Luke 22:9 – “Where do you want us to prepare for it?” they asked.
Extended Explanation
In this verse, Peter and John respond to Jesus’ instructions to prepare the Passover meal by asking where He wants them to do it. Their question shows their willingness to obey but also their need for guidance. The city of Jerusalem was packed with people, and finding a place to celebrate the Passover wasn’t a simple task. They trusted Jesus to give them specific instructions for where the preparations should take place.
Their question reflects the attitude of faithful servants—ready to follow, but seeking clarity. This mirrors how believers often respond to God. When we sense God leading us, we may not know all the details, but like Peter and John, we can ask for direction and trust that God will guide us.
Historical Context
During the Passover festival, Jerusalem would have been crowded with Jewish pilgrims from all over the region. Families and groups needed to secure a place to eat the meal, and it was customary for rooms to be rented out for this purpose. The preparations for the meal included securing a lamb to be sacrificed at the temple, gathering unleavened bread, bitter herbs, and wine, and setting up the space for the meal.
Peter and John’s question reflects the practical challenges of preparing the Passover meal amid the busy city. But Jesus already had a plan in place, as the following verses reveal. He would direct them to a specific place where everything was prepared according to God’s timing and purpose.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the balance between human responsibility and God’s divine guidance. Peter and John didn’t sit back and wait for everything to be handed to them—they were actively involved in the process of preparation. At the same time, they relied on Jesus to provide the details they needed.
This is a powerful picture of the Christian life. Believers are called to obey God and take action, but they must also rely on Him for guidance. It’s a partnership—God directs, and we follow in faith. This verse also reminds us that obedience doesn’t require having all the answers upfront. Sometimes, we have to take the first step and trust that God will reveal the rest in His time.
Literary Analysis
Luke presents Peter and John’s question as straightforward and simple, but it carries deeper meaning. The use of the word “prepare” ties back to the theme of preparation throughout this section of the Gospel. Luke emphasizes that the events leading to Jesus’ crucifixion were not random—they were part of a carefully orchestrated plan.
The question also highlights the disciples’ dependence on Jesus. Even though they had walked with Him for years, they still needed His direction. This detail reinforces the idea that spiritual maturity involves continual dependence on God’s guidance.
Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 12:1-14 – The original instructions for preparing the Passover meal, which included specific details about the lamb, bread, and bitter herbs.
- Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” This verse highlights the importance of trusting God for direction.
- Psalm 25:4-5 – A prayer for God’s guidance: “Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths. Guide me in your truth and teach me.”
- Luke 22:10-13 – The following verses show how Jesus provides specific instructions for where the Passover meal will take place.
- John 14:5-6 – When Thomas asks Jesus for direction, Jesus responds by revealing that He is the way, the truth, and the life.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse is a reminder that it’s okay to ask God for direction. Sometimes, Christians feel pressure to have all the answers or to act without asking questions. But Peter and John’s example shows that seeking guidance is part of faithful obedience. When we face uncertainty, we can ask God, “Where do you want me to go? What do you want me to do?”
The verse also teaches that God often reveals His plan step by step. Peter and John didn’t know the full picture, but they trusted Jesus to lead them. In the same way, Christians today are called to take steps of faith, trusting that God will guide them as they go.
Finally, this verse highlights the importance of preparation in the Christian life. Just as Peter and John prepared for the Passover, believers are called to prepare their hearts for worship, service, and obedience. Spiritual growth doesn’t happen by accident—it requires intentional preparation and dependence on God’s guidance.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is shown through His willingness to guide and direct His people. Jesus didn’t leave Peter and John to figure things out on their own—He gave them clear instructions, demonstrating His care for even the practical details of their lives. This reflects God’s character as a loving Father who guides His children step by step.
God’s love is also seen in the fact that He provides what we need when we ask for it. Peter and John’s question was met with an answer, just as our prayers for guidance are met with God’s wisdom and direction. God doesn’t expect us to navigate life alone. Instead, He invites us to seek Him, promising to lead us along the right path (Psalm 32:8).
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is central to this verse, not only as the one giving instructions but also as the fulfillment of the Passover. The disciples thought they were preparing for a traditional Passover meal, but Jesus knew that this meal would mark the beginning of the new covenant. The preparations they were making were for more than just a meal—they were part of God’s redemptive plan through Jesus.
This verse also reflects Jesus’ role as the Good Shepherd, who leads His followers. Throughout His ministry, Jesus provided direction and guidance to His disciples, teaching them to trust in His leadership. His response to their question demonstrates His knowledge and control over the situation. Even as His arrest and crucifixion approached, Jesus remained fully in control, guiding His disciples according to God’s plan.
Additionally, this verse points forward to the ultimate preparation Jesus was making. He was about to prepare the way for salvation through His death and resurrection. Just as the disciples prepared the Passover meal, Jesus was preparing to offer His life as a sacrifice for sin.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What does Peter and John’s question teach us about seeking guidance from God in our own lives?
- How can you develop the habit of asking God for direction when you face uncertainty or important decisions?
- What steps of faith might God be calling you to take, even if you don’t know all the details yet?
- How does this verse encourage you to trust that God will provide what you need when you ask Him?
- In what ways can you prepare your heart for worship and obedience, just as the disciples prepared for the Passover?
This verse is a reminder that faithful obedience involves both action and trust. As believers, we are called to ask for God’s guidance, take steps of faith, and trust that He will lead us according to His perfect plan. Just as Jesus guided Peter and John, He continues to guide His followers today, offering His love, wisdom, and direction.