Luke 18:31
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 18:31
31 Then he took unto him the twelve, and said unto them, Behold, we go up to Jerusalem, and all things that are written by the prophets concerning the Son of man shall be accomplished.
Chapter Context
Luke 18 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of holiness, faith, covenant. 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 21-43: 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 18:31
31 Then he took unto him the twelve, and said unto them, Behold, we go up to Jerusalem, and all things that are written by the prophets concerning the Son of man shall be accomplished.
Analysis
Behold, we go up to Jerusalem (ἰδοὺ ἀναβαίνομεν εἰς Ἰερουσαλήμ, idou anabainomen eis Ierousalēm)—This is Jesus's third and most detailed passion prediction in Luke. The present tense anabainomen (we are going up) conveys both immediacy and inevitability. Jerusalem sits at 2,500 feet elevation; 'going up' was literal, but also theological—the city where prophets die (13:33).
All things that are written by the prophets concerning the Son of man shall be accomplished (τελεσθήσεται πάντα τὰ γεγραμμένα, telesthēsetai panta ta gegrammena)—the future passive telesthēsetai (will be fulfilled/completed) appears in John 19:30 as Jesus's final word ('It is finished'). This isn't tragedy but divine purpose: Isaiah 53's suffering servant, Psalm 22's forsaken one, Zechariah 12:10's pierced one. Jesus controls the narrative by predicting it, demonstrating His mission isn't derailed by suffering but fulfilled through it.
Historical Context
Written during Luke's composition (c. AD 60-80), this prediction would resonate with readers who knew the crucifixion's outcome. The journey to Jerusalem dominates Luke 9:51-19:27—Jesus walks deliberately toward the cross, teaching disciples about suffering's necessity for both Messiah and followers.
Reflection
- How does Jesus's foreknowledge of His suffering demonstrate both His divinity and His voluntary sacrifice?
- Which specific Old Testament prophecies does this verse invoke, and how does their fulfillment validate Scripture's reliability?
- What does Jesus's determination to go to Jerusalem despite knowing the outcome teach about obedience to God's will?
Word Studies
- Prophet: προφήτης (Prophētēs) G4396 - Prophet
Cross-References
- References Jerusalem: Luke 9:51, Matthew 16:21
- Parallel theme: Luke 9:22, Daniel 9:26, Zechariah 13:7, Mark 8:9