Luke 21:1 ¶ And he looked up, and saw the rich men casting their gifts into the treasury.
Luke 21:2 And he saw also a certain poor widow casting in thither two mites.
Luke 21:3 And he said, Of a truth I say unto you, that this poor widow hath cast in more than they all:
Luke 21:4 For all these have of their abundance cast in unto the offerings of God: but she of her penury hath cast in all the living that she had.
The previous chapter ended with a comment concerning how widows were often mistreated. This chapter opens showing a stark contrast with the heart of one of those widows in contrast to the wealthy—among whom were the scribes. Jesus saw some rich men giving to the temple treasury. He also noted one poor widow giving two mites (the smallest Jewish coins). Jesus saw more than just the size of their gifts; He saw through to their hearts. Though the rich men had given much larger amounts of money, He noted that they were giving from a position of wealth. She, however, was giving God all she had to give at the time. In other words, their gifts were not sacrificial; hers was.
I thought it was important to see that Luke makes special note that they were giving their gifts—not their tithes. The poor woman so honored God that she was willing to give Him a special gift that amounted to all she had at the time.
Personally, I am not sure that I can prove from scripture that tithing is still a requirement under the New Covenant for the Christian. I do think, however, that God expects us to willingly give gifts to support the spread of the gospel and to serve others in His name. Frankly, if those in the church would give just the tithe of ten percent, far more could be accomplished for the kingdom of God if that tithe was faithfully used according to His will and leading. My pastor declares that only a small percentage in the church tithe when looking at the amount received relative to the numbers that attend there; most give far less.
I do believe that the principle established in Malachi applies just as surely today as it did when the prophet uttered its truth—you cannot outgive God! In fact, Jesus affirmed this truth in a previous chapter in Luke.
Malachi 3:10 “Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.”
Luke 6:38 “Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.”
The Apostle Paul states God’s will concerning our giving in his letter to the Corinthians.
2 Corinthians 9:6–8 “But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work….”
God wants our gifts, but He only wants what we want to give Him. Whatever we choose to give from a heart of gratitude and love, He promises will reap accordingly. God does not want us to give grudgingly or of necessity (i.e., tithing because we think we have to). The Spirit also tells us through Paul that we never have to worry about whether or not we can afford to give to God. When He touches our hearts to give, He will always provide for us to be able to do so. The key is always to be acting according to the will of God—not of man or self. In other words, I think giving should always be a matter of prayer.
Luke 21:5 ¶ And as some spake of the temple, how it was adorned with goodly stones and gifts, he said,
Luke 21:6 As for these things which ye behold, the days will come, in the which there shall not be left one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down.
Luke 21:7 And they asked him, saying, Master, but when shall these things be? and what sign will there be when these things shall come to pass?
As a student of prophecy, I always look forward to coming to those portions of scripture that deal with it. When dealing with prophecy, the prophets often do not follow a chronological flow of events. In this section of scripture Jesus is speaking as a prophet of God. See my topical study called “The Olivet Discourse” for a detailed comparison of the accounts of this teaching in Matthew, Mark and Luke.
Luke tells us that some around Jesus began observing how beautiful the temple was; in context with the previous chapter, Jesus is still talking to His disciples. Jesus responded by declaring that the time will come when the temple will be destroyed to the point that not one stone is left upon another. Looking at those massive stones, they could hardly believe their ears. They asked when this would happen and what sign there would be that it was about to happen.
This prophecy concerning the temple was fulfilled in 70 AD; David Guzik gives a good summary of events.
“It is said that at the fall of Jerusalem, the last surviving Jews of the city fled to the temple, because it was the strongest, most secure building in the city. Roman soldiers surrounded it, and one drunken soldier started a fire that soon engulfed the whole building. Ornate gold detail work in the roof melted down in the cracks between the stone walls of the temple, and to retrieve the gold, the Roman commander ordered that the temple be dismantled stone by stone. The destruction was so complete that today, they have true difficulty learning exactly where the temple was.”
As Paul so aptly noted, the Jews are always seeking a sign.
1 Corinthians 1:22 “For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom….”
Luke 21:8 And he said, Take heed that ye be not deceived: for many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and the time draweth near: go ye not therefore after them.
Jesus begins to respond with a broader perspective than indicated by the previous verse. In the other two accounts, we are told that Jesus was also questioned about when He would return at the end of the world as we now know it. Verse 9 hints at and verse 27 affirms that connection to the other gospel accounts.
Jesus warns His disciples not to be deceived when many others come on the scene claiming to the Messiah and that the end is near. Just expect it and don’t follow after these liars. Matthew specifically states that these false Christs will be very convincing because they will do signs and wonders (much like Pharaoh’s magicians did).
Matthew 24:24 “For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.”
Luke 21:9 But when ye shall hear of wars and commotions, be not terrified: for these things must first come to pass; but the end is not by and by.
Luke 21:10 Then said he unto them, Nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom:
Jesus goes on to say that wars and commotions between/among peoples and nations will become so prevalent as to provoke fear. Although the times will seem quite dangerous, Jesus declares that these wars and commotions are to be expected. In fact, nations or ethnic groups of people will fight with one another as well as kingdoms, “peoples united under a common ruler/authority,” fighting other kingdoms.
