Lucas 22
Warren Wiersbe · Citado em PreceptAustin
Lucas 22
Wiersbe - Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles were the three most important feasts on the Jewish calendar (Lev. 23); and all the Jewish men were expected to go to Jerusalem each year to celebrate (Deut. 16:16). The Feast of Passover commemorated the deliverance of Israel from Egypt, and it was a time for both remembering and rejoicing (Ex. 11-12)....Passover had strong political overtones, and it was the ideal time for some would-be messiah to attempt to overthrow Rome. This explains why King Herod and Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor, were in Jerusalem instead of being at Tiberius and Caesarea respectively. They wanted to help keep the peace. It is incredible that these men perpetrated history's greatest crime during Israel's holiest festival. During Passover, the Jews were expected to remove all leaven (yeast) from their houses (Ex. 12:15) as a reminder that their ancestors left Egypt in haste and had to eat unleavened bread. Jesus had warned His disciples about the "leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy" (Luke 12:1; also see Matt 16:6; 1 Cor. 5:1-8), and now we see this hypocrisy at work. The religious leaders had cleansed their homes but not their hearts (see Matt. 23:25-28). (Borrow Be courageous Luke 14-24)
Lucas 22
Wiersbe comments that "We have every reason to believe that Judas had been given the same authority as the other men and that he had preached the same message and performed the same miracles. It shows how close a person can come to God's kingdom and still be lost (Mt. 7:21-29-note)...When you cooperate with Satan, you pay dearly, and Judas ended up destroying himself (Mt. 27:3-5). Satan is a liar and a murderer (John 8:44), and he reproduced himself perfectly in Judas." (Borrow Be courageous Luke 14-24) Jesus Himself described how closely false believers can mimic true believers, even to the point of being able to perform supernatural acts... “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does (present tense = generally as one's lifestyle) the will of My Father who is in heaven will enter. 22 “Many will say to Me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name cast out demons, and in Your name perform many miracles?’ (NOTE THAT JESUS DOES NOT DENY THEY DID THESE SUPERNATURAL ACTS!) 23 “And then I will declare to them, ‘I never (AT ANY TIME) knew you; DEPART FROM ME, YOU WHO PRACTICE (present tense = generally as one's lifestyle) LAWLESSNESS.’ (Mt. 7:21-23+) William Barclay on Satan's entrance into Judas - Two things stand out. (i) Just as God is ever looking for men to be his instruments, so is Satan. A man can be the instrument of good or of evil, of God or of the devil. The Zoroastrians see this whole universe as the battle ground between the god of the light and the god of the dark, and in that battle a man must choose his side. We, too, know that a man can be the servant of the light or of the dark.(ii) But it remains true that Satan could not have entered into Judas unless Judas had opened the door. There is no handle on the outside of the door of the human heart. It must be opened from within. It is our own decision whether we will choose to be the instrument of Satan or a weapon in the hand of God. We can enlist in either service. God help us choose aright! (Luke 22 Commentary) To every man there openeth A high way and a low; And every man decideth The way his soul shall go. As an aside, one might think that since Judas was "demon possessed," he was not responsible for his actions. On the contrary, while Satan surely "guided" Judas, it does not diminish Judas' personal responsibility, because none of his evil deeds were done against his will. Judas willingly opened the door of his mind/heart for Satan to gain entrance. Jesus clearly held Judas fully responsible declaring "The Son of Man is to go, just as it is written of Him; but woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed! It would have been good for that man if he had not been born." (Mt 26:24) Earlier Jesus alluded to Judas when He declared "Did I Myself not choose you, the twelve, and yet one of you is a devil?”(John 6:70) While Judas was chosen to be one of the 12 apostles, clearly he was not one of the elect chosen for salvation. This is a mystery that we cannot fully comprehend now. Perhaps God will explain this fully in heaven. Jesus says he is a diabolos, one who falsely accuses and divides people without a reason. Louw-Nida adds Judas was "a wicked person who has a number of characteristics typical of the Devil." Judas is the only man ever called a devil! Jesus knew that Judas yield to the devil’s enticements and betray him (cf Jn 6:64). Still as of old Men by themselves are priced— For thirty pieces Judas sold Himself, not Christ Stein - Although Satan/devil has been mentioned in Luke 8:12; 10:18; 11:18; 13:16, he has been comparatively inactive since 4:13. In fact he has been on the defensive and under attack, but now is his hour (cf. 22:53), and his frontal attack on Jesus begins again via Judas. For Satan “entering” or “departing,” cf. Lk 8:30–32; Acts 5:3. Compare John 13:2 and especially 13:27....Later Satan entered into another “disciple,” Ananias, because of money (Acts 5:3), and this also resulted in sin and tragedy. (New American Commentary: Luke) It is frightening and somewhat disheartening to come to the realization that people can profess Jesus and yet be a "Judas" in their heart. If you have been in ministry long enough, you have undoubtedly experienced the deep disappointment of betrayal by someone from within the ranks of those with whom you minister. Jesus, having experienced the greatest example of personal betrayal, understands as the writer of Hebrews explains "For since He Himself was tempted (tested) in that which He has suffered, He is (continually) able (See God is Able) to come to the aid (boetheo = come running upon hearing one's cry) of those who are (present tense - continually being) tempted (tested)." (Heb 2:18+). Satan clearly played a major role in the events of Passion Week with multiple mentions (or allusions) in Luke and John... John 16:11 "the ruler of this world has been judged" Luke 22:47-48 Judas was indwelt by Satan Luke 22:52-53 "power of darkness" Satan (4567)(satanas transliterated from Hebrew Satan - see 07854 and Aramaic sātānâ) literally means Adversary, the evil antagonist who offers opposition, hostility, resentment, etc. An enemy who that contends with, opposes, resists. An adversary is one who hates or opposes another person and tries to harm them or stop them from doing something because of hatred and malice. Satan is the inveterate, implacable, relentless, ruthless, remorseless, merciless, heartless, pitiless, cruel, hard, harsh, hardened, incorrigible, dedicated enemy of God and man. Satan is not a myth or a fable, but a created, fallen angel who is a real, supernatural evil being (Mt 16.23; 1 Th 2.18+). Satan is not divine but is subject to the divine Creator Jesus (John 1:3, Col 1:16+). He was the tempter of Jesus and sifter of men like Peter (Mt 4.1, Lk 4:2+, Mk 1:13+, Lk 22:31+). In Mt 16:23 and Mk 8:33 Jesus gives a stinging rebuke to Peter (who had just rebuked Him!) declaring "Get behind Me, Satan" not because Peter was possessed by Satan, but because he was in essence serving as the "mouthpiece" for Satan, thus doing the work of Satan by attempting to dissuade Jesus from going to the Cross! So while Peter was not possessed by Satan, he undoubtedly was influenced by Satan's fiery missile that had lodged in his mind! (cf Eph 6:16+). Note the dramatic contrast with what Peter had just confessed (Mt 16:16)! This ought to be a lesson for ALL of Jesus' disciples that we need to continually be on guard against Satan's fiery missiles! Are you taking up the shield of faith, diligently guarding your heart (Pr 4:23+)? Remember that Satan's primary modus operandi is the same as it was with Eve and that is to deceive (2 Cor 11:3, Rev 12:9+). Believers have been rescued from Satan's "domain (right and the might) of darkness, and transferred to the kingdom of His beloved Son" (Col 1:13+), The Gospel supernaturally enables men "to open their eyes so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the dominion of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who have been sanctified by faith in" Christ (Acts 26:18+) There are ONLY TWO spiritual kingdoms on earth, the kingdom of darkness headed by Satan and the kingdom of God headed by Jesus Christ. All unregenerate people belong the Satan's kingdom (cf Jn 8:44) and all believers are blessed to belong to Christ's kingdom. John speaking for believers says "We know that we are of God, and that the whole (unregenerate) world (from politics to entertainment to religion, etc) lies in the power of the evil one" (1 Jn 5:19+) who is "the prince of the power of the air" (Eph 2:2+), "the ruler of this world" (Jn 14:30). Because this passing world (1 Jn 2:17+) is completely under Satan's influence, believers must avoid being contaminated by the influences of the world, "for whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God." (James 4:4+,) John commands believers "Do not love the world nor the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life, is not from the Father, but