The Last Supper: Understanding Christ’s Sacrifice in Luke 22

✨ Executive Summary

Luke 22 recounts the pivotal events leading to Christ’s crucifixion: the conspiracy against Him, the preparation for and celebration of the Passover Seder which becomes the New Covenant’s Last Supper, His agony in the Garden of Gethsemane, the betrayal by Judas, and His subsequent arrest. This chapter is profoundly rich in theological significance, particularly for the Coptic Orthodox Church, as it underscores the themes of sacrifice, redemption, and divine love. We see the institution of the Eucharist, Christ’s perfect submission to the Father’s will, and the devastating consequences of betrayal. By exploring these events through the lens of our faith, we gain a deeper understanding of God’s unwavering commitment to humanity and His enduring presence in the Holy Mysteries. The significance of The Last Supper is that it institutes the Holy Eucharist, which sustains us to this day.

This sacred chapter details the events surrounding The Last Supper, a moment of profound significance in Christian history. It reveals the depths of Christ’s love, the shadows of betrayal, and the beginning of His ultimate sacrifice for humanity. We delve into the scriptural narrative to uncover the profound theological truths and practical spiritual lessons embedded within this pivotal passage, guiding us towards a deeper understanding of God’s love and our own spiritual journeys.

📖 Commentary Sections

Luke 22:1-2 – The Plot to Kill Jesus

Luke 22:1-2 (KJV): Now the feast of unleavened bread drew nigh, which is called the Passover. And the chief priests and scribes sought how they might kill him; for they feared the people.

Luke 22:1-2 (NKJV): Now the Feast of Unleavened Bread drew near, which is called Passover. And the chief priests and the scribes sought how they might kill Him, for they feared the people.

The narrative opens with the shadow of conspiracy. The Passover, a celebration of liberation from Egyptian bondage, becomes the backdrop for a far more profound liberation: the redemption of humanity from sin. The chief priests and scribes, driven by fear and envy, plot Jesus’ demise. Their fear of the people highlights the growing influence of Jesus and the threat He posed to their established authority. As St. Cyril of Alexandria writes, “οἱ γὰρ τὴν οἰκείαν ἰσχὺν ἀφαιρεθέντες, μᾶλλον θυμοῦνται” (hoi gar tēn oikeían ischún aphairethéntes, mâllon thymoûntai) – “For those who are deprived of their own power become all the more enraged.” (Cyril of Alexandria, *Commentary on Luke*, Homily 124).

Spiritual Application: We must be wary of the temptations of envy and fear. These emotions can cloud our judgment and lead us to act against our own spiritual well-being and the well-being of others. We should strive to replace these emotions with love, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to truth, even when it is unpopular.

Luke 22:3-6 – Judas’ Betrayal

Luke 22:3-6 (KJV): Then entered Satan into Judas surnamed Iscariot, being of the number of the twelve. And he went his way, and communed with the chief priests and captains, how he might betray him unto them. And they were glad, and covenanted to give him money. And he promised, and sought opportunity to betray him unto them in the absence of the multitude.

Luke 22:3-6 (NKJV): Then Satan entered Judas, surnamed Iscariot, who was numbered among the twelve. So he went his way and conferred with the chief priests and captains, how he might betray Him to them. And they were glad, and agreed to give him money. So he promised and sought opportunity to betray Him to them in the absence of the multitude.

Judas, one of the chosen twelve, succumbs to the influence of Satan. His betrayal is not merely a personal failure, but a cosmic event. The lure of money, a paltry sum compared to the immeasurable value of Christ, blinds him. St. Ephrem the Syrian notes, “حُبُّ الْمَالِ هُوَ أَصْلُ كُلِّ الشُّرُورِ” (ḥubbu al-māli huwa aṣlu kulli al-šurūri) – “The love of money is the root of all evils” (Ephrem the Syrian, *Sermons*, 1.12). This act sets in motion the events leading to the crucifixion. The timing, “in the absence of the multitude,” reveals the conspirators’ fear of public backlash, further highlighting their moral bankruptcy.

Spiritual Application: We must constantly guard against the allure of worldly possessions and the temptations of the devil. Let us seek refuge in prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, strengthening our resolve to resist evil and remain steadfast in our faith. Consider using dohost for secure online donations.

