King James Version

What Does Luke 22:9 Mean?

Luke 22:9 in the King James Version says “And they said unto him, Where wilt thou that we prepare?” — study this verse from Luke chapter 22 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“And they said unto him, Where wilt thou that we prepare?”

Luke 22:9 · KJV

Context

7

Then came the day of unleavened bread, when the passover must be killed.

8

And he sent Peter and John, saying, Go and prepare us the passover, that we may eat.

9

And they said unto him, Where wilt thou that we prepare?

10

And he said unto them, Behold, when ye are entered into the city, there shall a man meet you, bearing a pitcher of water; follow him into the house where he entereth in.

11

And ye shall say unto the goodman of the house, The Master saith unto thee, Where is the guestchamber, where I shall eat the passover with my disciples?

Read Luke 22 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And they said unto him, Where wilt thou that we prepare? Peter and John's question is practical and obedient—Where (Ποῦ, Pou) seeks specific instruction. Wilt thou (θέλεις, theleis, present active indicative of 'to will/desire') acknowledges Jesus' authority to determine the location. This wasn't a casual inquiry; Jerusalem was packed with pilgrims, and securing appropriate space for thirteen men required advance arrangement.

Their question assumes Jesus has made provision, trusting His foreknowledge and planning. The simplicity of their response contrasts with the complexity of what Jesus will reveal in verses 10-12—detailed prophetic knowledge of a man carrying water, a specific house, an available upper room. This interchange demonstrates true discipleship: ready obedience awaiting specific direction, without presuming to know the Master's plans.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Most Passover pilgrims had no permanent lodging in Jerusalem, camping in surrounding areas or staying with relatives. Jerusalem homeowners traditionally made upper rooms available free of charge for Passover observance, considered a religious duty. The disciples' question anticipates Jesus has arranged something, as visiting rabbis typically did.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does the disciples' simple 'Where wilt thou?' model proper submission to Christ's direction in your life?
  2. When facing tasks requiring preparation, how quickly do you seek Christ's specific guidance rather than presuming your own wisdom?
  3. What does this exchange teach about balancing practical questions with faith in Christ's provision?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 7 words
οἱ1 of 7
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

δὲ2 of 7

“And”

G1161

but, and, etc

εἶπον3 of 7

“they said”

G2036

to speak or say (by word or writing)

αὐτῷ4 of 7

“unto him”

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

Ποῦ5 of 7

“Where”

G4226

as adverb of place; at (by implication, to) what locality

θέλεις6 of 7

“wilt thou”

G2309

to determine (as an active option from subjective impulse; whereas g1014 properly denotes rather a passive acquiescence in objective considerations),

ἑτοιμάσωμεν7 of 7

“that we prepare”

G2090

to prepare

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Luke. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Luke 22:9 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Test Your Knowledge

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