is from the world. The world is passing away, and also its lusts; but the one who does the will of God lives forever." (1 John 2:15-17+;) James tells us that "Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world." (James 1:27+). Other names for Satan include the accuser (ho katégoros in Rev 12:10), Apollyon the destroyer (ho Apollúōn in Rev. 9:11), the adversary (antídikos in 1 Pet. 5:8); the adversary (ho antikeímenos from antíkeimai = to be contrary in 1 Ti 5:14ESV); the prince of the power of the air (Eph. 2:2+); Belíal meaning worthlessness (2 Cor 6:15). Dunnett - The Greek term satanas (Mark 1:13). In the famous "Beelzebub controversy" Jesus made clear his intention to drive Satan out of people's lives and to destroy his sovereignty (Mt 12:26 ;Mark 3:23,26 ; Luke 11:18). He liberated a woman "whom Satan (had) kept bound for eighteen long years" (Luke 13:16). Paul spoke of his being sent to turn people "from the power of Satan to God" (Acts 26:18 ), and that the works of the "lawless one (were) in accordance with the work of Satan, " in doing sham miracles, signs, and wonders (2 Th 2:9). Christ will come, he wrote, to overthrow that agent of Satan. While the activity of Satan is carried out in "the world" (i.e., among those who do not acknowledge Christ as Lord), he also works against the followers of Christ. He influenced Peter's thinking about Jesus to the extent that Jesus said to his disciple, "Get behind me, Satan!" (Mt 16:23). He asked for all the disciples in order to severely test them (Luke 22:31). He "entered" Judas Iscariot (Lk 22:3 ), and "filled the heart" of Ananias (Acts 5:3). Believers can be tempted by Satan due to a lack of self-control in sexual matters (1 Cor 7:5), and he can even masquerade as "an angle of light" to accomplish his purposes (2 Cor 11:14). He tormented Paul by means of "a thorn in (his) flesh" (2 Cor 12:7). Some people even turn away from their faith to follow Satan (1 Ti 5:15). Satan opposes the proclamation of the gospel, snatching away the seed (the word ) that was sown in people's hearts (Mk 4:15 ; Lk 8:12). He also "stopped" Paul from traveling to Thessalonica (1 Th 2:18). Satan is regarded in the New Testament as "master of death and destruction, " who carries out God's wrath against sinners. Twice we read of persons "handed over to Satan" for spiritual discipline by the church (1 Cor 5:1-5; 1 Ti 1:19-20). This appears to mean that excommunication puts people out into Satan's realm, a sovereignty from which believers have been rescued (Col 1:13; cf. Heb 2:14-15). In other cases, Satan attacked the disciples of Jesus by "sifting" them (Lk 22:31 ), a figure that is enigmatic. It may have meant to test their faith (with the intent of destroying it), or, it may have meant "to separate off the rubbish" (I. H. Marshall). In any case, Satan was up to no good. He was able to "enter" Judas Iscariot (Lk 22:3; cf. Jn 13:27), resulting in that disciple becoming a betrayer of his Master. Peter's sifting may have brought about his threefold denial of Jesus. The nascent church in Jerusalem felt the brunt of Satan's attacks. He "filled" Ananias' heart and he lied to the Holy Spirit (Acts 5:3 ), resulting in his sudden demise. The believers in Smyrna felt the sting of persecution (Rev 2:9-10). The nations of earth in John's vision were deceived by him (Rev 20:7-8).Jesus spoke of seeing Satan "fall like lightning from heaven" (Luke 10:18), a fall not identified but spoken of within the context of demons being cast out—a sign of Satan's loss of authority. In Revelation, amid a war in heaven, Satan was "hurled to the earth" along with his angels/demons (Rev 12:9). He, the Accuser, was overcome by One stronger than he. Finally, he is bound, imprisoned in the abyss for one thousand years, then ultimately banished in the fiery lake to suffer eternal torment (Rev 20:1-3,10; cf. Mt 25:41). (BED) Satan is also known as "the evil [one]" (ho poneros - "one" is added by most translations) or the malevolent one (Eph 6:16+, 1 Jn 2:13-14+, 1 Jn 3:12+, 1 Jn 5:19+). In the Revelation we see 3 synonyms for Satan in two passages... Revelation 12:9+ And the great dragon (probably means "the sharp-seeing one") was thrown down, the serpent of old who is called the devil and Satan, who deceives the whole world; he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him.
Lucas 22
Wiersbe says "Alas, for Judas, it is still night and always will be night!). (John 13:21-30+) Comment: From the chart above on the chronology of the Last Supper, it is clear Matthew and Mark place Jesus revelation of a betrayer in their midst before He instituted the Lord's Supper. Most commentators therefore think that Judas went out after receiving the Passover bread (John 13:26-30+) and was not present when Jesus instituted the Lord's Supper. John MacArthur for example comments "Lest that devil incarnate participate further in the Passover meal with them or in any way interfere with Jesus' last precious moments with the true disciples, and to set him loose for the final scenes of his treachery, the Lord said to the betrayer, "What you do, do quickly" (Mt 26:27b+). Except for John, the others did not know why Jesus gave that instruction to Judas but supposed "because Judas had the money box, that Jesus was saying to him, 'Buy things we have need of for the feast'; or else, that he should give something to the poor" (Mt 26:28-29+). Jesus knew who the betrayer was; John knew; and Judas himself knew. But the rest did not know. After Judas left and Jesus was alone with the eleven faithful disciples, He transformed the Passover of the Old Covenant into the Lord's Supper of the New Covenant." (See Matthew 24-28 MacArthur New Testament Commentary - Page 150) (Bolding added) Discuss (4802)(suzeteo from sun = together + zeteo = to seek, inquire) means to carry on a discussion, to inquire together and evolved to a negative meaning - to dispute, debate or argue (Mk 1:27, etc). Suzeteo means to express forceful differences of opinion without necessarily having a presumed goal of seeking a solution. Plato used it to mean to examine together. Of Pharisees arguing with Jesus (Mk 8:11), of Scribes arguing with Jesus' disciples (Mk 9:14), of Jews arguing with Stephen (Acts 6:9), of Paul (Saul at the time) arguing with the Hellenistic Jews (Acts 9:29). Not in the Septuagint. Suzeteo - 10x in 10v - argue(1), argued(1), arguing(3), debated(1), discuss(1), discussing(3). Mk. 1:27; Mk. 8:11; Mk. 9:10; Mk. 9:14; Mk. 9:16; Mk. 12:28; Lk. 22:23; Lk. 24:15; Acts 6:9; Acts 9:29 African Study Bible - Judas Iscariot was one of Jesus’ disciples. He is described specifically as the one who betrayed Jesus. Without question, Jesus knew in advance Judas would betray him, even though Judas kept his intentions secret. This fact is well illustrated by the Swahili proverb that says, Machoni, rafiki; moyoni, mnafiki, meaning, "Friendly in the eyes but a hypocrite at heart." This proverb observes how hypocrites are typically quite skilled at concealing their true character. This fact might explain how Judas’s true nature remained hidden from the eyes of his companions. However, Jesus knew the contents of Judas’s heart. Similarly, Jesus knows the contents of our hearts. They are laid bare before him, the One to whom we are ultimately accountable (Hebrews 4:13). Therefore, we must always seek purity of heart (ED: WE CANNOT DO THIS IN RELIANCE ON OUR NATURAL STRENGTH BUT IN ORDER TO CULTIVATE HOLY HEARTS WE NEED TO CONTINUALLY TAKE IN THE HOLY WORD -- THAT IS OUR RESPONSIBILITY -- AND CONTINUALLY RELY ON THE SPIRIT TO TRANSFORM US INTO THE IMAGE OF CHRIST -- GOD'S PART - 2Cor 3:18+). (Oasis International = Consider support of this ministry to get more of this great culturally sensitive study Bible into the hands of the growing church in Africa) Luke 22:24 And there arose also a dispute among them as to which one of them was regarded to be greatest. KJV Luke 22:24 And there was also a strife among them, which of them should be accounted the greatest. YLT (literal) Luke 22:24 And there happened also a strife among them -- who of them is accounted to be greater. Luke 9:46; Mt 20:20-24; Mark 9:34; 10:37-41; Romans 12:10; 1 Cor 13:4; Philippians 2:3-5; James 4:5,6; 1 Peter 5:5,6 Luke 22 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries PRIDE AT THE PASSOVER! WHO IS GREATEST? This conversation about their discussion during the Passover celebration of who was greatest is only found in Luke 22:23-30. Periodic problems with pride had presented themselves, so this was not a new issue. That they would argue at the time of this special meal shows that they were self-centered not Christ centered and did not fully understand that He Himself was the prophesied Passover Lamb! Here are a couple of previous episodes demonstrating their pride: They (James and John - Mk 10:35) said to Him, “Grant (aorist imperative - a command!) that we may sit, one on Your right and one on Your left, in Your glory.”(Mark 10:37+)
Lucas 22
