Jesus fulfilling Scripture

 Read Luke 22.

Though a seeming tragedy for the moment, the trials and crucifixion of Jesus was the plan of God all along and took place right on time.  The case for a suffering and sacrificial Messiah begins in Genesis 3:15.  It continues with the atonement offerings of a blood sacrifice from Genesis into the Gospels.  Passages such as Isaiah 53 are graphic prophecies of the experiences of Jesus. The angel told Joseph that the baby would be called "Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins." (Matthew 1:21) 

That payment for sins would require His death by shedding of blood.  Throughout His ministry, Jesus spoke of the time when He would suffer and die in Jerusalem.  "The chief priests and scribes were seeking how to put him to death." (v.2)  Jesus knew all along of the coming betrayal by Judas (John 13:27) and the denials of Peter (vv.31-32). 

It was time to celebrate the Passover.  This is a memorial meal, remembering God's deliverance of Israel from the slavery of Egypt.  Jesus, in His omniscience, had the place for the gathering.  Here, His statements become even more clear as to what will take place in the hours to come.  He even gave references to that future kingdom of God when He will rule and shepherd Israel.  The second half of the prophecy in Micah 5:2 will be fulfilled then.

1. "I have earnestly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer." (v.16)

2. "For I tell you I will not eat it until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God." (v.16)

3. "...I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes." (v.18)

4. "For the Son of Man goes as it has been determined." (v.22)

5. "...that you may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom and sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel." (v.30)

6. "For I tell you that this Scripture must be fulfilled in me." (v.37)

7. "For what was written about me has its fulfillment." (v.37)

8. "But from now on the Son of Man shall be seated at the right hand of the power of God." (v.69)

In the meantime, the followers of Jesus were given two admonitions:
Serve-"Rather, let the greatest among you become as the youngest, and the leader as one who serves." (v.26)
Pray-"Pray that you may not enter into temptation." (v.40)