Luke 11:49
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 11:49
49 Therefore also said the wisdom of God, I will send them prophets and apostles, and some of them they shall slay and persecute:
Chapter Context
Luke 11 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, hope, salvation. 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 reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. 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 11:49
49 Therefore also said the wisdom of God, I will send them prophets and apostles, and some of them they shall slay and persecute:
Analysis
Therefore also said the wisdom of God, I will send them prophets and apostles, and some of them they shall slay and persecute (διὰ τοῦτο καὶ ἡ σοφία τοῦ θεοῦ εἶπεν, Ἀποστελῶ εἰς αὐτοὺς προφήτας καὶ ἀποστόλους, καὶ ἐξ αὐτῶν ἀποκτενοῦσιν καὶ ἐκδιώξουσιν)—Jesus quotes 'the wisdom of God' (hē sophia tou theou), possibly referring to lost Scripture, Jesus's own wisdom, or personified divine wisdom (cf. Proverbs 8). God will send prophētas kai apostolous (prophets and apostles)—the prophets pointed to Messiah, the apostles proclaimed him. Both groups face apokteinō (killing) and ekdiōkō (persecution).
This verse is prophetic: Jesus predicts his apostles' persecution (Acts documents this fulfillment). God's sending prophets knowing they'll be killed demonstrates divine sovereignty working through human rebellion. The pattern of prophetic rejection culminates in rejecting God's Son (Luke 20:9-15), yet God uses even this rejection to accomplish redemption.
Historical Context
First-century Judaism recognized a 'prophetic office' extending from Moses through Malachi, with expectation of eschatological prophets (Elijah, the Prophet like Moses). Jesus adds 'apostles'—his authorized messengers who will establish the church. Both groups faced systematic opposition from religious authorities, as Acts chronicles.
Reflection
- How does God's foreknowledge of prophetic rejection and martyrdom inform your understanding of suffering in ministry?
- What does this passage teach about God's sovereignty over human rebellion—using opposition to accomplish his purposes?
- How should knowing that apostles and prophets were persecuted shape expectations for faithful Christian witness today?
Word Studies
- Prophet: προφήτης (Prophētēs) G4396 - Prophet
Cross-References
- Prophecy: Ephesians 4:11
- References God: 1 Corinthians 1:24, 1:30
- Parallel theme: Colossians 2:3