Luke 22:14
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 22:14
14 And when the hour was come, he sat down, and the twelve apostles with him.
Chapter Context
Luke 22 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, faith, worship. 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 illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. 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 22:14
14 And when the hour was come, he sat down, and the twelve apostles with him.
Analysis
And when the hour was come, he sat down, and the twelve apostles with him. The solemn phrase when the hour was come (ὅτε ἐγένετο ἡ ὥρα, hote egeneto hē hōra) marks the pivotal moment—not merely Passover's appointed time, but the hour Jesus repeatedly referenced (John 2:4, 7:30, 12:23, 13:1, 17:1). This is God's ordained kairos, the 'hour' of Christ's glorification through suffering.
He sat down (ἀνέπεσεν, anepesen, 'reclined') indicates the formal Passover posture; Jews reclined on their left side, symbolizing freedom (slaves stood to eat). The twelve apostles with him (οἱ ἀπόστολοι σὺν αὐτῷ, hoi apostoloi syn autō) emphasizes unity and intimacy, though one betrayer sat among them. Luke uses 'apostles' (ἀπόστολοι, 'sent ones') rather than 'disciples,' highlighting their commission as authorized representatives who would proclaim this night's events. This meal embodies substitution's paradox: the Passover Lamb reclines to eat the passover lamb.
Historical Context
By Jesus' era, Passover celebrants reclined on couches arranged in a U-shape (triclinium) around a low table, leaning on their left elbow. The host occupied the central position. The meal followed a prescribed liturgy (haggadah) involving four cups of wine, unleavened bread, bitter herbs, and the lamb, with traditional blessings and recitations of Exodus 12-15.
Reflection
- How does recognizing this as 'the hour' Jesus anticipated throughout His ministry deepen your appreciation of His willing obedience?
- What does Jesus' choice to share this intimate meal with the Twelve—including Judas—teach about His love for those who would fail Him?
- How should the significance of communion as a continuation of this 'hour' affect how you prepare to receive it?
Word Studies
- Apostle: ἀπόστολος (Apostolos) G652 - Apostle, sent one
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Matthew 26:20, Mark 14:17