And he came out, and went, as he was wont, to the mount of Olives; and his disciples also followed him.
LUKE 22:39KJVWhat 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.