Luke 22:16
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 22:16
16 For I say unto you, I will not any more eat thereof, until it be fulfilled in the kingdom of God.
Chapter Context
Luke 22 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of covenant, mercy, love. 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 contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. 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 22:16
16 For I say unto you, I will not any more eat thereof, until it be fulfilled in the kingdom of God.
Analysis
For I say unto you, I will not any more eat thereof, until it be fulfilled in the kingdom of God. Jesus pronounces solemn prophecy—I say unto you (λέγω γὰρ ὑμῖν, legō gar hymin) introduces authoritative declaration. I will not any more eat thereof (οὐ μὴ φάγω αὐτό, ou mē phagō auto) uses the emphatic Greek double negative (ou mē plus aorist subjunctive), expressing absolute certainty: 'I will certainly not eat it.' This is Jesus' final Passover in history.
Until it be fulfilled (ἕως ὅτου πληρωθῇ, heōs hotou plērōthē) points forward to eschatological consummation. The Passover's typology—deliverance from bondage, blood sacrifice, covenant meal—finds ultimate fulfillment (πληρωθῇ, plērōthē, aorist passive subjunctive of 'to fill/complete') in the kingdom of God (ἐν τῇ βασιλείᾳ τοῦ θεοῦ, en tē basileia tou theou). Jesus points to the Messianic banquet (Isaiah 25:6, Matthew 8:11), the Marriage Supper of the Lamb (Revelation 19:9), when He will 'drink it new' with His people (Matthew 26:29) in the consummated Kingdom.
Historical Context
Jewish Passover looked backward to Egyptian deliverance and forward to ultimate messianic redemption. The festival's final toast, 'Next year in Jerusalem!' expressed eschatological hope. Jesus transforms this hope, pointing to a greater exodus (Luke 9:31, Greek 'exodos'), greater deliverance, and final Kingdom feast where He will reunite with His redeemed.
Reflection
- How does Jesus' vow to abstain 'until it be fulfilled in the kingdom' shape your understanding of communion as pointing toward future consummation?
- What does it mean that the Passover will be 'fulfilled' in God's kingdom rather than simply repeated?
- How should anticipation of the Marriage Supper of the Lamb affect how you live and worship now?
Word Studies
- God: Θεός (Theos) G2316 - God
Cross-References
- References God: Revelation 19:9
- Kingdom: Luke 14:15, 22:30