Luke 9:27
But I tell you of a truth, there be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the kingdom of God.
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Historical Context
Jewish apocalyptic expectation anticipated a single cataclysmic event establishing God's kingdom—violent overthrow of Rome, resurrection of the dead, final judgment, and Messianic reign. Jesus redefines kingdom theology: the kingdom comes progressively through His death, resurrection, Spirit outpouring, and church growth, culminating in the parousia. The disciples struggled to comprehend this inaugurated eschatology—kingdom already present yet not fully consummated. The Transfiguration provided empirical evidence that Jesus' kingdom claims were true, strengthening the apostles for the scandal of the cross. Peter later cited the Transfiguration as validation of Christ's power and coming (2 Peter 1:16-18).
Questions for Reflection
- How does the Transfiguration as a preview of Christ's kingdom glory help you endure present suffering and wait patiently for His return?
- What does inaugurated eschatology—kingdom already present but not yet fully consummated—mean for Christian living now?
- How should the certainty that some disciples witnessed the kingdom's power motivate confidence in the gospel despite delayed parousia?
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Analysis & Commentary
But I tell you of a truth, there be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the kingdom of God. The solemn formula legō de hymin alēthōs (λέγω δὲ ὑμῖν ἀληθῶς, "But I tell you truly") introduces authoritative revelation. The phrase "taste of death" (geusōntai thanatou, γεύσωνται θανάτου) is Hebrew idiom for experiencing death. Jesus promises that some standing here would witness the kingdom of God (tēn basileian tou Theou, τὴν βασιλείαν τοῦ θεοῦ) before dying.
This prediction finds fulfillment in multiple ways:
The primary reference is the Transfiguration, which Matthew calls the Son of man coming in his kingdom (Matthew 16:28). This demonstrates the kingdom's present reality, not merely future hope—inaugurated eschatology.