What does Luke 18:34 mean?

Explanation

Luke 18:34 describes a moment where Jesus foretells his upcoming passion to his disciples, yet they are unable to comprehend the message he is conveying.

The verse highlights the disciples' lack of understanding regarding the prophecies Jesus is speaking of, which encompass his betrayal, suffering, death, and resurrection. On the surface, the disciples heard Jesus's words, but the deeper significance remained obscured to them.

This implies that there are layers of meaning in Jesus's teachings and prophecies that may not be immediately evident, requiring reflection, insight, and perhaps divine revelation to fully grasp.

Historical Context

This verse comes from the Gospel of Luke, which is one of the four canonical Gospels in the New Testament.

It was written around 80-110 AD and is believed to have been authored by Luke, a companion of the Apostle Paul.

The historical context of this verse is crucial; it is a part of Jesus's final journey to Jerusalem, where he would eventually be crucified.

During this time, messianic expectations amongst Jews were often militaristic, anticipating a leader who would overthrow Roman rule and restore Israel to glory.

Jesus's prediction of his suffering and death would have been antithetical to these expectations, contributing to the disciples' inability to comprehend his words.

Theological Insights

Several theological insights arise from Luke 18:34.

One perspective emphasizes the human limitations of the disciples in understanding God's plan, underscoring the need for divine enlightenment to perceive spiritual truths.

Another insight considers the role of prophecy in the New Testament – that Jesus fulfills Old Testament prophecies in unexpected ways, redefining the concept of the Messiah.

Additionally, some theologians might view the disciples' lack of understanding as part of God's plan, essential for the unfolding of the events leading to the crucifixion and resurrection.

Practical Applications

The message of Luke 18:34 can have several practical applications in daily life.

It may encourage believers to seek deeper understanding and wisdom in their faith journey, rather than settling for surface-level interpretations of scripture.

It also can teach patience and humility, reminding individuals that not all divine plans and purposes are immediately clear, and sometimes faith is required during periods of confusion or misunderstanding.

Cross-References

• Mark 9:32: "But they understood not that saying, and were afraid to ask him."
• John 12:16: "These things understood not his disciples at the first: but when Jesus was glorified, then remembered they that these things were written of him, and that they had done these things unto him."
• Luke 24:45: "Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures,"
• Isaiah 53:3-5, which prophesies the suffering of the Messiah.

Language Study

The original Greek text of this verse uses the word "γινώσκω" (ginōskō) for "knew," which can mean to perceive, understand, or come to know.

This suggests that the disciples did not have an experiential or cognitive comprehension of Jesus's words. "κεκρυμμένος" (kekrymmenos) meaning "was hid", indicates veiling or concealment, implicating that some external or divine action was part of why the disciples didn't understand these things.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the cultural and religious context of Judea in the 1st century, the expectation of a Messiah was common amongst Jewish people, but the concept varied significantly from Jesus's teachings about his role and destiny.

Comparing this to other ancient myths, many cultures had tales of sacrificial gods or heroes who would undergo suffering for a greater good, but the narrative of a messianic figure being killed and then resurrected was unique to Christianity.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, this verse does not directly intersect with scientific inquiry or method, as it deals with matters of belief, faith, and spiritual understanding, which are not within the purview of empirical science.

However, the cognitive sciences might explore the psychological aspects of why the disciples did not understand Jesus's words, such as the role of cognitive dissonance when faced with information that challenges deeply held beliefs.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars offer varied insights on this verse.

Some commentaries suggest that the disciples' lack of understanding was due to preconceived notions of what the Messiah would do and be like.

Others focus on the divine timing for the unveiling of spiritual truths, noting that after Jesus's resurrection (as reflected in Luke 24:45), the disciples had a more profound understanding of these events.

Commentators also highlight the significance of Jesus's deliberate communication of these prophecies, despite knowing that the disciples would not grasp them until after his resurrection.