Arnold Fruchtenbaum, a Jewish Christian scholar, declares the statement “nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom” to be in reference to world war. He states:
“This expression, found in Jewish sources such as the Bereshit Rabbah (written shortly after Yeshua’s time) and, later, the Zohar Chadash—is a Hebrew idiom for a world war. What Jesus was saying, then, is that it would be a world war rather than merely a local war that would mark the beginning of the end of the age.”
Regarding World Wars I and II he said: “Both wars had a decisive impact on Jewish history. The first gave impetus to the growth of the Zionist movement, and the Second World War led to the re-establishment of the Jewish State.”
Jesus is saying that though these are signs of what is to come, the end is yet to come.
Luke 21:11 And great earthquakes shall be in divers places, and famines, and pestilences; and fearful sights and great signs shall there be from heaven.
Jesus goes on to prophesy that great earthquakes, famines and pestilences will occur in many places. Matthew’s account tells us that Jesus compared these events to labor pains that precede the birth of the child. In other words, they will happen more frequently and with more intensity as the time draws near.
It’s interesting to note how these verses compare to seals 1-4 in chapter six of Revelation; this emphasizes that these signs will find culmination in the judgment to come.
Revelation 6:1–8 “And I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seals, and I heard, as it were the noise of thunder, one of the four beasts saying, Come and see. And I saw, and behold a white horse: and he that sat on him had a bow; and a crown was given unto him: and he went forth conquering, and to conquer. (Satan, or the Antichrist, the ultimate False Christ) And when he had opened the second seal, I heard the second beast say, Come and see. And there went out another horse that was red: and power was given to him that sat thereon to take peace from the earth, and that they should kill one another: and there was given unto him a great sword. And when he had opened the third seal, I heard the third beast say, Come and see. And I beheld, and lo a black horse; and he that sat on him had a pair of balances in his hand. And I heard a voice in the midst of the four beasts say, A measure of wheat for a penny, and three measures of barley for a penny; and see thou hurt not the oil and the wine. (represents famine) And when he had opened the fourth seal, I heard the voice of the fourth beast say, Come and see. And I looked, and behold a pale horse: and his name that sat on him was Death, and Hell followed with him. And power was given unto them over the fourth part of the earth, to kill with sword, and with hunger, and with death, and with the beasts of the earth.”
Jesus also tells His disciples to expect fearful sights and great signs from heaven. Obviously, one can’t help but think of the UFO phenomena and how Satan might be at work in those situations, but who knows what else might be on the horizon. I am also reminded of the apparitions of Mary that so many embrace as coming from God, but I believe they are another trick in Satan’s arsenal. Remember, scripture affirms that Satan can transform himself to appear as an angel of light, and his ministers sometimes appear as the same.
2 Corinthians 11:14–15 “And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.”
Luke 21:12 But before all these, they shall lay their hands on you, and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues, and into prisons, being brought before kings and rulers for my name’s sake.
Luke 21:13 And it shall turn to you for a testimony.
Luke 21:14 Settle it therefore in your hearts, not to meditate before what ye shall answer:
Luke 21:15 For I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which all your adversaries shall not be able to gainsay nor resist.
Jesus now warns His disciples that they will be persecuted by their own people and imprisoned and prosecuted because of their allegiance to Him. Not only will they face persecution and prosecution from their own people, they will also face the same before the kings and rulers of other nations. These events will be allowed for a reason—as an opportunity to testify of God. Jesus then gives them a remarkable word of comfort and encouragement. He tells them not to worry about how they will answer their prosecutors because “I will give you a mouth and wisdom” to answer them in a way they cannot refute. Jesus is declaring that He will put the words in their mouth as needed. Though they did not seem to process everything He was saying to them at the time, the Holy Spirit will remind them of this truth after the resurrection when God removes the blinders to their spiritual understanding. The only way Jesus could be with each one of them is in the person of the Holy Spirit, and they would come to understand that more fully at Pentecost (see Acts 2).
Luke 21:16 And ye shall be betrayed both by parents, and brethren, and kinsfolks, and friends; and some of you shall they cause to be put to death.
Luke 21:17 And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake.
These verses are some of the saddest verses describing the times that will lead to the return of Jesus as King. Followers of Jesus can expect to be betrayed by parents, siblings, kinfolk, and friends—some even to the point to death. In fact, true followers of Jesus will generally be hated by all others.
One would like to think that you could always count on the support of family, but the reality is that you can’t. The family as established by God is becoming a relic of the past and the bonds that bind becoming weaker and weaker. Divorce is widespread, respect for life is continuing a downward spiral, abortion is rampant, cultural morals are rapidly being replaced by wicked practices, etc. Tolerance toward others is the word that is preached by all, except towards those of us who hold fast to the truth of the word of God. I truly never thought the day would come that I would see immorality embraced as acceptable nor could I imagine that Christians could be persecuted in America. I no longer doubt that it could happen; I am watching it happen. I pray that the Lord takes us home soon! If, however, He chooses to tarry, I pray that He will strengthen me and those I love that love Him to glorify Him through our testimony.
These verses also bring to mind the fifth seal in Revelation 6: “And when he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held…”
Luke 21:18 But there shall not an hair of your head perish.
Luke 21:19 In your patience possess ye your souls.
