Luke 20:28
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 20:28
28 Saying, Master, Moses wrote unto us, If any man's brother die, having a wife, and he die without children, that his brother should take his wife, and raise up seed unto his brother.
Chapter Context
Luke 20 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of love, wisdom, obedience. 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 foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. 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 20:28
28 Saying, Master, Moses wrote unto us, If any man's brother die, having a wife, and he die without children, that his brother should take his wife, and raise up seed unto his brother.
Analysis
Master, Moses wrote unto us—The Sadducees cite Moses (Deuteronomy 25:5-6), their only accepted Scripture. If any man's brother die, having a wife, and he die without children, that his brother should take his wife, and raise up seed unto his brother—the law of levirate marriage (from Latin levir, 'brother-in-law'). The Greek describes ἀναστήσῃ σπέρμα (anastēsē sperma), literally 'raise up seed.'
This law protected childless widows and preserved family inheritance within tribes. The brother's duty ensured the deceased man's name and property line continued. The Sadducees will use this honored Mosaic institution to construct a scenario they believe makes resurrection impossible or absurd.
Historical Context
Levirate marriage (yibbum in Hebrew) appears in Genesis 38 (Tamar and Judah's sons) and Ruth 4 (Boaz and Ruth). It was practiced but not universal in Second Temple Judaism. The duty could be refused through the ceremony of chalitzah (removing the sandal). The institution protected women in patriarchal society where widows without sons faced destitution.
Reflection
- How does levirate marriage reveal God's concern for the vulnerable (widows) within Israel's social structure?
- When have you used Scripture correctly cited but wrongly applied to attack rather than understand?
- Why do theological opponents often begin with common ground before springing their trap?
Cross-References
- Resurrection: Genesis 38:8