1sn The Feast of Unleavened Bread was a week long celebration that followed the day of Passover, so one name was used for both feasts (Exod 12:1-20; 23:15; 34:18; Deut 16:1-8).

2tn Grk “And the.” Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style.

3tn Or “and the scribes.” See the note on the phrase “experts in the law” in 5:21.

4tn Grk “were seeking how.”

5tn The Greek verb here means “to get rid of by execution” (BDAG 64 s.v. ἀναιρέω 2; cf. also L&N 20.71, which states, “to get rid of someone by execution, often with legal or quasi-legal procedures”).

6tn Grk “him”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

7sn The suggestion here is that Jesus was too popular to openly arrest him. The verb were trying is imperfect. It suggests, in this context, that they were always considering the opportunities.

8tn Here δέ (de) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.

9sn The cross is portrayed as part of the cosmic battle between Satan and God; see Luke 4:1-13; 11:14-23.

10tn Grk “Iscariot, being of the number of the twelve.”

11tn The full title στρατηγὸς τοῦ ἱεροῦ (strathgo" tou Jierou; “officer of the temple” or “captain of the temple guard”) is sometimes shortened to στρατηγός as here (L&N 37.91).

12tn Luke uses this frequent indirect question to make his point (BDF §267.2).

13tn Grk “him”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

14tn Grk “how he might hand him over to them,” in the sense of “betray him.”

15tn Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style.

16sn The leaders were delighted when Judas contacted them about betraying Jesus, because it gave them the opportunity they had been looking for, and they could later claim that Jesus had been betrayed by one of his own disciples.

17sn Matt 26:15 states the amount of money they gave Judas was thirty pieces of silver (see also Matt 27:3-4; Zech 11:12-13).

18tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “so” to indicate the implied result of the arrangement worked out in the preceding verse.

19tn Grk “he”; the referent (Judas) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

20tn Grk “betray him to them”; the referent of the first pronoun (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

21tn Grk “apart from the crowd.”

sn The leaders wanted to do this quietly, when no crowd was present, so no public uproar would result (cf. v. 21:38; 22:2).

22tn The words “for the feast” are not in the Greek text, but have been supplied for clarity.

23sn Generally the feast of Unleavened Bread would refer to Nisan 15 (Friday), but the following reference to the sacrifice of the Passover lamb indicates that Nisan 14 (Thursday) was what Luke had in mind (Nisan = March 27 to April 25). The celebration of the Feast of Unleavened Bread lasted eight days, beginning with the Passover meal. The celebrations were so close together that at times the names of both were used interchangeably.

24tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

25sn This required getting a suitable lamb and finding lodging in Jerusalem where the meal could be eaten. The population of the city swelled during the feast, so lodging could be difficult to find. The Passover was celebrated each year in commemoration of the Israelites’ deliverance from Egypt; thus it was a feast celebrating redemption (see Exod 12). The Passover lamb was roasted and eaten after sunset in a family group of at least ten people (m. Pesahim 7.13). People ate the meal while reclining (see the note on table in 22:14). It included, besides the lamb, unleavened bread and bitter herbs as a reminder of Israel’s bitter affliction at the hands of the Egyptians. Four cups of wine mixed with water were also used for the meal. For a further description of the meal and the significance of the wine cups, see E. Ferguson, Backgrounds of Early Christianity, 523-24.

26tn Grk “for us, so that we may eat.”

27tn Here δέ (de) has not been translated.

28tn In the Greek text this a deliberative subjunctive.

29tn Grk “behold.”

30sn Since women usually carried these jars, it would have been no problem for Peter and John to recognize the man Jesus was referring to.

31sn Jesus is portrayed throughout Luke 22-23 as very aware of what will happen, almost directing events. Here this is indicated by his prediction that a man carrying a jar of water will meet you.

32tn Grk “to the master of the household,” referring to one who owns and manages the household, including family, servants, and slaves (L&N 57.14).

33tn Here δέ (de) has been translated as “so” to indicate the implied result of Jesus’ instructions.

34tn The word “things” is not in the Greek text, but is implied. Direct objects were frequently omitted in Greek when clear from the context.

35sn The author’s note that the disciples found things just as he had told them shows that Jesus’ word could be trusted.

36tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “now” to indicate the transition to a new topic.

37tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

38tn Grk “reclined at table,” as 1st century middle eastern meals were not eaten while sitting at a table, but while reclining on one’s side on the floor with the head closest to the low table and the feet farthest away.

39tn Grk “the apostles with him.”