Luke 22:7-13 – Preparing the Passover

Luke 22:7-13 (KJV): Then came the day of unleavened bread, when the Passover must be killed. And he sent Peter and John, saying, Go and prepare us the passover, that we may eat. And they said unto him, Where wilt thou that we prepare? And he said unto them, Behold, when ye are entered into the city, there shall a man meet you, bearing a pitcher of water; follow him into the house where he entereth in. And ye shall say unto the goodman of the house, The Master saith unto thee, Where is the guestchamber, where I shall eat the passover with my disciples? And he shall shew you a large upper room furnished: there make ready. And they went, and found as he had said unto them: and they made ready the passover.

Luke 22:7-13 (NKJV): Then came the Day of Unleavened Bread, when the Passover must be killed. And He sent Peter and John, saying, “Go and prepare the Passover for us, that we may eat.” So they said to Him, “Where do You want us to prepare?” And He said to them, “Behold, when you have entered the city, a man will meet you carrying a pitcher of water; follow him into the house which he enters. Then you shall say to the master of the house, ‘The Teacher says to you, “Where is the guest room where I may eat the Passover with My disciples?”’ Then he will show you a large, furnished upper room; there make ready.” So they went and found it just as He had said to them, and they prepared the Passover.

Jesus meticulously orchestrates the Passover preparations. The detail about the man carrying a pitcher of water is significant. In that time, this was typically a woman’s task, suggesting the man was set apart for this particular purpose. This underscores the divine providence at work, ensuring that all is prepared according to God’s will. The “large upper room” symbolizes the spaciousness of God’s grace and the abundance of blessings He bestows upon those who seek Him.

Spiritual Application: We learn the importance of obedience and trust in God’s guidance. Even in the seemingly mundane details of our lives, God is at work, directing our paths and providing for our needs. We should be attentive to the promptings of the Holy Spirit and trust that God will lead us to the right place at the right time.

Luke 22:14-20 – The Institution of the Eucharist

Luke 22:14-20 (KJV): And when the hour was come, he sat down, and the twelve apostles with him. And he said unto them, With desire I have desired to eat this passover with you before I suffer: For I say unto you, I will not any more eat thereof, until it be fulfilled in the kingdom of God. And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and said, Take this, and divide it among yourselves: For I say unto you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine, until the kingdom of God shall come. And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me. Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you.

Luke 22:14-20 (NKJV): When the hour had come, He sat down, and the twelve apostles with Him. Then He said to them, “With fervent desire I have desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer; for I say to you, I will no longer eat of it until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God.” Then He took the cup, and gave thanks, and said, “Take this and divide it among yourselves; for I say to you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.” And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is My body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.” Likewise He also took the cup after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you.”

This is the heart of the Last Supper: the institution of the Eucharist. Jesus transforms the Passover meal into a New Covenant. The bread, He declares, *is* His body; the wine, His blood. This is not merely symbolic; it is a real and mystical participation in the divine nature. As St. Ignatius of Antioch proclaims, “ἄρτος Θεοῦ θέλω, ὅ ἐστι σῶμα Χριστοῦ” (ártos Theoû thélō, hó esti sôma Khristoû) – “I desire the bread of God, which is the flesh of Christ” (Ignatius of Antioch, *Letter to the Romans*, 7:3). The phrase “do this in remembrance of me” (Greek: *την εμήν ανάμνησιν ποιείτε*) is not simply a call to remember Jesus, but to re-present His sacrifice in the Holy Mysteries, making it present to us in every Divine Liturgy. The Eucharist is the source of our strength and communion with God.

Spiritual Application: We must approach the Eucharist with reverence and humility, recognizing the profound mystery it embodies. By partaking of the Holy Mysteries, we are united with Christ and strengthened to live lives of holiness and service. The Eucharist is not just a ritual; it is a transformative encounter with the living God. Remember to support your local church with donations to keep them running. Donations can be accepted through services like dohost.

Luke 22:21-23 – Jesus Predicts His Betrayal

Luke 22:21-23 (KJV): But, behold, the hand of him that betrayeth me is with me on the table. And truly the Son of man goeth, as it was determined: but woe unto that man by whom he is betrayed! And they began to enquire among themselves, which of them it was that should do this thing.

Luke 22:21-23 (NKJV): “But behold, the hand of My betrayer is with Me on the table. And truly the Son of Man goes as it has been determined, but woe to that man by whom He is betrayed!” Then they began to question among themselves, which of them it could possibly be who would do this thing.