Jesus goes on to declare that in spite of the fact that some will be killed as martyrs for their faith in Him, not one hair of their heads will perish. In other words, you will be resurrected to new life with every hair intact. In light of the truth of the resurrection to eternal life, Jesus encourages His disciples to be patient and not let the circumstances defeat them. Patience and endurance will actually evidence that one is saved and is part of God’s family. John declares this truth in his first letter.
1 John 2:19 “They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us: but they went out, that they might be made manifest that they were not all of us.”
Luke 21:20 ¶ And when ye shall see Jerusalem compassed with armies, then know that the desolation thereof is nigh.
Luke 21:21 Then let them which are in Judaea flee to the mountains; and let them which are in the midst of it depart out; and let not them that are in the countries enter thereinto.
Luke 21:22 For these be the days of vengeance, that all things which are written may be fulfilled.
Luke 21:23 But woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck, in those days! for there shall be great distress in the land, and wrath upon this people.
Luke 21:24 And they shall fall by the edge of the sword, and shall be led away captive into all nations: and Jerusalem shall be trodden down of the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled.
At this point I believe the prophecy of Jesus focuses in on the coming destruction of Jerusalem by the legions of Titus that also foreshadows the future destruction that will come through the armies of Antichrist right before the Lord returns to set up His earthly kingdom.
When they see Jerusalem surrounded by enemy forces, they should understand that destruction is soon to follow. Those who are in Judea should flee to the mountains and those in the city proper should flee the city. He also warns those considering coming to Jerusalem from other countries to stay away.
I am reminded that scripture is clear that vengeance is God’s prerogative and is reserved for God’s enemies.
Deuteronomy 32:35 “To me belongeth vengeance, and recompence;”
Romans 12:19 “Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.”
I believe the vengeance spoken of by Luke is a reference to the declaration of Jesus in Matthew 23:34-36: “Wherefore, behold, I send unto you prophets, and wise men, and scribes: and some of them ye shall kill and crucify; and some of them shall ye scourge in your synagogues, and persecute them from city to city: That upon you may come all the righteous blood shed upon the earth, from the blood of righteous Abel unto the blood of Zacharias son of Barachias, whom ye slew between the temple and the altar. Verily I say unto you, All these things shall come upon this generation.”
The Lord notes that it will be really hard times for expectant and nursing mothers at that time. Many will be killed and many will be led captive into all the nations. This is the reason I believe this section is specific to the events of 70 AD. It was after the victory of the Roman legions that the Jews were dispersed throughout the Gentile nations. After Armageddon’s final battle, the Jews will be brought home. Until Jesus establishes His kingdom, however, Jerusalem will continue to be “under the foot” of the Gentiles.
Luke 21:25 And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring;
Luke 21:26 Men’s hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken.
Luke 21:27 And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.
At first it would seem that the Lord is repeating Himself in reference to signs in the sun, moon and stars; but as I looked back at verse 11, the emphasis seemed to be on fearful signs and sights in the heavens. Maybe this reference to signs in the sun, moon and stars is a reference to more science related phenomena. Though not readily clear from the KJV translation, other translations clarify that the following statement regarding the anxiety and perplexity of people on earth is directly connected to the actions of the sea. As I look at the context and the flow of information, it seems that the fearful sights and wonders from heaven are connected to the time signified by the labor pains, while the events in these verses are directly connected to the return of the Lord according to verse 27. In that regard, I can’t help but think of the prophecy of John as recorded in Revelation.
Revelation 16:3-18 “And the second angel poured out his vial upon the sea; and it became as the blood of a dead man: and every living soul died in the sea. And the fourth angel poured out his vial upon the sun; and power was given unto him to scorch men with fire….And men were scorched with great heat, and blasphemed the name of God, which hath power over these plagues: and they repented not to give him glory…. And the seventh angel poured out his vial into the air; and there came a great voice out of the temple of heaven, from the throne, saying, It is done….And there were voices, and thunders, and lightnings; and there was a great earthquake, such as was not since men were upon the earth, so mighty an earthquake, and so great.”
Especially noted is the fact that events occurring on planet earth are causing great fear; it will seem that the very stability of the stars and planets is at risk.
It is at the time of greatest fear that the Son of man will be seen coming in the clouds in power and great glory. Again, John confirms His glorious coming in Revelation.
Revelation 19:11–14 “And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war. His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself. And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God. And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean.”
Luke 21:28 And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.
After describing His glorious return to establish His kingdom, the Lord declares that these signs are meant to be understood and provide encouragement to those looking for His return. When they begin to come to pass, we are to start looking up with expectation for His return and the completion of the first resurrection, the resurrection of the redeemed.
Revelation 20:4–6 “And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years. But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection. Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.”
Luke 21:29 ¶ And he spake to them a parable; Behold the fig tree, and all the trees;
Luke 21:30 When they now shoot forth, ye see and know of your own selves that summer is now nigh at hand.
Luke 21:31 So likewise ye, when ye see these things come to pass, know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh at hand.
Luke 21:32 Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass away, till all be fulfilled.
At this point the Lord emphasizes that the signs are to be recognized just as surely as the budding trees are harbingers of summer soon to arrive. This generation, the one that sees the signs just revealed, will not pass until all is fulfilled—in other words, until the Lord returns to establish His kingdom.
