Luke 22 Chapter Summary and Outline
Quick Summary
Luke 22 captures the tension and tenderness of Jesus’ final hours before his arrest. From the betrayal plot and the institution of the Lord’s Supper to his agony in Gethsemane and Peter’s denial, the chapter reveals both the weakness of humanity and the strength of divine love. Through it all, Jesus remains steadfast—serving, praying, and surrendering himself to the Father’s will for the sake of the world.
Luke Chapter 22 Summary
In this pivotal chapter, the narrative intensifies as Jesus prepares for his impending death. It begins with Judas Iscariot’s betrayal, culminating in the Last Supper, where Jesus institutes the practice of communion. Tensions rise as the disciples argue about greatness, prompting Jesus to redefine leadership through servanthood. As they move to the Mount of Olives, Jesus grapples with his impending crucifixion in the Garden of Gethsemane. This chapter encapsulates the themes of betrayal, sacrifice, and the profound depth of Jesus’ commitment to his mission.
Luke Chapter 22 Outline
1. The Plot to Betray Jesus (22:1-6)
The religious leaders conspire to arrest Jesus, and Judas Iscariot agrees to betray him for money. This act of treachery sets the stage for the unfolding drama of the crucifixion, emphasizing the depth of betrayal among Jesus’ closest followers.
2. The Last Supper (22:7-23)
Jesus shares the Passover meal with his disciples, transforming it into a new covenant through his body and blood. This moment is pivotal, as Jesus foreshadows his sacrifice and establishes the practice of communion, inviting his followers into a deeper relationship with Him.
3. Dispute Among the Disciples (22:24-30)
A disagreement arises among the disciples about who is the greatest. Jesus intervenes, teaching that true greatness comes through serving others. He models a radical redefinition of leadership, highlighting that greatness in God’s kingdom is marked by humility and service.
4. Jesus Predicts Peter’s Denial (22:31-34)
Jesus tells Peter that Satan has sought to sift him like wheat but assures him of his prayers. He predicts Peter’s denial, emphasizing the fragility of human commitment and the importance of faith amidst trial.
5. Preparation for the Coming Trials (22:35-38)
Jesus instructs his disciples to prepare for the challenges ahead. He shifts the conversation to self-sufficiency and resilience, urging them to be vigilant as they face a hostile world.
6. Agony in the Garden (22:39-46)
In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus experiences profound anguish as he prays, wrestling with the weight of what is to come. His disciples, however, struggle to stay awake, illustrating the tension between divine purpose and human frailty.
7. Betrayal and Arrest (22:47-53)
Judas arrives with a crowd to betray Jesus with a kiss. This moment marks the climax of betrayal and the beginning of Jesus’ suffering, as he is arrested in the presence of his followers. Jesus confronts the violence of his captors, illustrating his commitment to peace even in the face of aggression.
8. Peter’s Denial (22:54-62)
As Jesus is led away, Peter follows at a distance but ultimately denies knowing him three times. This moment underscores the fragility of human loyalty, setting the stage for Peter’s eventual restoration.
9. Jesus Mocked and Beaten (22:63-65)
The guards mock and beat Jesus, further illustrating the brutal reality of his impending crucifixion. This scene highlights the depth of human cruelty and foreshadows the sacrifice that Jesus will endure for humanity.
FAQ: Luke 22 (Last Supper, Betrayal, and Gethsemane)
Why did Judas betray Jesus?
Luke presents Judas’s betrayal as the tragic convergence of greed, temptation, and demonic influence. Though Satan enters Judas, the Gospel still portrays him as responsible for his choices. The betrayal reminds readers that proximity to Jesus does not guarantee faithfulness.
What is the meaning of the Last Supper in Luke 22?
At the Passover meal, Jesus reinterprets the bread and wine as symbols of the new covenant in his body and blood. It’s both a memorial of his sacrifice and a participation in his ongoing presence—a covenant meal of forgiveness and unity.
Why do the disciples argue about greatness during the Last Supper?
Their argument exposes how deeply they misunderstand Jesus’ mission. He responds by teaching that true greatness in God’s kingdom comes not from power but from service: “I am among you as one who serves” (Luke 22:27).
What is the significance of Jesus’ agony in Gethsemane?
Luke’s account emphasizes the humanity of Jesus—his anguish, sweat like drops of blood, and his yielding prayer: “Not my will but yours be done.” It’s a window into the costly obedience of the Son who fully embraces the Father’s redemptive plan.
Why does Peter deny Jesus three times?
Peter’s denial reveals the tension between love and fear. Though devoted to Jesus, he falters under pressure. Luke’s tender note that Jesus “turned and looked at Peter” shows that failure isn’t final—grace still finds us in our worst moments.
