Luke 18:33
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 18:33
33 And they shall scourge him, and put him to death: and the third day he shall rise again.
Chapter Context
Luke 18 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of discipleship, truth, wisdom. 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 contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. 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 18:33
33 And they shall scourge him, and put him to death: and the third day he shall rise again.
Analysis
They shall scourge him, and put him to death (μαστιγώσαντες ἀποκτενοῦσιν, mastigōsantes apoktenousin)—Mastigoō refers to the Roman flagellum, a whip embedded with bone and metal designed to flay flesh. Scourging often killed victims before crucifixion. Apokteinō (to kill) is blunt—Jesus doesn't euphemize His death.
And the third day he shall rise again (τῇ ἡμέρᾳ τῇ τρίτῃ ἀναστήσεται, tē hēmera tē tritē anastēsetai)—the resurrection isn't an afterthought but the climax. Anistēmi (to rise, stand up) in the future middle voice suggests Jesus will raise Himself (cf. John 10:18: 'I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again'). The 'third day' fulfills Hosea 6:2 ('After two days will he revive us: in the third day he will raise us up') and establishes Christianity's central claim: death is not defeat but the doorway to victory.
Historical Context
The third-day timeline distinguishes Jesus's resurrection from resuscitation. In Jewish thought, the soul lingered near the body for three days; after that, decay set in (John 11:39). Jesus's resurrection on the third day proves genuine death occurred, making His return to life irrefutable miracle, not near-death recovery.
Reflection
- Why is the resurrection essential to Christian faith, and what would be lost if Jesus only died nobly?
- How does Jesus's prediction of resurrection demonstrate His authority over death itself?
- What comfort does the 'third day' pattern offer believers facing 'death'—whether literal or metaphorical darkness?
Cross-References
- Resurrection: Luke 24:7, Matthew 16:21, 27:63
- Parallel theme: Luke 24:21