples' readiness to serve and their recognition of Jesus' authority. The act of preparation, "hetoimazo" in Greek, involves making ready or providing what is necessary. In the context of the Passover, this would include securing a location, gathering the necessary elements, and ensuring everything was in accordance with Jewish law. This preparation is not just physical but also spiritual, as it anticipates the profound events that will unfold during the meal. Theologically, it invites believers to consider how they prepare their hearts to receive Christ, especially in the context of communion, which commemorates His sacrifice. The historical context of the Passover meal, with its rich symbolism and ritual, provides a backdrop for understanding the depth of Jesus' actions and words during the Last Supper.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus
Central figure in the passage, preparing to observe the Passover with His disciples.

2. Disciples
Followers of Jesus who are tasked with preparing the Passover meal.

3. Feast of Unleavened Bread
A Jewish festival that begins with the Passover, commemorating the Israelites' exodus from Egypt.

4. Passover Lamb
The sacrificial lamb that is central to the Passover meal, symbolizing deliverance and redemption.

5. Jerusalem
The city where the Passover meal is to be prepared and celebrated.

Teaching Points

Understanding the Significance of Passover
The Passover is not just a historical event but a foreshadowing of Christ's redemptive work. Reflect on how Jesus fulfills the role of the Passover lamb, offering deliverance from sin.

Obedience and Preparation
The disciples' question to Jesus about where to prepare the Passover highlights the importance of obedience and readiness in our spiritual walk. Consider how we can be prepared to follow Jesus' instructions in our daily lives.

Symbolism of the Lamb
The Passover lamb is a powerful symbol of sacrifice and salvation. Reflect on how Jesus' sacrifice on the cross parallels the sacrificial system and what it means for our personal salvation.

Community and Fellowship
The Passover meal was a communal event. Consider the importance of fellowship and community in our faith journey, especially in observing the Lord's Supper.

Historical and Spiritual Continuity
Recognize the continuity between the Old Testament Passover and the New Testament fulfillment in Christ. This continuity enriches our understanding of God's plan for redemption.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the observance of the Passover in Mark 14:12 connect to the broader account of redemption in the Bible?

2. In what ways can we prepare our hearts and lives to be obedient to Jesus' instructions, as the disciples did?

3. How does understanding Jesus as the "Lamb of God" deepen your appreciation for His sacrifice?

4. What role does community play in your spiritual life, and how can you foster deeper fellowship with other believers?

5. How can the historical context of the Passover enhance your understanding of the Lord's Supper and its significance in the Christian faith?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 12
Provides the background for the Passover, detailing the original instructions given to the Israelites for the observance of this feast.

1 Corinthians 5:7
Paul refers to Christ as our Passover lamb, drawing a parallel between the sacrificial lamb and Jesus' sacrifice.

Luke 22:7-13
Offers a parallel account of the preparation for the Passover, providing additional details about the instructions Jesus gave to His disciples.

John 1:29
John the Baptist identifies Jesus as the "Lamb of God," connecting Jesus' role to the Passover lamb.