Luke 8
Hendriksen-8 1 3 2 -9 1 0 0 0 0 13 96 -9 2 0 0 2 0 1 RVStyle2 7 StyleNameNormal textFontNameArialUnicode Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaUnicode Size Standard StyleNameJumpFontNameTahomaStylefsUnderlineColorclBlue HoverColorclMaroonHoverEffects rvheUnderlineUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameHeading - Module name SizeDoubleFontNameTahomaColorclMaroonUnicode SizeStandard StyleName"Heading small - Module descriptionFontNameTahomaColorclMaroonUnicode Size Standard StyleNameHeading - LinkFontNameTahomaColorclNavy HoverColorclPurpleUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaStylefsUnderlineColorclBlueUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaColorclBlue HoverColorclMaroonNextStyleNoUnicode Jump Size -9 2 0 0 2 0 2 RVStyle2 jBiDiModervbdLeftToRightTabs StyleNameCentered Alignment rvaCenterTabsStandardTabs-9 2 0 0 2 0 4 RVStyle2 -9 0 0 0 0 0 7 1 19 2 8 0 0 CHAPTER VIII) Outline of Chapter 8) ) Theme: The Work Thou Gavest Him to Do) 8:1 3 Ministering Women) 8:4 8 The Parable of The Sower) 8:9, 10 The Purpose of the Parables) 8:11 15 Explanation of the Parable of The Sower) 8:16 18 Various Sayings of Jesus) 8:19 21 The Mother and the Brothers of Jesus) 8:22 25 A Tempest Stilled) 8:26 39 In the Land of the Gergesenes: Helpfulness over against Heartlessness) 8:40 56 the Restoration to Life of Jairus Daughter) and) The Healing of the Woman Who Touched Christ s Garment) ) 8:1 3 Ministering Women) 8 1 Soon afterward Jesus was traveling from town to town and from village to village, preaching and bringing the good news of the kingdom of God. The twelve (were) with him, 2 as (were) also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases: Mary called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had been expelled,��296�� 3 and Joanna wife of Chuza, the manager of Herod s household;��297�� Susanna, and many others. Out of their own resources these women were helping to support him.) ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.17-42.6.19|AUTODETECT|” It will be recalled that after ministering to large multitudes 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.17-42.6.19|AUTODETECT|” Luke 6:17 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) Jesus preached what is generally known as The Sermon on the Mount (6:20 49). He climaxed his sermon by demanding unshakable faith in himself, a faith that would demonstrate its genuine character by means of actions (6:46 49). This faith was exemplified by the centurion whose servant was at the point of death when Jesus healed him (7:1 10). Already dead, however, was the son of the widow of Nain, but Jesus brought him back to life (7:11 17). He performed many other deeds in which not only his power but also and emphatically his sympathy was revealed (7:22).) 1 3 2 8 0 0 John the Baptist, however, had predicted the fast approaching outpouring of wrath (3:7). He had pictured the Messiah as the One whose winnowing shovel is in his hand and who would thoroughly cleanse his threshing floor (3:17). It is entirely possible that hearing about Jesus deeds of mercy had something to do with the question John now asked, Are you the Coming One, or must we look for someone else? (7:18 20). How Jesus dealt with him is related in 7:21 35. By this time the Master had gained the reputation of being indeed a great prophet (7:16).) But was he, indeed, what he was reputed to be? It may well have been in order to discover the answer to this question that a certain Pharisee, named Simon, now invited Jesus to dinner.
