Luke 22
New American Bible (Revised Edition)
VII. The Passion Narrative[a]
Chapter 22
The Conspiracy Against Jesus. 1 (A)Now the feast of Unleavened Bread, called the Passover,[b] was drawing near, 2 (B)and the chief priests and the scribes were seeking a way to put him to death, for they were afraid of the people. 3 (C)Then Satan entered into Judas,[c] the one surnamed Iscariot, who was counted among the Twelve,(D) 4 and he went to the chief priests and temple guards to discuss a plan for handing him over to them. 5 They were pleased and agreed to pay him money. 6 He accepted their offer and sought a favorable opportunity to hand him over to them in the absence of a crowd.
Preparations for the Passover.(E) 7 When the day of the feast of Unleavened Bread arrived, the day for sacrificing the Passover lamb,(F) 8 he sent out Peter and John, instructing them, “Go and make preparations for us to eat the Passover.” 9 They asked him, “Where do you want us to make the preparations?” 10 And he answered them, “When you go into the city, a man will meet you carrying a jar of water.[d] Follow him into the house that he enters 11 and say to the master of the house, ‘The teacher says to you, “Where is the guest room where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?”’ 12 He will show you a large upper room that is furnished. Make the preparations there.” 13 Then they went off and found everything exactly as he had told them, and there they prepared the Passover.(G)
The Last Supper.(H) 14 When the hour came, he took his place at table with the apostles. 15 He said to them, “I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover[e] with you before I suffer, 16 for, I tell you, I shall not eat it [again] until there is fulfillment in the kingdom of God.”(I) 17 Then he took a cup,[f] gave thanks, and said, “Take this and share it among yourselves; 18 for I tell you [that] from this time on I shall not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.” 19 [g](J)Then he took the bread, said the blessing, broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body, which will be given for you; do this in memory of me.” 20 And likewise the cup after they had eaten, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which will be shed for you.(K)
The Betrayal Foretold. 21 “And yet behold, the hand of the one who is to betray me is with me on the table; 22 for the Son of Man indeed goes as it has been determined; but woe to that man by whom he is betrayed.” 23 And they began to debate among themselves who among them would do such a deed.
The Role of the Disciples.(L) 24 [h]Then an argument broke out among them(M) about which of them should be regarded as the greatest. 25 [i](N)He said to them, “The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them and those in authority over them are addressed as ‘Benefactors’; 26 but among you it shall not be so. Rather, let the greatest among you be as the youngest, and the leader as the servant.(O) 27 For who is greater: the one seated at table or the one who serves? Is it not the one seated at table? I am among you as the one who serves. 28 It is you who have stood by me in my trials; 29 and I confer a kingdom on you, just as my Father has conferred one on me,(P) 30 that you may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom; and you will sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel.(Q)
Peter’s Denial Foretold.(R) 31 [j]“Simon, Simon, behold Satan has demanded to sift all of you[k] like wheat,(S) 32 but I have prayed that your own faith may not fail; and once you have turned back, you must strengthen your brothers.” 33 He said to him, “Lord, I am prepared to go to prison and to die with you.”(T) 34 But he replied, “I tell you, Peter, before the cock crows this day, you will deny three times that you know me.”(U)
Instructions for the Time of Crisis. 35 (V)He said to them, “When I sent you forth without a money bag or a sack or sandals, were you in need of anything?” “No, nothing,” they replied. 36 (W)He said to them,[l] “But now one who has a money bag should take it, and likewise a sack, and one who does not have a sword should sell his cloak and buy one. 37 For I tell you that this scripture must be fulfilled in me, namely, ‘He was counted among the wicked’; and indeed what is written about me is coming to fulfillment.”(X) 38 Then they said, “Lord, look, there are two swords here.” But he replied, “It is enough!”[m]
The Agony in the Garden.(Y) 39 Then going out he went, as was his custom, to the Mount of Olives, and the disciples followed him. 40 When he arrived at the place he said to them, “Pray that you may not undergo the test.”(Z) 41 After withdrawing about a stone’s throw from them and kneeling, he prayed,(AA) 42 saying, “Father, if you are willing, take this cup away from me; still, not my will but yours be done.”(AB) [n] [43 And to strengthen him an angel from heaven appeared to him. 44 He was in such agony and he prayed so fervently that his sweat became like drops of blood falling on the ground.] 45 When he rose from prayer and returned to his disciples, he found them sleeping from grief. 46 He said to them, “Why are you sleeping? Get up and pray that you may not undergo the test.”(AC)
The Betrayal and Arrest of Jesus.(AD) 47 While he was still speaking, a crowd approached and in front was one of the Twelve, a man named Judas. He went up to Jesus to kiss him. 48 Jesus said to him, “Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?” 49 His disciples realized what was about to happen, and they asked, “Lord, shall we strike with a sword?”(AE) 50 And one of them struck the high priest’s servant and cut off his right ear.(AF) 51 [o]But Jesus said in reply, “Stop, no more of this!” Then he touched the servant’s ear and healed him. 52 And Jesus said to the chief priests and temple guards and elders who had come for him, “Have you come out as against a robber, with swords and clubs?(AG) 53 Day after day I was with you in the temple area, and you did not seize me; but this is your hour, the time for the power of darkness.”(AH)
Peter’s Denial of Jesus. 54 (AI)After arresting him they led him away and took him into the house of the high priest; Peter was following at a distance.(AJ) 55 They lit a fire in the middle of the courtyard and sat around it, and Peter sat down with them. 56 When a maid saw him seated in the light, she looked intently at him and said, “This man too was with him.” 57 But he denied it saying, “Woman, I do not know him.” 58 A short while later someone else saw him and said, “You too are one of them”; but Peter answered, “My friend, I am not.” 59 About an hour later, still another insisted, “Assuredly, this man too was with him, for he also is a Galilean.” 60 But Peter said, “My friend, I do not know what you are talking about.” Just as he was saying this, the cock crowed, 61 and the Lord turned and looked at Peter;[p] and Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how he had said to him, “Before the cock crows today, you will deny me three times.”(AK) 62 He went out and began to weep bitterly. 63 (AL)The men who held Jesus in custody were ridiculing and beating him. 64 They blindfolded him and questioned him, saying, “Prophesy! Who is it that struck you?” 65 And they reviled him in saying many other things against him.
