And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat:

LUKE 22:31KJV
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Luke 22:31 (KJV)

What does Luke 22:31 mean?

Luke 22:31 records Jesus warning Simon Peter that Satan has asked for permission to test all the disciples, comparing this testing to sifting wheat, which separates what is valuable from what is not. Jesus is telling Peter that a time of severe trial is coming, and Satan wants to see who among them will remain faithful.

In this scene, Jesus is speaking directly to Simon Peter during the Last Supper, just before his arrest. The phrase "Satan hath desired to have you" shows that this is not just about Peter, but all the disciples, though Jesus addresses Peter by name for emphasis. The image of "sifting as wheat" refers to a harsh process, suggesting that the coming test will be difficult and revealing of true character.

The Greek behind Luke 22:31

  • "Satan" (Σατανᾶς, Satanas): This word is used here as the personal name for the adversary or accuser, highlighting that the opposition is spiritual and personal.
  • "desired" (ἐξῃτήσατο, exētēsato): This Greek word means to demand or ask for something with insistence. It shows that Satan is actively seeking permission to test the disciples, not just passively observing.
  • "you" (ὑμᾶς, hymas): This is plural in Greek, meaning Jesus is referring to all the disciples, not just Peter, even though he addresses Peter by name.
  • "sift" (σινιάσαι, siniasai): This word describes the process of shaking or separating grain, a violent action that removes the chaff from the wheat. It paints a vivid picture of the kind of spiritual testing Jesus says is coming.

Why Luke 22:31 matters

  • Luke 22:31 clarifies that Jesus is aware of spiritual challenges facing his followers, and he forewarns them out of concern and care.
  • The verse emphasizes that Peter is singled out, but the warning applies to all disciples, showing the communal nature of the coming trial.
  • Understanding the imagery of "sifting as wheat" helps readers grasp the seriousness and intensity of the test, and why Jesus immediately follows this warning with a prayer for Peter’s faith in the next verse.