Overview
Luke 22 marks the dramatic transition from Jesus’ public ministry to His suffering and death. This chapter unfolds the final hours before the crucifixion: the plot to kill Jesus, Judas‘ betrayal, the Last Supper (institution of the Lord’s Supper), Jesus’ prayer in Gethsemane, Peter’s denial, and Jesus‘ arrest and mistreatment.
It is a deeply theological and emotionally charged chapter that highlights:
- The sovereignty of God in redemptive history.
- The fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy in the suffering of Christ.
- The institution of the New Covenant through Jesus’ body and blood.
- The weakness of human discipleship apart from divine grace.
- The resolve and obedience of Jesus to fulfill the Father’s will.
Luke’s account reinforces the divine plan of salvation, the depravity of man, and the necessity of the cross—all critical doctrines in conservative evangelical theology.
Historical and Literary Context
Historical Background
Luke writes as a meticulous historian (Luke 1:1-4), and this chapter is grounded in real, historical events that took place during Passover week in Jerusalem—one of the holiest times in the Jewish calendar. The Passover commemorated God‘s deliverance of Israel from Egypt through the blood of the lamb (Exodus 12), which becomes prophetically significant as Jesus now presents Himself as the true Passover Lamb (1 Corinthians 5:7).
The tension with religious leaders had reached a boiling point. Rome governed Judea, and religious leaders were desperate to maintain order and eliminate threats to their power. Judas‘ betrayal gave them the opportunity they sought.
Literary Context
Luke 22 is part of the Passion Narrative and is filled with Old Testament allusions and prophetic fulfillment (e.g., Psalm 41:9, Isaiah 53, Zechariah 13:7). The narrative structure heightens the gravity of the moment through:
- Contrasts (faithfulness of Jesus vs. failure of disciples).
- Irony (the betrayal of Jesus with a kiss).
- Dialogue that reveals both divine control and human weakness.
Luke uniquely emphasizes prayer (vv. 39-46), the disciples’ failure, and the compassion of Jesus amidst betrayal and impending death.
Key Themes and Doctrinal Points
1. God’s Sovereignty in Redemption
Despite betrayal, denial, and injustice, God’s redemptive plan unfolds exactly as ordained. Jesus declares, “The Son of Man will go as it has been decreed” (v. 22), affirming that human sinfulness cannot thwart divine providence. Even Satan’s activity (vv. 3, 31) is subordinate to God‘s sovereign purposes.
Doctrinal Emphasis: God is not reactive; His plan for salvation was established before the foundation of the world (Ephesians 1:4-5; Acts 2:23). This affirms the doctrine of providence and divine foreknowledge.
2. Christ as the Passover Lamb
The Last Supper (vv. 14-20) is a pivotal moment in salvation history. Jesus reinterprets the Passover meal, identifying Himself as the true Lamb whose body would be broken and whose blood would be poured out for the forgiveness of sins.
Doctrinal Emphasis: This inaugurates the New Covenant (Jeremiah 31:31-34), replacing the old sacrificial system with the once-for-all sacrifice of Christ (Hebrews 9:12). It is central to evangelical understanding of atonement, substitution, and justification.
3. The Failure of Human Strength
The disciples argue about greatness (v. 24), overestimate their loyalty (vv. 33-34), and fall asleep during prayer (vv. 45-46). Peter’s denial (vv. 54-62) contrasts with his earlier boast. This underscores the insufficiency of human strength apart from grace.
Doctrinal Emphasis: Total depravity and the need for sanctifying grace. True discipleship is not self-generated but Spirit-empowered (John 15:5; Galatians 5:16-17).
4. The Necessity of Prayer and Obedience
Jesus prays fervently in Gethsemane, yielding to the Father’s will (vv. 39-46). His prayer shows both His full humanity and divine submission.
Doctrinal Emphasis: The impeccability and obedience of Christ (Philippians 2:8; Hebrews 5:7-9). Jesus models the dependence believers are to have on the Father through prayer.
5. Spiritual Warfare and Satan’s Influence
Satan enters Judas (v. 3) and seeks to sift Peter (v. 31), showing active spiritual opposition to Christ’s mission and His followers.
Doctrinal Emphasis: The reality of spiritual warfare (Ephesians 6:12). Yet Satan is not ultimate; Jesus prays for Peter’s restoration (v. 32), showing that God’s grace triumphs over satanic attack.
6. Jesus’ Identity and Mission
In the Sanhedrin trial, Jesus affirms His identity as the Son of Man who will sit at the right hand of God (v. 69), a clear reference to Daniel 7:13-14. This bold claim leads to accusations of blasphemy.