Jesus Before the Sanhedrin.[q] 66 (AM)When day came the council of elders of the people met, both chief priests and scribes,(AN) and they brought him before their Sanhedrin.[r] 67 They said, “If you are the Messiah, tell us,” but he replied to them, “If I tell you, you will not believe,(AO) 68 and if I question, you will not respond. 69 But from this time on the Son of Man will be seated at the right hand of the power of God.”(AP) 70 They all asked, “Are you then the Son of God?” He replied to them, “You say that I am.” 71 Then they said, “What further need have we for testimony? We have heard it from his own mouth.”
Footnotes
- 22:1–23:56a The passion narrative. Luke is still dependent upon Mark for the composition of the passion narrative but has incorporated much of his own special tradition into the narrative. Among the distinctive sections in Luke are: (1) the tradition of the institution of the Eucharist (Lk 22:15–20); (2) Jesus’ farewell discourse (Lk 22:21–38); (3) the mistreatment and interrogation of Jesus (Lk 22:63–71); (4) Jesus before Herod and his second appearance before Pilate (Lk 23:6–16); (5) words addressed to the women followers on the way to the crucifixion (Lk 23:27–32); (6) words to the penitent thief (Lk 23:39–41); (7) the death of Jesus (Lk 23:46, 47b–49). Luke stresses the innocence of Jesus (Lk 23:4, 14–15, 22) who is the victim of the powers of evil (Lk 22:3, 31, 53) and who goes to his death in fulfillment of his Father’s will (Lk 22:42, 46). Throughout the narrative Luke emphasizes the mercy, compassion, and healing power of Jesus (Lk 22:51; 23:43) who does not go to death lonely and deserted, but is accompanied by others who follow him on the way of the cross (Lk 23:26–31, 49).
- 22:1 Feast of Unleavened Bread, called the Passover: see note on Mk 14:1.
- 22:3 Satan entered into Judas: see note on Lk 4:13.
- 22:10 A man will meet you carrying a jar of water: see note on Mk 14:13.
- 22:15 This Passover: Luke clearly identifies this last supper of Jesus with the apostles as a Passover meal that commemorated the deliverance of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. Jesus reinterprets the significance of the Passover by setting it in the context of the kingdom of God (Lk 22:16). The “deliverance” associated with the Passover finds its new meaning in the blood that will be shed (Lk 22:20).
- 22:17 Because of a textual problem in Lk 22:19–20 some commentators interpret this cup as the eucharistic cup.
- 22:19c–20 Which will be given…do this in memory of me: these words are omitted in some important Western text manuscripts and a few Syriac manuscripts. Other ancient text types, including the oldest papyrus manuscript of Luke dating from the late second or early third century, contain the longer reading presented here. The Lucan account of the words of institution of the Eucharist bears a close resemblance to the words of institution in the Pauline tradition (see 1 Cor 11:23–26). See also notes on Mt 26:26–29; 26:27–28; and Mk 14:22–24.
- 22:24–38 The Gospel of Luke presents a brief farewell discourse of Jesus; compare the lengthy farewell discourses and prayer in Jn 13–17.
- 22:25 ‘Benefactors’: this word occurs as a title of rulers in the Hellenistic world.
- 22:31–32 Jesus’ prayer for Simon’s faith and the commission to strengthen his brothers anticipates the post-resurrectional prominence of Peter in the first half of Acts, where he appears as the spokesman for the Christian community and the one who begins the mission to the Gentiles (Acts 10–11).
- 22:31 All of you: literally, “you.” The translation reflects the meaning of the Greek text that uses a second person plural pronoun here.
- 22:36 In contrast to the ministry of the Twelve and of the seventy-two during the period of Jesus (Lk 9:3; 10:4), in the future period of the church the missionaries must be prepared for the opposition they will face in a world hostile to their preaching.
- 22:38 It is enough!: the farewell discourse ends abruptly with these words of Jesus spoken to the disciples when they take literally what was intended as figurative language about being prepared to face the world’s hostility.
- 22:43–44 These verses, though very ancient, were probably not part of the original text of Luke. They are absent from the oldest papyrus manuscripts of Luke and from manuscripts of wide geographical distribution.
- 22:51 And healed him: only Luke recounts this healing of the injured servant.
- 22:61 Only Luke recounts that the Lord turned and looked at Peter. This look of Jesus leads to Peter’s weeping bitterly over his denial (Lk 22:62).
- 22:66–71 Luke recounts one daytime trial of Jesus (Lk 22:66–71) and hints at some type of preliminary nighttime investigation (Lk 22:54–65). Mark (and Matthew who follows Mark) has transferred incidents of this day into the nighttime interrogation with the result that there appear to be two Sanhedrin trials of Jesus in Mark (and Matthew); see note on Mk 14:53.
- 22:66 Sanhedrin: the word is a Hebraized form of a Greek word meaning a “council,” and refers to the elders, chief priests, and scribes who met under the high priest’s leadership to decide religious and legal questions that did not pertain to Rome’s interests. Jewish sources are not clear on the competence of the Sanhedrin to sentence and to execute during this period.
