What does Luke 2:17 mean?

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

Explanation

Luke 2:17 is a verse that describes the reaction of the shepherds who had just witnessed the birth of Jesus Christ. To understand this verse, we should first consider the previous verses, where angels visit the shepherds in the fields, announcing the birth of a savior and directing them to find the child in Bethlehem. Upon seeing the child and confirming the angel’s message, the shepherds share the revelation with others.

The literal meaning of the verse is straightforward: after the shepherds had seen Jesus, they spread the word about the angelic proclamation concerning His identity and purpose. The deeper significance lies in the response of the shepherds—humble individuals in society—as the first evangelists of the Christian faith. Their actions imply an unhesitant belief and an eagerness to share this divine encounter with others, highlighting the importance of witnessing and testimony.

Historical Context

The Gospel of Luke was written in a Greco-Roman context, possibly around 80-110 AD. The author of Luke is traditionally believed to be Luke the Evangelist, a companion of the Apostle Paul. The narrative of Jesus’ birth in Luke, including the event of the shepherds’ visitation, is unique to this Gospel and reflects the Lukan emphasis on the universal offer of the Christian message to all people, including the poor and marginalized, represented by the shepherds.

During this period, shepherds were often seen as humble and lower-class individuals. Thus, the announcement of the Messiah’s birth to them rather than to society’s elites is significant. It suggests a subverting of social expectations and portrays the inclusive nature of Jesus’ message.

Theological Insights

Different theological interpretations emerge from this verse. One perspective highlights God’s grace manifested to the lowly—He has chosen simple shepherds to receive the glorious news of the Savior’s birth. Another viewpoint is eschatological; the fact that the good news is proclaimed and shared foreshadows the great commission where all Christians are called to spread the Gospel.

The verse also encompasses themes like revelation and response to divine truth. The shepherds’ actions are seen as a model of the proper reaction to God’s revelation—faith and proclamation. Lastly, Luke’s account aligns with the theme of the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy indicating that Messiah would be a light to the Gentiles, reinforcing the universal salvation plan.

Practical Applications

Luke 2:17 can be applied to modern life as an encouragement for believers to share their personal experiences of faith with others. It suggests that individuals need not be of high status or learned to witness effectively; rather, their sincerity and personal encounter with God are what matter. The verse also serves as a reminder that the good news of Christianity is not meant to be kept secret but to be openly proclaimed.

Cross-References

• Luke 2:8-16: Provides the context of the shepherds’ visit and the angels’ announcement.
• Matthew 28:19-20: The Great Commission, which commands to go and make disciples of all nations, spreading the good news.
• Isaiah 52:7: “How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth!”
• Luke 4:18-19: Jesus speaks about a similar theme of bringing good news, as prophesied in Isaiah.

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the word for “made known abroad” (ἐγνώρισαν – egnorisán) comes from the root γνωρίζω (gnorizo), which means to “make known” or “declare.” This verb suggests active declaration rather than passive mentioning. “Saying” (ῥῆμα – rhema) often means a thing spoken or a word. It conveys the concept of a message or announcement, with an implication of importance and solemnity behind the words.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In other ancient religions and myths, divine messages are often communicated to great heroes or rulers. The Christian narrative’s choice of shepherds (considered low-status individuals) as recipients of the divine message contrasts with many cultural expectations of the time. In Greco-Roman mythologies, divine encounters frequently involve the elite, or at the very least, individuals destined for greatness. This biblical account challenges such norms and portrays a religion that is accessible to all.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, modern understandings do not confirm supernatural occurrences like angelic announcements. The verse would typically be treated within the domain of faith and spiritual belief, rather than empirical science. However, psychological studies on religious experiences can provide insight into how such profound encounters impact an individual’s beliefs and behaviors, similar to the transformative experience of the shepherds.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and theologians offer various insights into Luke 2:17. Many highlight the obedience and enthusiasm of the shepherds to spread the word, which aligns with the Lucan theme of the gospel reaching the marginalized. Some commentaries draw parallels between the shepherds’ experience and the transformative nature of encountering Christ. They encourage Christians to emulate the shepherds’ eagerness in sharing the gospel. Others delve into the implications for social order in the ancient world, citing God’s choice to reveal Himself to the lowly rather than the highborn as a key takeaway from the passage.