Luke 11:50
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 11:50
50 That the blood of all the prophets, which was shed from the foundation of the world, may be required of this generation;
Chapter Context
Luke 11 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of wisdom, judgment, mercy. 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 11:50
50 That the blood of all the prophets, which was shed from the foundation of the world, may be required of this generation;
Analysis
That the blood of all the prophets, which was shed from the foundation of the world, may be required of this generation (ἵνα ἐκζητηθῇ τὸ αἷμα πάντων τῶν προφητῶν τὸ ἐκκεχυμένον ἀπὸ καταβολῆς κόσμου ἀπὸ τῆς γενεᾶς ταύτης)—Jesus pronounces climactic judgment: ekzēteō (required, demanded) suggests judicial reckoning. The blood of 'all the prophets' shed apo katabolēs kosmou (from the foundation of the world) will be charged to tēs geneas tautēs (this generation). This generation's guilt encompasses all accumulated prophetic martyrdom.
This shocking verdict operates on covenant continuity—Jesus's generation represents Israel's final opportunity before destruction. Their rejection of Messiah completes Israel's pattern of prophetic rejection, bringing accumulated judgment. Matthew 23:36 parallels: 'All these things shall come upon this generation.' AD 70's temple destruction fulfilled this prophecy—the generation that rejected Christ witnessed Jerusalem's fall.
Historical Context
Jesus spoke this in approximately AD 30; Jerusalem fell in AD 70. The generation that heard Jesus preach witnessed catastrophic judgment—temple destruction, mass crucifixions, enslavement. Josephus's account of the siege confirms horrific fulfillment. The lawyers' unbelief culminated in national disaster, validating Jesus's prophetic warning.
Reflection
- How does accumulated covenant unfaithfulness affect corporate judgment—can nations store up wrath across generations?
- What does this teach about historical responsibility—how does this generation's response to Christ affect coming generations?
- How should awareness of impending judgment affect the urgency of gospel proclamation in your context?
Word Studies
- Blood: αἷμα (Haima) G129 - Blood
Cross-References
- Blood: 2 Kings 24:4