Doctrinal Emphasis: Christ’s deity, kingship, and messianic fulfillment. Jesus is not just a moral teacher; He is the divine Son of God, Judge, and Redeemer.
7. The Cost of Discipleship
Luke presents disciples who are confused, fearful, and weak—yet ultimately, most are restored. This passage teaches that following Christ involves suffering, testing, and at times failure, but God’s grace restores.
Doctrinal Emphasis: Perseverance of the saints and the transforming power of grace. True discipleship is costly but sustained by Christ Himself.
Verse-by-Verse Analysis
Luke 22:1-2 – The Plot to Kill Jesus
“Now the Festival of Unleavened Bread, called the Passover, was approaching, and the chief priests and the teachers of the law were looking for some way to get rid of Jesus, for they were afraid of the people.”
Explanation: The religious leaders conspire to kill Jesus during Passover, a time meant to celebrate deliverance. The irony is that the true Passover Lamb is about to be offered (cf. 1 Corinthians 5:7). Their fear of the people shows their political motives rather than a concern for truth.
Doctrine: God’s sovereignty works even through evil intentions (Genesis 50:20; Acts 2:23). Man’s schemes cannot derail God’s redemptive plan.
Application: Believers can trust that God’s purposes will prevail, even in the face of injustice or opposition.
Luke 22:3-6 – Judas Agrees to Betray Jesus
“Then Satan entered Judas… and Judas went to discuss with the chief priests… They were delighted and agreed to give him money.”
Explanation: Satan enters Judas—this doesn’t negate Judas’ responsibility but shows the spiritual battle at play. Judas willingly agrees to betray the sinless Son of God.
Cross-Reference: John 13:2, 27; Zechariah 11:12-13 (prophetic connection to betrayal for silver); James 1:14-15 (temptation leading to sin).
Doctrine: The depravity of man and spiritual warfare are real. Satan is active, but not autonomous. God remains sovereign (Luke 22:22).
Application: Guard your heart. A person can be close to Christ externally (as Judas was), yet far from Him in truth.
Luke 22:14-20 – Institution of the Lord’s Supper
“This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me… This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.”
Explanation: Jesus reinterprets the Passover, instituting the Lord’s Supper as a sign of the New Covenant. The bread represents His body; the cup His blood—poured out for the forgiveness of sins.
Cross-Reference: Jeremiah 31:31-34; Hebrews 9:14-22; Matthew 26:26-29.
Doctrine: This affirms the substitutionary atonement of Christ and the inauguration of the New Covenant.
Application: The Lord’s Supper is not ritual, but remembrance. It draws us to gratitude, repentance, and ongoing communion with Christ.
Luke 22:31-34 – Jesus Predicts Peter’s Denial
“Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift all of you as wheat. But I have prayed for you… And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.”
Explanation: Jesus reveals the spiritual reality behind Peter’s coming failure. Satan has demanded to test the disciples, but Jesus intercedes for Peter’s restoration.
Doctrine: Christ is our intercessor (Romans 8:34; Hebrews 7:25). Even in failure, grace restores.
Application: Do not despair in weakness. Christ‘s prayer sustains believers, and restored people are called to strengthen others.
Luke 22:39-46 – Jesus Prays on the Mount of Olives
“Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.”
Explanation: This is a deeply personal moment in Jesus’ human agony. The “cup” symbolizes divine wrath (Isaiah 51:17; Revelation 14:10). Jesus submits fully to the Father’s will.
Cross-Reference: Philippians 2:8; Hebrews 5:7-9.
Doctrine: Jesus’ perfect obedience as the Second Adam secures our salvation (Romans 5:19). His humanity is real, but His submission is divine.
Application: We are called to surrender our will to God’s, even in suffering. Prayer sustains us in testing.
Luke 22:47-53 – Jesus Is Betrayed and Arrested
“Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?”
Explanation: Betrayal with a kiss—a sign of affection—is a symbol of deep treachery. Jesus’ arrest fulfills God’s plan, not man’s control.
Cross-Reference: Psalm 41:9; Isaiah 53:7; John 18:4-11.
Doctrine: Christ willingly submits to arrest, affirming His role as the Suffering Servant. He is in full control.
Application: When falsely accused or betrayed, remember Christ—who endured for us without sin.
Luke 22:63-71 – Jesus Before the Sanhedrin
“But from now on, the Son of Man will be seated at the right hand of the mighty God.”