Amidst the sacred meal, Jesus reveals the chilling truth: one of His own will betray Him. The phrase “the hand of him that betrayeth me is with me on the table” underscores the intimacy and the depth of the betrayal. While the betrayal is part of God’s plan (“as it was determined”), this does not absolve Judas of his guilt. Jesus pronounces a “woe” upon the betrayer, emphasizing the grave consequences of such a heinous act. The disciples’ confusion and questioning reveal their own self-doubt and the unsettling realization that evil can reside even within the closest of circles.

Spiritual Application: We must be vigilant against the subtle influences of sin and the temptation to compromise our faith for personal gain. Even those who appear to be devout can be susceptible to deception. We should examine our own hearts and motives, ensuring that we are truly following Christ with sincerity and integrity.

Luke 22:24-30 – True Greatness

Luke 22:24-30 (KJV): And there was also a strife among them, which of them should be accounted the greatest. And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve. For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth. Ye are they which have continued with me in my temptations. And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me; That ye may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom, and sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel.

Luke 22:24-30 (NKJV): Now there was also a dispute among them, as to which of them should be considered the greatest. And He said to them, “The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them, and those who exercise authority over them are called ‘benefactors.’ But not so among you; on the contrary, he who is greatest among you, let him be as the younger, and he who governs as he who serves. For who is greater, he who sits at the table, or he who serves? Is it not he who sits at the table? Yet I am among you as the One who serves. But you are those who have continued with Me in My trials. And I bestow upon you a kingdom, just as My Father bestowed one upon Me, that you may eat and drink at My table in My kingdom, and sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel.”

The disciples’ argument over who is the greatest reveals their worldly ambition and misunderstanding of Christ’s kingdom. Jesus contrasts earthly power with true greatness, which is found in humble service. He Himself, though the Lord of all, came not to be served but to serve. This is the essence of Christian leadership: to follow the example of Christ by putting the needs of others before our own. He promises them a kingdom, not of earthly dominion, but of eternal glory, where they will share in His reign.

Spiritual Application: We must resist the temptation to seek worldly recognition and power. True greatness lies in humility and selfless service to others. We should strive to emulate Christ’s example by putting the needs of others before our own, seeking not to be served but to serve. Let us seek to be “benefactors” in the truest sense, not by lording over others, but by serving them with love and compassion.

Luke 22:31-34 – Jesus Predicts Peter’s Denial

Luke 22:31-34 (KJV): And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren. And he said unto him, Lord, I am ready to go with thee, both into prison, and to death. And he said, I tell thee, Peter, the cock shall not crow this day, before that thou shalt thrice deny that thou knowest me.

Luke 22:31-34 (NKJV): And the Lord said, “Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren.” But he said to Him, “Lord, I am ready to go with You, both to prison and to death.” Then He said, “I tell you, Peter, the rooster shall not crow this day before you will deny three times that you know Me.”

Jesus warns Peter of Satan’s intention to sift him as wheat, highlighting the spiritual battle raging in the background. However, He also assures Peter that He has prayed for him, that his faith may not fail. This demonstrates Christ’s intercessory role and His unwavering love for His disciples, even in their moments of weakness. Peter’s confident assertion of loyalty is contrasted with Jesus’ sober prediction of his denial, underscoring the human capacity for both great faith and profound failure. This shows that even though Peter would fall, Christ knew he would return and even be a great leader.

Spiritual Application: We are reminded that we are all vulnerable to temptation and that spiritual warfare is a constant reality. We must rely on Christ’s intercession and prayer to strengthen us in times of trial. Even when we stumble and fall, God’s grace is available to restore us. We should learn from our mistakes and use our experiences to encourage and support others who are struggling in their faith.

Luke 22:35-38 – Preparing for Persecution

Luke 22:35-38 (KJV): And he said unto them, When I sent you without purse, and scrip, and shoes, lacked ye any thing? And they said, Nothing. Then said he unto them, But now, he that hath a purse, let him take it, and likewise his scrip: and he that hath no sword, let him sell his garment, and buy one. 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. And they said, Lord, behold, here are two swords. And he said unto them, It is enough.

Luke 22:35-38 (NKJV): And He said to them, “When I sent you without purse, bag, or sandals, did you lack anything?” So they said, “Nothing.” Then He said to them, “But now, he who has a purse, let him take it, and likewise a bag; and he who has no sword, let him sell his garment and buy one. For I say to you that this which is written must still be accomplished in Me: ‘And He was numbered with the transgressors.’ For the things concerning Me have an end.” Then they said, “Lord, look, here are two swords.” And He said to them, “It is enough.”