In connection with that dinner the Great Physician of soul and body, the Merciful Highpriest, was anointed by a penitent woman. He pronounced her pardon, and (partly) by means of a parable administered a rebuke to self-righteous Simon (7:36 50).) The story of this woman, who had become a follower of Jesus, connects easily with that of other women who likewise had been befriended by him and had surrendered their lives to him (8:1 3).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.17-42.8.3|AUTODETECT|” All the material that has been briefly summarized here 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.17-42.8.3|AUTODETECT|” Luke 6:17 8:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) is lacking in Mark s Gospel. Beginning with the parable of The Sower (8:4) Luke returns to Mark.) 1 2 2 8 0 0
- Soon afterward Jesus was traveling from town to town and from village to village, preaching and bringing the good news of the kingdom of God.) As often, Luke is indefinite about time and place. He merely says (a) Soon afterward, that is, soon after the incident related at the close of the previous chapter; and (b) from town to town and from village to village, evidently in Galilee. When the trip to Jerusalem is about to take place, Luke will make specific mention of this (9:51).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.20|AUTODETECT|” It is true that this time, in contrast with 4:15, Luke makes no mention of synagogues. Does this mean, then, that, due to the opposition of the Jewish leaders, the opportunity to preach in the synagogue had been taken away from Jesus, so that he was now forced to do his speaking under the open sky? In view of several passages especially ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.20|AUTODETECT|” John 18:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.20|AUTODETECT|” this would seem to be an unwarranted conclusion. Not everything has to be spelled out. Wherever possible Jesus availed himself of the opportunity offered by the freedom of the synagogue. Besides ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.20|AUTODETECT|” John 18:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.9-40.12.14|AUTODETECT|” see also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.9-40.12.14|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 12:9 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.54-40.13.58|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.54-40.13.58|AUTODETECT|” 13:54 58) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.1-41.6.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.1-41.6.6|AUTODETECT|” Mark 6:1 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.15-42.4.30|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.15-42.4.30|AUTODETECT|” Luke 4:15 30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.31-42.4.37|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.31-42.4.37|AUTODETECT|” 31 37) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.6-42.6.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.6-42.6.11|AUTODETECT|” 6:6 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . But he was not limited to this means of communication.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 What is important is the fact that wherever it was that Jesus spoke, in whatever town or village, whether in a house, a synagogue, or outside, he was with enthusiasm and earnestness proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God for this concept see on 4:43. Over against the yoke of bondage to all kinds of man-made regulations, he was heralding the realm of grace in which God is King, and salvation is his free gift to all who trust in him.) The twelve (were) with him & This time mention is made not only of Simon (Peter), as in 4:38; 5:3 5, 8; or of Simon, James and John, as in 5:7 10; of Levi (= Matthew), as in 5:27 29, but of all twelve, as in 6:13 16.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.5.11|AUTODETECT|” The question is often asked, How were the physical needs of these thirteen men Jesus and The Twelve supplied? Shall we answer: Peter and Andrew, James and John, being fishermen, must have had some means of support; and Matthew, having been a tax-collector (publican), was probably well-to-do ? But does this answer do justice to such passages as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.5.11|AUTODETECT|” Luke 5:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.5.28|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.5.28|AUTODETECT|”
- 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.20|AUTODETECT|” ? Perhaps their families 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.20|AUTODETECT|” Mark 1:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.10|AUTODETECT|” ) continued to provide for them? The only real answers we have are contained in such passages as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.10|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 10:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.7|AUTODETECT|” Luke 10:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , and here in:) 1 3 2 8 0 0 2, 3. (The twelve were with him) as (were) also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases: Mary called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had been expelled, and Joanna wife of Chuza, the manager of Herod s household; Susanna, and many others. Out of their own resources these women were helping to support them.) These women, then, had been the objects of Christ s special care. Jesus had cured them of (a) evil spirits and (b) diseases. Note how carefully Dr. Luke distinguishes between the two, and see further on 4:33, 34. See also N.T.C. on Matt., pp. 436 438; and on Mark, pp. 64, 65.) It is important to observe that while Socrates, Aristotle, Demosthenes, the rabbis, and the men of the Qumran community held women in low esteem, Jesus, in harmony with the teaching of the Old Testament, assigns a place of high honor to them.
