How can understanding Luke 22:1 deepen our appreciation for Jesus' sacrifice? Text of Luke 22:1 “Now the Feast of Unleavened Bread, called the Passover, was approaching.” Connecting the Verse to Jesus’ Sacrifice • Luke anchors the coming crucifixion in the Passover calendar, signaling that Jesus will fulfill the feast’s deepest meaning. • The Passover commemorated Israel’s deliverance through the blood of a spotless lamb (Exodus 12:3–13). Jesus is that greater Lamb (John 1:29; 1 Corinthians 5:7). Historical and Theological Background • Passover began at twilight on the 14th of Nisan; the Feast of Unleavened Bread lasted seven days (Exodus 12:17–20). • During these days Jerusalem overflowed with pilgrims bringing lambs for sacrifice—perfect timing for the true Lamb to arrive. • Every element of the festival—lamb, blood, unleavened bread, bitter herbs—foreshadowed aspects of Christ’s redemptive work (Hebrews 10:1). Passover Themes Brought to Fulfillment 1. Substitution – In Egypt, a lamb died so firstborn sons could live (Exodus 12:13). – At Calvary, the sinless Son died so sinners might live (1 Peter 3:18). 2. Redemption – Israel was ransomed from slavery (Deuteronomy 7:8). – Believers are “redeemed…with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or spot” (1 Peter 1:18–19). 3. Protection under Blood – Blood on the doorposts turned away judgment (Exodus 12:23). – “Much more then…we shall be saved from wrath through Him” (Romans 5:9). 4. Purity Symbolized by Unleavened Bread – Leaven pictured corruption; its removal signified separation from sin. – Christ not only forgives but also purifies (Hebrews 9:14). – “Let us keep the feast…with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth” (1 Corinthians 5:8). Divine Timing and Sovereign Plan • Luke’s wording—“was approaching”—highlights God’s orchestration; no detail of Jesus’ death was accidental (Acts 2:23). • As crowds gathered to remember deliverance, the ultimate Deliverer prepared to offer His life. • The alignment of events underlines prophetic precision (Isaiah 53:5–7). How This Deepens Appreciation for the Cross • Recognizing that Passover imagery saturates Luke 22:1 reveals centuries of divine preparation for our salvation. • Understanding substitutionary themes makes Jesus’ personal cost vivid and concrete. • Seeing the call to unleavened living stirs gratitude that grace both saves and sanctifies. • Realizing God timed every moment underscores the certainty and reliability of His promises. • The verse invites worship: the Lamb planned, provided, and presented Himself exactly when Scripture said He would. Living in the Light of Luke 22:1 • Treasure Christ as the once-for-all Passover Lamb who secured eternal redemption. • Walk in unleavened purity, casting out habits that contradict the freedom His blood purchased. • Celebrate deliverance daily, letting gratitude fuel obedience and witness. |
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