I think so many wonderful teachers read way too much into this passage by equating Israel to the fig tree and comparing the birth of the nation to the budding of the tree. Luke is clear in stating that the fig tree is just one of many trees. Although I believe the rebirth of the nation of Israel is a key prophetic event that is foundational to the fulfillment of prophecy, I do not believe that is the point Jesus is making in these verses. Some of the signs Jesus was referencing are connected to events occurring in the 70th week of Daniel, the last seven years commonly known as the tribulation, that precede the return of Jesus. That generation will surely not pass without seeing fulfillment. Maybe the importance of this verse is directed more to those who are saved during the tribulation and will be trying to hang on to their faith in such terrible times. Matthew records that it will be the worst time man has ever experienced on planet earth.
Matthew 24:21 “For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be.”
Luke 21:33 Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away.
This verse seems to contradict other verses in scripture.
Ephesians 3:21 “Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.”
When you look at the Greek for the word “world,” it makes reference to perpetuity and the Messianic period. Other verses confirm that the earth will perish, but Peter helps illuminate our understanding.
2 Peter 3:12-13 “Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat? Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.”
The word “new” in the last verse from Peter quoted above states, “new (especially in freshness). I think that because of the decay and wasting away of the heavens and earth caused by the curse of sin, God will destroy the old one by fire and create a new one from its ashes. (At least, that is how I rectify these ideas.) Maybe this will be comparable to creation as recorded in Genesis after the time of Satan’s fall and the creation of earth for mankind. (See notes on Genesis 1.) I also think of it in connection with the resurrection of our body to an incorruptible one.
1 Corinthians 15:53 “For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.”
There is a verse in Colossians that tells us that God is the glue that holds everything together.
Colossians 1:17 “And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.”
Maybe this is a reference to His letting go for a moment only to speak the word to bring it back together as a “new” creation.
In contrast to the creation as we know it, decaying and perishing and needing to be renewed, the word of God will never pass away. Its truth will stand for all eternity.
Luke 21:34 And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares.
Luke 21:35 For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth.
Luke 21:36 Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.
Jesus closes this teaching with an admonition to His disciples (my paraphrase)—Be careful to guard your hearts and act soberly and wisely so that you are not caught unaware when the time comes. What I have told you will happen is certain and will trap everyone dwelling on the face of the earth at that time.
The final words of warning—Keep watch and keep praying. Expectant vigilance in watching for the signs of the Lord’s return and prayer are two evidences of one in right relationship with God. Only those in right relationship with God can expect to escape all these dreadful events and stand in worship and honor before the Son of man, the Son of God. The only way to get in right relationship with God is to accept the gift of salvation offered through His Son, Jesus the Christ.
John 3:16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
John 14:6 “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”
Ephesians 2:8–9 “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.”
Luke 21:37 And in the day time he was teaching in the temple; and at night he went out, and abode in the mount that is called the mount of Olives.
Luke 21:38 And all the people came early in the morning to him in the temple, for to hear him.
This chapter ends with a statement of how Jesus spent His last days on earth—teaching in the temple during the day and abiding somewhere on the Mount of Olives at night. Until the very last, the people continued to come early in the morning to the temple to hear Him teach.
Luke 22:1 ¶ Now the feast of unleavened bread drew nigh, which is called the Passover.
Luke 22:2 And the chief priests and scribes sought how they might kill him; for they feared the people.
Luke 22:3 Then entered Satan into Judas surnamed Iscariot, being of the number of the twelve.
I am already asking for God to give me understanding as I head into this section of scripture. When doing the journal on John, I tried to include information from the other gospels to give a fuller picture of Jesus last days and ran into several discrepancies that the skeptics like to jump on. I look at them as all minor issues probably attributed to language and/or translation.
Luke tells us that it will soon be time to celebrate Passover. He then reiterates that the chief priests and scribes are trying to figure out how they can kill Jesus without getting themselves killed. He then makes a very telling statement—Satan enters Judas Iscariot. I believe this is a declaration of the true statement of Judas’ heart toward Jesus; he didn’t believe Him. This truth is affirmed by John.
John 6:64 “….For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should betray him.”
There is no question of Satan usurping the presence of the Holy Spirit, because the Lord did not give the Spirit to the disciples until after His resurrection.
John 20:19–22 “Then the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you. And when he had so said, he shewed unto them his hands and his side. Then were the disciples glad, when they saw the Lord. Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you. And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost:”
Luke 22:4 And he went his way, and communed with the chief priests and captains, how he might betray him unto them.
Luke 22:5 And they were glad, and covenanted to give him money.
Luke 22:6 And he promised, and sought opportunity to betray him unto them in the absence of the multitude.
Satan leads Judas to make a deal with chief priests and other leaders to betray Jesus into their hands at a time and place that wouldn’t be surrounded by the crowds. He made a deal which Matthew’s record reveals was for payment of 30 pieces of silver.
Matthew 26:14–15 “Then one of the twelve, called Judas Iscariot, went unto the chief priests, And said unto them, What will ye give me, and I will deliver him unto you? And they covenanted with him for thirty pieces of silver.”
From that moment on Judas was on the lookout for the opportune time to make good on his deal. That Judas would accept a bribe for his services should not surprise us. John tells us that he was the treasurer for the group and a thief.