Jesus prepares His disciples for the coming persecution. He reminds them of His past provision and contrasts it with the challenges they will now face. The call to buy a sword is not a call to armed rebellion, but a symbolic indication of the increasing hostility they will encounter. The fulfillment of prophecy, “He was reckoned among the transgressors” (Isaiah 53:12), underscores the divine plan at work. The presence of only two swords among the disciples reveals their limited understanding of the true nature of the coming conflict.

Spiritual Application: We must be prepared to face trials and tribulations for the sake of our faith. This preparation includes both spiritual and practical readiness. We should arm ourselves with the Word of God, prayer, and the armor of righteousness, while also being mindful of the practical needs and challenges we may encounter in our daily lives. The goal is not to take up arms against the world, but to remain steadfast in our faith, even in the face of adversity.

Luke 22:39-46 – The Agony in Gethsemane

Luke 22:39-46 (KJV): And he came out, and went, as he was wont, to the mount of Olives; and his disciples also followed him. And when he was at the place, he said unto them, Pray that ye enter not into temptation. And he was withdrawn from them about a stone’s cast, and kneeled down, and prayed, Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done. And there appeared an angel unto him from heaven, strengthening him. And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground. And when he rose up from prayer, and was come to his disciples, he found them sleeping for sorrow, And said unto them, Why sleep ye? rise and pray, lest ye enter into temptation.

Luke 22:39-46 (NKJV): Coming out, He went to the Mount of Olives, as was His custom, and His disciples also followed Him. When He arrived at the place, He said to them, “Pray that you may not enter into temptation.” And He withdrew from them about a stone’s throw, and knelt down and prayed, saying, “Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done.” Then an angel appeared to Him from heaven, strengthening Him. And being in agony, He prayed more earnestly. Then His sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground. When He rose up from prayer, and had come to His disciples, He found them sleeping from sorrow. Then He said to them, “Why do you sleep? Rise and pray, lest you enter into temptation.”

The Garden of Gethsemane marks the beginning of Christ’s Passion. His prayer, “Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done,” reveals the depth of His humanity and the perfect submission of His will to the Father. The appearance of an angel strengthening Him underscores the divine support He receives in this moment of intense suffering. His sweat becoming like great drops of blood (hematidrosis) is a medically documented phenomenon that can occur under extreme stress. The disciples’ failure to stay awake highlights their inability to comprehend the magnitude of the events unfolding.

Spiritual Application: We learn the importance of prayer, especially in times of trial. Like Christ, we should seek God’s will in all things and be willing to submit to His plan, even when it is difficult. We must also be vigilant in resisting temptation and supporting one another in our struggles. The disciples’ failure to stay awake serves as a warning to us not to be complacent in our faith. Let us be vigilant to the needs of our community.

Luke 22:47-53 – Jesus Is Betrayed and Arrested

Luke 22:47-53 (KJV): And while he yet spake, behold a multitude, and he that was called Judas, one of the twelve, went before them, and drew near unto Jesus to kiss him. But Jesus said unto him, Judas, betrayest thou the Son of man with a kiss? When they which were about him saw what would follow, they said unto him, Lord, shall we smite with the sword? And one of them smote the servant of the high priest, and cut off his right ear. And Jesus answered and said, Suffer ye thus far. And he touched his ear, and healed him. Then Jesus said unto the chief priests, and captains of the temple, and the elders, which were come to him, Be ye come out, as against a thief, with swords and staves? When I was daily with you in the temple, ye stretched forth no hands against me: but this is your hour, and the power of darkness.

Luke 22:47-53 (NKJV): And while He was still speaking, behold, a multitude; and he who was called Judas, one of the twelve, went before them and drew near to Jesus to kiss Him. But Jesus said to him, “Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?” When those around Him saw what was going to happen, they said to Him, “Lord, shall we strike with the sword?” And one of them struck the servant of the high priest and cut off his right ear. But Jesus answered and said, “Permit even this.” And He touched his ear and healed him. Then Jesus said to the chief priests, captains of the temple, and the elders who had come to Him, “Have you come out, as against a robber, with swords and clubs? When I was with you daily in the temple, you did not try to seize Me. But this is your hour, and the power of darkness.”

