See the notes at Matthew 26:17-19.
They killed the passover - The “paschal lamb,” which was slain in keeping the Passover.
Go and prepare - Go and provide a lamb, have it roasted, and properly prepared with the usual things to eat with it.
The city - The city of Jerusalem. They were now in Bethany, about 2 miles from the city.
A man bearing a pitcher of water - This could have been known only by the infinite knowledge of Christ. Such a thing could not have been conjectured, nor was there any concert between him and the man that “at that time” he should be in a particular place to meet them, for the disciples themselves proposed the inquiry. If Jesus knew a circumstance like that, then he in the same way must have known all things; then he sees “all” the actions of men - hears every word, and marks every thought; then the righteous are under his care, and the wicked, much as they may wish to be unseen, cannot escape the notice of his eye.
The goodman of the house - This signifies simply the “master” of the house. The original word expresses nothing respecting his character, whether it was good or bad.
The guest-chamber - A chamber for guests or friends - an unoccupied room.
A large upper room - The word used here denotes the upper room devoted to purposes of prayer, repose, and often of eating. See the notes at Matthew 9:1-8.
Furnished and prepared - Literally, “spread” and “ready.” Spread with a carpet, or with “couches” such as were used in eating. See the notes at Matthew 23:6.