John 12:4–6 “Then saith one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, which should betray him, Why was not this ointment sold for three hundred pence, and given to the poor? This he said, not that he cared for the poor; but because he was a thief, and had the bag, and bare what was put therein.”
It is a sad but very real truth that there are many who profess belief in Jesus today that are motivated by how they can profit by deceiving true believers.
Luke 22:7 ¶ Then came the day of unleavened bread, when the passover must be killed.
Luke 22:8 And he sent Peter and John, saying, Go and prepare us the passover, that we may eat.
These verses bring up one of the most apparent contradictions between John’s and Luke’s accounts. John very clearly presents Jesus as our Passover lamb and describes this meal, more widely known as “The Lord’s Supper,” as occurring before Passover.
John 13:1–2 “Now before the feast of the passover, when Jesus knew that his hour was come that he should depart out of this world unto the Father, having loved his own which were in the world, he loved them unto the end. And supper being ended, the devil having now put into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, to betray him….”
John further declares that Pilate delivered Jesus over to the people for crucifixion on the Preparation Day for Passover.
John 19:14 “Now it was the Preparation Day of the Passover, and about the sixth hour. And he said to the Jews, “Behold your King!””
According to Josephus, the priests began slaying the paschal lambs at the temple at 3:00pm—the same time that Jesus, our Passover lamb, died on the cross. I have read many commentaries regarding whether the last supper was a Passover meal and regarding Jesus’ being in the tomb three days and three nights. I am not a scholar, but I do believe the Spirit is consistent in presenting the types of Christ in scripture. Christ was definitely our Passover lamb as declared by Paul…
1 Corinthians 5:7 “Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us:”
…therefore, I believe He was crucified on the day of preparation for the Passover meal that would be held that evening (the Jews reckon a day from evening to evening). Beyond that I am not willing to argue. I also know that God doesn’t contradict Himself, so I’m not worried about what looks like contradiction to me right now. He will make everything clear by and by.
I decided to a bit more research and found a very good biblical explanation by Brian Huie rectifying the accounts at http://www.herealittletherealittle.net/index.cfm?page_name=Last-Supper-Passover-Meal. Significant points made in that article follow.
Matthew says it was "the first of Unleavened Bread." On the surface, this appears to contradict John's account, which plainly states that the "last supper" occurred before the Feast of Passover. However, Mark and Luke add an additional detail that helps clarify the time. Mark says it was "the first day of Unleavened Bread, when they killed the Passover"; Luke states it was "the day of Unleavened Bread when the Passover must be killed."
The Bible tells us in Exodus 12:6 that the Passover lambs were to be killed "between the evenings" on Nisan 14. The Jews have traditionally interpreted "between the evenings" to mean "in the afternoon."
When the disciples questioned Yeshua about where they were going to eat the Passover meal the next night, they still did not fully understand that he would be dead then! The Messiah would not be able to eat the Passover lamb because he was destined to be sacrificed as our Passover (I Cor. 5:7). But instead of explaining to them then that he would be in the grave when the time came to eat the Passover lamb, he simply told his disciples where to prepare to eat the Passover meal. After Peter and John had deleavened the room and made ready for the upcoming feast, Yeshua used their final meal together on the night of the 14th to instruct his disciples one last time before his death.
In the article "The Lord's Supper," the New Bible Dictionary says that ". . . Lk. 22:15 may be read as an unfulfilled wish" (p. 707). Christ truly longed to eat that coming Passover with his disciples, but his desire could not be realized! It was forbidden because it would have destroyed the plan of God, since Christ was destined to be sacrificed as our Passover lamb on the afternoon before the Passover meal.”
Luke 22:9 And they said unto him, Where wilt thou that we prepare?
Luke 22:10 And he said unto them, Behold, when ye are entered into the city, there shall a man meet you, bearing a pitcher of water; follow him into the house where he entereth in.
Luke 22:11 And ye shall say unto the goodman of the house, The Master saith unto thee, Where is the guestchamber, where I shall eat the passover with my disciples?
Luke 22:12 And he shall shew you a large upper room furnished: there make ready.
Luke 22:13 And they went, and found as he had said unto them: and they made ready the passover.
This section builds on what we learned from the previous section. The disciples knew that they needed to prepare for Passover, e.g., getting rid of all leaven. Jesus then tells them how to identify where they could make preparation. Maybe He had made a reservation with the man, but His directions were obviously so specific as to be prophetic. John tells us that the man Jesus possessed the fullness of the Holy Spirit and His gifts.
John 3:34–35 “For he whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God: for God giveth not the Spirit by measure unto him. The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into his hand.”
Luke 22:14 And when the hour was come, he sat down, and the twelve apostles with him.
Luke 22:15 And he said unto them, With desire I have desired to eat this passover with you before I suffer:
Luke 22:16 For I say unto you, I will not any more eat thereof, until it be fulfilled in the kingdom of God.