Luke 22
New English Translation
Judas’ Decision to Betray Jesus
22 Now the Feast of Unleavened Bread,[a] which is called the Passover, was approaching. 2 The[b] chief priests and the experts in the law[c] were trying to find some way[d] to execute[e] Jesus,[f] for they were afraid of the people.[g]
3 Then[h] Satan[i] entered Judas, the one called Iscariot, who was one of the twelve.[j] 4 He went away and discussed with the chief priests and officers of the temple guard[k] how he might[l] betray Jesus,[m] handing him over to them.[n] 5 They[o] were delighted[p] and arranged to give him money.[q] 6 So[r] Judas[s] agreed and began looking for an opportunity to betray Jesus[t] when no crowd was present.[u]
The Passover
7 Then the day for the feast[v] of Unleavened Bread came, on which the Passover lamb had to be sacrificed.[w] 8 Jesus[x] sent Peter and John, saying, “Go and prepare the Passover[y] for us to eat.”[z] 9 They[aa] said to him, “Where do you want us to prepare[ab] it?” 10 He said to them, “Listen,[ac] when you have entered the city, a man carrying a jar of water[ad] will meet you.[ae] Follow him into the house that he enters, 11 and tell the owner of the house,[af] ‘The Teacher says to you, “Where is the guest room where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?”’ 12 Then he will show you a large furnished room upstairs. Make preparations there.” 13 So[ag] they went and found things[ah] just as he had told them,[ai] and they prepared the Passover.
The Lord’s Supper
14 Now[aj] when the hour came, Jesus[ak] took his place at the table[al] and the apostles joined[am] him. 15 And he said to them, “I have earnestly desired[an] to eat this Passover with you before I suffer. 16 For I tell you, I will not eat it again[ao] until it is fulfilled[ap] in the kingdom of God.”[aq] 17 Then[ar] he took a cup,[as] and after giving thanks he said, “Take this and divide it among yourselves. 18 For I tell you that from now on I will not drink of the fruit[at] of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.”[au] 19 Then[av] he took bread, and after giving thanks he broke it and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body[aw] which is given for you.[ax] Do this in remembrance of me.” 20 And in the same way he took[ay] the cup after they had eaten,[az] saying, “This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant[ba] in my blood.
A Final Discourse
21 “But look, the hand of the one who betrays[bb] me is with me on the table.[bc] 22 For the Son of Man is to go just as it has been determined,[bd] but woe to that man by whom he is betrayed!” 23 So[be] they began to question one another as to which of them it could possibly be who would do this.
24 A dispute also started[bf] among them over which of them was to be regarded as the greatest.[bg] 25 So[bh] Jesus[bi] said to them, “The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them, and those in authority over them are called ‘benefactors.’[bj] 26 Not so with you;[bk] instead the one who is greatest among you must become like the youngest, and the leader[bl] like the one who serves.[bm] 27 For who is greater, the one who is seated at the table,[bn] or the one who serves? Is it not[bo] the one who is seated at the table? But I am among you as one[bp] who serves.
28 “You are the ones who have remained[bq] with me in my trials. 29 Thus[br] I grant[bs] to you a kingdom,[bt] just as my Father granted to me, 30 that you may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom, and you will sit[bu] on thrones judging[bv] the twelve tribes of Israel.
31 “Simon,[bw] Simon, pay attention![bx] Satan has demanded to have you all,[by] to sift you like wheat,[bz] 32 but I have prayed for you, Simon,[ca] that your faith may not fail.[cb] When[cc] you have turned back,[cd] strengthen[ce] your brothers.” 33 But Peter[cf] said to him, “Lord, I am ready to go with you both to prison and to death!”[cg] 34 Jesus replied,[ch] “I tell you, Peter, the rooster will not crow[ci] today until you have denied[cj] three times that you know me.”
35 Then[ck] Jesus[cl] said to them, “When I sent you out with no money bag,[cm] or traveler’s bag,[cn] or sandals, you didn’t lack[co] anything, did you?” They replied,[cp] “Nothing.” 36 He said to them, “But now, the one who[cq] has a money bag must take it, and likewise a traveler’s bag[cr] too. And the one who has no sword must sell his cloak and buy one. 37 For I tell you that this scripture must be[cs] fulfilled in me, ‘And he was counted with the transgressors.’[ct] For what is written about me is being fulfilled.”[cu] 38 So[cv] they said, “Look, Lord, here are two swords.”[cw] Then he told them, “It is enough.”[cx]
On the Mount of Olives
39 Then[cy] Jesus[cz] went out and made his way,[da] as he customarily did, to the Mount of Olives,[db] and the disciples followed him. 40 When he came to the place,[dc] he said to them, “Pray that you will not fall into temptation.”[dd] 41 He went away from them about a stone’s throw, knelt down, and prayed, 42 “Father, if you are willing, take[de] this cup[df] away from me. Yet not my will but yours[dg] be done.” 43 [Then an angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him. 44 And in his anguish[dh] he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground.][di] 45 When[dj] he got up from prayer, he came to the disciples and found them sleeping, exhausted[dk] from grief. 46 So[dl] he said to them, “Why are you sleeping? Get up and pray that you will not fall into temptation!”[dm]
Betrayal and Arrest
47 While he was still speaking, suddenly a crowd appeared,[dn] and the man named Judas, one of the twelve, was leading them. He walked up[do] to Jesus to kiss him.[dp] 48 But Jesus said to him, “Judas, would you betray the Son of Man with a kiss?”[dq] 49 When[dr] those who were around him saw what was about to happen, they said, “Lord, should[ds] we use our swords?”[dt] 50 Then[du] one of them[dv] struck the high priest’s slave,[dw] cutting off his right ear. 51 But Jesus said,[dx] “Enough of this!” And he touched the man’s[dy] ear and healed[dz] him. 52 Then[ea] Jesus said to the chief priests, the officers of the temple guard,[eb] and the elders who had come out to get him, “Have you come out with swords and clubs like you would against an outlaw?[ec] 53 Day after day when I was with you in the temple courts,[ed] you did not arrest me.[ee] But this is your hour,[ef] and that of the power[eg] of darkness!”
