Jesus' New Passover

Luke 22:1-46

Feb. 22

Now we enter deeply into the saddest days of history. With Judas’ help the leaders, considered the most enlightened men in their nation, complete their plot to kill the Son of God.
But these days are also the greatest days on earth for Jesus. He is about to complete his life mission, and he confirms to the Twelve that they will carry on that mission. So with them he privately establishes his new Passover to supersede the old Passover.

1. Recall your most moving celebration of the Lord’s Supper. What made it so?

 
2. Read Luke 22:1-6, trying to understand the authorities. What does this passage add to your knowledge of these men?

3. History shows betrayal of a friend or family member is not unique. But what puts Judas’ betrayal of Jesus in a class by itself?

4. Read Luke 22:7-23, comparing Jesus’ plans with the authorities’ plans. As you examine his plans, what impresses you about Jesus himself?

5. Luke has a special appreciation of Jesus’ deep feelings that night as he institutes his new Passover. Note the repetition of Jesus’ own words about “eating the Passover” (vv. 8, 11, 15-16, 17-18; see also v. 30). What do you think this all means for Jesus at this point?

6. Read Luke 22:24-38 for what else happened during that last evening together. Jesus chides the disciples for their preoccupation with power and prestige. What lesson does he teach about the kind of leaders he wants to carry on his work (vv. 26-27)?

7. Jesus further prepares them for coming tests. The first preparation is for Peter immediately ahead. The second is for all the apostles in the long run.
Like him they would have to face official hostility (vv. 36-38). In either testing what should help them to persevere (vv. 28, 29-30, 31, 32, 35)?

8. Why can the Lord Jesus have confidence in these petty, obtuse, self-serving men—and in us who are often like them?

9. Read Luke 22:39-46. What guidelines for praying do you see in each verse, showing Jesus’ example?

10. Jesus’ institution of his new Passover was interspersed with human weakness and failure. In redeeming his disciples, he used their shortcomings. What weaknesses and failures do you want to acknowledge as you contemplate afresh eating Jesus’ new Passover?