Wiersbe says "When you are interested in promoting yourself, it doesn't take much to start an argument." (Borrow Be courageous Luke 14-24) John MacArthur feels that "It may have been at this time (THEIR ARGUING OVER WHO WAS GREATEST) that Jesus "rose from supper, and laid aside His garments; and taking a towel,... began to wash the disciples' feet" (John 13:4-5). The Lord specifically explained to the disciples that He had washed their feet "as an example that you also should do as I did to you" (Jn 13:15). Washing another person's feet was normally done by a servant and was considered by most Jews to be the most demeaning of tasks. Jesus' example of humble, selfless service was a stinging rebuke of the disciples' pride and a profound lesson in condescending love. (See The MacArthur New Testament Commentary) And - This ties the dispute closely to the preceding discussion in Luke 22:21-23. There arose also a dispute (literally a love of strife!) among them as to which one of them was regarded to be greatest (literally greater) - Why are they jostling over who is greatest? Clearly they still do not understand that Jesus is going to die. In Lk 22:18 He had again alluded to the Kingdom of God, but they failed to understand that there would be an interval or delay ( = "the church age," Jesus taught about this delay in story of nobleman - Lk 19:12-13, 15+) before it was set up on earth at His Second Coming which was His real "Triumphal Entry" (Rev 19:11-21+). And so they were arguing among themselves because they had their eyes on the best positions in His theocracy which they thought was imminent (cf Acts 1:6+). It is notable that in Jesus' response in the following passages, He does not say refute their belief in a literal kingdom (cf Lk 22:29+), but even acknowledges that they will rule with Him on 12 thrones (Lk 22:30), presumably each of them as equals with each other and with none greater than the other. If you are of the Preterist persuasion or the Replacement Theology persuasion, passages such as this should cause you great angst! Dispute (5379)(philoneikia from philos = loving + neikos = strife) means literally a love of contention. An eagerness to contend. Don't you love to be around folks like that! This is the only NT use with uses only in the apocrypha (2 Macc 4:4, 4 Macc 1:26, 4 Macc 8:26). Gilbrant - Philoneikia appears as early as the Fifth Century B.C. and is used by such writers as Plato, primarily in a bad sense of “contentiousness, love of rivalry” (Liddell-Scott). The term is also used, however, in a good sense of “competition, ambition,” or “the desire to emulate the excellence of another,” especially in the games (ibid.).Papyrus documents in New Testament times employ philoneikia with the primary meaning of “dispute” or “strife.” Philoneikia is the product of a zeal to contend, i.e., a contentious spirit. (Ibid) John MacArthur suggests when this argument may have arisen - There were several stages in the Passover celebration, spread out over a period of hours and interspersed with conversation. The event opened with a prayer thanking God for His preservation, deliverance, protection, goodness, and blessing. Next came the first of four cups of diluted red wine, known as the cup of blessing. That was followed by a ceremonial washing of the hands, symbolizing the need for cleansing from sin. It was most likely at this point that the disciples began arguing among themselves about who was the greatest (Luke 22:24). In response, Jesus washed their feet (John 13:3-5) and instructed them concerning humility. (See The MacArthur New Testament Commentary) Bock - So what makes for greatness? Faithfulness, yes, but even more the service that reveals faithfulness. Amazing as it seems, in the midst of Jesus' revelation about his coming suffering the disciples are fighting over who is number one among them. The text speaks of a "rivalry" (NIV: dispute) breaking out among them. Using the comparative "greater" with a superlative force, the disciples want to know who God puts at the top of the Best Disciple list. (See Luke - Page 351) D L Moody - To me, one of the saddest things in all the life of Jesus Christ was the fact that just before His crucifixion, His disciples should have been striving to see who should be the greatest. It was His last night on earth, and they never saw Him so sorrowful before. He knew Judas was going to sell Him for thirty pieces of silver. He knew that Peter would deny Him. And yet, in addition to this, when going into the very shadow of the cross, there arose this strife as to who should be the greatest. He took a towel and girded Himself like a slave, and He took a basin of water and stooped and washed their feet. That was another object lesson of humility. He said, “Ye call Me Master and Lord, and ye say well.” If you want to be great in My Kingdom, be servant of all. If you serve, you shall be great. Steven
Lucas 22
Wiersbe explains that "The Romans in particular vied for honors and did all they could, legally and illegally, to win promotion and recognition, but they are not the examples for us to follow. (Borrow Be courageous Luke 14-24) Stein - Even as membership in the kingdom is the reverse of how the world thinks, for the last have become first and the first last (Lk 13:30+), so too greatness within the kingdom is the reverse of how the world thinks. In this world the first (kings) rule and exercise their authority over the last (their subjects). Great people in this world are served by others under them. But Jesus had not come to be served but rather to serve. (NAC Luke) The kings of the Gentiles (ethne) lord (kurieuo) it over them - Jesus contrasts great leadership in the world versus truly great leadership in His kingdom. In other words the unsaved world thinks of greatness in terms of rule over others. In Jesus' day virtually all governments were some form of dictatorship or theocracy and these individuals typified "greatness" to the lost world (and still do!) In Mt 20:25 Jesus said "You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them" where the word for lord over is katakurieuo which is stronger than kurieuo used here by Luke, because the prefix "kata" (down) conveys the sense of ruling down on one's subjects ("to play the tyrant" would be a good paraphrase). Indeed, many of the ancient governments were very tyrannical. Sadly even leaders in Christian organizations can not resist the temptation to use their power, lording it over those under them! Jesus is saying that this should not be so! Dear pastor-leader, how are you doing? Lording it over others or laying down your life for others? Do not be deceived, for only the latter will bring you an eternal crown (cf 1 Pe 5:1-4+)! What Jesus is doing here is showing the disciples that their desires (ambitions) for greatness were like the godless rulers of this passing world (1 Jn 2:17+). As Gilbrant says "This desire (ED: FLESHLY LUST) for worldly greatness causes people to try to dominate others. It makes them demand proper honor and fancy titles. They love to play the tyrant and lord it over those less fortunate than they. They try to maintain their superiority and power by violent oppression. Such is the greatness of this world—full of arbitrary arrogance and as temporary as it is empty." And those who have authority over (exousiazo) them are called Benefactors (euergetes) - Those who continually have the right and the might to exercise control, power or mastery over others are still recognized as "Benefactors" especially for their civic contributions. But the other side of "Benefactors" is these men were egocentric and sought to "beat their own drum" so to speak. Deissmann says of the use of the title Benefactors -"It would not be difficult to collect from inscriptions....over a hundred instances, so widespread was the custom"
Lucas 22
Wiersbe writes "True greatness means to be like Jesus, and that means being a servant to others. A servant does not argue over who is the greatest, because he knows that he is the least, and he accepts this from the hand of God. Since all Christians are to be servants, there is no reason for us to compete with one another for honors and recognition. It is too bad that this competitive spirit is so strong in the church today as people promote themselves and their ministries as "the greatest." (See The Wiersbe Bible Commentary or Borrow Be courageous Luke 14-24)
Lucas 22
Wiersbe - Peter's self-confident boasting is a warning to us that none of us really knows his own heart (Jer. 17:9) and that we can fail in the point of our greatest strength. Abraham's greatest strength was his faith, and yet his faith failed him when he went down to Egypt and lied about Sarah (Ge 12:10-13:4). Moses' strength was in his meekness (Nu 12:3), yet he lost his temper, spoke rashly with his lips, and was not allowed to enter Canaan (Nu 20). Peter was a brave man, but his courage failed him and he denied his Lord three times. "Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall" (1 Cor 10:12, NKJV). (Borrow Be courageous Luke 14-24) David
Lucas 22
