Luke 9:57
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 9:57
57 And it came to pass, that, as they went in the way, a certain man said unto him, Lord, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest.
Chapter Context
Luke 9 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of covenant, wisdom, mercy. 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 21-62: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. 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 9:57
57 And it came to pass, that, as they went in the way, a certain man said unto him, Lord, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest.
Analysis
And it came to pass, that, as they went in the way (ἐν τῇ ὁδῷ, en tē hodō)—Luke introduces three would-be disciples encountered on the way to Jerusalem, where Jesus goes to die. The 'way' (ὁδός) becomes a metaphor for discipleship itself, the path of following Christ to the cross. A certain man said unto him, Lord, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest (ἀκολουθήσω σοι ὅπου ἐὰν ἀπέρχῃ, akolouthēsō soi hopou ean aperchē)—the man offers unconditional, unlimited commitment.
His enthusiasm appears admirable: 'anywhere you go, I'll go.' But Jesus perceives the shallowness beneath bold promises. The man hasn't counted the cost. He imagines following Jesus to glory, not Gethsemane; to coronation, not crucifixion. Jesus will test his resolve by describing discipleship's hardships (9:58), warning that the path leads to homelessness, rejection, and suffering. Enthusiasm without understanding makes poor disciples. The kingdom requires not just willingness to follow anywhere, but readiness to follow to Calvary.
Historical Context
Traveling teachers typically attracted disciples who provided for their master's needs in exchange for instruction. This cultural pattern expected comfortable arrangements—lodging, meals, patronage. Jesus's response (9:58) would shatter these expectations. Unlike other rabbis who enjoyed hospitality and support networks, following Jesus meant embracing material insecurity and social rejection. The cost of discipleship exceeded normal rabbinic apprenticeship.
Reflection
- What does the contrast between this man's enthusiastic promise and Jesus's sobering response teach about the danger of emotional commitment without careful consideration of the cost?
- How does the setting 'on the way' to Jerusalem (where Jesus will die) frame all three discipleship encounters as tests of willingness to follow Christ to suffering, not just success?
Word Studies
- Lord: Κύριος (Kurios) G2962 - Lord, Master
Cross-References
- References Lord: Exodus 19:8, John 13:37