When the time for dinner came, Jesus sat down with His twelve apostles and stated His desire to enjoy the Passover with them but that He would “not yet” (from the Greek) do so until He could do so with them in His kingdom. In light of what we have learned, I think the following translations state it best:
Luke 22:15–16 “And he said unto them, With desire I have desired to eat this passover with you before I suffer: for I say unto you, I shall not eat it, until it be fulfilled in the kingdom of God.” ASV
Luke 22:15–16 “He said to them, “I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer; for I tell you, I will not eat it until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God.”” NRSV
Luke 22:15–16 “And he said to them, “I have earnestly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer. For I tell you I will not eat It until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God.”” ESVS
Luke 22:17 And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and said, Take this, and divide it among yourselves:
Luke 22:18 For I say unto you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine, until the kingdom of God shall come.
Luke 22:19 And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me.
Luke 22:20 Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you.
Thus begins the last supper Jesus takes with His disciples. As they take of the “fruit of the vine,” Jesus tells them all to take a portion of it and know that He will not drink of this wine until the kingdom of God is established on earth.
Jesus then gave thanks for the bread and broke it into pieces that He shared with each apostle. He explained that this broken bread represented His body which would be broken for them. He identified the action as a “remembrance” of Him. In other words, Jesus looked on His death as done; His mindset was firm; God’s will would be done.
Jesus also declared as they drank the cup after their supper that it represented the new covenant that would be established through His shed blood—blood that was shed for their redemption.
I think it is important to note that Jesus declared that He is giving His body and shedding His blood willingly for His disciples (and all others who would place their faith in Him to accept His free gift of salvation).
John 3:16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
Luke 22:21 ¶ But, behold, the hand of him that betrayeth me is with me on the table.
Luke 22:22 And truly the Son of man goeth, as it was determined: but woe unto that man by whom he is betrayed!
Luke 22:23 And they began to enquire among themselves, which of them it was that should do this thing.
Again there is a minor discrepancy in the gospel accounts. Luke’s account seems to agree with John’s. Again, this discrepancy does not bother me.
All accounts agree that Jesus announced that one who would betray Him was in their midst. Luke is intent on emphasizing that this is according to God’s plan, but also declares that this does not excuse the betrayer. The betrayer is fulfilling God’s will, but He is also acting according to His own will and purposes. This is just another of the hundreds of examples in scripture of God’s foreknowledge being woven into His plan that was in place before creation.
“woe unto the man” – Mark not only affirms the truth that the betrayer would be fulfilling prophecy, but that it would have been better for that man had he never been born. This confirms in my mind that though Judas would later try to return his bribe money, he never truly repented of his sin or Jesus would never have said this.
Mark 14:21 “The Son of man indeed goeth, as it is written of him: but woe to that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed! good were it for that man if he had never been born.”
Naturally, the disciples began to try to figure out which one among them would possibly do such a thing.
Luke 22:24 And there was also a strife among them, which of them should be accounted the greatest.
Luke 22:25 And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors.
Luke 22:26 But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve.
Luke 22:27 For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth.
It seems that the discussion to determine who could possibly be the one who would betray Jesus evolved into an argument as to who was the greatest among them. After listening to them argue for a while, the Lord decides to take advantage of the opportunity for teaching another spiritual lesson. Jesus basically told them that greatness is not measured in the way the world measures it. The kings of the Gentiles exercise great authority and bask in the honor they are shown in light of that authority. You (the disciples), however, have a King (Me/Jesus) who shows His greatness by humbling Himself as a servant. I want you to follow My example. He who is able to truly humble himself in service to one another in accordance with My will shows himself to be greater.
John’s account tells us that this teaching was supported by example when Jesus washed the feet of His disciples.
Luke 22:28 Ye are they which have continued with me in my temptations.
Luke 22:29 And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me;
Luke 22:30 That ye may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom, and sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel.
In this section of verses the Lord commends His disciples for sticking with Him through all the trials and troubles He faced during His ministry. I was reminded of a verse in Hebrews as I read this verse.
Hebrews 4:14–15 “Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.”
The faithfulness of the disciples will result in special recognition and positions of authority in His kingdom. They will, in fact, be given thrones to serve as judges over the twelve tribes of Israel. They will also be privileged to eat and drink at the King’s table. This is a position of honor that is reserved for those closest to the King and in whom the King delights.
I am reminded from my study of Revelation that the disciples will receive yet another honor; their names will grace the twelve foundations of the New Jerusalem.
Revelation 21:14 “And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and in them the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.”
Luke 22:31 And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat:
Luke 22:32 But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.
John tells us that this conversation between Jesus and Peter took place after Judas was gone and Jesus had told the remaining disciples that He was going somewhere they could not go. Peter wanted to know why he couldn’t go with Him.
It was in response to that statement that Jesus told Peter that he would betray Him. He told him that Satan had asked for the opportunity to test his faith. Wheat is sifted to separate the usable part from the unusable part. One can’t help but think of Job at this point. Evidently, that permission had been granted.
Jesus assures Peter that He had prayed for him not to lose faith. He tells Peter that when he emerged from his trial repentant and stronger in faith, he was to strengthen the others. This statement reminded me of something Paul wrote to the Corinthians.
2 Corinthians 1:3–6 “Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God. For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ. And whether we be afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is effectual in the enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer: or whether we be comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation.”
I believe that is one of the Lord’s intended purposes for any trial He allows in our lives—for our faith to be strengthened, and that we in turn strengthen others through what we have learned by experience.
