And he came out, and went, as he was wont, to the mount of Olives; and his disciples also followed him.

LUKE 22:39KJV
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Luke 22:39 (KJV)

What does Luke 22:39 mean?

Luke 22:39 describes Jesus leaving a place and going, as he usually did, to the Mount of Olives, with his disciples following him. This verse shows Jesus following his regular practice of visiting this location, and his disciples staying with him.

In this scene, Jesus is leading his disciples out of Jerusalem after the Last Supper, heading to the Mount of Olives, a familiar spot just outside the city. The verse quietly highlights that this was not a new or unusual action for Jesus—he often went there, and his followers were accustomed to going with him. This sets the stage for the events that will soon take place in the garden, where Jesus will pray and be arrested.

The Greek behind Luke 22:39

  • The word translated "as he was wont" is ἔθος (ethos), which means a custom or habit. The Greek here emphasizes that Jesus regularly went to the Mount of Olives, showing this was a pattern in his life, not a sudden or secret action.
  • The verb "followed" comes from ἠκολούθησαν (ēkolouthēsan), meaning to go along with or accompany. This highlights that the disciples were not just present, but actively chose to go with Jesus, sharing in his routine.

Why Luke 22:39 matters

  • This verse clarifies that Jesus did not try to hide or act in secret; he went to a place where he was known to go, which will be important when he is later arrested there.
  • By mentioning the disciples following, Luke shows their continued loyalty and presence with Jesus, even as the situation grows more tense.
  • The reference to Jesus’ regular habit connects this moment to his earlier teachings and prayers on the Mount of Olives, giving a sense of continuity and purpose to his actions.

Where else these words appear

“wont” Greek G1485 · used in 12 verses

  • Luke 1:9 According to the custom of the priest's office, his lot was to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord.
  • Acts 6:14 For we have heard him say, that this Jesus of Nazareth shall destroy this place, and shall change the customs which Moses delivered us.
  • Acts 25:16 To whom I answered, It is not the manner of the Romans to deliver any man to die, before that he which is accused have the accusers face to face, and have licence to answer for himself concerning the crime laid against him.

“Olives” Greek G1636 · used in 15 verses

  • Matthew 21:1 And when they drew nigh unto Jerusalem, and were come to Bethphage, unto the mount of Olives, then sent Jesus two disciples,
  • Mark 13:3 And as he sat upon the mount of Olives over against the temple, Peter and James and John and Andrew asked him privately,
  • John 8:1 Jesus went unto the mount of Olives.

“mount” Greek G3735 · used in 65 verses

  • Matthew 4:8 Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them;
  • Mark 9:9 And as they came down from the mountain, he charged them that they should tell no man what things they had seen, till the Son of man were risen from the dead.
  • John 6:15 When Jesus therefore perceived that they would come and take him by force, to make him a king, he departed again into a mountain himself alone.

“followed” Greek G190 · used in 88 verses

  • Matthew 4:20 And they straightway left their nets, and followed him.
  • Mark 6:1 And he went out from thence, and came into his own country; and his disciples follow him.
  • John 1:38 Then Jesus turned, and saw them following, and saith unto them, What seek ye? They said unto him, Rabbi,(which is to say, being interpreted, Master,) where dwellest thou?