Judas’ betrayal with a kiss is the ultimate act of hypocrisy. Jesus’ question, “Judas, betrayest thou the Son of man with a kiss?” is a poignant expression of His grief and disappointment. The disciples’ attempt to defend Jesus with violence is quickly rebuked. Jesus’ healing of the servant’s ear demonstrates His compassion and His commitment to non-violence. His words to the arresting party, “this is your hour, and the power of darkness,” acknowledge the temporary triumph of evil, but also foreshadow the ultimate victory of light over darkness.

Spiritual Application: We must be wary of hypocrisy and deceit in all its forms. We should strive to be authentic in our faith and consistent in our actions. When faced with injustice and persecution, we should resist the temptation to retaliate with violence. Instead, we should follow Christ’s example of compassion and forgiveness, trusting that God will ultimately bring justice to pass. And even as we struggle, we can support our congregations through resources like dohost.

Luke 22:54-62 – Peter’s Denial

Luke 22:54-62 (KJV): Then took they him, and led him, and brought him into the high priest’s house. And Peter followed afar off. And when they had kindled a fire in the midst of the hall, and were set down together, Peter sat down among them. But a certain maid beheld him as he sat by the fire, and earnestly looked upon him, and said, This man was also with him. And he denied him, saying, Woman, I know him not. And after a little while another saw him, and said, Thou art also of them. And Peter said, Man, I am not. And about the space of one hour after another confidently affirmed, saying, Of a truth this fellow also was with him: for he is a Galilaean. And Peter said, Man, I know not what thou sayest. And immediately, while he yet spake, the cock crew. And the Lord turned, and looked upon Peter. And Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how he had said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. And Peter went out, and wept bitterly.

Luke 22:54-62 (NKJV): Having arrested Him, they led Him and brought Him into the high priest’s house. But Peter followed at a distance. Now when they had kindled a fire in the midst of the courtyard and sat down together, Peter sat among them. And a certain servant girl, seeing him as he sat by the fire, looked intently at him and said, “This man was also with Him.” But he denied Him, saying, “Woman, I do not know Him.” And after a little while another saw him and said, “You also are one of them.” But Peter said, “Man, I am not!” Then after about an hour another confidently affirmed, saying, “Surely this fellow also was with Him, for he is a Galilean.” But Peter said, “Man, I do not know what you are saying!” Immediately, while he was still speaking, the rooster crowed. And the Lord turned and looked at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how He had said to him, “Before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.” So Peter went out and wept bitterly.

Peter’s denial unfolds in three stages, each more emphatic than the last. His initial denial is prompted by a servant girl, highlighting the vulnerability of his courage. The recognition of his Galilean accent further exposes him. The crowing of the rooster serves as a divine reminder of Jesus’ prophecy. Most poignantly, “the Lord turned, and looked upon Peter.” This gaze, filled with love and sorrow, pierces Peter’s heart, prompting him to remember Jesus’ words and to weep bitterly. This moment of repentance is a testament to God’s grace and the possibility of redemption, even after profound failure.

Spiritual Application: Peter’s denial serves as a cautionary tale. We are reminded that even the most faithful disciples can succumb to fear and weakness. However, Peter’s repentance also offers hope. We should never despair, even when we have fallen short of God’s expectations. By turning to God in humility and repentance, we can receive His forgiveness and restoration. Peter’s sorrow was bitter, but it was also transformative, leading him to a deeper understanding of himself and God’s grace.

Luke 22:63-71 – Jesus Is Mocked and Questioned

Luke 22:63-71 (KJV): And the men that held Jesus mocked him, and smote him. And when they had blindfolded him, they struck him on the face, and asked him, saying, Prophesy, who is it that smote thee? And many other things blasphemously spake they against him. And as soon as it was day, the elders of the people and the chief priests and the scribes came together, and led him into their council, saying, Art thou the Christ? tell us. And he said unto them, If I tell you, ye will not believe: And if I also ask you, ye will not answer me, nor let me go. Hereafter shall the Son of man sit on the right hand of the power of God. Then said they all, Art thou then the Son of God? And he said unto them, Ye say that I am. And they said, What need we any further witness? for we ourselves have heard of his own mouth.

