Luke 5:35
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 5:35
35 But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them, and then shall they fast in those days.
Chapter Context
Luke 5 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of grace, hope, covenant. 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 21-39: 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 5:35
35 But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them, and then shall they fast in those days.
Analysis
Days will come when bridegroom shall be taken away then shall they fast. Days hēmerai future time. Will come eleusontai inevitable. Bridegroom nymphios Christ. Taken away aparthē forcibly removed. Then tote at that time. Fast nēsteusousin abstain. Predicts His death departure. Bride groom removed is death metaphor. Disciples will mourn fast after crucifixion. Until resurrection they fasted mourned. Between ascension and return church fasts longing for return. Already not yet kingdom tension. Christ has come but not yet returned. Church lives in interim between advents. Reformed theology emphasizes inaugurated eschatology. Kingdom already here not yet consummated.
Historical Context
Jesus predicts death even at beginning ministry. Disciples did not understand. After crucifixion they mourned. Between crucifixion resurrection they fasted in sorrow. After ascension early church fasted not in sorrow but in longing for return. Maranatha Come Lord Jesus. Fasting became spiritual discipline seeking God anticipating return. Not meritorious but means of grace. Modern church varies widely in fasting practice. Some neglect entirely others make legalistic. Biblical balance sees fasting as voluntary discipline expressing longing for God earnest seeking not earning favor.
Reflection
- How does prediction of bridegroom being taken away point to Christ death and disciples future mourning?
- What does already not yet tension between Christ first and second coming mean for church practice of fasting?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Luke 17:22