Luke 20:27
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 20:27
27 Then came to him certain of the Sadducees, which deny that there is any resurrection; and they asked him,
Chapter Context
Luke 20 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of grace, worship, judgment. 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 21-47: 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 20:27
27 Then came to him certain of the Sadducees, which deny that there is any resurrection; and they asked him,
Analysis
Then came to him certain of the Sadducees, which deny that there is any resurrection (Σαδδουκαῖοι λέγοντες ἀνάστασιν μὴ εἶναι, Saddoukaioi legontes anastasin mē einai)—Luke introduces the Sadducees by their defining denial. The ἀνάστασις (anastasis, 'resurrection') refers to bodily resurrection at the end of the age, which Sadducees rejected, accepting only the Torah (not Prophets or Writings) as authoritative.
After Pharisees and Herodians failed with the tax question, the Sadducees—aristocratic priests who controlled the temple—try a different angle. Their question will attempt to make resurrection doctrine appear absurd through reductio ad absurdum. The theological coalition against Jesus is comprehensive: every major Jewish faction seeks to discredit him.
Historical Context
Sadducees were the priestly aristocracy, including the high priest's family, who collaborated with Rome and controlled temple operations. Unlike Pharisees, they rejected oral tradition, belief in angels, spirits, and bodily resurrection (Acts 23:8). They accepted only the five books of Moses. Most disappeared after the temple's destruction in AD 70.
Reflection
- Why does denial of resurrection naturally lead to different priorities and values in this life?
- How do theological denials often stem from philosophical commitments rather than biblical exegesis?
- What does it reveal that every Jewish faction united against Jesus despite their mutual disagreements?
Word Studies
- Resurrection: ἀνάστασις (Anastasis) G386 - Resurrection, rising
Cross-References
- Resurrection: Matthew 16:1, 1 Corinthians 15:12
- Parallel theme: Acts 5:17