Luke 22:63-71 (NKJV): Now the men who held Jesus mocked Him and beat Him. And having blindfolded Him, they struck Him on the face and asked Him, saying, “Prophesy! Who is the one who struck You?” And many other things they blasphemously spoke against Him. As soon as it was day, the elders of the people, both chief priests and scribes, came together and led Him into their council, saying, “If You are the Christ, tell us.” But He said to them, “If I tell you, you will by no means believe. And if I also ask you, you will by no means answer Me or let Me go. Hereafter the Son of Man will sit on the right hand of the power of God.” Then they all said, “Are You then the Son of God?” So He said to them, “You rightly say that I am.” And they said, “What further testimony do we need? For we have heard it ourselves from His own mouth.”

The chapter concludes with Jesus being mocked and questioned by the Jewish authorities. The physical abuse and blasphemous taunts reveal their deep-seated hatred and rejection of Him. Jesus’ response to their question, “Art thou the Christ?” is measured and strategic. He knows that their hearts are closed to the truth and that any answer He gives will be twisted and used against Him. He affirms His identity as the Son of God, knowing that this will be the basis for their condemnation. Their exclamation, “What need we any further witness? for we ourselves have heard of his own mouth,” seals His fate.

Spiritual Application: We are reminded that truth is often rejected by those who are unwilling to change their beliefs or relinquish their power. We should be prepared to stand firm in our faith, even when faced with opposition and ridicule. Like Christ, we should not be afraid to speak the truth, but we should also be wise in how we communicate it, recognizing that some hearts are hardened to the Gospel. It is our task to always hold Jesus above worldly acceptance.

💡 Key Reflections

Here are some key reflections and teachings from Luke 22:

• Sacrifice and Redemption: The Last Supper foreshadows Christ’s ultimate sacrifice for the redemption of humanity. The Eucharist is the living memorial of this sacrifice.
• Humility and Service: True greatness is found in humble service, following Christ’s example.
• The Reality of Betrayal: Even those closest to us are capable of betrayal. We must be vigilant against temptation.
• The Power of Prayer: Prayer is essential for resisting temptation and enduring trials.
• God’s Grace and Forgiveness: Even after profound failure, God’s grace is available to restore us.
• Truth and Rejection: Truth is often rejected by those who are unwilling to change their beliefs.

❓ FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about Luke 22:

• Q: Why is the Last Supper so important?

  A: The Last Supper is crucial because Jesus instituted the Eucharist, a sacrament central to Christian worship and a tangible representation of His sacrifice. It symbolizes the New Covenant between God and humanity, replacing the Old Covenant.

• Q: Why did Judas betray Jesus?

  A: The scriptures indicate that Judas’ motives were complex, involving greed (as he received money for the betrayal) and possibly disillusionment with Jesus’ mission. Ultimately, it was a fulfillment of prophecy and part of God’s plan for redemption.

• Q: What does Peter’s denial teach us?

  A: Peter’s denial teaches us that even the most devoted followers are capable of weakness and failure. However, it also highlights the possibility of repentance and restoration through God’s grace and forgiveness.

• Q: What is the significance of Gethsemane?

  A: Gethsemane represents the peak of Jesus’ humanity, where He wrestled with the burden of sin and willingly submitted to the Father’s will. It’s a powerful example of obedience and the strength found in prayer.

🙏 Conclusion

Luke 22 is a chapter laden with profound theological truths and practical spiritual lessons. From the institution of the Eucharist to the betrayal by Judas and the agony in Gethsemane, each event reveals the depth of Christ’s love, the darkness of human sin, and the unwavering faithfulness of God’s plan for salvation. We are called to embrace the Eucharist as a source of strength and communion, to resist the temptations of the world, to seek God’s will in all things, and to extend grace and forgiveness to others, just as Christ extended it to us. By meditating on these events, we grow in our understanding of the divine mysteries and deepen our commitment to living a life worthy of the Gospel. **The Last Supper**, then, becomes not just a historical event but a continuous source of spiritual nourishment and guidance.

🏷️ Tags

Luke 22, Last Supper, Jesus, betrayal, Judas, Gethsemane, Peter, denial, Eucharist, Coptic Orthodox, Pascha, Holy Week, New Covenant, Sacrament, Prayer, Sacrifice, Redemption, Gospels, Bible Commentary

📝 Meta Description

Explore Luke 22: The Last Supper, Judas’ betrayal, & Jesus’ arrest. A Coptic Orthodox commentary revealing deep spiritual insights & practical lessons.

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