18: It has been suggested that Jesus had already made contact with this man he mentions. Although he may have met the man, it seems very unlikely that he had already contacted him about the Passover in particular. This is yet another example of Jesus’ omniscience. He knew what this particular man’s response would be, and that he would have a room available. This is why he tells the disciples in detail what to say to the man. If the man already knew what to expect, this much explanation would be unnecessary.
Jesus’ reference to his ‘time’ is here very interesting. He must have known that this man would understand to what he referred. Thus, he may have met him and spoken with him in the past. This is not the only instance in which Jesus makes a reference to the relative timing of God’s plan.
19: The disciples obeyed their Master. The preparations for the Passover included the preparation of the location, purification from all leaven, procuring of the lamb, and preparation of the lamb, among other things.
20: The Passover would commence when the stars appeared. It was generally observed with one’s family only.