Luke 23:46
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 23:46
46 And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit: and having said thus, he gave up the ghost.
Chapter Context
Luke 23 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of worship, love, creation. 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 21-56: 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 23:46
46 And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit: and having said thus, he gave up the ghost.
Analysis
Jesus' final words: 'Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit: and having said thus, he gave up the ghost.' The prayer quotes Psalm 31:5, a bedtime prayer of trust. Jesus consciously, voluntarily surrendered His spirit—He wasn't killed; He laid down His life (John 10:18). The address 'Father' maintains intimate relationship even in death. 'Commend' (Greek 'paratithēmi,' παρατίθημι) means to deposit for safekeeping—Jesus entrusts His spirit to the Father's care. 'Gave up the ghost' (Greek 'exepneusen,' ἐξέπνευσεν, breathed out) indicates Jesus' voluntary death. This peaceful surrender contrasts His earlier agony, showing mission accomplished, atonement complete.
Historical Context
Jesus' quoting Psalm 31:5 showed His trust in the Father even through death. His death occurred after six hours on the cross (noon to 3pm darkness, v. 44). The centurion witnessing this declared, 'Certainly this was a righteous man' (v. 47), recognizing something extraordinary. Jesus' voluntary death fulfilled His prediction that no one takes His life from Him—He lays it down (John 10:18). The torn temple veil (v. 45) symbolized access to God opened through Jesus' death. His peaceful surrender into the Father's hands models believers' death—we entrust our spirits to God, confident of resurrection.
Reflection
- What does Jesus' voluntary surrender of His spirit teach about His death as willing sacrifice rather than tragic murder?
- How does Jesus' quoting Psalm 31:5 and commending His spirit to the Father model trust for believers facing death?
Word Studies
- Spirit: πνεῦμα (Pneuma) G4151 - Spirit, wind, breath
Cross-References
- Spirit: Psalms 31:5, John 19:30, Acts 7:59
- Parallel theme: 1 Peter 2:23