Mark 14:15
And he will shew you a large upper room furnished and prepared: there make ready for us.
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
Upper rooms were prestigious spaces in first-century homes, often the largest and best-appointed rooms. They provided privacy for important gatherings. Being "furnished" with dining couches enabled reclining during the meal—the posture of free people, contrasting with Egyptian slavery when Israel ate standing (Exodus 12:11). The room's readiness fulfilled Jesus's prophecy and enabled the momentous Last Supper. Church tradition identifies this upper room with the Cenacle on Mount Zion in Jerusalem, though archaeological certainty is impossible. The room became sacred space where Jesus instituted communion and predicted His betrayal.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the homeowner's preparation of the upper room illustrate cooperative partnership between divine sovereignty and human obedience?
- What does the "large" room suggest about Jesus's desire for spacious fellowship with His disciples?
- How can you prepare your heart as a furnished and ready space for Christ to meet with you in communion?
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Analysis & Commentary
He will shew you a large upper room furnished and prepared (ἀνάγαιον μέγα ἐστρωμένον ἕτοιμον, anagaion mega estrōmenon hetoimon)—three adjectives emphasize the room's suitability. "Large" (μέγα, mega) accommodated thirteen people. "Furnished" (ἐστρωμένον, estrōmenon) means "spread with carpets" or "furnished with dining couches," showing the room was fully prepared for Passover feast. "Prepared" (ἕτοιμον, hetoimon) indicates readiness for immediate use.
Jesus's detailed foreknowledge included not just meeting the man, but finding the room already prepared—evidence of divine omniscience or prearrangement reflecting Jesus's sovereign control. There make ready for us (ἑτοιμάσατε ἡμῖν, hetoimasate hēmin)—the disciples still had work to do: procure lamb, roast it, prepare unleavened bread, wine, bitter herbs. The prepared room shows God provides what's needed; human obedience completes the task. This upper room witnessed the Last Supper, possibly Jesus's post-resurrection appearances (Luke 24:33-36), and likely Pentecost (Acts 1:13; 2:1-4).