What does Luke 1:32 mean?

He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: Luke 1:32

Explanation

Luke 1:32 speaks about the angel Gabriel’s prophecy concerning Jesus Christ, who was to be born to the Virgin Mary. This verse is part of Gabriel’s message to Mary, informing her of the unique and divine role her son would play. The “Highest” refers to God, highlighting Jesus’ divine paternity. The title “Son of the Highest” signifies the recognition of Jesus’ unparalleled status and his relationship with God.

The verse also announces that Jesus will inherit the throne of David, his ancestor. This pertains to the Jewish expectation of a messianic figure, coming from the lineage of David, who was expected to reign as a powerful and eternal king. By ascribing to Jesus a Davidic lineage and a throne, it establishes him as fulfilling the messianic prophecies of the Old Testament.

Historical Context

This verse is situated within the Gospel of Luke in the New Testament, which is generally considered to have been written around 80-110 AD. The Gospel was addressed to an audience familiar with Jewish traditions, prophecies, and expectations regarding the coming of the Messiah. The historic King David was a central figure in Jewish history and an emblem of a golden age. Prophecies in the Jewish scriptures anticipated a ruler from David’s lineage who would restore Israel to a place of power and peace.

Theological Insights

Varied theological perspectives interpret this verse through different lenses. Traditional Christian theology sees this as a prophecy of Jesus’ divine nature and his role as the promised Messiah who will reign forever in an eternal kingdom. The “Son of the Highest” underlines his divine sonship while the throne of David symbolizes his kingship.

Dispensationalist theologians may emphasize the future fulfillment of Jesus physically sitting on the throne of David during a literal thousand-year reign on earth, while preterists might suggest that Jesus’ kingship began with his resurrection and ascension, and is realized spiritually rather than literally.

Practical Applications

In daily life, this verse serves as a grounding reminder for individuals of Christian faith of Jesus’ divine authority, encouraging them to trust and follow his guidance. It also reminds believers of Jesus’ role in fulfilling God’s promises, which can offer hope and reassurance of divine faithfulness and justice.

Cross-References

• Isaiah 9:6-7: For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
• 2 Samuel 7:12-13: And when thy days be fulfilled, and thou shalt sleep with thy fathers, I will set up thy seed after thee, which shall proceed out of thy bowels, and I will establish his kingdom.

Language Study

The phrase “Son of the Highest” in the original Greek is “υἱὸς ὑψίστου” (huios hypsistou), where “υἱὸς” (huios) translates as “son” and “ὑψίστου” (hypsistou) means “of the highest” or “most high,” indicating supreme divinity. The term “throne” (“θρόνον,” thronon) here is symbolically representing kingly authority and the continuation of David’s lineage.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparisons can be drawn with other ancient religions that often intertwined deities with royal lineage. Egyptian pharaohs, for example, were often depicted as the physical embodiments of their gods. In this sense, the concept of a divine being with a right to rule could align with broader ancient Near Eastern ideas of kingship.

Scientific Perspectives

The verse itself does not directly intersect with scientific understanding, as it speaks of supernatural events and theology. However, the study of history and archeology can help confirm the existence of people like King David and provide context for the cultural and political climate of the time.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and commentators have provided various insights on this verse. Matthew Henry’s commentary emphasizes Jesus’ dual nature as human and divine, fulfilling the prophecies of the Old Testament. John Gill remarks on the perpetual throne that Jesus would inherit, signifying an eternal kingdom. Modern commentators point to the verse as a blending of the Annunciation narrative with the messianic hopes of Israel.