Explanation: Jesus quotes from Daniel 7:13 and Psalm 110:1—openly declaring His divine authority. The Sanhedrin understand this claim and accuse Him of blasphemy.
Doctrine: Jesus is not merely claiming to be the Messiah but the divine King who will judge the world. This points to His deity and exaltation.
Application: Boldly confess Christ. His identity is not just theological—it is transformational and eternal.
Theological Implications and Connection to Jesus Christ
Luke 22 is Christ-centered in every way. It reveals:
1. Jesus as the True Passover Lamb
The Passover, once centered on deliverance from Egypt, now finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus‘ sacrificial death (Exodus 12; John 1:29; Revelation 5:9). Christ becomes the substitutionary Lamb whose blood shields from divine judgment.
2. Jesus as Mediator of the New Covenant
As He institutes the Lord’s Supper, Jesus introduces the new and better covenant (Hebrews 8:6). Unlike the old covenant, based on animal blood and law, this one is based on grace and the finished work of Christ.
3. Jesus as the Interceding High Priest
Jesus‘ prayer for Peter (v. 32) shows His role as our Great High Priest, who ever lives to intercede for His people (Hebrews 7:25). Even in Peter’s failure, Christ preserves him.
4. Jesus as the Obedient Son
His prayer in Gethsemane (vv. 39-46) shows Christ as the obedient Son who submits to the Father’s will (Philippians 2:8). This obedience is essential to His role as the Second Adam, succeeding where the first failed.
5. Jesus as the Righteous Sufferer and Future Judge
Jesus remains silent before accusers, fulfilling Isaiah 53:7. Yet He speaks boldly of His future exaltation, where He will reign as Judge and King (Daniel 7:13-14; Acts 7:56).
Connection to God the Father
Luke 22 draws a strong connection to the Father’s role in the redemptive plan:
1. The Father Ordains the Plan of Salvation
Jesus refers to the “will of the Father” in His prayer (v. 42). The cross is not a tragic accident but the outworking of the Father’s redemptive will (Acts 2:23). The Son submits, the Spirit empowers, and the Father plans and sends.
2. The Father’s Presence in Jesus’ Suffering
An angel strengthens Jesus in Gethsemane (v. 43), a sign of divine compassion. The Father does not abandon the Son, even as He prepares to “crush Him” (Isaiah 53:10) for our salvation.
3. The Father’s Authority Recognized
Jesus declares that He will be “seated at the right hand of the mighty God” (v. 69). This reflects His submission to the Father’s authority and the Father’s exaltation of the Son (Philippians 2:9-11).
Connection to the Holy Spirit
Though the Holy Spirit is not directly named in Luke 22, His presence and ministry are foundational to the events and themes of the chapter:
1. Empowerment in Prayer (Luke 22:39-46)
Jesus‘ fervent prayer in Gethsemane reflects a Spirit-filled dependence on the Father. Luke, more than any other Gospel writer, emphasizes prayer as a Spirit-empowered discipline (cf. Luke 3:21-22; 4:1). Jesus, filled with the Spirit (Luke 4:1), models prayer in agony—a reliance that Christians are later commanded to follow (Ephesians 6:18).
Connection: The Spirit empowers believers to submit to God’s will in hardship and to endure trials in faith.
2. Spiritual Warfare and the Spirit’s Restraining Power
Satan seeks to destroy (vv. 3, 31), but he is limited by divine restraint. While Judas yields, Peter is prayed for and later restored—a reflection of the Spirit‘s preserving grace that sustains the elect (John 10:28-29; Romans 8:9-11).
Connection: The Spirit is the one who convicts, preserves, and restores (John 16:8-13). Where Satan tempts, the Spirit empowers.
3. Foreshadowing of Pentecost Power
Though the disciples are weak in Luke 22—failing in courage and prayer—they will later be transformed by the outpouring of the Holy Spirit (Luke 24:49; Acts 1:8). This chapter contrasts the fleshly weakness of the disciples with the Spirit-empowered boldness to come.
Connection: Human strength fails, but the Spirit transforms ordinary followers into courageous witnesses for Christ.
Sermon Outline and Flow
Sermon Title: “From the Table to the Cross: Christ’s Faithfulness Amid Human Failure”
Main Text: Luke 22
I. The Sovereign Plan of Redemption (vv. 1-23)
- Key Truth: God’s redemptive plan unfolds even through human betrayal.
- Illustration: A clockmaker sets every gear in place—God’s timing is precise, even when men think they’re in control.
- Application: Trust God’s plan when life feels out of control.
