Commentary on Luke 13:32

Verse: "And he said unto them, Go ye, and tell that fox, Behold, I cast out devils, and I do cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I shall be perfected."

Introduction

This passage within Luke 13:32 invites the reader into a significant moment in Jesus' ministry, encapsulating themes of authority, wisdom, and prophetic fulfillment. The context in which this statement arises is critical.

Context and Background

Jesus is responding to a warning from the Pharisees regarding Herod’s threats against Him. This interaction reveals the tension between earthly power and divine mission.

Historical Context

Herod Antipas, referred to as "that fox," ruled Galilee and Perea and was known for his cunning and treachery. By calling Herod a fox, Jesus signified contempt for his manipulative and predatory nature.

Analysis of Key Phrases

"Go ye, and tell that fox": This phrase illustrates Jesus' awareness of the political landscape and His fearless confrontation of worldly authorities.

"Behold, I cast out devils, and I do cures today and tomorrow": This highlights Jesus' current mission and activities that are healing and delivering, emphasizing the immediacy of His work.

"and the third day I shall be perfected": This phrase speaks to the culmination of His work, often interpreted as His resurrection which brings forth completeness and perfection in the plan of salvation.

Theological Insights

The Nature of Jesus’ Authority

In this verse, Jesus establishes His authority over spiritual realms and His power to heal, contrasting it with Herod’s earthly authority. Matthew Henry notes that while Herod may seem powerful, he is ultimately a 'fox', symbolizing insignificance in the presence of Christ's divine purpose.

The Prophetic Dimension

Jesus’ declaration of His timeline in relation to His mission contains a prophetic nuance, indicating that He is fully in control of the situation, and His purpose cannot be thwarted by threats.

Divine Timing

Adam Clarke emphasizes that Jesus highlights His divine schedule, suggesting that His crucifixion and resurrection are divinely ordained events that will transpire on His terms rather than by the whims of earthly rulers.

Pastoral Reflections

For pastors, this passage serves as a reminder of the importance of steadfastness in the face of adversity. Jesus exemplifies the courage to confront threats while remaining focused on His mission.

• Boldness in Ministry: Pastors are called to confront opposition and speak truth to power, qualities embodied by Jesus.
• Trust in God’s Plan: The acknowledgment of divine timing reassures ministers of the ultimate authority of God in their mission.

Applications for Theologians and Scholars

For scholars, the implications of this passage are significant in studies of Christology and ecclesiology.

• Christ’s Autonomy: Jesus directs His own path, a key tenet in understanding His divinity.
• Historical Jesus: Analyzing Jesus' interactions with political leaders aids in understanding the historical context of His ministry.

Conclusion

Luke 13:32 encapsulates the tension between worldly powers and divine mission. The way Jesus interacts with Herod not only exemplifies His boldness but also reaffirms His purpose and divine authority. This passage serves as an inspiration for all who seek to understand and live out the teachings of Christ amid challenges.