Commentary on Luke 24:40

Luke 24:40 states, "And when he had thus spoken, he showed them his hands and his feet." This verse is a significant moment in the post-resurrection appearances of Jesus as it emphasizes the reality of His physical resurrection. Below is a detailed examination of this verse through the insights of Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, integrating their thoughts and theological implications.

Contextual Overview

The context of Luke 24:40 is crucial for understanding its significance. This appearance occurs after the resurrection, during a time of fear and doubt among the disciples. They grapple with the loss of their teacher, the trauma of the crucifixion, and the startling news of His resurrection. This context enriches the understanding of Jesus' intent in revealing His physical wounds.

Physical Evidence of Resurrection

Henry notes the importance of Jesus showing His hands and feet as a means to provide tangible proof of His resurrection. He emphasizes that this was not merely a spiritual resurrection but a physical one, essential in affirming the Christian hope:

• Reality of Christ's Body: Jesus is affirming His physical body, showing that He is not a spirit or apparition.
• Wounds as Testimony: The wounds serve as a testimony to His suffering and the reality of His sacrifice, echoing John 20:27 where the emphasis is also on touch and tangible proof.

Theological Implications

Barnes emphasizes the theological implications of this revelation. He suggests that by displaying His wounds, Jesus is not only confirming His identity but also the significance of His redemptive work:

• Assurance of Salvation: The visible scars serve as a reminder of the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the sacrificial system, confirming Him as the Lamb of God.
• Empowerment for Believers: This revelation emboldens the disciples, reinforcing their mission and assurance that Jesus has conquered death.

Encouragement in Doubt

Clarke notes the emotional state of the disciples, which adds depth to this passage. Their initial disbelief is met with patient reassurance from Jesus:

• Understanding Human Doubt: Jesus responds to their fears, acknowledging their struggle with belief. This moment illustrates His compassion and understanding of human frailty.
• Invitation to Believe: Clarke reflects on how the invitation to touch the wounds signifies a call to faith, encouraging believers to engage with the reality of Christ's resurrection personally.

Historical and Cultural Context

Henry also highlights the cultural implications of this moment, particularly how physical touch was significant in the ancient Hebrew context. The prophets often performed physical acts to signify spiritual truths. Jesus doing the same reinforces the human experience of faith:

• Relational Nature of Faith: The act of seeing and touching His wounds emphasizes the relational aspect of faith rather than an abstract belief system.
• Communal Experience: This encounter was shared, pointing to the communal nature of Christianity—believers are to testify together about the risen Christ.

Application for Today

The insights derived from Luke 24:40 carry significant applications for contemporary believers:

• Witness of the Risen Christ: Just as the disciples were called to witness, modern believers are called to share their faith based on the reality of Christ's resurrection.
• Validating Faith through Experience: Encountering Christ personally can provide assurance and overcome doubts, encouraging believers in their journey.
• Hope in Suffering: The wounds of Christ encourage believers to see their suffering in the light of His suffering and triumph, instilling hope amidst despair.

Conclusion

Luke 24:40 invites deep theological reflection and practical application. Through the combined insights of Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, it is clear that the physical evidence of Christ's wounds serves as a pivotal moment for the disciples, affirming the tangible reality of resurrection and the implications for faith today. This passage not only reinforces the need for belief in the resurrection but also highlights the personal and communal aspects of faith, encouraging believers to embrace and share the reality of the risen Lord.