He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: ‘The Son of Man must be delivered over to the hands of sinners, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.’ ”
Luke 24:6-7
Luke 24:6-7 is a powerful passage that encapsulates the essence of the Christian faith – the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the message of hope it brings. To fully understand the context and meaning of these verses, we must explore the historical events and theological significance behind them.
Luke 24 records the account of the resurrection of Jesus, which is the cornerstone of Christian belief. In verses 1-5, we see that the women who went to the tomb of Jesus on the third day after his crucifixion found the tomb empty. Two angels appeared to them and said, “Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; he has risen!” (Luke 24:5-6).
Then, in verses 6-7, the angels continue, “Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: ‘The Son of Man must be delivered over to the hands of sinners, be crucified and on the third day be raised again'” (Luke 24:6-7).
These words from the angels highlight the fulfillment of Jesus’ prophecies about his death and resurrection. They remind the women of Jesus’ own words, spoken during his ministry, that he would be crucified but would rise again on the third day. The resurrection of Jesus is the pinnacle of the Gospel message, demonstrating God’s power over sin and death, and validating Jesus as the Son of God and the promised Messiah.
The theological significance of Luke 24:6-7 is profound. It proclaims the victorious reality of Jesus’ resurrection, which is central to the Christian faith. It also conveys the message of hope and reassurance that Jesus’ followers can have in the face of difficulties and challenges. It reminds believers that Jesus’ death and resurrection provide the ultimate solution to humanity’s sin problem, offering forgiveness, salvation, and eternal life to all who believe in him.
Furthermore, Luke 24:6-7 underscores the importance of trusting in Jesus’ words and promises. Just as Jesus’ prophecies about his resurrection came true, his other promises, such as his promise to never leave nor forsake his followers (Hebrews 13:5), can be fully trusted and relied upon.
In conclusion, Luke 24:6-7 encapsulates the heart of the Christian faith – the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the message of hope it brings. It reminds us of the fulfillment of Jesus’ prophecies, the power of God over sin and death, and the assurance of salvation through faith in Jesus. Let us be encouraged by this powerful message of hope and continue to trust in Jesus’ words and promises in our daily lives.
