Luke 22:37
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 22:37
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.
Chapter Context
Luke 22 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, obedience, fellowship. 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 guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. 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 22:37
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.
Analysis
This that is written must yet be accomplished in me, And he was reckoned among the transgressors—Jesus quotes Isaiah 53:12, identifying Himself as the Suffering Servant who would be numbered with transgressors (μετὰ ἀνόμων ἐλογίσθη, meta anomon elogisthe). The cross would place Jesus literally between criminals (Luke 23:32-33), fulfilling Scripture's prophecy that Messiah would be counted as a sinner though sinless.
For the things concerning me have an end (τέλος, telos)—not termination but fulfillment, completion. Jesus's earthly messianic work was reaching its climax in the cross. All Old Testament prophecies, types, and shadows found their consummation in His atoning death. The Greek telos means goal or purpose achieved, not merely cessation. The cross wasn't tragedy but triumph—the predetermined plan of redemption reaching fruition.
Historical Context
Isaiah 53 was largely ignored by first-century Jewish messianic interpretation, which focused on conquering king imagery. Jesus consistently corrected this misunderstanding by identifying Himself with the Suffering Servant. His crucifixion between thieves visually demonstrated Isaiah's prophecy: the Holy One of Israel legally reckoned as criminal, bearing the sins of transgressors through substitutionary atonement.
Reflection
- How does Jesus's identification with transgressors at the cross demonstrate the doctrine of imputation—our sin reckoned to Him, His righteousness reckoned to us?
- What Old Testament prophecies or types reached their telos (fulfillment) in Christ's death and resurrection?
- How should the certainty that God's redemptive plan reaches its appointed end affect your trust when circumstances seem chaotic or evil appears to triumph?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Luke 18:31, 22:22, 23:32, Isaiah 53:12, John 10:35, 17:4