Jesus’ Condemnation and Peter’s Denials
54 Then[eh] they arrested[ei] Jesus,[ej] led him away, and brought him into the high priest’s house.[ek] But Peter was following at a distance. 55 When they had made a fire in the middle of the courtyard and sat down together, Peter sat down among them. 56 Then a slave girl,[el] seeing him as he sat in the firelight, stared at him and said, “This man was with him too!” 57 But Peter[em] denied it: “Woman,[en] I don’t know[eo] him!” 58 Then[ep] a little later someone else[eq] saw him and said, “You are one of them too.” But Peter said, “Man,[er] I am not!” 59 And after about an hour still another insisted,[es] “Certainly this man was with him, because he too is a Galilean.”[et] 60 But Peter said, “Man, I don’t know what you’re talking about!” At that moment,[eu] while he was still speaking, a rooster crowed.[ev] 61 Then[ew] the Lord turned and looked straight at Peter, and Peter remembered the word of the Lord,[ex] how he had said to him, “Before a rooster crows today, you will deny me three times.” 62 And he went outside and wept bitterly.[ey]
63 Now[ez] the men who were holding Jesus[fa] under guard began to mock him and beat him. 64 They[fb] blindfolded him and asked him repeatedly,[fc] “Prophesy! Who hit you?”[fd] 65 They also said many other things against him, reviling[fe] him.
66 When day came, the council of the elders of the people gathered together, both the chief priests and the experts in the law.[ff] Then[fg] they led Jesus[fh] away to their council[fi] 67 and said, “If[fj] you are the Christ,[fk] tell us.” But he said to them, “If[fl] I tell you, you will not[fm] believe, 68 and if[fn] I ask you, you will not[fo] answer. 69 But from now on[fp] the Son of Man will be seated at the right hand[fq] of the power[fr] of God.” 70 So[fs] they all said, “Are you the Son of God,[ft] then?” He answered[fu] them, “You say[fv] that I am.” 71 Then[fw] they said, “Why do we need further testimony? We have heard it ourselves[fx] from his own lips!”[fy]
Footnotes
- Luke 22:1 sn The Feast of Unleavened Bread was a week long celebration that followed the day of Passover, so one name was used for both feasts (Exod 12:1-20; 23:15; 34:18; Deut 16:1-8).
- Luke 22:2 tn Grk “And the.” Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style.
- Luke 22:2 tn Or “and the scribes.” See the note on the phrase “experts in the law” in 5:21.
- Luke 22:2 tn Grk “were seeking how.”
- Luke 22:2 tn The Greek verb here means “to get rid of by execution” (BDAG 64 s.v. ἀναιρέω 2; cf. also L&N 20.71, which states, “to get rid of someone by execution, often with legal or quasi-legal procedures”).
- Luke 22:2 tn Grk “him”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.
- Luke 22:2 sn The suggestion here is that Jesus was too popular to openly arrest him. The verb were trying is imperfect. It suggests, in this context, that they were always considering the opportunities.
- Luke 22:3 tn Here δέ (de) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.
- Luke 22:3 sn The cross is portrayed as part of the cosmic battle between Satan and God; see Luke 4:1-13; 11:14-23.
- Luke 22:3 tn Grk “Iscariot, being of the number of the twelve.”
- Luke 22:4 tn The full title στρατηγὸς τοῦ ἱεροῦ (stratēgos tou hierou; “officer of the temple” or “captain of the temple guard”) is sometimes shortened to στρατηγός as here (L&N 37.91).
- Luke 22:4 tn Luke uses this frequent indirect question to make his point (BDF §267.2).
- Luke 22:4 tn Grk “him”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.
- Luke 22:4 tn Grk “how he might hand him over to them,” in the sense of “betray him.”
- Luke 22:5 tn Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style.
- Luke 22:5 sn The leaders were delighted when Judas contacted them about betraying Jesus, because it gave them the opportunity they had been looking for, and they could later claim that Jesus had been betrayed by one of his own disciples.
- Luke 22:5 sn Matt 26:15 states the amount of money they gave Judas was thirty pieces of silver (see also Matt 27:3-4; Zech 11:12-13).
- Luke 22:6 tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “so” to indicate the implied result of the arrangement worked out in the preceding verse.
- Luke 22:6 tn Grk “he”; the referent (Judas) has been specified in the translation for clarity.
- Luke 22:6 tn Grk “betray him to them”; the referent of the first pronoun (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.
- Luke 22:6 tn Grk “apart from the crowd.”sn The leaders wanted to do this quietly, when no crowd was present, so no public uproar would result (cf. v. 21:38; 22:2).
- Luke 22:7 tn The words “for the feast” are not in the Greek text, but have been supplied for clarity.
- Luke 22:7 sn Generally the feast of Unleavened Bread would refer to Nisan 15 (Friday), but the following reference to the sacrifice of the Passover lamb indicates that Nisan 14 (Thursday) was what Luke had in mind (Nisan = March 27 to April 25). The celebration of the Feast of Unleavened Bread lasted eight days, beginning with the Passover meal. The celebrations were so close together that at times the names of both were used interchangeably.
- Luke 22:8 tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.
- Luke 22:8 sn This required getting a suitable lamb and finding lodging in Jerusalem where the meal could be eaten. The population of the city swelled during the feast, so lodging could be difficult to find. The Passover was celebrated each year in commemoration of the Israelites’ deliverance from Egypt; thus it was a feast celebrating redemption (see Exod 12). The Passover lamb was roasted and eaten after sunset in a family group of at least ten people (m. Pesahim 7.13). People ate the meal while reclining (see the note on table in 22:14). It included, besides the lamb, unleavened bread and bitter herbs as a reminder of Israel’s bitter affliction at the hands of the Egyptians. Four cups of wine mixed with water were also used for the meal. For a further description of the meal and the significance of the wine cups, see E. Ferguson, Backgrounds of Early Christianity, 523-24.