Transition: From the planning of His death, Jesus prepares His disciples with a sacred meal…
II. The Body and Blood of the New Covenant (vv. 14-20)
- Key Truth: Jesus institutes the Lord’s Supper as a symbol of His sacrificial love.
- Illustration: Like a wedding ring reminds a couple of their covenant, the bread and cup remind us of Christ’s eternal promise.
- Application: Approach the Lord’s Table with reverence, remembering the cost of grace.
Transition: As Jesus prepares to give His life, He also prepares His disciples for battle…
III. The Call to Watch and Pray (vv. 31-46)
- Key Truth: We are weak, but Jesus intercedes and calls us to pray in the Spirit.
- Example: A soldier who falls asleep on watch endangers the entire unit. So too, spiritual slumber invites temptation.
- Application: Cultivate a life of prayer. Don’t trust your strength—depend on Christ.
Transition: As Jesus faces betrayal, He moves with courage toward the will of the Father…
IV. Christ’s Courage in the Face of Betrayal and Injustice (vv. 47-71)
- Key Truth: Jesus endures injustice with divine dignity, submitting to the Father’s will.
- Story: Corrie ten Boom forgave a Nazi guard who had abused her sister. Only by the Spirit could she do that—just as Jesus forgave His enemies.
- Application: When betrayed or falsely accused, respond with grace—not in your own strength, but in Christ’s.
Conclusion:
- Call to Action:
“Not my will, but Yours be done” (Luke 22:42) must become our cry as well.
Illustrations and Examples
1. The Unseen Battle: A Modern Spiritual Parallel
Imagine a soldier in a modern battlefield with all the latest armor but no awareness of the enemy around him. He’s vulnerable not because he lacks equipment, but because he lacks alertness. This mirrors how many Christians live today—equipped with Scripture and truth, but asleep in prayer and unaware of Satan’s schemes.
Tie-In: Like Jesus warned Peter, we must watch and pray lest we fall into temptation.
2. The Forgiveness of the Guilty
A story is told of a woman who forgave the drunk driver who killed her only son. When asked why, she replied, “Because I’ve been forgiven more than I could ever repay.” This echoes Jesus’ mercy toward Judas, Peter, and us.
Tie-In: Luke 22 shows Jesus offering bread even to the one who would betray Him. How much more should we reflect His mercy?
3. The Power of Memory: Communion as a Living Memorial
Just as nations hold solemn ceremonies on memorial days to remember fallen soldiers, the Lord’s Supper is a sacred act of remembrance. But unlike a monument to the dead, this memorial celebrates the risen, living Savior who still offers grace.
Tie-In: Communion reminds us not only of what Christ did, but of what He is doing—interceding, forgiving, and preparing a place for us.
Application for Today’s Christian
Luke 22 is not merely a historical account—it is a living call to follow Christ in a fallen world. The chapter invites deep personal and corporate application in the areas of discipleship, stewardship, and daily faith.
1. Discipleship: Follow Jesus with a Watchful and Prayerful Heart
- Jesus’ command to “watch and pray” (v. 40) remains urgent today.
- Like the disciples, Christians often overestimate their spiritual strength and underestimate the power of temptation.
- Practical Step: Develop a daily discipline of prayer and Scripture meditation, especially in times of stress, conflict, or decision-making.
2. Stewardship: Take the Lord’s Supper Seriously
- Jesus instituted the Lord’s Supper not as a ritual but a reminder of the New Covenant in His blood (vv. 19-20).
- Participation in communion is a stewardship of remembrance, proclaiming the gospel through the bread and the cup.
- Practical Step: Examine your heart regularly before communion. Use it as a time for confession, renewal, and recommitment to Christ.
3. Living Out the Faith: Respond to Betrayal and Opposition with Christlike Grace
- Jesus faced betrayal by a friend, denial by a close follower, and mockery by enemies—yet He remained resolute, truthful, and gracious.
- Christians today face opposition in culture, family, or work. The temptation is to retaliate or withdraw.
- Practical Step: When wronged, respond not with revenge but with prayer, patience, and a testimony of grace (Romans 12:17-21).
4. Dependence on Christ: Don’t Trust in Your Own Strength
- Peter’s failure (vv. 54-62) is a sober reminder of our limits. Yet Jesus prayed for his restoration.
- Practical Step: In seasons of failure, don’t run from God—run to Him. Seek restoration through Christ, who is always interceding for His people.
5. Courage in the Face of Injustice
- Jesus endured illegal trials and beatings with courage and truth.
- Practical Step: Stand for righteousness even when it costs your comfort or reputation. Lean on the Holy Spirit for boldness (Acts 4:31).
