Thirdmill Study Bible

Notes on Luke 22:52-23:25

Luke 22:52-53

Jesus had a public ministry. He could have been arrested at any time. Although the Jewish leaders treated Jesus like a criminal, they were acting like criminals. Nevertheless, it was the appointed time for Jesus to be seized by his opponents to fulfill God's plans. chief priests. See note on 19:47. captains. See note on 22:4. elders. See note on 7:3. darkness. Not literal, but spiritual darkness (see John 1:4-5; Acts 26:18).

Luke 22:54-62

Jesus' Disciples Flee. As Jesus was arrested, his disciples fearfully fled his side. Peter succumbed to temptation and denied Jesus just as he predicted (vv. 31-34).

Luke 22:54

high priest's house. This house of Caiaphas (Matt. 26:57). John records that before this, Jesus was taken to Annas' house (John 18:13-27). For the relationship between Annas and Caiaphas see note on 3:2. distance. Peter's physical distance symbolized the condition of his heart. He wanted to see what happened but was too fearful to be closely associated with Jesus (Matt. 26:58; see vv. 55-61).

Luke 22:57

Peter was brave to remain in the midst of those hostile to Jesus. However, his courage failed once he was associated with Jesus.

Luke 22:59

Peter was recognized by his regional accent. Aside from Judas, all the apostles were from Galilee (see note on 6:16).

Luke 22:60

Peter's third denial comes just as Jesus predicted (v. 34).

Luke 22:61-62

The pain of his sinful denial was driven home by meeting Jesus' gaze. He could argue with strangers and a servant girl (vv. 56, 58, 59). But he couldn't defend himself before Jesus. wept bitterly. Unlike Judas who showed no sign of repentance (Matt. 27:5), Peter's regret led to restoration (v. 32; John 21:15-17; see 2 Cor. 7:10).

Luke 22:63-23:25

Jesus on Trial. Luke recorded some of the event surrounding Jesus' trial by the Jewish leaders and Roman authorities. Though innocent, he was mistreated, convicted, and sentenced to death.

Luke 22:63

mocked. Perhaps for his Galilean accent (1:26) or his belief that he was the promised Christ. beat. Not the proper treatment of prisoners.

Luke 22:64

The people thought Jesus was a prophet (7:16, 39; 9:8, 19; 24:19). Now, he should prove it. Their cruelty was especially demeaning toward Jesus.

Luke 22:65

It was sadly ironic that those who condemned Jesus as a blasphemer were themselves the worst offenders of blasphemy to ever walk the earth. They did not simply defy God's law (6:8), or reject God's wisdom (7:35), they derided and mocked God himself (see note on 1:35). Yet, Jesus never spoke against them (Isa. 53:7).

Luke 22:66

Secret trials were not permitted by Jewish law. Thus, the trial could not commence until early morning. elders. See note on 7:3. chief priests. See note on 7:3. scribes. See note on 5:17. council. The Jewish ruling body called the Sanhedrin (see note on 20:1).

Luke 22:67

Christ. The promised Messiah of the Old Testament, also called the Messiah (see note on 2:11). will not believe. Through preaching and miracles, Jesus had already shown them his identity. Yet, they refused to believe.