Wiersbe - Our Lord's counsel in Luke 22:35-38 was not fully understood by the disciples, because they interpreted what He said quite literally. Peter's use of the sword in the Garden is evidence of this (Luke 22:49-51). (Borrow Be courageous Luke 14-24) TRUST GOD AND KEEP YOUR POWDER DRY - That dusty piece of wisdom, dating from the Revolutionary War era, says that believers should do whatever they reasonably can to fend for themselves, and then place their faith in God. Jesus gave similar advice to the disciples (Lk 22:35-36). Once before he had sent them out to preach, telling them not to worry about pedestrian things like a change of clothes or money with which to buy food. And that trip had worked out just fine, as the disciples well remembered. But now—with his death looming just over the horizon—now it was time to think of more pragmatic concerns. Are you facing a significant decision or even a crisis? Do whatever you can legally, morally, and ethically to prepare yourself, and then trust God's gracious provision for you. (Life Application Bible Commentary – Luke) Luke 22:37 "For I tell you that this which is written must be fulfilled in Me, 'AND HE WAS NUMBERED WITH TRANSGRESSORS'; for that which refers to Me has its fulfillment." BGT Luke 22:37 λέγω γὰρ ὑμῖν ὅτι τοῦτο τὸ γεγραμμένον δεῖ τελεσθῆναι ἐν ἐμοί, τό· καὶ μετὰ ἀνόμων ἐλογίσθη· καὶ γὰρ τὸ περὶ ἐμοῦ τέλος ἔχει. KJV Luke 22:37 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. NET Luke 22:37 For I tell you that this scripture must be fulfilled in me, 'And he was counted with the transgressors.' For what is written about me is being fulfilled." CSB Luke 22:37 For I tell you, what is written must be fulfilled in Me: And He was counted among the outlaws. Yes, what is written about Me is coming to its fulfillment." ESV Luke 22:37 For I tell you that this Scripture must be fulfilled in me: 'And he was numbered with the transgressors.' For what is written about me has its fulfillment." NIV Luke 22:37 It is written: 'And he was numbered with the transgressors'; and I tell you that this must be fulfilled in me. Yes, what is written about me is reaching its fulfillment." NLT Luke 22:37 For the time has come for this prophecy about me to be fulfilled: 'He was counted among the rebels.' Yes, everything written about me by the prophets will come true." NRS Luke 22:37 For I tell you, this scripture must be fulfilled in me, 'And he was counted among the lawless'; and indeed what is written about me is being fulfilled." YLT Luke 22:37 for I say to you, that yet this that hath been written it behoveth to be fulfilled in me: And with lawless ones he was reckoned, for also the things concerning me have an end.' GWN Luke 22:37 I can guarantee that the Scripture passage which says, 'He was counted with criminals,' must find its fulfillment in me. Indeed, whatever is written about me will come true." NKJ Luke 22:37 "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." NAB Luke 22:37 For I tell you that this scripture must be fulfilled in me, namely, 'He was counted among the wicked'; and indeed what is written about me is coming to fulfillment." MIT Luke 22:37 For I tell you that what has been written in reference to me—'and he was classed with criminals'—must come to a climax. Indeed, that text refers to me." NJB Luke 22:37 because I tell you these words of scripture are destined to be fulfilled in me: He was counted as one of the rebellious. Yes, what it says about me is even now reaching its fulfilment.' ASV Luke 22:37 For I say unto you, that this which is written must be fulfilled in me, And he was reckoned with transgressors: for that which concerneth me hath fulfilment. DBY Luke 22:37 for I say unto you, that this that is written must yet be accomplished in me, And he was reckoned with the lawless: for also the things concerning me have an end. BBE Luke 22:37 For I say to you that these words will be put into effect in me, And he was numbered among the evil-doers: for what has been said in the Writings about me has an end. NIRV Luke 22:37 It is written, 'He was counted among those who had committed crimes.'Ra I tell you that what is written about me must come true. Yes, it is already coming true." { prsupa/rsup Isaiah 53:12 } RSV Luke 22:37 For I tell you that this scripture must be fulfilled in me, `And he was reckoned with transgressors'; for what is written about me has its fulfilment." this which is written must be fulfilled in Me Luke 22:22; 18:31; 24:44-46; Mt 26:54-56; John 10:35; 19:28-30; Acts 13:27-29 AND HE WAS NUMBERED WITH TRANSGRESSORS Luke 23:32; Isaiah 53:12+; Mark 15:27,28; 2 Cor 5:21; Galatians 3:13 Luke 22 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries JESUS NUMBERED WITH THE TRANSGRESSORS With this verse Dr Luke "closes the door" on the Upper Room discourse after which he moves to the Mount of Olives for the next "act" in God's grand drama of redemption. For - Term of explanation. What is Jesus explaining? He is explaining that the reversal of public opinion from adulation to antagonism did not come as a surprise to Him but was predicted and is why He had just instructed them to be prepared for a major change in the reaction to their future ministries. I tell you that this which is written must be fulfilled in Me - This speaks of God's plan of redemption which must be fulfilled. God predicted it, that settles it. It will come to pass! God is faithful to keep His Word. Must (1163)(dei) which expresses the necessity and inevitability of this event. God said it and set it in motion and that settles it whether we believe it or not! It must happen just as He has decreed. God's predetermined providential plan of redemption was in motion and could not be derailed by men or the devil! AND HE WAS NUMBERED (reckoned, counted) WITH TRANSGRESSORS - Remember "all caps" in the NAS signifies a direct OT quote, in this case from a phrase in Isaiah 53:12+. What this verse does NOT mean is that Jesus was crucified between two convicted transgressors. Of course He was but that is not the meaning of this phrase. The point is that Jesus is using this prophetic passage to explain to the disciples that though He was innocent, His enemies would treat Him as a criminal ("transgressor") and crucify Him as a criminal. The disciples would have a difficult time accepting or understanding what the Jewish leaders would soon treat Jesus as a criminal. So Jesus tells them this has to happen to fulfill what was prophesied about Him in Isaiah. Isaiah 53:12 (commentary) Therefore, I will allot Him a portion with the great, And He will divide the booty with the strong; Because He poured out Himself to death, And was numbered with the transgressors; Yet He Himself bore the sin of many, And interceded for the transgressors. What an amazing paradox in this Isaiah passage for Jesus Who was "separated from sinners" (Hebrews 7:26+), to be regarded as a transgressor! (cf Mt 9:3, 26:65, Mk 14:64, Jn 10:33, Jn 18:30) Was numbered (regarded)(3049)(logizomai from lógos = reason, word, account) refers to a process of careful study or reasoning which results in the arriving at a conclusion. Wow! The Jewish religious leaders did a careful study of Jesus and concluded He should be regarded as a transgressor of the Law, thus fulfilling Isaiah's prophecy! Transgressors (lawless) (459)(anomos from a = without + nomos = law; see study of related word anomia) means literally without law and thus lawless. Vine notes that anomos can convey the thought of not simply doing what is unlawful, but of flagrant defiance of the known will of God, the absolute antithesis of the One Whose blood was as "a lamb unblemished (amomos NOT anomos!) and spotless (aspilos)." (1 Peter 1:19+). For that which refers to Me has its fulfillment (telos)." - Marshall - "My life's work is at an end." Has (echo) is present tense indicating God's plan is in progress and is on time. That which was written about Me (especially ISAIAH 53 which is not read in Jewish synagogues for obvious reasons!!!) is having its fulfillment or is being fulfilled, reaching its goal. I like King James' and Young's Literal translations which say "the things concerning Me have an end." Fulfillment (end) (5056)(telos) means an end, a termination, a completion. Telos refers to a consummation, a goal achieved, a result attained, or a realization. Any one of these "definitions" would be an appropriate description of the prophecy in Isaiah which was fulfilled in Jesus being treated as a common criminal. Vincent on "have an end" - The phrase is synonymous with be accomplished (τελεσθῆναι, Rev., fulfilled). In classical Greek this latter word is often used of the fulfilment of an oracle: also of things which are settled beyond controversy. The two expressions here give the two meanings. The prophecy is fulfilled; the things concerning me are finally settled. (Word Studies in the New Testament) Leon
Lucas 22
