What is the meaning of Luke 22:23? Then “Then” links this moment to Jesus’ grave announcement in the previous verse: “Indeed, the Son of Man will go as it has been determined, but woe to that man who betrays Him” (Luke 22:22). • In Scripture, “then” often signals a turning point (see Matthew 26:22). • The disciples move instantly from listening to reacting—showing how the Word of Christ always calls for a response (James 1:22–25). • Their timeline is set by Jesus, not by circumstance; He reveals what will happen, and “then” the narrative unfolds exactly as He said (John 13:18–19). they began to question among themselves The conversation shifts from Jesus’ declaration to personal self-examination. • The group dynamic mirrors Proverbs 27:17—interaction sharpens spiritual awareness. • Though the Lord has just instituted the Lord’s Supper (Luke 22:19–20), the disciples are still processing His words rather than the symbols, echoing how believers can miss deeper meaning when focused on immediate concerns (Mark 9:31–32). • Their questioning is not gossip but an earnest search of the heart, similar to Psalm 139:23–24. which of them The phrase shows each disciple recognizing the possibility of personal failure. • No one assumes innocence automatically; humility is evident (1 Corinthians 10:12). • Even the inner circle (Peter, James, John) are not exempt—illustrating Romans 3:23 in real time. • This collective uncertainty affirms Jesus’ prior teaching that wheat and tares grow together until the harvest (Matthew 13:24–30). was going to do this “Do this” refers to the act of betrayal foretold in verse 22. • The certainty—“was going to”—highlights divine sovereignty; the event is set, though human responsibility remains (Acts 2:23). • Their ignorance of the betrayer’s identity underscores Judas’s outward conformity, warning that proximity to Jesus is not the same as loyalty to Jesus (1 John 2:19). • The statement presses the disciples toward vigilance and faithfulness amid an approaching crisis (Ephesians 6:13–14). summary Luke 22:23 captures the disciples’ immediate, humble, and urgent self-examination after Jesus foretells His betrayal. The verse reminds believers that Christ’s Word provokes response, that sincere fellowship involves mutual heart-searching, that no one is above falling, and that God’s sovereign plan unfolds even through human choices. |