Luke 24:28
And they drew nigh unto the village, whither they went: and he made as though he would have gone further.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 12
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
εἰς
unto
G1519
εἰς
unto
Strong's:
G1519
Word #:
3 of 12
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
τὴν
G3588
τὴν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
4 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
πορεύεσθαι
he would have gone
G4198
πορεύεσθαι
he would have gone
Strong's:
G4198
Word #:
7 of 12
to traverse, i.e., travel (literally or figuratively; especially to remove (figuratively, die), live, etc.)
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
8 of 12
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
αὐτὸς
G846
αὐτὸς
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
9 of 12
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
προσεποιεῖτο
he made as though
G4364
προσεποιεῖτο
he made as though
Strong's:
G4364
Word #:
10 of 12
to do forward for oneself, i.e., pretend (as if about to do a thing)
Cross References
Mark 6:48And he saw them toiling in rowing; for the wind was contrary unto them: and about the fourth watch of the night he cometh unto them, walking upon the sea, and would have passed by them.Genesis 32:26And he said, Let me go, for the day breaketh. And he said, I will not let thee go, except thou bless me.Genesis 42:7And Joseph saw his brethren, and he knew them, but made himself strange unto them, and spake roughly unto them; and he said unto them, Whence come ye? And they said, From the land of Canaan to buy food.Genesis 19:2And he said, Behold now, my lords, turn in, I pray you, into your servant's house, and tarry all night, and wash your feet, and ye shall rise up early, and go on your ways. And they said, Nay; but we will abide in the street all night.
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern hospitality codes obligated travelers to accept offered lodging, making Jesus' apparent intention to continue unusual. Emmaus was about seven miles from Jerusalem—a day's journey. As evening approached (toward the ninth hour, about 3 PM), finding safe lodging became urgent. The disciples' insistence reflects both cultural expectation and genuine warmth toward this compelling stranger.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Jesus' restraint in 'making as though he would have gone further' model respect for human agency in salvation?
- What does this verse teach about Christ's presence being conditional on our invitation?
- How might we 'constrain' Christ to abide with us through spiritual disciplines?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
He made as though he would have gone further (προσεποιήσατο πορρώτερον πορεύεσθαι, prosepoiēsato porrōteron poreuesthai)—This phrase has sparked theological debate. The verb prospoieō can mean 'to pretend' or 'to make as if,' raising questions about Jesus' sincerity. However, the better interpretation sees this as Jesus extending opportunity for hospitality without presumption. He wouldn't impose His presence—He waited for invitation.
This mirrors His consistent pattern: Jesus stands at the door and knocks (Revelation 3:20), but enters only when welcomed. The testing wasn't deception but gracious restraint, allowing the disciples freedom to choose. Their recognition came through hospitality and table fellowship—they constrained him (v. 29), using parabiazomai (to urge strongly), demonstrating genuine desire for His company before knowing His identity.