Moreover, it is especially in the Gospel According to Luke that the Savior s tender and profound regard for women is emphasized. See Introduction, point V D.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.55|AUTODETECT|” First among the women here mentioned is Mary called Magdalene; that is, Mary of Magdala (meaning The Tower) located on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee and south of Capernaum. She figures very prominently in all the four Passion accounts. She was one of the women who later: (a) watched the crucifixion 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.55|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 27:55) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.56|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.56|AUTODETECT|” 56) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.15.40|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.15.40|AUTODETECT|” Mark 15:40) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.19.25|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.19.25|AUTODETECT|” John 19:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.61|AUTODETECT|” ); (b) saw where Christ s body was laid 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.61|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 27:61) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.15.47|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.15.47|AUTODETECT|” Mark 15:47) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.55|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.55|AUTODETECT|” Luke 23:55) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.28.1|AUTODETECT|” ); and (c) very early Sunday morning started out from their homes in order to anoint the body of the Lord 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.28.1|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 28:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.16.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.16.1|AUTODETECT|” Mark 16:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.24.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.24.10|AUTODETECT|” Luke 24:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.1-43.20.18|AUTODETECT|” ). Besides, she was going to be the first person to whom the Risen Christ would appear 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.1-43.20.18|AUTODETECT|” John 20:1 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ; see also Mark s disputed ending, 16:9).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.33|AUTODETECT|” The item about the seven demons that had been expelled from Mary Magdalene has led to the wholly unjustifiable conclusion that she was at one time a very bad woman, a terribly immoral person. But there is not even an inkling of proof for the supposition that demon-possession and immorality go hand in hand. Weird and pitiable mental and/or physical behavior are, indeed, often associated with demon-possession 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.33|AUTODETECT|” Luke 4:33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.34|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.34|AUTODETECT|” 34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.27-42.8.29|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.27-42.8.29|AUTODETECT|” 8:27 29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.37-42.9.43|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.37-42.9.43|AUTODETECT|” 9:37 43) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , and parallels), not immorality.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.24.6|AUTODETECT|” As to Joanna wife of Chuza, manager of Herod s household, she, too, was among the women who were to hear the glad tidings, He is not here, but is risen 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.24.6|AUTODETECT|” Luke 24:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.24.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.24.10|AUTODETECT|” 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). The significance of Luke s reference to her has already been pointed out. See Introduction, points III B 6 and V D. It is Luke alone who refers to her (8:3; 24:10).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.3|AUTODETECT|” About Susanna, mentioned only here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.3|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , nothing further is known. Her name should not be forgotten, however. Her deeds of kindness toward her Lord and his disciples were pure and fragrant and accordingly resemble a beautiful lily (the meaning of her name).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 We are happy to read that in addition to the three women here mentioned there were many others. What we have here, therefore, is a genuine Ladies Aid.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.34|AUTODETECT|” The New Testament records the attitudes and deeds of certain foolish and sometimes even wicked girls and women, real or imagined 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.34|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 10:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.35|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.35|AUTODETECT|” 35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.14.1-40.14.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.14.1-40.14.12|AUTODETECT|” 14:1 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.2|AUTODETECT|” 25:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.3|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.3|AUTODETECT|” 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.1|AUTODETECT|” Acts 5:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.7-44.5.11|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.7-44.5.11|AUTODETECT|” 7 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.26|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.26|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 1:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.3.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.3.6|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 3:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.3.7|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.3.7|AUTODETECT|” 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.20-66.2.23|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.20-66.2.23|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 2:20 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.34-40.25.40|AUTODETECT|” ), so that the statement sometimes made, namely, that females never took a stand against Jesus or his cause is in need of careful circumscription. Nevertheless, it is a fact that, with very few exceptions, the girls and women mentioned or referred to in the New Testament were on the side of the Lord. By and large it is true that though Peter denied Christ, and Judas betrayed him, and Herod mocked him, and Pilate condemned him, the women honored him and ministered to his and to his disciples needs. To the extent to which they did this, the comforting words of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.34-40.25.40|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 25:34 40) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 are certainly applicable to them.��298��) 1 1 2 8 0 0 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.1-42.8.3|AUTODETECT|” Practical Lessons Derived from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.1-42.8.3|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:1 3) 1 1 2 8 0 0 In general the following three applications are immediately apparent:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=49.6.5-49.6.9|AUTODETECT|”
