21 But, behold, the hand of him that betrayeth me is with me on the table. 22 And truly the Son of man goeth, as it was determined: but woe unto that man by whom he is betrayed! 23 And they began to enquire among themselves, which of them it was that should do this thing. (Luke 22:21-23 KJV)
Jesus warns the betrayer
We have here Christ’s discourse with his disciples after supper, much of which is new here; and in John’s Gospel we find other additions. We should take example from him to edify our family and friends with helpful conversation at the table, especially after partaking in the Lord’s Supper, to maintain a spiritual mindset. The topics Christ discussed were meaningful and timely.
He spoke with them about the one who would betray him, who was now present. He said the traitor was among them, one of their own (Luke 22:21). Since this statement comes after the institution of the Lord’s Supper, it seems that Judas partook of it. After the supper, Christ said, “Behold, the hand of him who betrays me is with me on the table.” Some have eaten with Christ and still betrayed him.
He foretold that the betrayal would succeed (Luke 22:22). “The Son of Man goes as it was determined,” according to God’s plan. Christ went willingly to suffer, not as a victim of force. He added, “Woe to that man by whom he is betrayed.” Even though God allowed it and Christ submitted to it, Judas remained guilty and deserving of punishment.
When Jesus broke the news about his betrayal, it made the disciples question themselves (Luke 22:23). They began to ask, not “Is it him?” but “Is it I?” They were troubled that such betrayal could come from among them. At this point, many think Judas Iscariot should have repented from betraying Jesus. But it was too late—being under Satan’s influence and lured by the love of money, he was so determined to do the deed.