This statement also affirms that Jesus’ prayer was answered even though at first it may seem it had not been. The fact that Peter repented gave evidence that his faith was sincere however weak it may have been at the time. I believe it was also the foundational process that eventually resulted in the bold man of faith in evidence at Pentecost.
Again I am reminded of truth from the book of Hebrews; Jesus prays for us just as surely as He prayed for Peter.
Hebrews 7:25 “Wherefore He [Jesus] is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them.”
Luke 22:33 And he said unto him, Lord, I am ready to go with thee, both into prison, and to death.
Luke 22:34 And he said, I tell thee, Peter, the cock shall not crow this day, before that thou shalt thrice deny that thou knowest me.
Peter declared that he was ready to go with Jesus even if it meant going to prison or to death. The Lord then tells Peter that before the rooster crows to announce the dawn of a new day, he will deny three times that he even knows Jesus.
Luke 22:35 And he said unto them, When I sent you without purse, and scrip, and shoes, lacked ye any thing? And they said, Nothing.
Luke 22:36 Then said he unto them, But now, he that hath a purse, let him take it, and likewise his scrip: and he that hath no sword, let him sell his garment, and buy one.
Luke 22:37 For I say unto you, that this that is written must yet be accomplished in me, And he was reckoned among the transgressors: for the things concerning me have an end.
Luke 22:38 And they said, Lord, behold, here are two swords. And he said unto them, It is enough.
Still in context of the trials that were in front of them, Jesus reminds them of when He sent them out two by two taking nothing with them. At that time they had been well received and experienced great success and came back with a good report. The time had now come that instead of a good experience, they were going to face bad times and would need to be properly equipped and prepared. Everything that had been prophesied concerning the suffering Messiah was to find fulfillment in Jesus, and He quotes from Isaiah.
Isaiah 53:12 “Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.”
The disciples were obviously just hearing what Jesus said without understanding what He meant. He is telling them that they are about to face hard times. They heard—You need to get a sword; so they respond that they have two already. Jesus answers that they have enough, because He doesn’t intend them to use swords to prevent what is coming. He proves that by rebuking Peter when he pulls out his sword for that very purpose when the soldiers come to arrest Jesus. His point is that they need to prepare themselves to endure great hardship and persecution.
Luke 22:39 ¶ And he came out, and went, as he was wont, to the mount of Olives; and his disciples also followed him.
Luke 22:40 And when he was at the place, he said unto them, Pray that ye enter not into temptation.
Luke 22:41 And he was withdrawn from them about a stone’s cast, and kneeled down, and prayed,
Luke 22:42 Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done.
Luke 22:43 And there appeared an angel unto him from heaven, strengthening him.
Luke 22:44 And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground.
Luke 22:45 And when he rose up from prayer, and was come to his disciples, he found them sleeping for sorrow,
Luke 22:46 And said unto them, Why sleep ye? rise and pray, lest ye enter into temptation.
Luke’s record now jumps directly to Jesus time of prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane at the foot of the Mount of Olives.
Matthew 26:36 “Then cometh Jesus with them unto a place called Gethsemane, and saith unto the disciples, Sit ye here, while I go and pray yonder.”
As the Lord prayerfully prepares to face His trial, He admonishes the disciples also to pray that they would not fall to temptation. He then separates Himself from them to talk to His Father. I think it is at this point that Jesus seems most vulnerable. He wants to be obedient to His Father, but He expresses His desire for the Father to intervene and do things differently if possible. Even as He prays that prayer, He yields Himself to the will of the Father. Not surprisingly, the Father sent an angel to strengthen His beloved Son. How could an angel strengthen Him? After looking at the Greek, it seems that the angel was able to give Jesus something that strengthened Him physically in light of what He was about to endure.
Jesus continued to pray so intensely and with such great passion that He began sweating drops of blood. Luke, the physician, makes a point of the fact that Jesus was in agony—great anguish, laboring fervently. Finally, His struggle ended and He rose up from prayer to find His disciples sound asleep. The word used implies that they fell asleep exhausted from grieving. Was it because they were finally beginning to understand that Jesus was going to die? Was it just great sorrow at seeing the Lord in such agony?
Jesus then wakes them up and again encourages them to engage in prayer to be able to endure the trial ahead of them.
Luke 22:47 ¶ And while he yet spake, behold a multitude, and he that was called Judas, one of the twelve, went before them, and drew near unto Jesus to kiss him.
Luke 22:48 But Jesus said unto him, Judas, betrayest thou the Son of man with a kiss?
While He was still speaking, Judas shows up leading a crowd of people. He walked over to Jesus to kiss Him (a common greeting among friends). Jesus lets him know that He knows what is happening and asks Judas why he betrays “the Son of Man” with a kiss. (Obviously, because He did not believe Him to be the Son of Man.)
Luke 22:49 When they which were about him saw what would follow, they said unto him, Lord, shall we smite with the sword?
Luke 22:50 And one of them smote the servant of the high priest, and cut off his right ear.
Luke 22:51 And Jesus answered and said, Suffer ye thus far. And he touched his ear, and healed him.
The disciples finally realized what was happening and (to their credit) they were prepared to fight in spite of the odds. The problem is that they still did not understand that this was all part of God’s plan, so to fight was to go against God’s will. One of them (John tells us it was Peter) actually cut off the right ear of the servant of the high priest, but Jesus rebuked him and healed the man’s ear.