- Luke 22:8 tn Grk “for us, so that we may eat.”
- Luke 22:9 tn Here δέ (de) has not been translated.
- Luke 22:9 tn In the Greek text this a deliberative subjunctive.
- Luke 22:10 tn Grk “behold.”
- Luke 22:10 sn Since women usually carried these jars, it would have been no problem for Peter and John to recognize the man Jesus was referring to.
- Luke 22:10 sn Jesus is portrayed throughout Luke 22-23 as very aware of what will happen, almost directing events. Here this is indicated by his prediction that a man carrying a jar of water will meet you.
- Luke 22:11 tn Grk “to the master of the household,” referring to one who owns and manages the household, including family, servants, and slaves (L&N 57.14).
- Luke 22:13 tn Here δέ (de) has been translated as “so” to indicate the implied result of Jesus’ instructions.
- Luke 22:13 tn The word “things” is not in the Greek text, but is implied. Direct objects were frequently omitted in Greek when clear from the context.
- Luke 22:13 sn The author’s note that the disciples found things just as he had told them shows that Jesus’ word could be trusted.
- Luke 22:14 tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “now” to indicate the transition to a new topic.
- Luke 22:14 tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.
- Luke 22:14 tn Grk “reclined at table,” as 1st century middle eastern meals were not eaten while sitting at a table, but while reclining on one’s side on the floor with the head closest to the low table and the feet farthest away.
- Luke 22:14 tn Grk “the apostles with him.”
- Luke 22:15 tn This phrase parallels a Hebrew infinitive absolute and serves to underline Jesus’ enthusiasm for holding this meal (BDF §198.6).
- Luke 22:16 tn Although the word “again” is not in the Greek text, it is supplied to indicate that Jesus did indeed partake of this Passover meal, as statements in v. 18 suggest (“from now on”). For more complete discussion see D. L. Bock, Luke (BECNT), 2:1720.
- Luke 22:16 sn Jesus looked to a celebration in the kingdom to come when the Passover is fulfilled. This reference could well suggest that some type of commemorative sacrifice and meal will be celebrated then, as the antecedent is the Passover sacrifice. The reference is not to the Lord’s supper as some argue, but the Passover.
- Luke 22:16 sn The kingdom of God here refers to the kingdom in all its power. See Luke 17:20-37.
- Luke 22:17 tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.
- Luke 22:17 sn Then he took a cup. Only Luke mentions two cups at this meal; the other synoptic gospels (Matt, Mark) mention only one. This is the first of the two. It probably refers to the first cup in the traditional Passover meal, which today has four cups (although it is debated whether the fourth cup was used in the 1st century).
- Luke 22:18 tn Grk “the produce” (“the produce of the vine” is a figurative expression for wine).
- Luke 22:18 sn Until the kingdom of God comes is a reference to the kingdom in all its power. See Luke 17:20-37. Jesus awaits celebration with the arrival of full kingdom blessing.
- Luke 22:19 tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.
- Luke 22:19 tc Some significant Western witnesses (D it) lack the words from this point to the end of v. 20. However, the authenticity of these verses is very likely. It is found in a variety of witnesses that represent a broad geographical base (P75 א A B C L Tvid W Δ Θ Ψ ƒ1,13 M al co), rendering the rise of the shorter reading much easier of explanation than the reverse. Further, the inclusion of the second cup is the harder reading, since it differs from Matt 26:26-29 and Mark 14:22-25. Further discussion of this complicated problem (the most difficult in Luke) can be found in TCGNT 148-50.
- Luke 22:19 sn The language of the phrase given for you alludes to Christ’s death in our place. It is a powerful substitutionary image of what he did for us.
- Luke 22:20 tn The words “he took” are not in the Greek text at this point, but are an understood repetition from v. 19.
- Luke 22:20 tn The phrase “after they had eaten” translates the temporal infinitive construction μετὰ τὸ δειπνῆσαι (meta to deipnēsai), where the verb δειπνέω (deipneō) means “to eat a meal” or “to have a meal.”
- Luke 22:20 sn Jesus’ death established the forgiveness promised in the new covenant of Jer 31:31. Jesus is reinterpreting the symbolism of the Passover meal, indicating the presence of a new era.
- Luke 22:21 sn The one who betrays me. Jesus knows about Judas and what he has done.
- Luke 22:21 sn The point of Jesus’ comment here is not to identify the specific individual per se, but to indicate that it is one who was close to him—somebody whom no one would suspect. His comment serves to heighten the treachery of Judas’ betrayal.
- Luke 22:22 sn Jesus’ death has been determined as a part of God’s plan (Acts 2:22-24).
- Luke 22:23 tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “so” to indicate the implied result of Jesus’ comments: The disciples begin wondering who would betray him.
- Luke 22:24 tn Or “happened.”
- Luke 22:24 tn Though the term μείζων (meizōn) here is comparative in form, it is superlative in sense (BDF §244).
- Luke 22:25 tn Here δέ (de) has been translated as “so” to indicate the implied result of the dispute among the apostles.
- Luke 22:25 tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.
- Luke 22:25 sn The title ‘benefactor,’ highlighting grace and meaning something like “helper of the people,” was even given to tyrants (2 Macc 4:2; 3 Macc 3:19; Josephus, J. W. 3.9.8 [3.459]).
- Luke 22:26 tn Grk “But you are not thus.”
- Luke 22:26 tn Or “the ruler.”