Wiersbe has an interesting approach to this last section (Lk 22:39-71) - Perhaps the best way to grasp the spiritual lessons behind the tragic events of that night is to focus on the symbols that appear in the narrative. The Bible is a picture book as well as a book of history and biography, and these pictures can say a great deal to us. In this passage, there are six symbols that can help us better understand our Lord's suffering and death. They are: a lonely Garden (Lk 22:39), a costly cup (Lk 22:40-46), a hypocritical kiss (Lk 22:47-48), a useless sword (Lk 22:49-53), a crowing cock (Lk 22:54-62), and a glorious throne (Lk 22:63-71). (Borrow Be courageous Luke 14-24) Parallel passages - Matthew 26:36+ Then Jesus came with them to a place called Gethsemane, and said to His disciples, “Sit here while I go over there and pray.” 37 And He took with Him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be grieved and distressed. 38 Then He *said to them, “My soul is deeply grieved, to the point of death; remain here and keep watch with Me.” 39 And He went a little beyond them, and fell on His face and prayed, saying, “My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; yet not as I will, but as You will.” 40 And He *came to the disciples and *found them sleeping, and *said to Peter, “So, you men could not keep watch with Me for one hour? 41 “Keep watching and praying (both are present imperatives see our need to depend on the Holy Spirit to obey) that you may not enter into temptation; the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” 42 He went away again a second time and prayed, saying, “My Father, if this cannot pass away unless I drink it, Your will be done.” 43 Again He came and found them sleeping, for their eyes were heavy. 44 And He left them again, and went away and prayed a third time, saying the same thing once more. 45 Then He *came to the disciples and *said to them, “Are you still sleeping and resting? Behold, the hour is at hand and the Son of Man is being betrayed into the hands of sinners. 46 “Get up, let us be going; behold, the one who betrays Me is at hand!” Mark 14:32-42+ They came to a place named Gethsemane; and He said to His disciples, “Sit here until I have prayed.” 33 And He *took with Him Peter and James and John, and began to be very distressed (ekthambeo) and troubled (ademoneo). 34 And He *said to them, “My soul is deeply grieved (perilupos) to the point of death; remain here and keep watch (gregoreuo in present imperative see our need to depend on the Holy Spirit to obey)(JESUS KNEW HIS CAPTURE WAS IMMINENT).” 35 And He went a little beyond them, and fell to the ground (LUKE HAS KNELT) and began to pray that if it were possible, the hour might pass Him by. 36 And He was saying, “Abba! Father! All things are possible for You; remove this cup from Me; yet not what I will, but what You will.” 37 And He *came and *found them sleeping, and *said to Peter, “Simon, are you asleep? Could you not keep watch for one hour? 38 “Keep watching and praying that you may not come into temptation; the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” 39 Again He went away and prayed, saying the same words. 40 And again He came and found them sleeping, for their eyes were very heavy; and they did not know what to answer Him. 41 And He came the third time, and said to them, “Are you still sleeping and resting? It is enough; the hour has come; behold, the Son of Man is being betrayed into the hands of sinners. 42 “Get up, let us be going; behold, the one who betrays Me is at hand!” John 18:1+ When Jesus had spoken these words (John 13-17, indicating the disciples were there during His high priestly prayer in John 17), He went forth with His disciples over the ravine of the Kidron, where there was a garden, in which He entered with His disciples. (18:2) Now Judas also, who was betraying Him, knew the place, for Jesus had often met there with His disciples. And He came out - Out of the upper root and out of the city gates of Jerusalem, down the Kidron Valley (which means darkness or dark waters) and up to the Mount of Olives. The Kidron Valley is said by a number of sources to also be called the Valley of Jehoshapat which takes on special significance at the end of this age, the prophet Joel recording God's promise... I will gather all the nations, And bring them down to the valley of Jehoshaphat. (means "Yahweh Judges") Then I will enter into judgment with them there On behalf of My people and My inheritance, Israel, Whom they have scattered among the nations; And they have divided up My land. (Joel 3:2+, cf Joel 3:12+) Mattoon makes another observation regarding the Kidron Valley - The waters of the Kidron were also darkened by blood. During the Passover, as many as 21/2 million Jews were in Jerusalem. This would mean that over 250,000 lambs would be slain in the Temple in one week. The blood of those lambs was poured on the altar as a crimson offering to God. From the altar, there was a channel which led down to the Brook Kidron. The blood from the altar drained down this channel into the brook Kidron. When Jesus crossed the brook to go to the Garden of Gethsemane, it would soon be solid red from the blood of the slain Passover lambs. Jesus was about to cross the dark waters of crucifixion and death. The sacrifice He was about to make with His own blood would be vivid in His mind. His sacrifice would also cancel the need for the brook to drain away any further blood of sacrificial lambs for He would be the final sacrifice. For this reason, He cried on the cross, "It is finished!" It is very interesting to note that in the Old Testament, the Brook Kidron was also a place of suffering and anxiety for someone else in Jesus' family. When King David was fleeing from Absalom, he too, had to cross the Kidron. Their situations were very similar. David was betrayed and rejected by his nation and so was Jesus. Jesus was betrayed by Judas. The betrayers of both men ended up being hung. Absalom hung in a tree and Judas hung himself. (Treasures from Luke: Volume Six) Proceeded as was His custom - This detail is important because it would signify that the betrayer Judas knew of Jesus' habitual practice and was counting on Him being true to form. Of course Jesus knew what was to transpire, but that His HOUR had come and there was no further need for secrecy. The clock was ticking and would soon culminate in the Cross of Christ, but Judas' betrayal would set the dastardly deed in motion. A T
Lucas 22
Wiersbe asks "But why a Garden? Human history began in a Garden (Gen. 2:7-25) and so did human sin (Gen. 3). For the redeemed, the whole story will climax in a "garden city" where there will be no sin (Rev. 21:1-22:7). But between the Garden where man failed and the Garden where God reigns is Gethsemane, the Garden where Jesus accepted the cup from the Father's hand." (Borrow Be courageous Luke 14-24)
Lucas 22
Wiersbe comments - George Morrison said, "Every life has its Gethsemane, and every Gethsemane has its angel." What an encouragement to God's people when they wrestle and pray about difficult and costly decisions! I would add when we enter our Gethsemane we have the "Comforter," the Holy Spirit in us to give us comfort. Technical Note on the Text - The NET Note summarizes the textual question in Luke 22:43-44 - Several important Greek MSS (?75 א1 A B N T W 579 1071*) along with diverse and widespread versional witnesses lack 22:43–44. In addition, the verses are placed after Matt 26:39 by f13. Floating texts typically suggest both spuriousness and early scribal impulses to regard the verses as historically authentic. These verses are included in א*,2 D L Θ Ψ 0171 f1 ? lat Ju Ir Hipp Eus. However, a number of MSS mark the text with an asterisk or obelisk, indicating the scribe’s assessment of the verses as inauthentic. At the same time, these verses generally fit Luke’s style. Arguments can be given on both sides about whether scribes would tend to include or omit such comments about Jesus’ humanity and an angel’s help. But even if the verses are not literarily authentic, they are probably historically authentic. This is due to the fact that this text was well known in several different locales from a very early period. Since there are no synoptic parallels to this account and since there is no obvious reason for adding these words here, it is very likely that such verses recount a part of the actual suffering of our Lord. Nevertheless, because of the serious doubts as to these verses’ authenticity, they have been put in brackets. For an important discussion of this problem, see B. D. Ehrman and M. A. Plunkett, “The Angel and the Agony: The Textual Problem of Luke 22:43–44,” CBQ 45 (1983): 401–16. J C Ryle alludes to the difficulties with the Text in Luke 22:43-44 - This circumstance in our Lord’s agony in the garden is only mentioned by St. Luke. It has given rise to many strange comments, and has even stumbled some Christians. It is a curious fact, that in the early ages of Christianity, this verse and the following one were entirely omitted in some copies of St. Luke’s Gospel. It was ignorantly supposed that they were so derogatory to our Lord’s dignity, and so favorable to the Arian heresy, that they were not genuine. The omission was entirely unjustifiable. There is an immense preponderance of evidence to show that the two verses were as much inspired as any other part of the Gospel, and were really written by St. Luke. The omission, moreover, was entirely needless, and the fears which gave rise to it, were fears without cause. The object of the verse appears to be to supply additional proof that our Lord was really and truly man. As man, He was for a little time “lower than the angels.” (Heb. 2:9.) As man, He condescended to receive comfort from angelic ministry. As man, He was willing to receive an expression of sympathy from angels, which the weakness of His disciples prevented them from giving. The reality of weakness is never so shown as when a person becomes the object of sympathy and help. As very God of very God, and Lord of angels and men, Jesus of course needed no angel to strengthen Him. But as very man, in the hour of His greatest weakness, He allowed an angel to minister to Him. Luke 22:44 And being in agony He was praying very fervently; and His sweat became like drops of blood, falling down upon the