40tn This phrase parallels a Hebrew infinitive absolute and serves to underline Jesus’ enthusiasm for holding this meal (BDF §198.6).

41tn Although the word “again” is not in the Greek text, it is supplied to indicate that Jesus did indeed partake of this Passover meal, as statements in v. 18 suggest (“from now on”). For more complete discussion see D. L. Bock, Luke (BECNT), 2:1720.

42sn Jesus looked to a celebration in the kingdom to come when the Passover is fulfilled. This reference could well suggest that some type of commemorative sacrifice and meal will be celebrated then, as the antecedent is the Passover sacrifice. The reference is not to the Lord’s supper as some argue, but the Passover.

43sn The kingdom of God here refers to the kingdom in all its power. See Luke 17:20-37.

44tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.

45sn Then he took a cup. Only Luke mentions two cups at this meal; the other synoptic gospels (Matt, Mark) mention only one. This is the first of the two. It probably refers to the first cup in the traditional Passover meal, which today has four cups (although it is debated whether the fourth cup was used in the 1st century).

46tn Grk “the produce” (“the produce of the vine” is a figurative expression for wine).

47sn Until the kingdom of God comes is a reference to the kingdom in all its power. See Luke 17:20-37. Jesus awaits celebration with the arrival of full kingdom blessing.

48tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.

49tc Some important Western mss (D it) lack the words from this point to the end of v. 20. However, the authenticity of these verses is very likely. The inclusion of the second cup is the harder reading, since it differs from Matt 26:26-29 and Mark 14:22-25, and it has much better ms support. It is thus easier to explain the shorter reading as a scribal accident or misunderstanding. Further discussion of this complicated problem (the most difficult in Luke) can be found in TCGNT 148-50.

50sn The language of the phrase given for you alludes to Christ’s death in our place. It is a powerful substitutionary image of what he did for us.

51tn The words “he took” are not in the Greek text at this point, but are an understood repetition from v. 19.

52tn The phrase “after they had eaten” translates the temporal infinitive construction μετὰ τὸ δειπνῆσαι (meta to deipnhsai), where the verb δειπνέω (deipnew) means “to eat a meal” or “to have a meal.”

53sn Jesus’ death established the forgiveness promised in the new covenant of Jer 31:31. Jesus is reinterpreting the symbolism of the Passover meal, indicating the presence of a new era.

54sn The one who betrays me. Jesus knows about Judas and what he has done.

55sn The point of Jesus’ comment here is not to identify the specific individual per se, but to indicate that it is one who was close to him – somebody whom no one would suspect. His comment serves to heighten the treachery of Judas’ betrayal.

56sn Jesus’ death has been determined as a part of God’s plan (Acts 2:22-24).

57tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “so” to indicate the implied result of Jesus’ comments: The disciples begin wondering who would betray him.

58tn Or “happened.”

59tn Though the term μείζων (meizwn) here is comparative in form, it is superlative in sense (BDF §244).

60tn Here δέ (de) has been translated as “so” to indicate the implied result of the dispute among the apostles.

61tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

62sn The title ‘benefactor,’ highlighting grace and meaning something like “helper of the people,” was even given to tyrants (2 Macc 4:2; 3 Macc 3:19; Josephus, J. W. 3.9.8 [3.459]).

63tn Grk “But you are not thus.”

64tn Or “the ruler.”

65sn And the leader like the one who serves. Leadership was not to be a matter of privilege and special status, but of service. All social status is leveled out by these remarks. Jesus himself is the prime example of the servant-leader.

66tn Grk “who reclines at table,” as 1st century middle eastern meals were not eaten while sitting at a table, but while reclining on one’s side on the floor with the head closest to the low table and the feet farthest away.

67tn The interrogative particle used here in the Greek text (οὐχί, ouci) expects a positive reply.

68sn Jesus’ example of humble service, as one who serves, shows that the standard for a disciple is different from that of the world. For an example see John 13:1-17.

69tn Or “continued” (L&N 34.3). Jesus acknowledges the disciples’ faithfulness.

70tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “thus” to indicate the implied result of the disciples’ perseverance with Jesus.

71sn With the statement “I grant to you a kingdom Jesus gave the disciples authority over the kingdom, as God had given him such authority. The present tense looks at authority given presently, though the major manifestation of its presence is yet to come as the next verse shows.

72tn Or “I give you the right to rule” (cf. CEV). For this translation of διατίθεμαι βασιλείαν (diatiqemai basileian) see L&N 37.105.

73tn This verb is future indicative, and thus not subordinate to “grant” (διατίθεμαι, diatiqemai) as part of the result clause beginning with ἵνα ἔσθητε ({ina esqhte) at the beginning of v. 30. It is better understood as a predictive future.

