The Last Night
Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift all of you like wheat. Luke 22:31 · Berean Standard Bible
Jesus calls Peter's name twice with urgency: 'Simon, Simon.' He reveals that Satan has demanded permission to put all the disciples through a violent test, shaking their faith like wheat in a sieve.
This is a rare glimpse behind the scenes of the spiritual world. There's a battle happening for the disciples' souls that they can't see.
Jesus speaks with both urgency and tenderness, warning Peter about a danger he doesn't even know exists.
Imagine hearing your name spoken twice by someone who loves you, followed by: 'The enemy has you in his sights.' That's what Peter hears. But Jesus isn't telling him this to frighten him — He's telling him because He's already fighting for him.
The doubled 'Simōn, Simōn' signals urgency and affection (cf. 'Martha, Martha' in Luke 10:41). Satan has exēitēsato (demanded/asked for permission) to siniasai (sift like wheat) all the disciples (hymas, plural), implying a formal request before God's court.
The scene echoes Job 1-2 where Satan seeks permission to test God's servant. The plural 'you' reveals all apostles are targeted; the singular focus on Peter in verse 32 highlights his leadership role.
Jesus addresses Peter by his original name with tender urgency, revealing a cosmic conflict — Satan has petitioned to test the disciples' faith through severe trial.
Jesus pulls back the veil on spiritual reality: Satan has gone before God's throne and demanded the right to put the disciples through a brutal test, like wheat violently shaken in a sieve. Peter, the leader, is especially targeted.
29And I bestow on you a kingdom, just as My Father has bestowed one on Me,
30so that you may eat and drink at My table in My kingdom and sit on thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.
31Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift all of you like wheat.
32But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith will not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.”
33“Lord,” said Peter, “I am ready to go with You even to prison and to death.”
Read all of Luke 22 — The upper room, a betrayer's kiss, a servant's ear, and Peter's denial by firelight. The longest night in history begins.
This page covers one. BibleKey does all 31,102 — tap any verse for its meaning, any word for its Hebrew or Greek root, and keep reading without leaving the chapter.
Not just the famous ones. BibleKey is free on iPhone and iPad.
Download on the App StoreFree on iPhone & iPad