Luke 22: Jesus is Arrested and Tried

Read Luke chapter 22

Introduction: The 22nd chapter of Luke provides a detailed account of main events that led up to the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. These events are His final preparation for Passover (Luke 22:1-13), the Last Supper (Luke 22:14-23), Jesus predicting Peter’s denial (Luke 22:31-34), His agony in the Garden of Gethsemane (Luke 22:39-46), and His arrest, denial, and trial (Luke 22:47-71). This chapter highlights the fulfillment of the prophecies in the Old Testament, the deep spiritual strength of Jesus, the human frailty of His disciples, and the depth of God’s love and plan for all humanity.

I. The Plot against Jesus (Luke 22:1-6)
These verses reveals the conspiracy of the religious leaders against Jesus, accusations that are brought on by fear and jealousy. Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve disciples, conspires with them. The betrayal of Judas is prophesied in Psalms 41:9, and the acceptance of thirty pieces of silver as payment for his betrayal of Jesus fulfills Zechariah 11:12-13.

II. Preparations for the Passover (Luke 22:7-13)
Here, Jesus instructs Peter and John to prepare for the Passover. Their obedient actions bring to mind Proverbs 3:5-6, where trust in God and obedience to His instructions lead to His guidance in peoples lives.

III. The Last Supper (Luke 22:14-23)
Jesus desires to have the Last Supper with his disciples, which institutes the New Covenant and prophesying His betrayal. The breaking of bread and sharing of wine as His body and blood foreshadows His sacrifice for the sins of mankind (Matthew 26:26-28), fulfilling Jeremiah 31:31-34.

IV. The Greatest in the Kingdom (Luke 22:24-30)
Jesus teaches about true greatness being in our selfless service to others, not authority or power, which brings to mind the teaching in Matthew 20:26-28. He promises the disciples a place in His kingdom, pointing out that there is a reward for faithfulness (1 Corinthians 9:25).

V. Prediction of Peter’s Denial (Luke 22:31-34)
Jesus predicts Peter’s denial, highlighting human frailty and the testing of faith. This prediction lines up with Zechariah 13:7, where the sheep scatter when the shepherd struck.

VI. Jesus Prays on the Mount of Olives (Luke 22: 39-46)
Jesus battles with human fear and divine purpose in prayer, a powerful reflection of the struggle in Hebrews 5:7-9. His prayer and submission to God’s will reminds us of the teaching in Matthew 26:41, which is much like in Luke.

VII. Jesus Arrested (Luke 22: 47-53)
Judas betrays Jesus with a kiss, leading to his arrest. This brings to mind the prophecy in Psalms 55:12-14 about a friend turning into an enemy, Judas was the instrument of Jesus’ crucifixion that the devil was able to use, be careful as to what you allow yourself to think and do, the devil is always looking for someone to do his dirty work.

VIII. Peter Denies Jesus, and Jesus Is Mocked (Luke 22:54-65)
Jesus’ prediction comes true as Peter denies Him thrice before the rooster crows, a reflection of Proverbs 29:25. Jesus’ mockery by the guards is a reflection of the prophesy in Isaiah 53:3.

IX. Jesus before the Council (Luke 22:66-71)
Jesus, before the council, when put on trial by the religious leaders, Jesus states the truth of who He is, the Messiah, the Son of God, a statement that confirms Daniel 7:13-14. His conviction and crucifixion is based on this claim.

Conclusion: Luke 22 showcases the end of Jesus’ earthly teaching ministry, and the beginning of his true ministry, to be the once for all sacrifice for the atonement of the sins of humanity. This chapter also shows His ultimate display of His obedience to the Father’s will. Each event carries us deeper into the understanding of Christ’s suffering, sacrifice, and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. It guides us to consider the depth of Christ’s love, the gravity of His sacrifice, and the important life changing lessons of His teachings. It inspires faithfulness, obedience, and an appreciation of the New Covenant established by Christ’s sacrifice.