Connection to God’s Love
Luke 22 reveals God‘s love in profound and personal ways. It is a chapter saturated in sacrificial love, patient mercy, and redemptive purpose.
1. God’s Love in the Gift of His Son
- The chapter shows Jesus, the beloved Son, voluntarily going to the cross in obedience to the Father.
- The Father gave His Son for us—not because we were worthy, but because He loved us (Romans 5:8).
- Love Revealed: In the Upper Room, Jesus offered the bread and cup to all—even Judas. He offered Himself even to those who would deny Him.
2. God’s Love in Restoration, Not Rejection
- Peter’s denial was severe—but Jesus’ intercession shows God’s desire to restore, not discard.
- “I have prayed for you… and when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers” (v. 32).
- Love Revealed: God’s love is persistent. He doesn’t give up on His children—even when they fall.
3. God’s Love in the New Covenant
- The New Covenant Jesus announces is not based on law-keeping but on grace (Jeremiah 31:31-34).
- His blood is the seal of that covenant—a display of God‘s love poured out for sinners (Luke 22:20).
- Love Revealed: God invites us into a relationship not of fear, but of forgiveness and fellowship.
Broader Biblical Themes
Luke 22 is woven deeply into the grand narrative of Scripture, fulfilling ancient promises and pointing toward the ultimate redemption in Christ.
1. Redemption
- This chapter is the hinge of the redemptive story. Jesus, the Second Adam, obeys where the first failed (Romans 5:19).
- The betrayal, agony, and arrest are not obstacles—they are the pathway to the cross, where redemption is accomplished.
2. Covenant
- The Old Covenant (symbolized in the Passover) gives way to the New Covenant (symbolized in the Lord’s Supper).
- This fulfills God’s promise in Jeremiah 31: a covenant of forgiveness, written on the heart, mediated by the Messiah.
3. Kingdom of God
- Jesus speaks of a coming kingdom: “I will not eat it again until it finds fulfillment in the kingdom of God” (v. 16).
- The cross is not the end—it is the inauguration of a kingdom not of this world (John 18:36), established by the death and resurrection of the King.
4. Creation and Fall
- The weakness of the disciples (as with Adam and Eve) reminds us of humanity’s fallenness.
- Yet in Jesus—the obedient Son—there is a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17), and His submission reverses the curse of Eden.
5. Messiah and Prophecy Fulfilled
- Everything in Luke 22 occurs “as it has been written” (v. 37), fulfilling the Law, the Prophets, and the Psalms (cf. Isaiah 53; Psalm 41:9; Zechariah 13:7).
- This reminds us that Scripture is not fragmented—it’s unified around the person and work of Christ.
Reflection Questions
These questions are designed to deepen personal devotion and promote honest discussion in small groups or teaching settings. They connect the truths of Luke 22 to the heart, mind, and life of every believer.
1. Jesus and the Cross
“Yet not my will, but yours be done.” (Luke 22:42)
- What does Jesus’ prayer in Gethsemane teach us about submitting to the Father’s will, especially in seasons of fear or uncertainty?
- Are there areas in your life where you are wrestling with obedience to God’s will?
2. The Lord’s Supper and Remembering Christ
“Do this in remembrance of me.” (Luke 22:19)
- How do you personally approach the Lord’s Supper? Is it routine or reverent?
- In what ways can you prepare your heart more meaningfully the next time you partake?
3. Betrayal, Denial, and Grace
“But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail.” (Luke 22:32)
- Reflect on a time when you failed spiritually. How did God restore you?
- How does Peter’s restoration give you hope in your walk with Christ?
4. Prayer and Spiritual Vigilance
“Why are you sleeping?… Pray so that you will not fall into temptation.” (Luke 22:46)
- What role does prayer play in your spiritual life right now?
- Are you spiritually awake, or have you grown spiritually drowsy? What would it take to renew your prayer life?
5. Responding to Injustice and Opposition
“Am I leading a rebellion, that you have come with swords and clubs?” (Luke 22:52)
- Have you ever faced unfair treatment because of your faith? How did you respond?
- What can Jesus’ calm, confident response teach us about facing conflict in a godly way?
6. God’s Love and the New Covenant
“This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.” (Luke 22:20)
- How does the New Covenant give you confidence in your relationship with God?
- What does Jesus’ willingness to suffer for you reveal about His love—and how should you respond?
7. Living the Message
- Which part of Luke 22 challenged or convicted you the most?
- What one change will you make this week as a result of what you’ve learned?