- Luke 22:26 sn And the leader like the one who serves. Leadership was not to be a matter of privilege and special status, but of service. All social status is leveled out by these remarks. Jesus himself is the prime example of the servant-leader.
- Luke 22:27 tn Grk “who reclines at table,” as 1st century middle eastern meals were not eaten while sitting at a table, but while reclining on one’s side on the floor with the head closest to the low table and the feet farthest away.
- Luke 22:27 tn The interrogative particle used here in the Greek text (οὐχί, ouchi) expects a positive reply.
- Luke 22:27 sn Jesus’ example of humble service, as one who serves, shows that the standard for a disciple is different from that of the world. For an example see John 13:1-17.
- Luke 22:28 tn Or “continued” (L&N 34.3). Jesus acknowledges the disciples’ faithfulness.
- Luke 22:29 tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “thus” to indicate the implied result of the disciples’ perseverance with Jesus.
- Luke 22:29 sn With the statement “I grant to you a kingdom” Jesus gave the disciples authority over the kingdom, as God had given him such authority. The present tense looks at authority given presently, though the major manifestation of its presence is yet to come as the next verse shows.
- Luke 22:29 tn Or “I give you the right to rule” (cf. CEV). For this translation of διατίθεμαι βασιλείαν (diatithemai basileian) see L&N 37.105.
- Luke 22:30 tn This verb is future indicative, and thus not subordinate to “grant” (διατίθεμαι, diatithemai) as part of the result clause beginning with ἵνα ἔσθητε (hina esthēte) at the beginning of v. 30. It is better understood as a predictive future.
- Luke 22:30 sn The statement you will sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel looks at the future authority the Twelve will have when Jesus returns. They will share in Israel’s judgment.
- Luke 22:31 tc The majority of mss (א A D W Θ Ψ ƒ1,13 M as well as several versional witnesses) begin this verse with an introductory comment, “and the Lord said,” indicating a change in the subject of discussion. But this is apparently a reading motivated by the need for clarity. Some of the best witnesses, along with a few others (P75 B L T 1241 2542c sys co), do not contain these words. The abrupt shift is the more difficult reading and thus more likely to be autographic.
- Luke 22:31 tn Grk “behold” (for “pay attention” see L&N 91.13).
- Luke 22:31 sn This pronoun is plural in the Greek text, so it refers to all the disciples of which Peter is the representative.
- Luke 22:31 sn Satan has demanded permission to put them to the test. The idiom “sift (someone) like wheat” is similar to the English idiom “to pick (someone) apart.” The pronoun you is implied.
- Luke 22:32 sn Here and in the remainder of the verse the second person pronouns are singular, so only Peter is in view. The name “Simon” has been supplied as a form of direct address to make this clear in English.
- Luke 22:32 sn That your faith may not fail. Note that Peter’s denials are pictured here as lapses, not as a total absence of faith.
- Luke 22:32 tn Grk “And when.” Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style.
- Luke 22:32 tn Or “turned around.”
- Luke 22:32 sn Strengthen your brothers refers to Peter helping to strengthen their faith. Jesus quite graciously restores Peter “in advance,” even with the knowledge of his approaching denials.
- Luke 22:33 tn Grk “he”; the referent (Peter) has been specified in the translation for clarity.
- Luke 22:33 sn The confidence Peter has in private (Lord, I am ready…) will wilt under the pressure of the public eye.
- Luke 22:34 tn Grk “he said”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.
- Luke 22:34 sn That is, Peter’s denials will happen before the sun rises.
- Luke 22:34 sn Once again, Jesus is quite aware that Peter will deny him. Peter, however, is too nonchalant about the possibility of stumbling.
- Luke 22:35 tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.
- Luke 22:35 tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.
- Luke 22:35 tn Traditionally, “purse” (likewise in v. 36).
- Luke 22:35 tn Or possibly “beggar’s bag” (L&N 6.145).
- Luke 22:35 sn This refers back to 9:3 and 10:3-4. The Greek construction anticipates a negative reply which is indicated in the translation by the ‘tag’ at the end, “did you?” Nothing was lacking.
- Luke 22:35 tn Grk “said.”
- Luke 22:36 tn The syntax of this verse is disputed, resulting in various translations. The major options are either (1) that reflected in the translation or (2) that those who have a money bag and traveler’s bag should get a sword, just as those who do not have these items should sell their cloak to buy a sword. The point of all the options is that things have changed and one now needs full provisions. Opposition will come. But “sword” is a figure for preparing to fight. See Luke 22:50-51.
- Luke 22:36 tn Or possibly “beggar’s bag” (L&N 6.145).
- Luke 22:37 sn This scripture must be fulfilled in me. The statement again reflects the divine necessity of God’s plan. See 4:43-44.
- Luke 22:37 tn Or “with the lawless.” sn This is a quotation from Isa 53:12. It highlights a theme of Luke 22-23. Though completely innocent, Jesus dies as if he were a criminal.
- Luke 22:37 tn Grk “is having its fulfillment.”
- Luke 22:38 tn Here δέ (de) has been translated as “so” to indicate the implied result of Jesus’ comments about obtaining swords.
- Luke 22:38 sn Here are two swords. The disciples mistakenly took Jesus to mean that they should prepare for armed resistance, something he will have to correct in 22:50-51.
- Luke 22:38 sn It is enough. The disciples’ misunderstanding caused Jesus to terminate the discussion.
- Luke 22:39 tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.
- Luke 22:39 tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.
- Luke 22:39 tn Grk “went.”
- Luke 22:39 sn See the note on the Mount of Olives in Luke 19:29.
- Luke 22:40 sn Luke does not mention Gethsemane by name, but calls it simply the place.
