GOSPEL READING
THE GOSPEL OF LUKE
THE PASSION ACCORDING TO LUKE
The Mount of Olives: Lk 22,39-53
We can see that this scene readily divides into two episodes: Jesus at prayer in verses 39-46 followed by his arrest, verses 47-53. Note how the two are linked.
We must note that verses 43 and 44 are missing from some important manuscripts and it is not clear if they belonged to the original gospel. However, these verses have been included from antiquity and they are an important part of tradition. They are therefore included in most Bibles, at least in brackets.
The Prayer of Jesus: 22,39-46
Compare these verses with Mark 14,32-32. What has Luke left out, what has he changed? How much do the two accounts have in common?
Where is Jesus in verse 39? See Mk 14,32 or Jn 18,1. Then look at 6,12; 9,28 and also 21,37.
Who are with Jesus? Note the important word which Luke has added here.
Then look at the way Luke has put together 22,40-46. What phrase brackets the episode? See 11,4 and consider 11,2-4 as background to this episode. Look back as well to 4,1-12.
Verses 41 and 42 tell of Jesus' prayer. Note how Jesus addresses God (6,2); for the emphasis compare with Mk 14,36.
Verses 43-44 are then the special verses which have their place at least in tradition. The angel recalls 1 Kings 19,1-8.
"Agony" is the Greek word in verse 44, the only time the word appears in the New Testament as is the image that follows. See NABRE.
Jesus then returns to the disciples in verse 45. How do we read his comments to them in verse 46?
Look now at my response.
The Arrest of Jesus: 22,47-53
Compare this account with Mark, Mk 14,43-52. What has Luke changed?
Note how verse 47 provides continuity with the previous scene. Who come to Jesus? See Mk 14,43.
Note what Jesus says in verse 48 and how this contrasts with Matthew, Mt 26,50.
Who takes the initiative in verses 49-50?
Jesus's response in verse 51 is again different to the other Gospels, see Mk 14,47.
Who are now unexpectedly introduced in verse 52? Note Matthew again, Mt 26,55. What does Jesus then say in verses 52-53?
What comment of Mark and Matthew (Mk 14,50) does Luke omit at this point?
Look now at my response.
We continue our reading with the hearing at the high priest's house, Lk 22,54-65.