Luke 22:40
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 22:40
40 And when he was at the place, he said unto them, Pray that ye enter not into temptation.
Chapter Context
Luke 22 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of obedience, judgment, mercy. 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 22:40
40 And when he was at the place, he said unto them, Pray that ye enter not into temptation.
Analysis
When he was at the place (γενόμενος ἐπὶ τοῦ τόπου, genomenos epi tou topou)—This specific location within the Mount of Olives was Gethsemane. Jesus immediately commanded: Pray that ye enter not into temptation (προσεύχεσθε μὴ εἰσελθεῖν εἰς πειρασμόν, proseuchesthe mē eiselthein eis peirasmon). The word temptation (πειρασμός, peirasmos) means 'trial' or 'testing'—the disciples were about to face the severest test of their faith.
Jesus knew what was coming: His arrest, their scattering, Peter's denials. His first instruction wasn't 'comfort me' or 'stay awake,' but pray for yourselves. Prayer was their only defense against the crushing disillusionment that would assault them within hours. This echoes the Lord's Prayer: 'Lead us not into temptation' (Luke 11:4). Christ modeled what He commanded—withdrawing to pray (v. 41)—but the disciples failed to heed His warning (v. 45). Spiritual warfare is fought on our knees; those who neglect prayer will fall in testing.
Historical Context
The Passover night carried deep significance. Jesus and His disciples had just celebrated the Last Supper, instituting communion (22:14-20). Afterward, they sang a hymn (Matthew 26:30) and walked to Gethsemane, arriving late at night. The Mount of Olives' olive groves provided seclusion for prayer but also darkness for Judas' betrayal. Within hours, the disciples would indeed 'enter into temptation'—fleeing their arrested Lord, with Peter denying Him three times. Those who prayed (like Jesus) would endure; those who slept (like the eleven) would collapse.
Reflection
- Why does Jesus prioritize the disciples' prayer preparation over His own need for their support?
- How does prayerlessness make you vulnerable to spiritual collapse during testing?
- What 'temptation' (testing) might you be approaching that requires prayer fortification now, before the crisis arrives?
Cross-References
- Prayer: Luke 22:46, 1 Peter 4:7
- Parallel theme: Luke 11:4, 1 Chronicles 4:10, Psalms 17:5, 19:13, 119:133, Matthew 6:13