ground. KJV Luke 22:44 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. NLT Luke 22:44 He prayed more fervently, and he was in such agony of spirit that his sweat fell to the ground like great drops of blood. And being in agony Genesis 32:24-28; Ps 22:1,2,12-21; 40:1-3; 69:14-18; 88:1-18; 130:1,2; Ps 143:6,7; Lamentations 1:12; 3:53-56; Jonah 2:2,3; John 12:27; Hebrews 5:7 his Isaiah 53:10+; Lamentations 1:12; Romans 8:32 Luke 22 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries THE FERVENCY OF CHRIST'S AGONIZING PRAYING And being in agony- As discussed in the word study, this refers not so much to physical agony but mental agony. Of course, extreme mental agony cannot be separated from its physical effects on one's body. Other versions translate it anguish which is defined as extreme mental distress, extreme distress of body or mind; great suffering, as from worry, grief, or pain; agonizing physical or mental pain; torment. Agony is pain, anguish, or struggle, especially the struggle that precedes death, which is apropos in this context. Vincent on being in agony - There is in the aorist participle a suggestion of a growing intensity in the struggle, which is not conveyed by the simple being. Literally, though very awkwardly, it is, having become in an agony: having progressed from the first prayer (began to pray, Lk 22:41) into an intense struggle of prayer and sorrow. Ryle on agony of Jesus - It will doubtless strike every well-informed person, that hundreds of martyrs have been known to suffer the most painful deaths, without any such demonstrations of mental and bodily agony as are here recorded in the case of our Lord. How are we to account for this? How are we to explain the remarkable circumstance that our Lord appears to have felt more distressed than many a martyr has done in the prospect of being burned alive, or even when at the stake....The only satisfactory explanation of Christ’s intense agony is the old doctrine of imputed sin. He had engaged to die for our sins. His death was a vicarious death. As our substitute, He was about to bear our iniquities, to suffer for us, and to pay our debts to God with His own blood. He was about to be counted a sinner, and be punished, that we might be counted righteous, and be delivered from punishment....The words of Isaiah were being fulfilled:—“But the LORD was pleased To crush Him, putting Him to grief.” (Isaiah 53:10+) Puritan Richard Baxter wrote “This agony was not from the fear of death, but from the deep sense of God’s wrath against sin; which He as our sacrificee was to bear; in greater pain than mere dying, which His servants often bear with peace.” Jurist Matthew Hale says, “Christ stood under the imputation of all our sins; and though He was personally innocent, yet judicially and by way of imputation, He was the greatest offender that ever was. As our Lord was pleased to be our representative in bearing our sins, and to stand in our stead, so all these affections and motions of His soul did bear the same conformity as if acted by us. As He put on the person of the sinner, so He put on the same sorrow, the same shame, the same trembling under the apprehension of the wrath of His Father, that we must have done. And as an imputed sin drew with it the obligation to punishment, so it did by necessary consequences raise all those storms and compassions in the soul of Christ, as it would have done in the person of a sinner, sin only excepted.” Agony (74)(agonia from agón = contest, but gives prominence to pain of conflict) is used only in Lk 22:44 and means agony, anguish, anxiety, "an apprehensiveness of mind especially when faced with impending ills." (BDAG)
Lucas 22
Wiersbe - The first Adam sinned in a Garden and was condemned to living by the sweat of his brow (Gen. 3:19+). Jesus, the Last Adam, obeyed the Father in a Garden and conquered Adam's sin (Ro 5:12-21). (Borrow Be courageous Luke 14-24) Ralph Earle makes an interesting observation - "Verse 44 is almost unique in having four hapax legomena ("said once," hence words found only once in the NT): agonia, "agony"; ektenesteron, "more earnestly"; hidras, "sweat"; thrombos,"drop." The picture of Jesus' anguish of soul is painted in vivid colors here." (Borrow Word meanings in the New Testament) J C
Lucas 22
Wiersbe - Jesus was not wrestling with God’s will or resisting God’s will. He was yielding Himself to God’s will. As perfect Man, He felt the awful burden of sin, and His holy soul was repelled by it. Yet as the Son of God, He knew that this was His mission in the world. The mystery of His humanity and deity is seen vividly in this scene. (Bible Exposition Commentary) THOUGHT- Jesus gives us the perfect example to imitate that we too might pray not my will but Thine! Are you challenged?
Lucas 22
Wiersbe - Each of us must decide whether we will go through life pretending, like Judas; or fighting, like Peter; or yielding to God's perfect will, like Jesus. Will it be the kiss, the sword, or the cup? (Borrow Be courageous Luke 14-24) Mattoon - It was one of the darkest hours of history. The bridle was removed from bitterness that gripped the hearts of the religious leaders. The handcuffs were removed from their hatred. The restraints were cut on their rebellion toward Christ's authority. All deterrents were eliminated from the powers of darkness which reigned for the moment only because God Almighty allowed them to implement their will so that His divine will could be done. What is so ironic here is they thought they were getting their own way, when in reality they were doing what the Lord knew they would do. They were fulfilling the plan of God for His Son to become the Savior of the world. Let me make this very clear. God did not make them arrest, scourge, and crucify Jesus. They were not a bunch of robots. The Jewish leaders and people chose to crucify Christ. The Lord, however, knew what they would do before the foundation of the world and used the choices they would make to fulfill His plan. How did He know they would do this to Christ. He is God. Need I say more? The garden experience must have ended somewhere around 2:30 a.m., for the six trials of Jesus were completed by morning and Jesus was on the cross by 9:00 in the morning. The arrest in the garden was illegal for it was done at night and was accomplished through a hired accuser. (Treasures from Luke) Power (1849)(exousia) means the right to do something and the power or might to carry it to completion. In the present case the Sovereign God had given Satan permission to exercise his evil powers. The fact that the religious leaders actually arrested Jesus at dark symbolized that Satan's power of darkness was behind their actions. Darkness (4655)(skotos from skia = shadow thrown by an object. Skia it can assume the meaning of skotos and indicate the sphere of darkness) is literally that sphere in which light is absent. Skotos can refer to literal darkness as occurred on the day of Jesus' crucifixion (Mt 27:45) or darkness as opposed to light in the creation (2 Cor 4:6+). Skotos is used as another name for the place of punishment, eternal misery and eternal separation from God. Skotos figuratively can refer to spiritual or moral darkness (including a lack of understanding) as in Acts 26:18+ where the Gospel has the power to open "eyes (spiritually speaking) so that they may turn from darkness (skotos) to light and from the dominion of Satan to God that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who have been sanctified by faith in" Jesus. Greg Harris has an interesting note - There is a popular Christian song, which I and many other Christians love to sing, that contains a line about the death of Jesus. It says, "Light of the world by darkness slain." (ED: A VERY POPULAR SONG - IN CHRIST ALONE - AS WE CAUTIONED ABOVE, BE CAREFUL NOT TO GET YOUR THEOLOGY FROM BIBLICAL ARTWORK AND HERE WE ADD DO NOT GET IT FROM SONGS. QUALIFIER - MANY HYMNS ARE ABSOLUTELY BIBLICAL AND THESE WORKS ARE HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. SADLY MUCH OF THE MODERN WORSHIP MUSIC PALES IN COMPARISON TO THE OLD HYMNS WHICH HAVE LARGELY BEEN REPLACED BY MORE SHALLOW MODERN CHORUSES (ALTHOUGH SOME ARE EXCELLENT JUST AS SOME HYMNS ARE NOT THOROUGHLY BIBLICAL - SEE NOTE). THIS IS SAD BECAUSE THE GREAT OLD HYMNS HELP US REMEMBER THEOLOGY! HOW MANY TIMES HAVE YOU HUMMED THE WORDS OF A SERMON? HOW ABOUT THE WORDS OF THE HYMNS YOU LEARNED AS A CHILD? POINT MADE! ACCURATE AND DEEP THEOLOGY IS OF GREAT BENEFIT TO THE BODY OF CHRIST! CHURCH, I BEG YOU TO USE A GENEROUS MIX OF HYMNS FILLED WITH SOUND DOCTRINE!) (Harris continues) The composers of this song have greatly ministered to me and to many others. However, so often what people sing becomes deeply entrenched in their minds as doctrinal truth, and they conclude that what they sing is what the Bible teaches about how Jesus died. From what Jesus disclosed in John 10:18, no one—including Satan—could ever kill Him. So, when Jesus died, it was not darkness that slayed Him; it was His own deliberate choice to release His spirit as seen in Luke 23:46: "And Jesus, crying out with a loud voice, said, 'Father, into your hands I commit My spirit .' Having said this, He breathed His last." John 19:30 eternally records the last moments of Jesus's life this way: "When Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, 