Luke 6:15
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 6:15
15 Matthew and Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon called Zelotes,
Chapter Context
Luke 6 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of prayer, holiness, sacrifice. 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 6:15
15 Matthew and Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon called Zelotes,
Analysis
Matthew and Thomas James son of Alphaeus and Simon called Zelotes. Matthew Matthaion Levi tax collector. Thomas Thōmas doubting Thomas. James Iakōbos son of Alphaeus. Simon Simōn. Zelotes Zēlōtēs Zealot revolutionary. Continued list. Matthew despised tax collector. Simon Zealot anti-Rome revolutionary. Polar opposites united in Christ. Zealots used violence overthrow Rome. Tax collectors collaborated with Rome. Jesus brings together enemies. Gospel transcends political divisions. Reformed theology emphasizes unity in Christ crosses all barriers. Church should transcend political tribal national divisions.
Historical Context
Zealots were revolutionary party seeking overthrow Rome violently. Simon former Zealot. Matthew former tax collector Roman collaborator. Natural enemies. Yet both followed Jesus. Gospel reconciles enemies. Paul Ephesians 2 breaks down dividing wall Jews Gentiles one in Christ. Early church crossed all barriers slave free male female Jew Greek. Modern church often divided politically culturally. Need recover gospel unity transcending divisions. Not uniformity but unity in Christ amid diversity. Political allegiances must not divide church. Christ supersedes all.
Reflection
- How does Jesus choosing both tax collector and Zealot demonstrate gospel power to unite enemies?
- What does apostolic diversity teach about church transcending political cultural divisions?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Matthew 9:9, Mark 3:18, Acts 1:13