Luke 22:11
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 22:11
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?
Chapter Context
Luke 22 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of obedience, covenant, hope. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christians needed to understand their place in the Roman world.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-71: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Luke and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Luke 22:11
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?
Analysis
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? Jesus provides the exact words to speak. The goodman of the house (τῷ οἰκοδεσπότῃ, tō oikodespotē, 'the master of the house') was evidently expecting this inquiry. The title The Master (ὁ διδάσκαλος, ho didaskalos, 'the Teacher') identifies Jesus with authority and respect.
The guestchamber (τὸ κατάλυμα, to katalyma) is the same word used for the 'inn' where no room existed at Jesus' birth (Luke 2:7). Born with no katalyma, Jesus celebrates His final Passover in a katalyma—from rejection at birth to provision at death. The question where I shall eat the passover with my disciples (ὅπου τὸ πάσχα μετὰ τῶν μαθητῶν μου φάγω, hopou to pascha meta tōn mathētōn mou phagō) emphasizes intimate fellowship with His own before suffering, fulfilling His desire from verse 15.
Historical Context
The 'katalyma' was typically an upper guest room, separate from the main living quarters, where traveling teachers and their students could meet privately. Jerusalem homeowners made such rooms available during Passover as a religious service. The homeowner's willingness suggests he was either a disciple or sympathizer, though unnamed (perhaps for safety).
Reflection
- How does the provision of a 'katalyma' (guestchamber) contrast with Jesus' birth when there was 'no room in the inn' (katalyma)?
- What does Jesus' title 'The Teacher' reveal about how His disciples and followers understood His primary role?
- How does Jesus' desire to eat Passover 'with my disciples' demonstrate the importance of spiritual fellowship before trials?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: John 11:28