Luke 24:6
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 24:6
6 He is not here, but is risen: remember how he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee,
Chapter Context
Luke 24 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of truth, love, grace. 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 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 24:6
6 He is not here, but is risen: remember how he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee,
Analysis
The angels continue: 'He is not here, but is risen: remember how he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee' (οὐκ ἔστιν ὧδε, ἀλλ᾽ ἠγέρθη· μνήσθητε ὡς ἐλάλησεν ὑμῖν ἔτι ὢν ἐν τῇ Γαλιλαίᾳ). The passive 'ēgerthē' (ἠγέρθη, is risen) indicates divine action—God raised Jesus (Acts 2:24, Romans 6:4). The command 'mnēsthēte' (μνήσθητε, remember) calls them to recall Jesus' predictions, demonstrating Scripture's fulfillment and divine plan. That angels direct women to remember Jesus' words elevates their testimony and establishes them as first witnesses. The resurrection vindicates Jesus' claims, validates His atoning death, and guarantees believers' future resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:20-23).
Historical Context
Jesus had predicted His death and resurrection multiple times (Luke 9:22, 44, 18:31-33), but disciples failed to understand. Now, post-resurrection, angels help them connect prediction to fulfillment. In ancient Near Eastern culture, women's testimony was often discounted (they could not testify in court), making Jesus' choice of women as first witnesses remarkable. Luke emphasizes this: Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary mother of James, and 'other women' (v.10) became the first evangelists, though the eleven considered their words 'idle tales' (v.11) initially.
Reflection
- How does the command to remember Jesus' words emphasize the importance of Scripture and fulfilled prophecy in faith?
- What does Jesus' choice of women as first resurrection witnesses teach about the gospel's reversal of worldly status and honor?
Cross-References
- Resurrection: Luke 9:22, Matthew 16:21, 27:63, 28:6, Mark 8:31
- Parallel theme: Luke 9:44, Matthew 12:40