'It is finished!' And He bowed His head and gave up His spirit." The difficulty within the song I mention could be remedied by changing one simple word that would alter the entire concept: "Light of the world for darkness slain." This would include Jesus defeating Satan, redeeming the saved out of the domain of the darkness (Col 1:13-14), and fulfills Acts 26:18, as part of the Gospel going forth "to open their eyes so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the dominion of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who have been sanctified by faith in [Jesus]"). Finally, we would not just be removed from Satan's realm of darkness, but Ephesians 5:8 describes us before salvation: "You were formally darkness" [not just "in darkness"—utter darkness was our spiritual condition], but now you are Light in the Lord; walk as children of light." Thanks be to God for so great a salvation! (See The Bible Expositor's Handbook) Related Resources: Hymns Are Theology - S T Kimbrough, Jr - Opening quote - “All Christians need to develop critical acumen about what they sing. Hymns are theology, and Christians tend to reject the content and mood of their hymns in the way they think and live as a church and community.... There is a need to recognize hymns for precisely what they are, in both words and music, and to discard poetical and musical statements which perpetuate a static theology which never leads beyond self to service (ED: better "beyond self to Savior then Service).” (Recommended Read - Only 10 pages). Six Hymns That Have Been Teaching Bad Theology Music Discernment Oswald Chambers - Reconciling one’s self to the fact of sin - This is your hour, and the power of darkness. Luke 22:53. It is not being reconciled to the fact of sin that produces all the disasters in life. You may talk about the nobility of human nature, but there is something in human nature which will laugh in the face of every ideal you have. If you refuse to agree with the fact that there is vice and self-seeking, something downright spiteful and wrong in human beings, instead of reconciling yourself to it when it strikes your life, you will compromise with it and say it is of no use to battle against it. Have you made allowance for this hour and the power of darkness, or do you take a recognition of yourself that misses out sin? In your bodily relationships and friendships do you reconcile yourself to the fact of sin? If not, you will be caught round the next corner and you will compromise with it. If you reconcile yourself to the fact of sin, you will realize the danger at once—‘Yes, I see what that would mean.’ The recognition of sin does not destroy the basis of friendship; it establishes a mutual regard for the fact that the basis of life is tragic. Always beware of an estimate of life which does not recognize the fact that there is sin. Jesus Christ never trusted human nature, yet He was never cynical, never suspicious, because He trusted absolutely in what He could do for human nature. The pure man or woman, not the innocent, is the safeguarded man or woman. You are never safe with an innocent man or woman. Men and women have no business to be innocent; God demands that they be pure and virtuous. Innocence is the characteristic of a child; it is a blameworthy thing for a man or woman not to be reconciled to the fact of sin. Luke 22:54 Having arrested Him, they led Him away and brought Him to the house of the high priest; but Peter was following at a distance. KJV Luke 22:54 Then took they him, and led him, and brought him into the high priest's house. And Peter followed afar off. Having arrested Him - Mt 26:57,58; Mark 14:53,54; John 18:12-17,24 but Peter was following at a distance Luke 22:33,34; 2 Chronicles 32:31 Luke 22 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Excellent Diagram/Map of Jesus' Arrest, Trial and Crucifixion The following chart is adapted from Constable's Expository Notes Source: ESV Study Bible THE SIX MOCK TRIALS OF THE MESSIAH JESUS' THREE RELIGIOUS TRIALS MATTHEW MARK LUKE JOHN Before Annas (Nighttime) Jn 18:12-14,19-24 Before Caiaphas (Nighttime) Mt 26:57-68 Mk 14:53-65 Lk 22:54, 63-65 Before Sanhedrin (Daytime) Mt 27:1 Mk 15:1 Lk 22:66-71 JESUS' THREE CIVIL TRIALS Before Pilate Mt 27:2, 11-14 Mk 15:1-5 Lk 23:1-5 Jn 18:28-38 Before Herod Antipas Before Pilate Mt 27:15-26 Mk 15:6-15 Lk 23:13-25 Jn 18:39-19:16 THE KANGAROO COURT OF THE HIGH PRIESTS A "kangaroo court" is "a military court that ignores recognized standards of law or justice, and often carries little or no official standing in the territory within which it resides. The term may also apply to a court held by a legitimate judicial authority who intentionally disregards the court's legal or ethical obligations. The defendants in such courts are often denied access to legal representation and in some cases, proper defense." (Wikipedia) The trials of Jesus fulfilled all the nefarious aspects of this definition! S Lewis Johnson makes an excellent point - What is also ironic about this, is that He appears before the judges, both of the ecclesiastical court and of the civil court, and in the final analysis there is no judge, no high authority, in human life who does not receive the authority from the Lord God (Ro 13:1). And so he who gives authority to man now stands before the bar of the authority that he himself has given. I say the irony is excruciating, and we do not understand these sections of the gospels if we do not appreciate what we have here. (Christ Before Annas) John
Lucas 22
Wiersbe - Someone has defined "kiss" as "the contraction of the mouth due to the enlargement of the heart." But not all kisses are born out of a loving heart, for kisses can also be deceitful. In the case of Judas, his kiss was the basest kind of hypocrisy and treachery....Judas used the kiss as a sign to tell the arresting officers who Jesus was (Matt. 26:48-49). Jesus had taught in the temple day after day, and yet the temple guards could not recognize Him! (Borrow Be courageous Luke 14-24) Kiss (5370)(philema from phileo = to be a friend to, to be fond of an individual or an object, to have affection for and sometimes to kiss as a mark of tenderness) refers to a kiss as a token of love or friendship. Luke used philema in Lk 7:45. The holy kiss in the first century was a physical toke of welcome or farewell. Such physical expression was normal among the same sex.
Lucas 22
Wiersbe quips "Peter had been sleeping when he should have been praying, talking when he should have been listening, and boasting when he should have been fearing. Now he was fighting when he should have been surrendering! Peter made a number of serious mistakes when he attacked Malchus with his sword. To begin with, Peter was fighting the wrong enemy with the wrong weapon. Our enemies are not flesh and blood, and they cannot be defeated with ordinary weapons (2 Cor. 10:3-6; Eph. 6:10-18). In His wilderness temptations, Jesus defeated Satan with the Word of God (Matt. 4:1-11), and that is the weapon we must use (Eph. 6:17; Heb. 4:12). Peter also revealed the wrong attitude and trusted the wrong energy. While Jesus was surrendering, Peter was busy declaring war! And he was depending on "the arm of flesh." His whole approach to the situation was not at all Christlike (John 18:36) and stands as a good warning to us today. The lost world may act this way, but it is not the way God's servants should act (Matt. 12:19; 2 Tim. 2:24). (Borrow Be courageous Luke 14-24) Luke 22:51 But Jesus answered and said, "Stop! No more of this." And He touched his ear and healed him. KJV Luke 22:51 And Jesus answered and said, Suffer ye thus far. And he touched his ear, and healed him. NET Luke 22:51 But Jesus said, "Enough of this!" And he touched the man's ear and healed him. Stop! No more of this. John 17:12; 18:8,9 He touched his ear and healed him Romans 12:21; 2 Cor 10:1; 1 Peter 2:21-23 Luke 22 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Excellent Diagram/Map of Jesus' Arrest, Trial and Crucifixion JESUS SHOWS COMPASSION TO HIS ENEMIES Parallel Passages: Words in bold not in Luke's version. Matthew 26:52 Then Jesus said to him, “Put your sword back into its place; for all those who take up the sword shall perish by the sword. 53 “Or do you think that I cannot appeal to My Father, and He will at once put at My disposal more than twelve legions of angels? 