74sn The statement you will sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel looks at the future authority the Twelve will have when Jesus returns. They will share in Israel’s judgment.

75tc The majority of mss (א A D W Θ Ψ Ë1,13 Ï as well as several versional witnesses) begin this verse with an introductory comment, “and the Lord said,” indicating a change in the subject of discussion. But this is apparently a reading motivated by the need for clarity. Some of the best witnesses, along with a few others (Ì75 B L T 1241 2542c sys co), do not contain these words. The abrupt shift is the more difficult reading and thus more likely to be original.

76tn Grk “behold” (for “pay attention” see L&N 91.13).

77sn This pronoun is plural in the Greek text, so it refers to all the disciples of which Peter is the representative.

78sn Satan has demanded permission to put them to the test. The idiom “sift (someone) like wheat” is similar to the English idiom “to pick (someone) apart.” The pronoun you is implied.

79sn Here and in the remainder of the verse the second person pronouns are singular, so only Peter is in view. The name “Simon” has been supplied as a form of direct address to make this clear in English.

80sn That your faith may not fail. Note that Peter’s denials are pictured here as lapses, not as a total absence of faith.

81tn Grk “And when.” Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style.

82tn Or “turned around.”

83sn Strengthen your brothers refers to Peter helping to strengthen their faith. Jesus quite graciously restores Peter “in advance,” even with the knowledge of his approaching denials.

84tn Grk “he”; the referent (Peter) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

85sn The confidence Peter has in private (Lord, I am ready…) will wilt under the pressure of the public eye.

86tn Grk “he said”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

87sn That is, Peter’s denials will happen before the sun rises.

88sn Once again, Jesus is quite aware that Peter will deny him. Peter, however, is too nonchalant about the possibility of stumbling.

89tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.

90tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

91tn Traditionally, “purse” (likewise in v. 36).

92tn Or possibly “beggar’s bag” (L&N 6.145).

93sn This refers back to 9:3 and 10:3-4. The Greek construction anticipates a negative reply which is indicated in the translation by the ‘tag’ at the end, “did you?” Nothing was lacking.

94tn Grk “said.”

95tn The syntax of this verse is disputed, resulting in various translations. The major options are either (1) that reflected in the translation or (2) that those who have a money bag and traveler’s bag should get a sword, just as those who do not have these items should sell their cloak to buy a sword. The point of all the options is that things have changed and one now needs full provisions. Opposition will come. But “sword” is a figure for preparing to fight. See Luke 22:50-51.

96tn Or possibly “beggar’s bag” (L&N 6.145).

97sn This scripture must be fulfilled in me. The statement again reflects the divine necessity of God’s plan. See 4:43-44.

98tn Or “with the lawless.”

sn This is a quotation from Isa 53:12. It highlights a theme of Luke 22-23. Though completely innocent, Jesus dies as if he were a criminal.

99tn Grk “is having its fulfillment.”

100tn Here δέ (de) has been translated as “so” to indicate the implied result of Jesus’ comments about obtaining swords.

101sn Here are two swords. The disciples mistakenly took Jesus to mean that they should prepare for armed resistance, something he will have to correct in 22:50-51.

102sn It is enough. The disciples’ misunderstanding caused Jesus to terminate the discussion.

103tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.

104tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

105tn Grk “went.”

106sn See the note on the Mount of Olives in Luke 19:29.

107sn Luke does not mention Gethsemane by name, but calls it simply the place.

108sn Jesus’ instructions to pray not to fall into temptation is an allusion to Luke 22:28-38, especially 22:31. The temptation is Satan’s challenge to them to defect, like what happened to Judas and what will happen to Peter.

109tn Luke’s term παρένεγκε is not as exact as the one in Matt 26:39. Luke’s means “take away” (BDAG 772 s.v. παρένεγκε 2.c) while Matthew’s means “take away without touching,” suggesting an alteration (if possible) in God’s plan. For further discussion see D. L. Bock, Luke (BECNT), 2:1759-60.

110sn This cup alludes to the wrath of God that Jesus would experience (in the form of suffering and death) for us. See Ps 11:6; 75:8-9; Isa 51:17, 19, 22 for this figure.

111sn With the statement “Not my will but yours be done Jesus submitted fully to God’s will.

112tn Grk “And being in anguish.”