- Luke 22:40 sn Jesus’ instructions to pray not to fall into temptation is an allusion to Luke 22:28-38, especially 22:31. The temptation is Satan’s challenge to them to defect, like what happened to Judas and what will happen to Peter.
- Luke 22:42 tn Luke’s term παρένεγκε is not as exact as the one in Matt 26:39. Luke’s means “take away” (BDAG 772 s.v. παρένεγκε 2.c) while Matthew’s means “take away without touching,” suggesting an alteration (if possible) in God’s plan. For further discussion see D. L. Bock, Luke (BECNT), 2:1759-60.
- Luke 22:42 sn This cup alludes to the wrath of God that Jesus would experience (in the form of suffering and death) for us. See Pss 11:6; 75:8-9; Isa 51:17, 19, 22 for this figure.
- Luke 22:42 sn With the statement “Not my will but yours be done” Jesus submitted fully to God’s will.
- Luke 22:44 tn Grk “And being in anguish.”
- Luke 22:44 tc Several significant Greek mss (P75 א1 A B N T W 579 1071*) along with diverse and widespread versional witnesses lack 22:43-44. In addition, the verses are placed after Matt 26:39 by ƒ13. Floating texts typically suggest both spuriousness and early scribal impulses to regard the verses as historically authentic. These verses are included in א*,2 D L Θ Ψ 0171 ƒ1 M lat Ju Ir Hipp Eus. However, a number of mss mark the text with an asterisk or obelisk, indicating the scribe’s assessment of the verses as inauthentic. At the same time, these verses generally fit Luke’s style. Arguments can be given on both sides about whether scribes would tend to include or omit such comments about Jesus’ humanity and an angel’s help. But even if the verses are not literarily authentic, they are probably historically authentic. This is due to the fact that this text was well known in several different locales from a very early period. Since there are no synoptic parallels to this account and since there is no obvious reason for adding these words here, it is very likely that such verses recount a part of the actual suffering of our Lord. Nevertheless, because of the serious doubts as to these verses’ authenticity, they have been put in brackets. For an important discussion of this problem, see B. D. Ehrman and M. A. Plunkett, “The Angel and the Agony: The Textual Problem of Luke 22:43-44, ” CBQ 45 (1983): 401-16.sn Angelic aid is noted elsewhere in the gospels: Matt 4:11 = Mark 1:13.
- Luke 22:45 tn Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style.
- Luke 22:45 tn Grk “from grief.” The word “exhausted” is not in the Greek text, but is implied; the disciples have fallen asleep from mental and emotional exhaustion resulting from their distress (see L&N 25.273; cf. TEV, NIV, NLT).
- Luke 22:46 tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “so” to indicate the implied result of Jesus finding them asleep.
- Luke 22:46 sn Jesus calls the disciples again to prayerful watchfulness with the words “Get up and pray” (see 22:40). The time is full of danger (22:53).
- Luke 22:47 tn Grk “While he was still speaking, behold, a crowd, and the one called Judas…was leading them.” The abrupt appearance of the crowd on the scene is indicated in the translation by “suddenly” and “appeared.”
- Luke 22:47 tn Grk “drew near.”
- Luke 22:47 tc Many mss (D Θ ƒ13 700 pm as well as several versional mss) add here, “for this is the sign he gave to them: Whoever I kiss is [the one].” This addition is almost certainly not original, since most of the significant mss lack it. It may be a copyist’s attempt to clarify the text, or the accidental inclusion of a marginal gloss.
- Luke 22:48 sn Jesus’ comment about betraying the Son of Man with a kiss shows the hypocrisy and blindness of an attempt to cover up sin. On “misused kisses” in the Bible, see Gen 27:26-27; 2 Sam 15:5; Prov 7:13; 27:6; 2 Sam 20:9.
- Luke 22:49 tn Here δέ (de) has not been translated.
- Luke 22:49 tn The direct question using “if” in Greek is not unusual (BDF §440.3).
- Luke 22:49 sn “Should we use our swords?” The disciples’ effort to defend Jesus recalls Luke 22:35-38. One individual did not wait for the answer.
- Luke 22:50 tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.
- Luke 22:50 sn One of them. The unnamed disciple is Peter according to John 18:10 (cf. also Matt 26:51; Mark 14:47).
- Luke 22:50 tn See the note on the word “slave” in 7:2.
- Luke 22:51 tn Grk “But answering, Jesus said.” This is redundant in contemporary English and has been simplified in the translation.
- Luke 22:51 tn Grk “his”; the referent (the slave of the high priest mentioned in the previous verse) has been specified in the translation for clarity.
- Luke 22:51 sn When Jesus healed the man’s ear he showed grace even to those who hated him, following his own teaching (Luke 6:27-36).
- Luke 22:52 tn Here δέ (de) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.
- Luke 22:52 tn This title, literally “official of the temple” (στρατηγὸς τοῦ ἱεροῦ, stratēgos tou hierou), referred to the commander of the Jewish soldiers who guarded and maintained order in the Jerusalem temple. Here, since the term is plural, it has been translated “officers of the temple guard” rather than “commanders of the temple guard,” since the idea of a number of commanders might be confusing to the modern English reader.
- Luke 22:52 tn Or “a revolutionary.” This term can refer to one who stirs up rebellion: BDAG 594 s.v. λῃστής 2 has “revolutionary, insurrectionist, guerrilla” citing evidence from Josephus (J. W. 2.13.2-3 [2.253-254]). However, this usage generally postdates Jesus’ time. It does refer to a figure of violence. Luke uses the same term for the highwaymen who attack the traveler in the parable of the good Samaritan (10:30).
- Luke 22:53 tn Grk “in the temple.”
- Luke 22:53 tn Grk “lay hands on me.”
- Luke 22:53 tn Or “your time.”
- Luke 22:53 tn Or “authority,” “domain.”
- Luke 22:54 tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.
