Luke 22:8
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 22:8
8 And he sent Peter and John, saying, Go and prepare us the passover, that we may eat.
Chapter Context
Luke 22 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of mercy, discipleship, covenant. 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 22:8
8 And he sent Peter and John, saying, Go and prepare us the passover, that we may eat.
Analysis
And he sent Peter and John, saying, Go and prepare us the passover, that we may eat. Jesus sent (ἀπέστειλεν, apesteilen, aorist active) His two leading apostles—Peter (Πέτρον, Petron, 'the rock') and John (Ἰωάννην, Iōannēn, 'the beloved'). Their task: prepare us the passover (ἑτοιμάσατε ἡμῖν τὸ πάσχα, hetoimasate hēmin to pascha). This involved purchasing an unblemished lamb, bringing it to the temple for slaughter, retrieving the carcass, preparing it with unleavened bread, bitter herbs, wine, and the traditional elements.
The purpose clause that we may eat (ἵνα φάγωμεν, hina phagōmen, aorist active subjunctive) expresses Jesus' determination to celebrate this final Passover before His death. He would transform this memorial meal into the Lord's Supper, replacing old covenant symbols with new covenant realities. Peter and John's preparation of the Passover lamb parallels their later role preparing the church to receive Christ, the true Lamb.
Historical Context
Passover preparation required significant work: selecting and purchasing a lamb (one per household or group of 10-20), temple slaughter and blood application, roasting the entire lamb, securing unleavened bread and bitter herbs, preparing the upper room, mixing wine (four cups required in the Seder), and arranging couches for reclining at table.
Reflection
- How does Jesus' choice of Peter and John for this sacred task highlight the importance of trusted spiritual leadership?
- What does Jesus' determination to eat this Passover ('that we may eat') reveal about His intentionality in fulfilling the Law?
- In what ways should preparing for communion today mirror the careful preparation required for Passover?