Christ’s desire to be with His disciples

Scripture: Luke 22:15-16

Sermon notes

The scene before us in this passage is often described as the last supper. It is the final Passover meal that the Saviour would eat with His disciples. Indeed, it is the last time that the Passover was observed with due Biblical warrant in this age. There is no Biblical reason for anyone to observe any of the Levitical institutions or feasts today.

However, this was also a time of beginnings. In this incident the Old Testament Passover gives way to the New Testament sacrament of the Lord’s supper. The Saviour Himself has appointed this means of remembering Him. Cp 1Cor 11:23.

On this occasion the Saviour specially refers to the fact that He has eagerly desired to be present with His disciples at this Passover. We want to consider the reasons and implications of His words expressing that desire. There is a challenge that comes to every follower of Christ at this point. How much of this desire may be seen in us as we contemplate the various acts of worship we engage in? Can we say: My soul breaketh for the longing that it hath unto thy judgments at all times, Psa 119:20?

I  THE SAVIOUR’S DESIRE DESCRIBED.

1. It is an intense longing. The term desire appears twice. This in itself amplifies the meaning of the word which refers to a passionate craving, a deep-seated longing desire.
2. A basic desire to obey God’s command. That is included in the desire referred to here. Cp Jn 4:34. It is a desire to participate in this Passover. Participation in the Passover was obligatory on every male Jew, Ex 23:14, 17. He was required to meet the requirements in order to observe it according to God’s order. The Saviour’s attention to the details of Divine protocol is seen in v7, 14.
3. Specifically, a desire for the company of His disciples in this act of worship. It is the inclination/longing of the nature of Christ to be present with His servants as they worship. Cp Jn 13:1. This is the reality enjoyed by disciples as they assemble to seek God. Cp Matt 18:20. This is a desire that underscores His love for His saints.

II  CHRIST’S DESIRE IS SET IN THE CONTEXT OF HIS IMMINENT SUFFERING.

1. Note how He refers to His imminent suffering, v15. This is the backdrop to His words expressing His desire to be present with them. The fact of His death gave a priority to His desire to spend this time among them.
2. The Passover itself was an eloquent commentary of His suffering. There is an interesting connection between the name Passover and the verb suffer. Though unrelated etymologically the words sound and are spelled similar. This was the last opportunity that the disciples would have to learn about Calvary as taught by the Passover. He was giving Himself up as a sacrifice—body and blood, v19-20—to redeem His people and secure the benefits of the new covenant.
3. Christ’s desire is part of redeeming love. The fact of His suffering energized this desire. His desire to be with them is an aspect of the love that will cause Him to suffer and die for them.

III   HIS DESIRE EXPLAINED.

Note how v16 begins with the word for…There is an explanation given for His earlier statement of desire.

1. This is the last time He will observe the Passover in this form. He is soon to die and leave them. Cp Jn 16:16ff. There was this special significance to this occasion.
2. The suffering He is about to endure is the means to fulfill the Passover. His desire is to set before the disciples the glorious truth of the fulfillment of the Passover. That is, what it ultimately points to. The Passover has been fulfilled spiritually in the present in that He has secured the redemption of all His people. But there is a future fulfillment of the Passover that He specially draws to their attention. Cp v30, 1 Cor 11:26, Rev 19:9. The desire of Christ on this occasion is seen to be an expression of His desire to have His people with Him in glory. Cp Jn 17:24. He is specially desirous to set these great truths before His people! He wants them to consider the glorious outcome of His cross-work.

How eagerly the Saviour gathers with His saints to press upon them the truths of redemption! Let us therefore draw near to the One who is so ready to draw near to us.