What does Luke 10:21 mean?

Explanation

Luke 10:21 records an instance where Jesus expresses his joy and gratitude towards God the Father.

The verse highlights a particular moment where Jesus acknowledges the Father for revealing spiritual truths to those who are humble and childlike, referred to as "babes," rather than to the self-reliant and wise according to worldly standards.

The verse suggests that there is a hiddenness to the things of God that is disclosed not by intellectual might or societal status, but by grace to those whose hearts are open like those of children.

The core message is one of divine revelation being accessible to those with a simple faith, contrasting with the intellectual pride that can prevent the 'wise and prudent' from truly understanding and accepting spiritual truths.

Historical Context

The Gospel of Luke is thought to have been written around AD 60-70 by the physician Luke, a companion of the Apostle Paul.

This particular verse is situated after Jesus appoints 70 disciples to go out and preach the Gospel, heal the sick, and proclaim the Kingdom of God.

Upon their return, they share how even demons were subject to them through Jesus' name.

This leads to Jesus' prayer of thanksgiving, which Luke 10:21 documents, and is a declaration of the reversal of social and spiritual expectations prevalent in first-century Jewish society.

At that time, spiritual knowledge was often associated with religious leaders and scholars, yet Jesus points to a more inclusive approach where God's revelations are available to all, irrespective of social or intellectual standing.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse touches upon the doctrines of revelation and election. Different Christian traditions interpret such passages in various ways. For instance:

• Traditional Calvinist theology might emphasize predestination, suggesting that the Father reveals knowledge to those He elects.
• Arminianism would focus on the universal desire of God for all to know Him but would stress human responsibility in responding to God’s revelation.
• Liberation theology might suggest that this verse reveals God's preferential option for the marginalized and humble, as opposed to the powerful or self-sufficient.

This verse also aligns with the concept of the 'upside-down kingdom,' in which Jesus repeatedly subverts societal expectations, suggesting that the Kingdom of God operates on principles different from those of the world.

Practical Applications

This verse can inspire contemporary believers to:

• Approach God with humility, recognizing that spiritual understanding comes not always from human wisdom but can derive from a child-like faith in God.
• Value humility over pride, as God delights in revealing Himself to the lowly and humble.
• Reconsider societal benchmarks for wisdom and understanding, recognizing that God’s truths can transcend human intelligence and are accessible to every willing heart.

Cross-References

• Matthew 18:3: "And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven."
• Matthew 11:25: "At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes."
• 1 Corinthians 1:27: "But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty;"

Language Study

In the original Greek text, significant words include:

• "Rejoiced in spirit" (ἠγαλλίασατο τῷ πνεύματι): Depicts a profound joy emanating from within, not a mere external display of happiness.
• "Babes" (νηπίοις): Refers to infants or little children, symbolizing purity, dependency, and innocence.
• "Hid" (ἔκρυψας): Suggests an active concealment, indicating that the truths of God's Kingdom must be revealed rather than figured out through human wisdom.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In comparing this Christian text with other traditions, one finds similar notions in various religions where divine knowledge is thought to be accessed through child-like wonder or simplicity rather than intellectual prowess.

For example, in Eastern philosophies like Taoism, there is an emphasis on attaining a state of 'unlearning' or simplicity to grasp Tao (the way).

In Hinduism, the concept of bhakti (devotion) suggests that love and devotion are sufficient for spiritual understanding, irrespective of one's societal or intellectual status.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern psychological research affirms the value of child-like qualities such as openness, curiosity, and wonder in learning and creativity.

These traits are sometimes suppressed in adulthood in favor of rational and analytical thinking.

Jesus' emphasis on child-like receptivity may align with a broader understanding that embracing these characteristics can be beneficial not just spiritually, but also in our intellectual and emotional development.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and theologians offer diverse insights on Luke 10:21:

• Matthew Henry's commentary reflects on the paradox that God reveals Himself to the simple, emphasizing Jesus' rejoicing as a profound spiritual truth that confounds human wisdom.
• John Gill notes the sovereign grace of God in revealing truths to whom He pleases, suggesting that the 'wise and prudent' are often too proud to receive these revelations.
• The New Jerome Biblical Commentary might discuss this passage regarding Luke's wider narrative on Jesus' journey to Jerusalem and His role in reversing social and spiritual expectations of His time.

Each of these commentaries tends to encourage believers to embrace a posture of humility and openness in their walk with God.