Commentary on Luke 2:17

Text of Luke 2:17 (KJV): "And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child."

Introduction

The context of Luke 2:17 presents a pivotal moment in the Christian narrative—the announcement of the birth of Jesus Christ by the angels to the shepherds. This verse captures the immediate response of these humble witnesses, emphasizing the significance of their proclamation.

Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Matthew Henry observes that the shepherds' experience provides a profound lesson in the nature of witness. After seeing the infant Jesus, they did not keep this extraordinary revelation to themselves but "made known abroad" what they had been told. This reflects the essence of Christian witness—sharing the Gospel message. Henry emphasizes that the shepherds, regarded as lowly, were chosen to deliver the news, highlighting God's preference for the humble and meek over the proud and powerful.

Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible

Albert Barnes elaborates on the significance of the shepherds' proclamation, underscoring that their act of sharing the news was not merely a personal testimony but a transformative mission. The phrase "made known abroad" indicates their active engagement in spreading the word about the Messiah's birth. Barnes points out that this distributed witness serves as a model for believers to share the good news with others, emphasizing that everyone who encounters Christ is called to testify to His glory.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Adam Clarke provides a deeper theological insight into the motives behind the shepherds' actions. He notes that their excitement and joy drove them to make known the sayings concerning Jesus, reflecting their deep understanding of the angelic message about the Savior's role in humanity's redemption. Clarke argues that their enthusiasm symbolizes the ideal response to God's grace and the transformative realization of Christ's coming. Their testimony serves as an invitation for all to recognize Jesus' importance in the fabric of salvation history.

Theological Implications

This verse invites pastors, students, theologians, and scholars to consider several key theological implications:

• Witness as a Christian Duty: The shepherds exemplify the call to share the Gospel. Their response teaches that witnessing is an integral part of the Christian life, encouraging all believers to proclaim the truths of their faith.
• The Role of the Marginalized: God’s selection of shepherds, societal outsiders, to announce the birth of Christ demonstrates a divine preference for those deemed insignificant. This challenges contemporary attitudes toward status and influence, calling for a renewed recognition of God's work among the humble.
• Joy and Proclamation: The shepherds’ joy is infectious and serves as a model for how subsequent believers should respond to the good news of Christ. The excitement seen in their testimony reflects the joy that should characterize all who encounter Christ.

Pastoral Applications

For pastors, this passage provides rich material for sermons and teachings:

• Encouragement for Testimony: Pastors can encourage congregants to share their personal experiences with Christ, highlighting the importance of individual testimonies in the collective life of the church.
• Valuing Diverse Roles in Ministry: The shepherds' story can serve to remind congregations of the vital role that every member plays in ministry, regardless of their background or perceived significance.
• Joyful Proclamation: Sermons could emphasize the joy of salvation, drawing parallels between the shepherds’ experience and the transformative joy that believers should harness and share.

Conclusion

Luke 2:17 encapsulates a powerful moment of witnessing the Messiah that calls believers to reflect upon their role in God's redemptive plan. By sharing their testimony, the shepherds set a precedent that remains relevant today. This verse serves as a timeless reminder of the joy of proclamation and the inclusivity of God's message.