What does Luke 22:12 mean?

Explanation

Luke 22:12 depicts a specific instruction given by Jesus to His disciples as part of the preparation for the Passover meal, which would later be known as the Last Supper.

In this verse, Jesus describes a "large upper room" that will be found already "furnished," indicating that it was prepared and ready for use.

The directive "there make ready" conveys that this room is the designated location for the Passover celebration, where the disciples are to prepare for this significant event.

The verse suggests an element of divine provision and preparation, as everything the disciples needed was already in place, which spiritually symbolizes the forthcoming fulfillment of God's plans through the death and resurrection of Jesus.

Historical Context

During the time of Jesus, the Feast of Unleavened Bread, which included the Passover, was one of the most important Jewish festivals commemorating the Israelites' exodus from Egypt.

During Passover, it was customary for Jewish pilgrims to visit Jerusalem.

The "large upper room" refers to a common design in first-century Palestinian homes, where the upper floor was often used for gatherings and special occasions.

Luke 22:12 suggests a prearranged scenario, indicating that Jesus had made prior plans for the meal, possibly to maintain privacy and avoid disturbances from the growing tensions with the religious authorities.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, the preparation of the upper room for the Last Supper carries great significance.

The event was not only a Passover meal but also the institution of the New Covenant with the breaking of bread and drinking of wine, symbolizing Jesus' body and blood.

The provision of the room is seen as a metaphor for God's providence and the unfolding of divine will.

Different theological perspectives might emphasize Jesus' awareness of his mission and destiny, the connection between the Passover and Jesus' sacrifice, and the initiation of Christian Eucharistic traditions.

Practical Applications

This verse provides a practical lesson on preparation and readiness for spiritual events and experiences. It also teaches on trusting divine provision, as the disciples were led to a place that was already set for their arrival.

The concept of a space being furnished and prepared can be applied to personal and communal religious practices, where creating an environment conducive to worship and spiritual reflection is essential.

Cross-References

• Mark 14:15: "And he will shew you a large upper room furnished and prepared: there make ready for us."
• Matthew 26:18: "And he said, Go into the city to such a man, and say unto him, The Master saith, My time is at hand; I will keep the passover at thy house with my disciples."
• Luke 22:11: "And ye shall say unto the goodman of the house, The Master saith unto thee, Where is the guestchamber, where I shall eat the passover with my disciples?"

Language Study

The key words in the original Koine Greek text from this verse include:

• "upper room" (ἀνάγαιον - anagaion), which refers to an upper chamber or a room on the upper floor of a house.
• "furnished" (στρωννύω - strōnnuō), which can be translated as "spread," "strewed," or in a more interpretive sense, "equipped" or "set up."
• "make ready" (ἑτοιμάζω - hetoimazō), implying preparation or making arrangements for a specific purpose.

The language reflects the specificity and intentionality of the space for the impending celebration.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In ancient times, it was common for significant events to be held in special locations that were set aside and prepared for such purposes. In various religious traditions, ritual purity and preparation of sacred spaces are crucial.

The concept of a furnished room might be compared to the appointed places of worship like temples or synagogues, where everything necessary for the respective religious rites is provided and maintained with care.

Scientific Perspectives

The description of the "large upper room" does not present a direct intersection with scientific understandings, as it is primarily a historical and narrative detail.

However, archaeological studies of ancient Middle Eastern domestic architecture could provide insights into the kind of living spaces described in the Biblical accounts, offering tangible context to the narrative.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and theologians have offered various interpretations of this verse.

Some suggest that the specific details given about the room indicate the importance of premeditation and Jesus' control over the unfolding of events. Others focus on the symbology of the Last Supper, highlighting the connection between Jesus' directives and the significance of the meal itself.

Commentators often observe that the "large upper room" prefigures the church as a place of gathering and sacrament. The exact identity of the person who furnished the room is also a point of discussion, reflecting on the themes of hospitality and discipleship.