- Luke 22:54 tn Or “seized” (L&N 37.109).
- Luke 22:54 tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.
- Luke 22:54 sn Putting all the gospel accounts together, there is a brief encounter with Annas (brought him into the high priest’s house, here and John 18:13, where Annas is named); the meeting led by Caiaphas (Matt 26:57-68 = Mark 14:53-65); and then a Sanhedrin meeting (Matt 27:1; Mark 15:1; Luke 22:66-71). These latter two meetings might be connected and apparently went into the morning.
- Luke 22:56 tn The Greek term here is παιδίσκη (paidiskē), referring to a slave girl or slave woman.
- Luke 22:57 tn Grk “he denied it, saying.” The referent (Peter) has been specified in the translation for clarity. The participle λέγων (legōn) is redundant and has not been translated.
- Luke 22:57 sn Woman was a polite form of address (see BDAG 208-9 s.v. γυνή), similar to “Madam” or “Ma’am” used in English in different regions.
- Luke 22:57 sn The expression “I do not know him” had an idiomatic use in Jewish ban formulas in the synagogue and could mean, “I have nothing to do with him.”
- Luke 22:58 tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.
- Luke 22:58 sn In Mark 14:69, the same slave girl made the charge. So apparently Peter was being identified by a variety of people.
- Luke 22:58 tn Here and in v. 60 “Man” is used as a neutral form of address to a stranger.
- Luke 22:59 tn Grk “insisted, saying.” The participle λέγων (legōn) is redundant in English and has not been translated here.
- Luke 22:59 sn According to Mark 14:70 it was Peter’s accent that gave him away as a Galilean.
- Luke 22:60 tn Grk “And immediately.” Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style.
- Luke 22:60 tn A real rooster crowing is probably in view here (rather than the Roman trumpet call known as gallicinium), in part due to the fact that Mark 14:72 mentions the rooster crowing twice. See the discussion at Matt 26:74.
- Luke 22:61 tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.
- Luke 22:61 tn “The word of the Lord” is a technical expression in OT literature, often referring to a divine prophetic utterance (e.g., Gen 15:1, Isa 1:10, Jonah 1:1). In the NT it occurs 15 times: 3 times as ῥῆμα τοῦ κυρίου (rhēma tou kuriou; here and in Acts 11:16, 1 Pet 1:25) and 12 times as λόγος τοῦ κυρίου (logos tou kuriou; Acts 8:25; 13:44, 48, 49; 15:35, 36; 16:32; 19:10, 20; 1 Thess 1:8; 4:15; 2 Thess 3:1). As in the OT, this phrase focuses on the prophetic nature and divine origin of what has been said. Because of its technical nature the expression has been retained in the translation in preference to a smoother rendering like “remembered what the Lord had said” (cf. TEV, NLT).
- Luke 22:62 sn When Peter went out and wept bitterly it shows he really did not want to fail here and was deeply grieved that he had.
- Luke 22:63 tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “now” to indicate the transition to a new topic.
- Luke 22:63 tn Grk “him”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.
- Luke 22:64 tn Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style.
- Luke 22:64 tn The verb ἐπηρώτων (epērōtōn) has been translated as an iterative imperfect. The participle λέγοντες (legontes) is redundant in English and has not been translated here.
- Luke 22:64 tn Grk “Who is the one who hit you?”sn Who hit you? This is a variation of one of three ancient games that involved blindfolds.
- Luke 22:65 tn Or “insulting.” Luke uses a strong word here; it means “to revile, to defame, to blaspheme” (L&N 33.400).
- Luke 22:66 tn Or “and the scribes.” See the note on the phrase “experts in the law” in 5:21.
- Luke 22:66 tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.
- Luke 22:66 tn Grk “him”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.
- Luke 22:66 sn Their council is probably a reference to the Jewish Sanhedrin, the council of seventy leaders.
- Luke 22:67 tn This is a first class condition in the Greek text.
- Luke 22:67 tn Or “Messiah”; both “Christ” (Greek) and “Messiah” (Hebrew and Aramaic) mean “one who has been anointed.”sn See the note on Christ in 2:11.
- Luke 22:67 tn This is a third class condition in the Greek text. Jesus had this experience already in 20:1-8.
- Luke 22:67 tn The negation in the Greek text is the strongest possible (οὐ μή, ou mē).
- Luke 22:68 tn This is also a third class condition in the Greek text.
- Luke 22:68 tn The negation in the Greek text is the strongest possible (οὐ μή, ou mē).
- Luke 22:69 sn From now on. Jesus’ authority was taken up from this moment on. Ironically he is now the ultimate judge, who is himself being judged.
- Luke 22:69 sn Seated at the right hand is an allusion to Ps 110:1 (“Sit at my right hand…”) and is a claim that Jesus shares authority with God in heaven. Those present may have thought they were his judges, but, in fact, the reverse was true.
- Luke 22:69 sn The expression the right hand of the power of God is a circumlocution for referring to God. Such indirect references to God were common in 1st century Judaism out of reverence for the divine name.
- Luke 22:70 tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “so” to indicate the implied result of Jesus’ pronouncement.
- Luke 22:70 sn The members of the council understood the force of the claim and asked Jesus about another title, Son of God.
- Luke 22:70 tn Grk “He said to them.”
- Luke 22:70 sn Jesus’ reply, “You say that I am,” was not a denial, but a way of giving a qualified positive response: “You have said it, but I do not quite mean what you think.”
- Luke 22:71 tn Here δέ (de) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.
- Luke 22:71 sn We have heard it ourselves. The Sanhedrin regarded the answer as convicting Jesus. They saw it as blasphemous to claim such intimacy and shared authority with God, a claim so serious and convicting that no further testimony was needed.
- Luke 22:71 tn Grk “from his own mouth” (an idiom).
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