Luke 18:32
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 18:32
32 For he shall be delivered unto the Gentiles, and shall be mocked, and spitefully entreated, and spitted on:
Chapter Context
Luke 18 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of holiness, judgment, 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 provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. 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 18:32
32 For he shall be delivered unto the Gentiles, and shall be mocked, and spitefully entreated, and spitted on:
Analysis
He shall be delivered unto the Gentiles (παραδοθήσεται τοῖς ἔθνεσιν, paradothēsetai tois ethnesin)—The verb paradidōmi (to hand over, betray) appears throughout the passion narrative. Ironically, God's chosen people will deliver their Messiah to pagans for execution—a prophetic reversal. Roman crucifixion, a Gentile penalty, was considered so shameful that Jewish law forbade it for Israelites.
Mocked, and spitefully entreated, and spitted on (ἐμπαιχθήσεται καὶ ὑβρισθήσεται καὶ ἐμπτυσθήσεται, empaichthēsetai kai hubristhēsetai kai emptusthēsetai)—three future passive verbs detailing progressive humiliation. Empaizō (to mock) involves the crown of thorns and purple robe. Hubrizō (to treat insolently) appears in the physical abuse. Spitting was considered the ultimate indignity in Mediterranean culture, defiling the victim's honor. Isaiah 50:6 prophesied: 'I gave my back to the smiters, and my cheeks to them that plucked off the hair: I hid not my face from shame and spitting.'
Historical Context
Roman soldiers routinely brutalized condemned criminals, but the mockery of Jesus as 'king' was uniquely ironic—they unwittingly proclaimed truth while meaning insult. The Jewish leaders handed Jesus to Pilate precisely because they lacked authority to execute (John 18:31), fulfilling Jesus's prediction of Gentile involvement.
Reflection
- How does Jesus's willingness to endure mockery and shame reveal the depth of His love for humanity?
- What does the Gentile involvement in the crucifixion signify about the universal scope of human sinfulness and redemption?
- How should knowing Christ endured such humiliation shape our response to personal dishonor or ridicule for faith?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Luke 23:11, Isaiah 50:6, 52:14, 53:3, Micah 5:1, Matthew 16:21