In Luke 22:35-38 Jesus challenged his disciples to prepare for a change in their ministry. Previously, they were well received by many as they proclaimed the message of Christ and his kingdom. But the King was about to be crucified. Those who despised him would despise his followers, as well. This change in their circumstances should not dishearten them. Jesus’ death occurred according to the eternal plan of the Sovereign God who sent him to be the Suffering Servant (cf. Isaiah 53) who “bore the sin of many.”
