Commentary on Luke 18:31

Verse: Luke 18:31 - "Then he took unto him the twelve, and said unto them, Behold, we go up to Jerusalem, and all things that are written by the prophets concerning the Son of man shall be accomplished."

Introduction

The passage of Luke 18:31 marks a significant moment in the Gospel narrative. It serves as a prelude to the impending passion of Christ, where Jesus explicitly predicts His suffering, death, and resurrection. Various public domain commentaries provide deep insights into this verse that shed light on its theological significance.

The Context of the Passage

1. Location and Setting: Jesus is nearing Jerusalem, the center of Jewish worship and the site of His crucifixion. This geographical movement signifies the fulfillment of prophecy and the culmination of His earthly ministry.

2. The Audience: The twelve disciples are the primary audience for this declaration. Their close association with Jesus makes them the principal witnesses to His mission and the events to unfold.

The Significance of 'Going Up to Jerusalem'

1. A Journey of Divine Purpose: The phrase "we go up to Jerusalem" conveys a strong sense of divine intention. As Albert Barnes notes, this journey is not merely geographical; it embodies the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan.

2. A Fulfillment of Prophecy: Matthew Henry emphasizes that Jesus’ journey is a direct response to the prophetic narratives within the Old Testament. This undertaking illustrates that Jesus is fulfilling the Scriptures, portraying Himself as the promised Messiah.

The Prophetic Fulfillment

1. Prophecies Concerning the Messiah: Adam Clarke provides extensive insights on the prophetic texts that predict the suffering of the Messiah. In this verse, Jesus acknowledges the written promises and warnings regarding His mission, underscoring the consistency of Scripture.

2. The Role of Suffering: The notion that "all things that are written" emphasizes the totality of His mission. His suffering is not an aberration but rather an integral part of God's redemptive plan, emphasizing that suffering is often a precursor to glory.

Key Themes and Insights

• Divine Sovereignty: The journey to Jerusalem illustrates God's sovereignty over human events and history, as described by Matthew Henry. Every detail of the crucifixion was foreseen and orchestrated by divine providence.
• Jesus’ Foreknowledge: Clarke points out the significance of Jesus predicting His own future. This act of foretelling reinforces His divinity and the certainty of the events that would transpire.
• The Importance of Discipleship: By addressing the twelve, Jesus is not only preparing Himself for His passion but also instructing His disciples on the nature of their faith and the challenges ahead. This prepares them for the trials and tribulations they will face after His departure.

Pastoral Applications

1. Understanding Suffering: For contemporary pastors, this passage encourages a deeper understanding of suffering in Christian life. Just as Jesus embraced His suffering as part of a divine plan, believers are called to recognize the value of their trials.

2. Encouragement in Trials: The assurance that God’s plans are fulfilled can offer comfort to believers facing adversity. Henry emphasizes that recognizing a guiding hand in difficult times helps sustain faith during life's challenges.

Theological Reflection

As we reflect on Luke 18:31, it is essential for theologians to grasp the interconnectedness of the Old and New Testament narratives. The prophecy fulfilled through Christ points to God's unwavering commitment to His creation and His redeeming work through Christ.

Conclusion

Luke 18:31 encapsulates a pivotal moment in the gospel narrative, showcasing the sovereignty of God in bringing about the redemption of humanity through Jesus Christ. Recognizing the fulfillment of prophecy offers theological insight into the nature of God’s plan and the role of Jesus as the incarnate Messiah. It presents a rich tapestry for reflection by pastors, theologians, and students of scripture, encouraging them to embrace the complexities of faith while learning from the profound truths contained within the sacred texts.