Understanding Luke 22:15

Luke 22:15 states, "And he said unto them, With desire I have desired to eat this passover with you before I suffer." This verse occurs at a pivotal moment during the Last Supper, where Jesus shares his final meal with his disciples before his crucifixion. The significance of this verse is multifaceted, encompassing themes of longing, fellowship, and redemption.

Contextual Background

The historical context of this passage is crucial for interpreting its meaning. Jesus and his disciples were celebrating Passover, a significant Jewish festival commemorating the Israelites' escape from Egypt. This meal would not only be a tradition but serve as an essential foundation for understanding Jesus' role as the Paschal Lamb, sacrificed for the salvation of humankind.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry emphasizes the earnestness of Jesus' words, noting the repetition of "with desire I have desired." This reflects the intensity of Jesus’ longing for this moment of communion with his followers. He interprets this as a profound expression of love and commitment to His mission.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes points out that Jesus’ desire to partake of the Passover symbolizes the impending fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies through His sacrificial death. He recognizes this meal as a crucial transition from the Old Covenant to the New Covenant in Christ's blood.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke elaborates on the intimate setting of the Last Supper, pointing out that Jesus is not merely sharing a meal but is providing an extraordinary spiritual experience. This teaches believers about the importance of communion and shared faith with one another.

Theological Significance

This verse contains rich theological implications. Jesus’ expression of desire underlines the relational aspect of faith, where he invites his followers into deeper fellowship, ultimately symbolizing the invitation to all of humanity for an eternal relationship with God.

Furthermore, the mention of suffering highlights the sacrifice Jesus was about to make, preparing the hearts of His followers for the trials ahead. His willingness to partake in this significant ritual reflects His commitment to His mission and the fulfillment of Scripture.

Practical Applications

Believers can draw several practical applications from Luke 22:15:

• Understanding Immediate Context: Recognizing the significance of communal meals in spiritual contexts encourages Christians to value fellowship with one another.
• Embracing Sacrifice: Reflecting on Jesus’ readiness to suffer for our benefit can inspire personal sacrifice for the well-being of others.
• Participating in Communion: This passage invites believers to appreciate the meaning of communion, emphasizing its role in remembrance and spiritual connection with Christ.

Cross References

Related passages that further illuminate Luke 22:15 include:

• Exodus 12: The original institution of the Passover.
• Matthew 26:26-29: Detailed account of the Last Supper and the institution of communion.
• 1 Corinthians 11:23-26: Paul's teaching on the Lord's Supper and its significance.

Conclusion

Luke 22:15 serves as a profound reminder of Jesus' love and His sacrificial journey, reinforcing the themes of fellowship and redemption throughout Scripture. As believers delve into the meaning of this and related Bible verses, they can draw deeper insights into their faith journey and the essence of communal worship, inviting both reflection and action.