Luke 22:1 – “Now the Festival of Unleavened Bread, called the Passover, was approaching.”
Extended Explanation
This verse opens a critical moment in the Gospel of Luke. It sets the stage for the events leading up to Jesus’ arrest, trial, and crucifixion. The Festival of Unleavened Bread and the Passover were significant celebrations in Jewish life, commemorating God’s deliverance of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt (Exodus 12). The verse highlights that these religious observances were about to begin, which heightens the tension of the coming events. The religious leaders were planning to capture Jesus, but they had to be careful because of the large crowds gathered in Jerusalem for the festival.
Historical Context
The Passover was a deeply meaningful event for the Jewish people. It celebrated God’s protection and deliverance during the final plague in Egypt when the angel of death “passed over” the homes of those who had marked their doorframes with the blood of a lamb. This festival, which lasted seven days, was filled with rituals, including the removal of all leaven (yeast) from homes to symbolize purity and separation from sin.
In Jesus’ time, the Passover drew massive crowds to Jerusalem, as pilgrims came from all over Israel and beyond to celebrate. This influx of people created both opportunities and challenges for the religious authorities, who feared that arresting Jesus openly could provoke a riot.
Theological Implications
This verse points to God’s sovereignty and the fulfillment of prophecy. The Passover was not just a backdrop for Jesus’ passion; it was divinely ordained as part of God’s redemptive plan. Jesus is often referred to as the “Lamb of God” (John 1:29), and His death during Passover fulfills the symbolism of the sacrificial lamb. Through His sacrifice, believers are delivered from sin and death, just as the Israelites were delivered from Egypt.
The timing of these events reveals God’s perfect plan for salvation. Jesus’ death and resurrection accomplished what the Passover lamb foreshadowed: ultimate deliverance and redemption.
Literary Analysis
Luke uses this verse to transition the narrative toward the climax of Jesus’ earthly ministry. By mentioning both the Festival of Unleavened Bread and the Passover, Luke emphasizes the gravity of the moment. The verse is brief but loaded with significance, as it connects past, present, and future: the historical deliverance of Israel, the current danger Jesus faces, and the future salvation He will bring through His sacrifice.
Luke often structures his Gospel with these kinds of literary signposts, helping readers understand the spiritual importance of each event. Here, he prepares the audience for the unfolding drama of Jesus’ passion.
Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 12:1-28 – The institution of the Passover and the instructions for the sacrificial lamb.
- 1 Corinthians 5:7 – Paul calls Christ “our Passover lamb” who has been sacrificed.
- John 1:29 – John the Baptist identifies Jesus as “the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.”
- Matthew 26:2 – Jesus explicitly tells His disciples that He will be handed over to be crucified during the Passover.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse serves as a reminder of God’s ongoing work of salvation. Just as God delivered the Israelites from slavery, He offers deliverance from sin through Jesus. It also highlights the importance of understanding the connections between the Old and New Testaments. The rituals and symbols of the Old Covenant find their ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ.
This verse can also prompt believers to reflect on God’s perfect timing and plan for their lives. Even when circumstances seem chaotic or dangerous, God is in control, weaving all events together for His purpose.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is evident in His desire to save and protect His people. The Passover demonstrated His care for the Israelites by shielding them from judgment. In the same way, God’s love is revealed through Jesus, who willingly gave His life so that believers could be spared from eternal separation from Him. This verse points to the depth of God’s love and His willingness to go to great lengths to rescue humanity.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the ultimate fulfillment of the Passover lamb. His death occurred during the festival as a direct parallel to the sacrifice made in Egypt. Paul explicitly connects Jesus to this role in 1 Corinthians 5:7, and the Gospel of John highlights how Jesus’ crucifixion coincided with the slaughter of the Passover lambs.
Jesus’ sacrifice was not just a random event but part of God’s grand plan to offer salvation to all people. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus brings about a new covenant, one that offers eternal life to those who believe in Him (Hebrews 9:15).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Why do you think it was significant that Jesus’ death happened during the Passover?
- How does understanding the Old Testament Passover enhance your appreciation of Jesus’ sacrifice?
- What does this verse teach you about God’s control over history and events?
- In what ways has God demonstrated His deliverance and protection in your own life?
- How can reflecting on God’s redemptive plan encourage you in times of uncertainty or fear?
This verse serves as a powerful reminder of God’s faithfulness, His plan for salvation, and the central role of Jesus in that plan. Through the lens of the Passover, we see the depth of God’s love and His commitment to redeeming His people.