Commentary on Luke 16:16

Luke 16:16 states: "The law and the prophets were until John: since that time the kingdom of God is preached, and every man presseth into it." This verse forms a pivotal transition in the understanding of the Kingdom of God and its relationship to Jewish law and prophetic announcements. Below is a comprehensive commentary derived from public domain resources.

Contextual Background

This passage is situated within a series of teachings on wealth and the correct attitude towards it. Jesus, in his parables, often challenged the prevailing Jewish understanding of righteousness and the qualifications for entering the Kingdom of God.

Historical Context

• Law and the Prophets: The phrase "the law and the prophets" encapsulates the entirety of the Hebrew Scriptures, the Torah and the prophetic writings that guided Jewish life and religious practices. Matthew Henry notes that this phrase also signifies the end of the old covenant period, which culminated in the ministry of John the Baptist.
• John the Baptist: John represents the transition between the old covenant and the new. His ministry heralded the coming of Christ and the new era of grace. Adam Clarke emphasizes John's role as a forerunner, marking a significant shift in God's salvific plan.

The Kingdom of God

With "the Kingdom of God is preached," the verse signifies a new proclamation that goes beyond the mere adherence to the law and prophetic exhortations.

• Preaching of the Kingdom: Albert Barnes illustrates the essence of this preaching as a call to repentance and faith in Christ. Unlike the Law, which prescribed a righteousness based on works, the Kingdom invites individuals to embrace grace through faith.
• Presseth into it: This phrase suggests an active effort by individuals to enter the Kingdom, indicating the necessity of personal commitment. Matthew Henry notes that this engagement reflects the zeal and determination of the faithful, while also contrasting with the apathetic response of many who adhered to the old covenant.

Theological Implications

This verse raises several critical theological questions concerning the continuity and discontinuity of the law and covenantal promises.

• Discontinuity of the Old Covenant: The statement that the law and the prophets were until John indicates the transitional nature of God’s revelation. After John, Christ inaugurates a new covenant, erasing the barriers set by the law. Clarke emphasizes that the new covenant fulfills and transcends the old.
• Inclusivity of the Kingdom: The Kingdom of God is open to all who would believe, transcending Jewish exclusivity. This theme is evident throughout Jesus' ministry as he ministers to the marginalized and sinners, suggesting everyone is welcomed into God’s grace.
• Active Participation: The notion that individuals 'press into' the Kingdom denotes a response required from believers. Barnes illustrates this as an urgent, vigorous pursuit of spiritual truths that lead to transformation and redemption.

Application for Believers

For pastors, theologians, and scholars, this passage serves as a vital reminder of the dynamic nature of God’s revelation and the call to actively engage with His Kingdom.

• Embrace of New Covenant: Understanding the implications of Jesus’ teachings encourages believers to embrace the new covenant fully, moving beyond a mere adherence to the law towards a transformative relationship with Christ.
• Call to Action: The active pursuit of the Kingdom calls for evangelism, discipleship, and community engagement. It challenges believers to reflect on how they can press forward in their spiritual journey and help others in their pursuit of faith.
• Recognizing God’s Sovereignty: The transition from law to grace reveals the sovereignty of God in determining how He relates to humanity. Pastors can encourage their congregations to trust in divine providence as they navigate their personal and collective journeys of faith.

Conclusion

Luke 16:16 encapsulates a significant theological transition from the old covenant of the law to the new covenant of grace. The message of the Kingdom of God is one of inclusivity, active engagement, and profound transformation that Jesus invites all to partake in. This verse provides rich insight for pastors, scholars, and students of the Bible, calling them to a deeper understanding and an eager response to the Kingdom of God.