Luke 22:22 – “The Son of Man will go as it has been decreed. But woe to that man who betrays him!”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, Jesus is speaking about His upcoming betrayal and crucifixion. He acknowledges that His suffering and death are part of God’s sovereign plan, which has been “decreed” or determined in advance. The term “Son of Man” is a title Jesus often used to refer to Himself, drawing from Daniel 7:13-14, where the Son of Man is a divine figure who is given authority by God.
Jesus’ statement highlights a key tension: His death is both an act of divine purpose and the result of human sin. While God’s plan for salvation includes the events leading to the cross, the responsibility for betraying Jesus still rests on Judas Iscariot. That’s why Jesus pronounces “woe” on the one who will betray Him. This term conveys judgment, sorrow, and regret. Judas’ betrayal is not excused simply because it fits into God’s plan—he is still accountable for his actions.
This verse reveals the mystery of how God’s sovereignty works alongside human responsibility. God can accomplish His purposes even through the sinful actions of people, but that doesn’t mean those people are free from guilt.
Historical Context
In the Jewish worldview of the time, the concept of God’s will and human responsibility coexisting was familiar but mysterious. The Jewish people believed that God was in control of history, but they also understood that individuals were responsible for their moral decisions.
During Jesus’ time, many religious leaders and scholars expected a Messiah who would deliver Israel from Roman rule and establish a political kingdom. But Jesus’ mission was different—He came to establish a spiritual kingdom and to save humanity from sin. His death, though unexpected by many, was prophesied in the Old Testament and was part of God’s plan for redemption.
Jesus’ reference to His betrayal would have been shocking to the disciples, especially since Judas had been with them from the beginning of Jesus’ ministry. The betrayal by one of their own highlighted the seriousness of sin and the brokenness of the human heart, even among those who had personally witnessed Jesus’ miracles and teachings.
Theological Implications
This verse demonstrates God’s sovereignty over human history. The fact that Jesus’ death was “decreed” shows that it wasn’t a random event or a failure of His mission. It was part of God’s plan from the beginning (Isaiah 53:10). Even the betrayal by Judas, as tragic as it was, fit into God’s plan to bring about salvation through the death and resurrection of Jesus.
However, this verse also emphasizes human responsibility. While Judas’ betrayal was part of God’s plan, Judas made a deliberate choice to betray Jesus. Jesus’ words of “woe” are a warning that sin has consequences, and no one can escape responsibility for their actions. Judas’ betrayal ultimately led to his downfall, but it serves as a warning for all people about the danger of turning away from God.
This verse also points to the concept of Jesus as the suffering servant, who willingly submitted to God’s plan, even though it meant enduring betrayal, pain, and death. His obedience to the Father demonstrates the depth of His love and commitment to fulfilling His mission.
Literary Analysis
Luke’s phrasing in this verse creates a contrast between divine control and human failure. The phrase “The Son of Man will go as it has been decreed” emphasizes that God’s plan is unstoppable. The use of “woe” introduces the tension of judgment—God’s plan will be accomplished, but those who oppose it will face the consequences of their actions.
The title “Son of Man” is significant because it links Jesus to both His humanity and His divine role as the one who fulfills God’s plan for salvation. The combination of prophetic fulfillment and moral accountability highlights Luke’s theme of Jesus as both Savior and judge.
The juxtaposition of divine decree and human guilt reflects a common theme in Scripture: God’s purposes are never thwarted by human sin, but those who choose to rebel against Him are held accountable.
Biblical Cross-References
- Isaiah 53:10 – The prophecy that the suffering servant’s death was part of God’s will.
- Daniel 7:13-14 – The vision of the Son of Man receiving authority and glory from God, a title Jesus applies to Himself.
- John 17:12 – Jesus refers to Judas as the “son of perdition,” indicating his responsibility for his betrayal.
- Acts 2:23 – Peter explains that Jesus was handed over to death by God’s plan but through the actions of sinful men.
- Matthew 26:24 – A parallel verse where Jesus says it would have been better for the betrayer if he had never been born.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christians, this verse is a reminder of God’s sovereign control over history and the assurance that His plans will always be accomplished. Even when life seems chaotic or when evil seems to prevail, believers can trust that God is working out His purposes. Jesus’ death was not a tragedy—it was the fulfillment of God’s plan for salvation.
This verse also challenges believers to take sin seriously. Judas’ betrayal shows that it’s possible to be close to Jesus outwardly but still have a heart that is far from Him. Christians are called to examine their hearts and make sure they are truly devoted to following Christ, not just going through the motions.
Additionally, this verse reminds believers that while God can use even sinful actions to accomplish His purposes, that doesn’t excuse sin. People are responsible for their choices, and sin always has consequences. But for those who repent, God offers forgiveness and restoration through Jesus Christ.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is demonstrated in this verse through His willingness to fulfill His plan of salvation despite the betrayal and suffering it would involve. Jesus willingly submitted to God’s plan because of His love for humanity. Even though He knew He would be betrayed, Jesus didn’t turn away from His mission. His love was greater than the pain of betrayal or the suffering of the cross.
God’s love is also seen in His patience and grace. While Judas chose to betray Jesus, God’s love remains available to all who repent and turn to Him. This verse is a reminder that God’s ultimate goal is redemption, even when human sin seems to complicate the path.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is central to this verse as the one who fulfills God’s plan through His death. The title “Son of Man” highlights His dual role as the suffering servant and the victorious king. His obedience to God’s plan, even in the face of betrayal, shows His commitment to redeeming humanity.
This verse also connects to Jesus’ role as the Lamb of God, whose death would take away the sins of the world (John 1:29). His suffering was not meaningless—it was the fulfillment of prophecies like Isaiah 53, which describe the Messiah’s suffering as the means by which people would be healed and forgiven.
Additionally, this verse points forward to Jesus’ resurrection and victory over sin and death. While His betrayal and crucifixion were part of God’s plan, they were not the end of the story. Jesus’ obedience led to His exaltation and the establishment of God’s kingdom.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does knowing that Jesus’ death was part of God’s plan give you confidence in God’s control over your life?
- What can Judas’ betrayal teach you about the importance of guarding your heart and staying faithful to Jesus?
- How can you take sin seriously in your life while also trusting in God’s grace and forgiveness?
- In what ways can you follow Jesus’ example of obedience, even when it involves suffering or hardship?
- How does this verse encourage you to trust that God’s plan will be fulfilled, even when life feels uncertain?
This verse is a powerful reminder of both the seriousness of sin and the depth of God’s love. Jesus’ obedience to God’s plan, even in the face of betrayal, is an example for believers to trust in God’s purposes, live faithfully, and rest in the assurance of His sovereign control.