Luke 6:14
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 6:14
14 Simon, (whom he also named Peter,) and Andrew his brother, James and John, Philip and Bartholomew,
Chapter Context
Luke 6 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of prayer, discipleship, 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 21-49: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. 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 6:14
14 Simon, (whom he also named Peter,) and Andrew his brother, James and John, Philip and Bartholomew,
Analysis
Simon whom he also named Peter and Andrew his brother James and John Philip and Bartholomew. List of twelve begins. Simon Simōn Jewish name. Named Peter Petros rock. Andrew Andreas Peter brother. James Iakōbos son of Zebedee. John Iōannēs James brother beloved disciple. Philip Philippos. Bartholomew Bartholomaios likely Nathanael. Jesus renamed Simon Peter prophetic rock solid foundation. Twelve named specifically. Personalities backgrounds varied. Peter leader spokesman. John beloved disciple. James first martyr. Ordinary men extraordinary calling. Reformed theology emphasizes God uses weak things confound mighty. Apostles not qualified by education pedigree but by divine calling.
Historical Context
Twelve apostles diverse backgrounds. Peter Andrew James John fishermen. Matthew tax collector. Simon Zealot revolutionary. Judas Iscariot betrayer. Most Galileans blue collar workers. Not educated elite but ordinary. This pattern continues Acts uneducated unlearned men amazed authorities (4:13). God chooses weak foolish base things (1 Cor 1:27-29). Paul educated but emphasized weakness boasted in weakness. Early church leadership from all classes. Medieval church educated elite. Reformation priesthood all believers lay people valued. Modern church debates credentialism versus gifting. Biblical pattern God equips whom He calls.
Reflection
- What does diverse backgrounds of apostles teach about who God calls to ministry?
- How does Jesus choosing ordinary uneducated men challenge modern credentialism in ministry?
Cross-References
- References Peter: Matthew 4:18, Acts 1:13
- References John: Matthew 4:21