Mark 14:14

And wheresoever he shall go in, say ye to the goodman of the house, The Master saith, Where is the guestchamber, where I shall eat the passover with my disciples?

And {G2532} wheresoever {G3699}{G1437} he shall go in {G1525}, say ye {G2036} to the goodman of the house {G3617},{G3754} The Master {G1320} saith {G3004}, Where {G4226} is {G2076} the guestchamber {G2646}, where {G3699} I shall eat {G5315} the passover {G3957} with {G3326} my {G3450} disciples {G3101}?

and whichever house he enters, tell him that the Rabbi says, `Where is the guest room for me, where I am to eat the Pesach meal with my talmidim?'

and whichever house he enters, say to the owner, ‘The Teacher asks: Where is My guest room, where I may eat the Passover with My disciples?’

and wheresoever he shall enter in, say to the master of the house, The Teacher saith, Where is my guest-chamber, where I shall eat the passover with my disciples?

Commentary

Context of Mark 14:14

Mark 14:14 is part of the narrative leading up to Jesus' Last Supper and crucifixion. The disciples had asked Jesus where they should prepare to eat the Passover meal. In response, Jesus gives them remarkably specific instructions, telling them to follow a man carrying a pitcher of water into a house and then inquire of the homeowner. This detailed foreknowledge highlights Jesus' divine insight and control over circumstances, even in the face of His impending betrayal and suffering.

The setting is Jerusalem, a bustling city during the Passover festival when many pilgrims would seek lodging. The "guestchamber" or upper room would have been a common feature in larger homes, often used for such gatherings. This preparation was crucial for the institution of the Lord's Supper, a foundational event for Christian faith.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Sovereignty and Foreknowledge: Jesus' precise instructions demonstrate His omniscience. He knew exactly where the room was and that the homeowner would be receptive, affirming His divine authority and control over all events, even seemingly mundane details.
  • Obedience and Trust: The disciples are called to simple, immediate obedience to Jesus' seemingly unconventional directions. Their task was to follow and inquire, trusting that the details would unfold as Jesus said.
  • The Significance of the Passover: This verse underscores the sacred importance of the Passover meal, which was about to be transformed into the New Covenant meal through Jesus' sacrifice. It was not merely a traditional observance but a divinely orchestrated event.
  • Hospitality: The "goodman of the house" (the homeowner) is presented as a willing participant, providing a suitable space for Jesus and His disciples. This act of hospitality facilitated a pivotal moment in salvation history.

Linguistic Insights

The term "guestchamber" in the KJV translates the Greek word katalyma (κατάλυμα). While it can mean an "inn" or "lodging place" (as in Luke 2:7, where there was "no room in the inn"), here it specifically refers to a private room, likely an upper room, prepared for guests. This suggests a pre-arranged understanding or a divinely prompted willingness on the part of the homeowner, rather than a public inn.

The phrase "goodman of the house" is an archaic English term for the master or owner of the house, indicating the head of the household.

Practical Application

Mark 14:14 offers several timeless lessons for believers:

  • Trust in God's Provision: Just as Jesus had a specific place prepared, we can trust that God meticulously plans and provides for our needs, even when the path ahead is unclear.
  • Readiness for God's Call: The disciples were ready to follow instructions, even unusual ones. This challenges us to be obedient and prepared to act when God reveals His will, no matter how it comes.
  • The Value of Hospitality: The homeowner's willingness to open his home reminds us of the importance of Christian hospitality, creating welcoming spaces for fellowship and spiritual growth.
  • Preparing for Sacred Moments: The careful preparation for the Passover, which became the Lord's Supper, emphasizes the reverence and intentionality we should bring to our participation in spiritual practices, especially communion.
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Cross-References

  • Revelation 3:20 (3 votes)

    Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.

  • John 13:13 (2 votes)

    Ye call me Master and Lord: and ye say well; for [so] I am.

  • Mark 11:3 (2 votes)

    And if any man say unto you, Why do ye this? say ye that the Lord hath need of him; and straightway he will send him hither.

  • Mark 10:17 (2 votes)

    ¶ And when he was gone forth into the way, there came one running, and kneeled to him, and asked him, Good Master, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?

  • John 11:28 (2 votes)

    And when she had so said, she went her way, and called Mary her sister secretly, saying, The Master is come, and calleth for thee.