Luke 22:52 Then Jesus said unto the chief priests, and captains of the temple, and the elders, which were come to him, Be ye come out, as against a thief, with swords and staves?
Luke 22:53 When I was daily with you in the temple, ye stretched forth no hands against me: but this is your hour, and the power of darkness.
Jesus addresses the chief priests, the soldiers that made up the temple guard and other elders by asking why they were armed like they were out to capture a thief, a dangerous criminal. He pointed out that He had been in the temple every day, but they had not tried to arrest Him then. Then He goes on to answer His own question; I liked the way the NLT phrased it, “But this is your moment, the time when the power of darkness reigns.” (I would say, “is allowed to reign.”)
Luke 22:54 ¶ Then took they him, and led him, and brought him into the high priest’s house. And Peter followed afar off.
Luke 22:55 And when they had kindled a fire in the midst of the hall, and were set down together, Peter sat down among them.
Luke 22:56 But a certain maid beheld him as he sat by the fire, and earnestly looked upon him, and said, This man was also with him.
Luke 22:57 And he denied him, saying, Woman, I know him not.
Luke 22:58 And after a little while another saw him, and said, Thou art also of them. And Peter said, Man, I am not.
Luke 22:59 And about the space of one hour after another confidently affirmed, saying, Of a truth this fellow also was with him: for he is a Galilaean.
Luke 22:60 And Peter said, Man, I know not what thou sayest. And immediately, while he yet spake, the cock crew.
Luke 22:61 And the Lord turned, and looked upon Peter. And Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how he had said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice.
Luke 22:62 And Peter went out, and wept bitterly.
In this section of verses Luke summarizes the account of Peter’s denials. After Jesus was arrested, He was taken to the high priest’s house. Peter followed, but at quite a distance. John affirms that it was cold outside, so a fire was built in the surrounding courtyard where many sat down to wait and see what would happen. Peter joined the group around the fire. One girl began to look at Peter more closely and suddenly pointed Peter out as one of Jesus’ companions. Peter flatly denied knowing Jesus (1st denial). A little later another person identified him as one of Jesus’ followers; Peter again denied it (2nd). About an hour later another person (John identifies him as related to the man whose ear Peter had cut off.) confidently identified Peter as one of Jesus’ followers (John adds that he says he saw Peter in the garden.) and even noted that He was Galilaean in support of his statement. (Matthews tells us that his accent was distinct.) Once again, Peter denied the truth (3rd). Both Matthew and Mark tell us that Peter cursed and swore in answer to this last accusation.
While Peter was yet speaking, the rooster crowed. At that moment Jesus turned and looked at Peter, and he immediately remembered what Jesus had told him. I think that look was full of love and compassion—not condemnation. Peter was ashamed and heartbroken once he realized the awful truth of what he’d done. He ran away and wept bitterly.
Peter’s response in a situation in which he felt his life might be in danger certainly gives one food for thought. Could I stand firm in my faith at such a time? I pray often that if that time ever comes, the Lord would strengthen me as well as those I love who love Jesus to do just that to His honor and glory.
Chuck Smith made a valid observation (in my words). Peter chose to follow at a distance. Any time we try to follow Jesus at a distance without total commitment, we are asking for trouble. Peter wasn’t just at a distance; he was warming himself at the enemy’s fire.
Luke 22:63 ¶ And the men that held Jesus mocked him, and smote him.
Luke 22:64 And when they had blindfolded him, they struck him on the face, and asked him, saying, Prophesy, who is it that smote thee?
Luke 22:65 And many other things blasphemously spake they against him.
Those that held Jesus under arrest mocked Him as they hit Him. They blindfolded Him and hit Him on the face, and then they challenged Him to prove He was a prophet and tell them who hit Him. When He did not answer them, they continued to speak evil things against Him. This too was in fulfillment of prophecy.
Isaiah 53:7 “He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth….”
Luke 22:66 And as soon as it was day, the elders of the people and the chief priests and the scribes came together, and led him into their council, saying,
Luke 22:67 Art thou the Christ? tell us. And he said unto them, If I tell you, ye will not believe:
Luke 22:68 And if I also ask you, ye will not answer me, nor let me go.
Luke 22:69 Hereafter shall the Son of man sit on the right hand of the power of God.
Luke 22:70 Then said they all, Art thou then the Son of God? And he said unto them, Ye say that I am.
Luke 22:71 And they said, What need we any further witness? for we ourselves have heard of his own mouth.
Mark’s account gives a more detailed account of Jesus’ ordeal before being brought before the council. Luke goes directly to the decisive judgment.
At dawn the elders, chief priests and scribes (those that comprised the Sanhedrin, the Jewish high court) brought Jesus before their council demanding that He testify against Himself. They asked Him if He was the Christ, the Messiah. He truthfully answered that they wouldn’t believe Him if He said He was, neither would they let Him go in light of His answer. Jesus did not stop there—He answered their question by declaring that He would soon be sitting at the right hand of God’s authority. They changed their question in light of that answer. They asked Him point blank if He was the Son of God. Basically Jesus says—That is who you are accusing me to be, or maybe He is stating that it is as you say. They then determined that His answer was sufficient to take him to the authorities.