What does Luke 22:27 mean?

This chapter compares the disciples' and religious leaders' beliefs about the Messiah to the truth of the new covenant. Here is the heart of Jesus' message: the Messiah is One who serves. He is not one who needs the approval of the priests, kings, and civil leaders. He does not march His army into Jerusalem and drive out the Romans. He does not wrestle for power against His peers. He lays down His life. He is like a host who has invited a group to a formal meal: such as twelve disciples for Passover. Then He serves by washing the disciples' feet (John 13:1–17).

Will the disciples take His example? Will we? Will we demand authority in the church, lord over those we lead, and walk proudly in the accolades of the people? Or will we assume menial jobs when they need to be done and think of others higher than ourselves (Philippians 2:3)?

Jesus does recline at the table at the Last Supper. The foot-washing is a small part of the evening compared to the meal and Jesus' extensive teaching (John 13:21—17:26). He will take authority over His kingdom with force (Revelation 19:11–21). The disciples will be given authority to rule over Israel, and church leaders will be rewarded for their service (Luke 22:28–30).

Here, however, Jesus serves by going to the cross. The disciples will serve by giving their lives to spread the gospel. That is the kind of leadership to which Christ-followers are called.