Luke 19:31
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 19:31
31 And if any man ask you, Why do ye loose him? thus shall ye say unto him, Because the Lord hath need of him.
Chapter Context
Luke 19 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of truth, wisdom, discipleship. 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 21-48: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. 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 19:31
31 And if any man ask you, Why do ye loose him? thus shall ye say unto him, Because the Lord hath need of him.
Analysis
Because the Lord hath need of him (ὁ κύριος αὐτοῦ χρείαν ἔχει, ho kyrios autou chreian echei)—this striking phrase reveals Jesus's divine prerogative. Lord (κύριος, kyrios) is the title used for both human masters and divine sovereignty. The phrase could mean 'its master needs it' or 'the Lord needs it,' creating deliberate ambiguity that Jesus's disciples would understand christologically.
The sovereign God who owns 'the cattle on a thousand hills' (Psalm 50:10) here asserts His right to requisition what is His. Yet He does so with courtesy through His messengers, modeling how divine authority respects human property even while superseding it. This anticipates how Christ later taught His disciples to give to Caesar what is Caesar's—while implicitly claiming all things as His own.
Historical Context
In the Roman Empire, military and governmental officials had the right of 'angaria'—requisitioning animals or supplies for official use. Jesus exercises a higher authority, claiming the colt not by Roman law but by messianic right. The phrase would simultaneously identify Jesus to the owner (who may have been a disciple or sympathizer) while asserting His lordship.
Reflection
- What does Christ's 'need' of the colt teach about how divine sovereignty relates to ordinary human possessions?
- How should Jesus's example here shape your attitude toward lending or giving your resources for Kingdom purposes?
- In what sense does Jesus, who created all things, 'need' anything from His creatures?
Word Studies
- Lord: Κύριος (Kurios) G2962 - Lord, Master
Cross-References
- References Lord: Psalms 24:1