Luke 22:23 – “They began to question among themselves which of them it might be who would do this.”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, after Jesus reveals that one of His disciples will betray Him, the disciples are stunned and begin discussing who among them could be capable of such a terrible act. Their questioning reflects their confusion, shock, and perhaps even fear. The idea that one of them—someone who had walked with Jesus, seen His miracles, and heard His teachings—could betray Him was almost unthinkable.
Each disciple likely wondered, “Is it me?” Some may have examined their hearts, questioning their own loyalty, while others probably looked around suspiciously at their fellow disciples. This moment shows that none of them truly expected Judas to be the betrayer, demonstrating that Judas had successfully hidden his plans and maintained the outward appearance of loyalty.
The verse also highlights the human tendency to deny or avoid the possibility of personal guilt. Instead of fully examining their own hearts, the disciples seem more focused on finding out who the betrayer is, pointing to the tension between self-reflection and self-defense when faced with the possibility of sin.
Historical Context
The Last Supper took place during the Jewish festival of Passover, which was a time of remembrance and gratitude for God’s deliverance of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. It was meant to be a sacred and joyful occasion, but Jesus’ announcement of betrayal added an element of grief and tension.
Betrayal by a close companion was considered one of the most dishonorable acts in Jewish culture. Sharing a meal with someone was a sign of trust and fellowship, so for one of the disciples to betray Jesus after eating the Passover meal with Him would have been viewed as a deep and personal betrayal.
Judas Iscariot had already made arrangements to betray Jesus for thirty pieces of silver (Matthew 26:14-16), but the other disciples were unaware of this. From an outward perspective, Judas seemed to be just as loyal as the others, which is why they were confused and unsure of who Jesus meant.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the deceptive nature of sin. Judas was able to hide his betrayal from the other disciples, showing that sin can often be concealed beneath an outward appearance of righteousness. This serves as a warning to believers to examine their own hearts honestly and to be aware of the ways sin can creep in unnoticed.
The verse also emphasizes the importance of self-reflection. When the disciples questioned who the betrayer might be, they were forced to confront the possibility of their own failure. This moment foreshadows Peter’s denial of Jesus later that night (Luke 22:54-62), demonstrating that even those who are close to Jesus can fall into sin if they are not vigilant.
God’s sovereignty is also present in this verse. Although Judas’ betrayal was a result of his own sinful choices, it was part of God’s plan for redemption. This shows that God can use even human sin to accomplish His purposes, but it does not excuse the sinner’s responsibility. Judas’ betrayal fulfilled prophecy (Psalm 41:9) and led to Jesus’ crucifixion, which was the means by which salvation was made available to the world.
Literary Analysis
Luke’s writing creates a sense of tension and uncertainty in this verse. The phrase “they began to question among themselves” suggests an atmosphere of confusion and anxiety. The disciples are not only trying to figure out who the betrayer is but are also grappling with the possibility that it could be any one of them.
The questioning is left unresolved in this verse, which adds to the dramatic tension. Luke does not immediately reveal the identity of the betrayer, keeping the reader in suspense. This literary technique mirrors the disciples’ own confusion and highlights the gravity of the situation.
The use of the word “question” is significant because it reflects more than just a desire for information—it reveals an internal struggle. The disciples are wrestling with their own loyalty, trust, and fear, making this a moment of deep personal reflection.
Biblical Cross-References
- Matthew 26:21-22 – A parallel account where the disciples respond with sorrow and ask, “Surely you don’t mean me, Lord?”
- Psalm 41:9 – A prophecy about betrayal: “Even my close friend, someone I trusted, one who shared my bread, has turned against me.”
- John 13:21-22 – Another account of the disciples being troubled and uncertain after Jesus announces His betrayal.
- 2 Corinthians 13:5 – Paul encourages believers to examine themselves to see whether they are in the faith.
- Luke 22:54-62 – Peter’s denial of Jesus, showing that even the most devoted disciples can fall into sin.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is a call to self-examination. The disciples’ questioning highlights the importance of regularly examining one’s own heart to identify areas where sin may be lurking. It’s easy to focus on the faults of others, but this verse encourages believers to take an honest look at themselves and their relationship with Christ.
This verse also serves as a reminder of the need for humility. The disciples, who had spent years walking with Jesus, were still capable of doubt and failure. Christians should be humble enough to recognize that they, too, can fall into sin if they are not careful.
Additionally, this verse encourages believers to trust in God’s plan, even when faced with betrayal or hardship. Jesus’ betrayal led to His crucifixion, but it also led to His resurrection and the salvation of humanity. God can use even the most painful situations for His purposes and glory.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is evident in this verse because, despite knowing He would be betrayed, Jesus still shared the Last Supper with His disciples and extended grace to them. His willingness to go to the cross, even in the face of betrayal, demonstrates the depth of His love for humanity.
God’s love is also shown in His patience with the disciples. Even though they were confused and unsure of their own loyalty, Jesus didn’t condemn them. Instead, He continued to teach and guide them, knowing that they would grow in faith after His resurrection.
This verse also highlights God’s desire for repentance and restoration. While Judas chose betrayal, the other disciples, including Peter, would later repent and be restored. God’s love offers forgiveness to all who are willing to turn back to Him.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is central to this verse as the one who will be betrayed and the one who will willingly submit to God’s plan of salvation. His calm demeanor in the face of betrayal shows His trust in the Father’s plan and His commitment to fulfilling His mission.
The disciples’ questioning foreshadows the trials Jesus will face in the coming hours, including Peter’s denial and the abandonment by the rest of the disciples. Despite their failures, Jesus’ death and resurrection will provide the way for their forgiveness and restoration.
This verse also connects to Jesus’ role as the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). His betrayal was not a mistake—it was part of God’s plan to bring salvation through His sacrificial death.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does this verse encourage you to examine your own heart and relationship with Christ?
- In what ways can you guard yourself against the kind of betrayal or failure that Judas experienced?
- What does this verse teach you about the importance of humility and self-reflection in the Christian life?
- How does Jesus’ willingness to face betrayal demonstrate His love and commitment to God’s plan?
- How can you find hope and encouragement in the fact that God can use even difficult situations, like betrayal, for His purposes?
This verse is a powerful reminder that sin can creep into the hearts of even those who are close to Jesus. It calls believers to examine their hearts, trust in God’s plan, and find comfort in His grace and forgiveness.