Luke 24:38

Analysis & Commentary

Jesus addresses their fear: 'And he said unto them, Why are ye troubled? and why do thoughts arise in your hearts?' Jesus sees their terror (v. 37) and asks: 'Why are ye troubled?' (Τί τεταραγμένοι ἐστέ, Ti tetaragmenoi este, why are you disturbed/confused?) and 'why do thoughts arise in your hearts?' (διὰ τί διαλογισμοὶ ἀναβαίνουσιν ἐν τῇ καρδίᾳ ὑμῶν, dia ti dialogismoi anabainousin en tē kardia hymōn). The term 'thoughts' (διαλογισμοί, dialogismoi) suggests doubts, questionings, skeptical reasoning. Jesus gently confronts their unbelief—they should be rejoicing, not doubting. His questions invite self-examination: why do evidence (empty tomb, eyewitnesses, His physical presence) and doubt coexist? Faith requires choosing to believe testimony rather than defaulting to skepticism.

Historical Context

The disciples' fear and doubt despite overwhelming evidence (empty tomb, multiple appearances, physical Jesus before them) reveals how difficult belief is. Even seeing isn't always believing—presuppositions can blind us to reality. Their doubt demonstrates the accounts' authenticity: no inventor would portray disciples as fearful skeptics when claiming they witnessed resurrection. The narrative's honesty validates its truthfulness. Jesus' patient addressing of their doubts models how to handle struggling faith—not with condemnation but gentle questioning that leads toward truth. He provides evidence (vv. 39-43) because faith, while beyond sight, isn't contrary to evidence. Resurrection faith is reasonable, not blind.

Questions for Reflection

• Why did the disciples doubt even when seeing the risen Jesus before them?
• What does their doubt teach about resurrection accounts' authenticity?
• How does Jesus model addressing doubt—with condemnation or patient evidence?