New Testament
Luke 22:21
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But look, the hand of the one who will betray me is here at the table with me.
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But, behold, the hand of him that betrayeth me is with me on the table.
What Luke 22:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus reveals a shocking truth to His disciples during the Last Supper: one of them will betray Him. He emphasizes the closeness of this betrayal by stating that the betrayer is at the table with Him. This moment highlights the gravity of betrayal, especially coming from someone trusted and familiar. Jesus is aware of the impending betrayal, yet He continues to show love and grace to all His disciples, including Judas, the one who will betray Him. This scene sets the stage for the events leading to Jesus' crucifixion, illustrating the tension between loyalty and betrayal. It also serves as a reminder of the human capacity for betrayal, even among those who are closest to us. Jesus' calm demeanor in the face of such treachery underscores His divine nature and mission, as He willingly faces the suffering ahead for the sake of humanity.
How to apply Luke 22:21 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our own relationships and the importance of loyalty. It reminds us that betrayal can come from unexpected places, even from those we trust the most. We should strive to be faithful and supportive to those around us, just as Jesus remained loving despite knowing of His betrayal.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Last Supper (Luke 22:7–23)
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Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
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At a Glance — the Book of Luke
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 22:21 mean?
Luke 22:21 reveals that Jesus is aware of the betrayal that is about to happen during the Last Supper. He indicates that one of His close disciples, who is sharing the meal with Him, will betray Him, highlighting the pain of betrayal from someone trusted.
What is the significance of betrayal in Luke 22:21?
The significance of betrayal in Luke 22:21 lies in its emotional weight; it shows that betrayal can come from those we trust the most. This moment foreshadows the events leading to Jesus' crucifixion and emphasizes the themes of loyalty and sacrifice.
Who is the betrayer mentioned in Luke 22:21?
The betrayer mentioned in Luke 22:21 is Judas Iscariot, one of Jesus' twelve disciples. His act of betrayal is a pivotal moment in the New Testament, leading to Jesus' arrest and crucifixion.
What does 'the hand of the one who will betray me' mean in Luke 22:21?
The phrase 'the hand of the one who will betray me' in Luke 22:21 symbolizes the closeness and intimacy of the betrayal. It signifies that the betrayer is not an outsider but someone who has shared fellowship with Jesus.
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