Luke 7:14
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 7:14
14 And he came and touched the bier: and they that bare him stood still. And he said, Young man, I say unto thee, Arise.
Chapter Context
Luke 7 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, love, truth. 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 21-50: 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 7:14
14 And he came and touched the bier: and they that bare him stood still. And he said, Young man, I say unto thee, Arise.
Analysis
Jesus commanded the dead man: 'Young man, I say unto thee, Arise.' The Greek 'egerthēti' (ἐγέρθητι, be raised, passive imperative) is the same word used for resurrection. Jesus spoke with authority over death itself—His word raised the dead. The dead man 'sat up, and began to speak,' confirming genuine resurrection, not resuscitation of someone nearly dead. Jesus 'delivered him to his mother,' showing concern for relationship restoration, not merely performing a miracle. This demonstrates Jesus' authority over death and His compassion for human grief.
Historical Context
This is the first of three resurrection miracles in Luke's gospel (also Jairus' daughter, Luke 8:49-56; and implied Lazarus, referenced in John 11). Old Testament prophets performed resurrections (1 Kings 17:17-24, 2 Kings 4:32-37, 2 Kings 13:21), but Jesus' simple command—no elaborate ritual, no prayer, just authoritative word—demonstrated superior power. The crowd's response ('A great prophet is risen among us; God hath visited his people,' v. 16) recognized this miracle's significance. Resurrection power validated Jesus' messianic claims and foreshadowed His own resurrection, the ultimate defeat of death.
Reflection
- What does Jesus' simple command raising the dead reveal about His divine authority over death itself?
- How do Jesus' resurrection miracles foreshadow His own resurrection and ultimate victory over death?
Cross-References
- Resurrection: Job 14:12, Isaiah 26:19, John 5:21, 11:25
- Parallel theme: 1 Kings 17:21, Job 14:14, Psalms 33:9, John 5:25, Romans 4:17