Luke 24:39
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 24:39
39 Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself: handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have.
Chapter Context
Luke 24 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of holiness, obedience, faith. 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 21-53: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. 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 24:39
39 Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself: handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have.
Analysis
Jesus proves His physicality: 'Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself: handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have' (ἴδετε τὰς χεῖράς μου καὶ τοὺς πόδας μου ὅτι ἐγώ εἰμι αὐτός· ψηλαφήσατέ με καὶ ἴδετε, ὅτι πνεῦμα σάρκα καὶ ὀστέα οὐκ ἔχει καθὼς ἐμὲ θεωρεῖτε ἔχοντα). Jesus commands them to look (ἴδετε) and handle (ψηλαφήσατέ, touch/feel). His emphasis on 'flesh and bones' (σάρκα καὶ ὀστέα) contradicts both ancient and modern theories that resurrection was merely spiritual. The nail-pierced hands and feet prove continuity with the crucified Jesus—the risen Lord bears His wounds eternally, testifying to His sacrifice.
Historical Context
The disciples' initial fear (v.37, thinking they saw a spirit/ghost) was natural—they knew Jesus had died. His insistence on physical resurrection countered Greek philosophical dualism that despised the body and expected only spiritual immortality. Gnostic heresies later denied Christ's physical resurrection; John's first epistle combats this (1 John 1:1-3). The apostles' preaching emphasized bodily resurrection (Acts 2:31-32, 1 Corinthians 15:3-8). Jesus then ate fish (vv.42-43), further demonstrating physicality. Christianity's unique doctrine of bodily resurrection was offensive to Greeks (Acts 17:32) but essential to gospel hope.
Reflection
- Why is the physicality of Jesus' resurrection essential to Christian faith and hope?
- How does Christ's bearing of His wounds eternally comfort believers and shape our understanding of suffering?
Word Studies
- Spirit: πνεῦμα (Pneuma) G4151 - Spirit, wind, breath
Cross-References
- Spirit: Numbers 16:22, Ecclesiastes 12:7, 1 Thessalonians 5:23, Hebrews 12:9
- Parallel theme: John 20:20, 20:27, 1 John 1:1