Luke 11:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 11:2
2 And he said unto them, When ye pray, say, Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth.
Chapter Context
Luke 11 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of obedience, sacrifice, prayer. 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 21-54: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. 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 11:2
2 And he said unto them, When ye pray, say, Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth.
Analysis
Jesus teaches: 'When ye pray, say, Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth.' This prayer model begins with 'Our Father'—intimate relationship, not distant deity. 'Hallowed be thy name' (Greek 'hagiasthētō,' ἁγιασθήτω, let it be sanctified) prioritizes God's glory—His name, character, and reputation. 'Thy kingdom come' requests God's reign advancing. 'Thy will be done' submits to divine sovereignty. The pattern moves from God's glory (name, kingdom, will) to human needs (daily bread, forgiveness, temptation). Prayer begins with God-focus, not self-focus.
Historical Context
Jewish prayers emphasized God's sovereignty and holiness but typically addressed God more formally. Jesus' use of 'Father' (Aramaic 'Abba') was unusual, indicating intimate relationship. The Lord's Prayer became the church's foundational prayer, teaching proper priorities (God first, then needs) and proper attitude (humble dependence). The phrase 'Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth' requests earth to mirror heaven's perfect obedience. This prayer shaped Christian liturgy and spiritual formation for two millennia, teaching that authentic prayer worships God before requesting anything.
Reflection
- What does beginning prayer with 'Our Father' rather than immediate requests teach about prayer's proper focus and attitude?
- How does the structure of the Lord's Prayer (God's glory first, then human needs) correct self-centered prayer patterns?
Word Studies
- Heaven: οὐρανός (Ouranos) G3772 - Heaven, sky
Cross-References
- Kingdom: 2 Chronicles 20:6, Revelation 20:4
- Parallel theme: Psalms 11:4, 57:11, Ecclesiastes 5:2, Isaiah 63:16, 1 Corinthians 1:3, 2 Corinthians 1:2