54 “How then will the Scriptures be fulfilled, which say that it must happen this way?” John 18:11 So Jesus said to Peter, “Put the sword into the sheath; the cup which the Father has given Me, shall I not drink it?” (See NOTE ON Lk 22:42 FOR COMMENTS ON "CUP") But Jesus answered and said, "Stop! No more of this" - Jesus commands Peter to stop this violence immediately. In Matthew's account Jesus explains why Peter's action was absurd and unnecessary. First Jesus explains "for all those who take up the sword shall perish by the sword." (Mt 26:53) Jesus was in effect telling Peter if he took a life with his sword, he would suffer just punishment for his murder! Then He asks a rhetorical question (expecting an affirmative reply) “Or do you think that I cannot appeal to My Father, and He will at once put at My disposal more than twelve legions of angels? (72,000 ANGELS - LOOK WHAT A SINGLE ANGEL DID TO THE ASSYRIANS IN 2 Ki 19:35!)" (Mt 26:53) So Jesus could have called for the "angelic cavalry" had He wanted to be defended. He goes on to explain why Peter's actions were to cease and why He did not cry for help, stating that these things must happen this way in order to fulfill the Scriptures (Mt 26:54, cf Mk 14:49), both Old and New Testament predictions (Here are a few - OT = Ps 41:9, Ps 55:12-14, Isa 53:2-12+, et al; NT = Mt 16:21; Mt 17:22-23; Mt 20:18-19, Mt 12:40; Mt 17:9, 12). Blum writes that "Peter's blind loyalty was touching, but it missed God's plan. Zeal without knowledge in religion often leads men astray (cf. Ro 10:2)." Stein - As in Lk 22:38 they did not understand Jesus’ teachings. They did not pray (Lk 22:40, 46), and thus they neither knew nor were able to act correctly in this time of trial. Stop is a command (present imperative) and is in the plural, which would be directed not just at Peter but all the other 10 disciples (at least one of whom also had a knife!). Stop (present imperative)(1439)(eao) means to allow someone to do something, to let or to permit (Mt 24:43; Lk 4:41 = "He would not allow them to speak", Acts 14:16; Acts 23:32; Acts 27:32, 28:2 1 Cor 10:13), Of leaving the anchors in the sea (Acts 27:40). Eao - 11x in 11v in the NAS - allow (2), allowed(2), leaving(1), left(1), let(2), permit(1), permitted(1), stop(1). Uses in NAS = Mt. 24:43; Lk. 4:41; Lk. 22:51; Acts 14:16; Acts 16:7; Acts 19:30; Acts 23:32; Acts 27:32; Acts 27:40; Acts 28:4; 1 Co. 10:13. The Textus Receptus has two additional uses not found in the more modern Greek transcripts - Acts 5:38KJV = "let them alone" and Rev 2:20NKJV = "you allow that woman Jezebel". Matthew 24:43 “But be sure of this, that if the head of the house had known at what time of the night the thief was coming, he would have been on the alert and would not have allowed his house to be broken into. Luke 4:41 Demons also were coming out of many, shouting, “You are the Son of God!” But rebuking them, He would not allow them to speak, because they knew Him to be the Christ. Luke 22:51 But Jesus answered and said, “Stop! No more of this.” And He touched his ear and healed him. Acts 14:16 “In the generations gone by He permitted all the nations to go their own ways; Acts 16:7 and after they came to Mysia, they were trying to go into Bithynia, and the Spirit of Jesus did not permit them; Acts 19:30 And when Paul wanted to go into the assembly, the disciples would not let him. Acts 23:32 But the next day, leaving the horsemen to go on with him, they returned to the barracks. Acts 27:32 Then the soldiers cut away the ropes of the ship’s boat and let it fall away. Acts 27:40 And casting off the anchors, they left them in the sea while at the same time they were loosening the ropes of the rudders; and hoisting the foresail to the wind, they were heading for the beach. Acts 28:4; When the natives saw the creature hanging from his hand, they began saying to one another, “Undoubtedly this man is a murderer, and though he has been saved from the sea, justice has not allowed him to live.” Eao - 28x in 28v in the Septuagint - Gen. 38:16; Exod. 32:10; Deut. 9:14; Jos. 19:47; Jdg. 11:37; 2 Sam. 15:34; Est. 3:8; Job 7:19; Job 9:18; Job 9:28; Job 10:20; Job 31:34; Dan. 2:44; Dan. 4:15; Dan. 4:23; Dan. 4:26 He touched his ear and healed him - Only Luke the physician describes the supernatural healing, Jesus' last recorded miracle before He was crucified. Imagine the thoughts that must have coursed through those who had come to seize Jesus when they witnessed this miraculous healing! This is surely an act of grace and mercy not just to Malchus but also to all who witnessed this miracle. It provided another opportunity for His enemies to consider His claim that He was the Messiah, that He was God in the flesh even as He healed flesh! Whether any of those who witnessed Jesus' miracle repented and believed, the Scripture does not say. We will have to wait until we get to heaven to learn whether anyone responded to His clear manifestation of His divinity! J C Ryle on the healing of the ear - There are several remarkable things about this miracle. It is the only instance in the Gospels of our Lord healing a fresh wound caused by external violence. It is a striking instance of a miracle worked on an enemy, unasked for, without faith in the person healed, and without any apparent thankfulness for the cure. It is an extraordinary proof of the wickedness and hardness of our Lord's enemies, that so wonderful a miracle as this could be wrought without any effect being produced on them. Some think that in the darkness the miracle was not seen by anyone except those immediately around Malchus. Touched (having touched)(681)(hapto/haptomai) means to grasp, to lay hold of with the basic meaning of touching for the purpose of manipulating. Hapto conveys the sense handling of an object as to exert a modifying influence upon it. The majority of the 39 uses are in the Gospels and are associated with Jesus touching someone (or someone touching Him) usually with a beneficial effect. The first NT use is of Jesus healing a leper (Lk 5:13) and the last recorded touch of healing healing the slave's hear. For other uses of touch in healing see Lk 7:14+ and Lk 8:43–47+. Healed (2390)(iaomai) means to cure, to heal, to restore. Iaomai refers primarily to physical healing in the NT (although clearly there is overlap because some of these instances involved demonic oppression - Lk 9:42), and much less commonly to spiritual healing or healing (saving) from "moral illnesses" and the consequences of sin. Most of the NT uses in the Gospels refer to physical healing by Jesus (excepting the physical healing that resulted by release from demonic oppression). However in the OT (Lxx) uses iaomai refers primarily to spiritual healing by the Messiah (Isa 53:5+, Isa 61:1, et al).
Lucas 22
Wiersbe - Only Luke records the direct question in Luke 22:70 and our Lord’s direct answer, which literally was: “You say that I am.” They would use this testimony later when they brought Him to Pilate (John 19:7). Some liberal theologians say that Jesus never claimed to be God, and we wonder what they do with this official trial? The Jewish religious leaders knew what Jesus was talking about, and this is why they condemned Him for blasphemy. (Borrow Be courageous Luke 14-24) In summary, Jesus declared He was the Christ (the Messiah) at his second trial and that He was the Son of God at this third religious trial. So much for the argument of the skeptics who say that Jesus never said He was God! Luke 22:71 Then they said, "What further need do we have of testimony? For we have heard it ourselves from His own mouth." KJV Luke 22:71 And they said, What need we a Mt 26:65,66; Mark 14:63,64 Luke 22 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Excellent Diagram/Map of Jesus' Arrest, Trial and Crucifixion Related Passages: Matthew 26:65; 66 Then the high priest tore his robes and said, “He has blasphemed! What further need do we have of witnesses? Behold, you have now heard the blasphemy; 66 what do you think?” They answered, “He deserves death!” Mark 14:63; 64+ Tearing his clothes, the high priest *said, “What further need do we have of witnesses? 64 “You have heard the blasphemy; how does it seem to you?” And they all condemned Him to be deserving of death. THE MATTER IS SETTLED Then (marks progression in narrative) they said, "What further need (chreia) do we have of testimony (marturia/martyria)? - Jesus' enemies had sought to catch Jesus in some incriminating statement (Lk 11:54, Lk 20:20, 26) and finally they had achieved their purpose, not because of their great mentsl gymnastics, but because now was their hour of darkness which God had sovereignly foreordained. When Jesus answered "I am" they felt they had Him cold on a charge of blasphemy, which carried the penalty of death (in Jewish law, but not Roman). The Jews were permitted to execute Gentiles who trespassed into the Temple, and in Acts 7:58-60+, the stoning of Steven was apparently overlooked by the Romans. The irony of their dastardly deeds that sought to humiliate and abase and destroy Jesus, instead paved the way His exaltation and glorification, for the temporal Cross would be followed by His eternal crown and the eternal redemption (Heb 9:12) available in His temporal crucifixion. For we have heard (akouo) it ourselves from His own mouth - They finally have a true Witness for the Word Himself! They explain why they need no more testimony. In short they acknowledged that Jesus had just claimed to be the Son of God which was also a way of claiming to be God. This constituted clear evidence of blasphemy to them and they now felt like they had sufficient grounds to demand the death sentence from Pilate. Wiersbe - Referring to the Jewish authorities, James Stalker wrote in The Trial and Death of Jesus Christ: “It may be said that they walked according to their light; but the light that was in them was darkness.” (Lk 11:35+) “None so blind as those that will not see,” wrote Matthew Henry, the noted Bible commentator. “While you have the light, believe in the light, that you may become sons of light” (John 12:36, NKJV). "I have come as light into the world, that everyone who believes in Me may not remain in darkness. (Jn 12:46) (Borrow Be courageous Luke 14-24)