113tc Several important Greek mss (Ì75 א1 A B N T W 579 1071*) along with diverse and widespread versional witnesses lack 22:43-44. In addition, the verses are placed after Matt 26:39 by Ë13. Floating texts typically suggest both spuriousness and early scribal impulses to regard the verses as historically authentic. These verses are included in א*,2 D L Θ Ψ 0171 Ë1 Ï lat Ju Ir Hipp Eus. However, a number of mss mark the text with an asterisk or obelisk, indicating the scribe’s assessment of the verses as inauthentic. At the same time, these verses generally fit Luke’s style. Arguments can be given on both sides about whether scribes would tend to include or omit such comments about Jesus’ humanity and an angel’s help. But even if the verses are not literarily authentic, they are probably historically authentic. This is due to the fact that this text was well known in several different locales from a very early period. Since there are no synoptic parallels to this account and since there is no obvious reason for adding these words here, it is very likely that such verses recount a part of the actual suffering of our Lord. Nevertheless, because of the serious doubts as to these verses’ authenticity, they have been put in brackets. For an important discussion of this problem, see B. D. Ehrman and M. A. Plunkett, “The Angel and the Agony: The Textual Problem of Luke 22:43-44,” CBQ 45 (1983): 401-16.

sn Angelic aid is noted elsewhere in the gospels: Matt 4:11 = Mark 1:13.

114tn Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style.

115tn Grk “from grief.” The word “exhausted” is not in the Greek text, but is implied; the disciples have fallen asleep from mental and emotional exhaustion resulting from their distress (see L&N 25.273; cf. TEV, NIV, NLT).

116tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “so” to indicate the implied result of Jesus finding them asleep.

117sn Jesus calls the disciples again to prayerful watchfulness with the words “Get up and pray” (see 22:40). The time is full of danger (22:53).

118tn Grk “While he was still speaking, behold, a crowd, and the one called Judas…was leading them.” The abrupt appearance of the crowd on the scene is indicated in the translation by “suddenly” and “appeared.”

119tn Grk “drew near.”

120tc Many mss (D Θ Ë13 700 pm as well as several versional mss) add here, “for this is the sign he gave to them: Whoever I kiss is [the one].” This addition is almost certainly not original, since most of the important mss lack it. It may be a copyist’s attempt to clarify the text, or the accidental inclusion of a marginal gloss.

121sn Jesus’ comment about betraying the Son of Man with a kiss shows the hypocrisy and blindness of an attempt to cover up sin. On “misused kisses” in the Bible, see Gen 27:26-27; 2 Sam 15:5; Prov 7:13; 27:6; and 2 Sam 20:9.

122tn Here δέ (de) has not been translated.

123tn The direct question using “if” in Greek is not unusual (BDF §440.3).

124snShould we use our swords? The disciples’ effort to defend Jesus recalls Luke 22:35-38. One individual did not wait for the answer.

125tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.

126sn One of them. The unnamed disciple is Peter according to John 18:10 (cf. also Matt 26:51; Mark 14:47).

127tn See the note on the word “slave” in 7:2.

128tn Grk “But answering, Jesus said.” This is redundant in contemporary English and has been simplified in the translation.

129tn Grk “his”; the referent (the slave of the high priest mentioned in the previous verse) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

130sn When Jesus healed the man’s ear he showed grace even to those who hated him, following his own teaching (Luke 6:27-36).

131tn Here δέ (de) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.

132tn This title, literally “official of the temple” (στρατηγὸς τοῦ ἱεροῦ, strathgo" tou Jierou), referred to the commander of the Jewish soldiers who guarded and maintained order in the Jerusalem temple. Here, since the term is plural, it has been translated “officers of the temple guard” rather than “commanders of the temple guard,” since the idea of a number of commanders might be confusing to the modern English reader.

133tn Or “a revolutionary.” This term can refer to one who stirs up rebellion: BDAG 594 s.v. λῃστής 2 has “revolutionary, insurrectionist, guerrilla” citing evidence from Josephus (J. W. 2.13.2-3 [2.253-254]). However, this usage generally postdates Jesus’ time. It does refer to a figure of violence. Luke uses the same term for the highwaymen who attack the traveler in the parable of the good Samaritan (10:30).

134tn Grk “in the temple.”

135tn Grk “lay hands on me.”

136tn Or “your time.”

137tn Or “authority,” “domain.”

138tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.

139tn Or “seized” (L&N 37.109).

140tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

141sn Putting all the gospel accounts together, there is a brief encounter with Annas (brought him into the high priest’s house, here and John 18:13, where Annas is named); the meeting led by Caiaphas (Matt 26:57-68 = Mark 14:53-65; and then a Sanhedrin meeting (Matt 27:1; Mark 15:1; Luke 22:66-71). These latter two meetings might be connected and apparently went into the morning.

