Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Mark 14:16

"And the disciples went forth, and came into the city, and found as he had said unto them: and they made ready the passover." — Mark 14:16 (ASV)

Jesus gave explicit instructions to two of his disciples (Peter and John; cf. Lk 22:8). The “man carrying a jar of water” would easily be identified because customarily women, not men, carried water jars. He was to lead them to the house where the owner had a guest room. Jewish custom required that if a person had a room available, he must give it to any pilgrims who asked to stay in it, in order that they might have a place to celebrate the Passover. Jesus had probably made previous arrangements with the owner of the house. The upstairs room had what was necessary for the celebration: table, couches, cushions, etc. The disciples were told to get the food and prepare it, which they did.