Luke 10:21
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 10:21
21 In that hour Jesus rejoiced in spirit, and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes: even so, Father; for so it seemed good in thy sight.
Chapter Context
Luke 10 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of fellowship, covenant, love. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christians needed to understand their place in the Roman world.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-42: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Luke and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Luke 10:21
21 In that hour Jesus rejoiced in spirit, and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes: even so, Father; for so it seemed good in thy sight.
Analysis
Jesus prays: 'I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes: even so, Father; for so it seemed good in thy sight.' Jesus thanks God for revealing kingdom truth to 'babes' (Greek 'nēpiois,' νηπίοις, infants, simple ones) while hiding it from 'wise and prudent' (Greek 'sophōn kai synetōn,' σοφῶν καὶ συνετῶν, wise and understanding). This divine hiddenness and revelation demonstrates sovereign election—God chooses to reveal truth to humble, receptive hearts while the proud remain blind. The phrase 'so it seemed good' (Greek 'eudokia,' εὐδοκία) indicates God's good pleasure, His sovereign will.
Historical Context
This prayer followed the seventy's successful mission and Jesus' statement about names written in heaven. The 'wise and prudent' likely refers to scribes, Pharisees, and religious leaders who rejected Jesus despite their learning. The 'babes' were ordinary people—fishermen, tax collectors, women—who believed. This pattern fulfilled Jesus' beatitudes (blessing the poor in spirit) and demonstrated grace's nature—it comes to those knowing their need, not to those proud of their knowledge. Paul later emphasized this theme (1 Corinthians 1:26-29)—God chooses the foolish, weak, and lowly to shame the wise and strong, ensuring no human boasting.
Reflection
- What does God hiding truth from the wise while revealing it to babes teach about intellectual pride versus humble receptivity?
- How does this prayer demonstrate God's sovereign grace in choosing to reveal truth to whom He pleases?
Word Studies
- Spirit: πνεῦμα (Pneuma) G4151 - Spirit, wind, breath
Cross-References
- References Jesus: Matthew 16:17, 21:16
- References Lord: Isaiah 66:1
- Good: Ephesians 1:5
- Parallel theme: Psalms 8:2, Isaiah 29:14, 53:11, Mark 10:15, 2 Corinthians 4:3, Ephesians 1:11