142tn The Greek term here is παιδίσκη (paidiskh), referring to a slave girl or slave woman.

143tn Grk “he denied it, saying.” The referent (Peter) has been specified in the translation for clarity. The participle λέγων (legwn) is redundant and has not been translated.

144sn Woman was a polite form of address (see BDAG 208-9 s.v. γυνή), similar to “Madam” or “Ma’am” used in English in different regions.

145sn The expression “I do not know him” had an idiomatic use in Jewish ban formulas in the synagogue and could mean, “I have nothing to do with him.”

146tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.

147sn In Mark 14:69, the same slave girl made the charge. So apparently Peter was being identified by a variety of people.

148tn Here and in v. 60 “Man” is used as a neutral form of address to a stranger.

149tn Grk “insisted, saying.” The participle λέγων (legwn) is redundant in English and has not been translated here.

150sn According to Mark 14:70 it was Peter’s accent that gave him away as a Galilean.

151tn Grk “And immediately.” Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style.

152tn A real rooster crowing is probably in view here (rather than the Roman trumpet call known as gallicinium), in part due to the fact that Mark 14:72 mentions the rooster crowing twice. See the discussion at Matt 26:74.

153tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.

154tn “The word of the Lord” is a technical expression in OT literature, often referring to a divine prophetic utterance (e.g., Gen 15:1, Isa 1:10, Jonah 1:1). In the NT it occurs 15 times: 3 times as ῥῆμα τοῦ κυρίου (rJhma tou kuriou; here and in Acts 11:16, 1 Pet 1:25) and 12 times as λόγος τοῦ κυρίου (logo" tou kuriou; Acts 8:25; 13:44, 48, 49; 15:35, 36; 16:32; 19:10, 20; 1 Thess 1:8, 4:15; 2 Thess 3:1). As in the OT, this phrase focuses on the prophetic nature and divine origin of what has been said. Because of its technical nature the expression has been retained in the translation in preference to a smoother rendering like “remembered what the Lord had said” (cf. TEV, NLT).

155sn When Peter went out and wept bitterly it shows he really did not want to fail here and was deeply grieved that he had.

156tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “now” to indicate the transition to a new topic.

157tn Grk “him”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

158tn Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style.

159tn The verb ἐπηρώτων (ephrwtwn) has been translated as an iterative imperfect. The participle λέγοντες (legontes) is redundant in English and has not been translated here.

160tn Grk “Who is the one who hit you?”

sn Who hit you? This is a variation of one of three ancient games that involved blindfolds.

161tn Or “insulting.” Luke uses a strong word here; it means “to revile, to defame, to blaspheme” (L&N 33.400).

162tn Or “and the scribes.” See the note on the phrase “experts in the law” in 5:21.

163tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.

164tn Grk “him”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

165sn Their council is probably a reference to the Jewish Sanhedrin, the council of seventy leaders.

166tn This is a first class condition in the Greek text.

167tn Or “Messiah”; both “Christ” (Greek) and “Messiah” (Hebrew and Aramaic) mean “one who has been anointed.”

sn See the note on Christ in 2:11.

168tn This is a third class condition in the Greek text. Jesus had this experience already in 20:1-8.

169tn The negation in the Greek text is the strongest possible (οὐ μή, ou mh).

170tn This is also a third class condition in the Greek text.

171tn The negation in the Greek text is the strongest possible (οὐ μή, ou mh).

172sn From now on. Jesus’ authority was taken up from this moment on. Ironically he is now the ultimate judge, who is himself being judged.

173sn Seated at the right hand is an allusion to Ps 110:1 (“Sit at my right hand…”) and is a claim that Jesus shares authority with God in heaven. Those present may have thought they were his judges, but, in fact, the reverse was true.

174sn The expression the right hand of the power of God is a circumlocution for referring to God. Such indirect references to God were common in 1st century Judaism out of reverence for the divine name.

175tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “so” to indicate the implied result of Jesus’ pronouncement.

176sn The members of the council understood the force of the claim and asked Jesus about another title, Son of God.

177tn Grk “He said to them.”

178sn Jesus’ reply, “You say that I am,” was not a denial, but a way of giving a qualified positive response: “You have said it, but I do not quite mean what you think.”

179tn Here δέ (de) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.

180sn We have heard it ourselves. The Sanhedrin regarded the answer as convicting Jesus. They saw it as blasphemous to claim such intimacy and shared authority with God, a claim so serious and convicting that no further testimony was needed.

181tn Grk “from his own mouth” (an idiom).