What does Luke 10:6 mean?

Explanation

Luke 10:6 presents Jesus' instruction to his disciples as he sends them out on their mission.

The "son of peace" refers to a person or household that is receptive to the message of peace the disciples are bringing.

The peace mentioned here is more than just absence of conflict; it is the fullness of well-being and salvation brought by the Gospel.

If the person is receptive (the "son of peace"), the peace offered by the disciples will rest on them, signifying God's favor and presence.

If not, the peace will not be wasted; it reverts back to the disciples, implying that the disciples remain in God's favor regardless of the other's receptivity.

Historical Context

This verse occurs in the context of Jesus sending out seventy of his disciples to towns and places he intends to visit.

The historical context is the Jewish cultural setting of first-century Palestine, where hospitality customs were deeply ingrained.

A common Jewish greeting was "Shalom," which means peace.

It was also a time when traveling missionaries and philosophers relied on local hospitality as there were few inns, and those that did exist were of questionable repute.

Theological Insights

From a traditional Christian theological standpoint, this verse implies the importance of peace as a central tenet of the Gospel.

It also suggests that the Gospel should be freely offered but never imposed.

Catholic and Protestant scholars alike often view this teaching as highlighting the importance of discerning where God's message will be welcomed.

Some Christian theologians argue that this verse shows a transactional aspect of God's peace, it is a gift, but one that requires reception.

Practical Applications

Practically, this verse can teach individuals about respectful evangelism.

It encourages sharing one's faith with an open heart but also knowing when to step back if the message is not welcome.

It can teach modern Christians the importance of recognizing and respecting individual autonomy in matters of faith.

Additionally, it suggests a posture of grace, leaving the door open for future acceptance while shaking the dust off where it is not.

Cross-References

• Matthew 10:13 – "And if the house be worthy, let your peace come upon it: but if it be not worthy, let your peace return to you."
• Matthew 10:14 – "And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, when ye depart out of that house or city, shake off the dust of your feet."

Language Study

In the original Greek, "peace" (εἰρήνη, eirene) often refers not just to the absence of conflict but to an overall state of well-being. This term is integral to understanding the depth of what is being offered by the disciples.

"Son" (υἱός, huios) in "son of peace" does not necessarily imply a male offspring but rather an individual who embodies or inherits peace.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the broader Hellenistic world, it was common for philosophers to travel and depend on the hospitality of strangers.

Comparison can be drawn between this and the ancient patronage system, where a host would receive a guest with generosity.

In other ancient Near Eastern texts, "peace" is also a common theme, expressing well-being or harmony with the gods.

In Islamic tradition, peace (Salam) is similarly a valued concept and is inherent to the faith's greeting, "As-salamu alaykum" (Peace be upon you).

Scientific Perspectives

Scientific perspectives might not directly relate to this verse, as it deals with spiritual concepts.

However, some studies in psychology and anthropology could shed light on the human need for community acceptance and the stress of rejection, hence supporting the idea that the peace of mind the disciples carry with them is vital for their emotional well-being when faced with rejection.

Commentaries

Matthew Henry's commentary highlights the opportunity for peace and reception of Christ's message as being contingent upon the hearer's openness.

On the other hand, the Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges notes that the return of peace to the disciples implies the preservation of their dignity and serenity, regardless of rejection.

The Expositor's Greek Testament suggests the phrase "son of peace" indicates the house's predisposition to Christian teaching, which would facilitate the mission.

Overall, commentators emphasize the conditional nature of sharing the Gospel and the self-preservation of the disciples' peace in the face of indifference or hostility.