- Mention of Joanna, wife of Chuza, the manager of Herod s household, teaches us that the gospel should be brought to the manor as well as to the market place, to those in high positions as well as to those who perform menial tasks. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.5-49.6.9|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 6:5 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.22|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 4:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.9.36|AUTODETECT|”
- Scripture assigns a vital role to women, namely to be helpers, to serve 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.9.36|AUTODETECT|” Acts 9:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.16.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.16.14|AUTODETECT|” 16:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.16.15|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=44.16.15|AUTODETECT|”
- 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.16.40|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.16.40|AUTODETECT|”
- 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.18.26|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.18.26|AUTODETECT|” 18:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.1|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 16:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.2|AUTODETECT|”
- 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.2|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 4:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.3|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.3|AUTODETECT|”
- 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.1.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.1.5|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 1:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . See also N.T.C. on I and II Timothy and Titus, pp. 105 114, 132, 133, 172 179). To overestimate the value of a properly functioning Ladies Aid is almost impossible.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=19.50.15|AUTODETECT|”
- Women who had been cured & were helping to support the little group consisting of Jesus and The Twelve. Just as the rain that descends upon the earth to bless it leaps up again through the action of the sun and forms the clouds, so also the spiritual cycle the one mentioned in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.50.15|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 50:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.116.3-19.116.6|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.116.3-19.116.6|AUTODETECT|” 116:3 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.116.12-19.116.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.116.12-19.116.14|AUTODETECT|” 12 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 must be kept going. Blessings that descend from heaven must be returned in the form of sincere and humble thanksgiving!) 1 10 2 8 0 0 ) Notes on Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 8:1 3) Verse 1) �������, see the note on 1:3 on page 62.) ��������, third per. s. imperf. of �������**, to travel through.) ����, distributive use, as also in verse 4.) Verse 2) ���� ��������������, third per. pl. perf. pass. periphrastic of ��������, on which see the note on 4:23 on page 261. The participle, considered by itself, is nom. pl. fem.) ���������, third per. s. pluperf. of ��������.) Verse 3) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.8|AUTODETECT|” An �������� (cf. the verb �������) is someone to whom a responsibility or task has been turned over or entrusted; hence, depending on the context, a manager, steward, foreman, or guardian. See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.8|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 20:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.2|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 4:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.10|AUTODETECT|” ���������, third per. pl. imperf. indicat. act. (here progressive) of ��������, to serve, wait on, care for; here, help to support; sometimes: serve as a deacon 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.10|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 3:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.15.25|AUTODETECT|” ). See the note on 4:39 on page 271. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.15.25|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 15:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.6.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.6.10|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 6:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.32|AUTODETECT|” Note partitive use of �, followed by a noun in the genitive. Since the verb Q����� (see also verse 41) means to be, to be present, to be available or at one s disposal, it is not strange that �p Q�������� would indicate that which is at someone s disposal; hence, his goods, property, possessions. Moreover, those who speak about substance or economic underpinnings should experience no difficulty with the word Q�������� = Q�� and ���. In the Third Gospel see also 11:21; 12:15, 33, 44; 14:33; 16:1; 19:8; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.32|AUTODETECT|” Acts 4:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.19.21|AUTODETECT|” ; elsewhere in the New Testament see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.19.21|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 19:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.47|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.47|AUTODETECT|” 24:47) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.14|AUTODETECT|” 25:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.13.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.13.3|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 13:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.10.34|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.10.34|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 10:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 2 2 8 0 0 ) 8:4 8 The Parable of The Sower) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.1-40.13.9|AUTODETECT|” Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.1-40.13.9|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 13:1 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.1-41.4.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=41.4.1-41.4.9|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:1 9) 1 5 2 8 0 0 4 Now when a large throng was gathering and people from town after town��299�� were coming to Jesus, he said by way of parable:) 5 The sower went out to sow his seed. As he was sowing, some (seed) fell by the side of the path. It was trodden under foot, and the birds of the air gobbled it up. 6 Some fell on rock. As soon as it sprang up, it withered away because it had no moisture. 7 Some fell in the midst of the thorns. They shot up along with it and choked it off. 8 And some fell into good soil, grew up, and bore fruit, a hundredfold. ) While saying these things, he was crying out,��300�� He who has ears to hear, let him hear. ) ) Women had placed their trust in Jesus and his cause (8:1 3). In their case the Master s message had evoked the response of gratitude.
One might say, The seed sown had fallen into good soil. But could this be truly affirmed with respect to everyone who listened to Jesus as he spoke the words of life and beauty? In 8:4 8 the evangelist shows how Jesus himself answered that question.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.1-40.13.9|AUTODETECT|” The paragraph before us shows how plenary, organic, verbal inspiration operates. On the one hand it produces a beautiful and understandable report, free from all error and in thorough harmony with its parallels in Matthew and Mark. On the other hand it permits the human author to use his own style, in harmony with his own mental and spiritual equipment and purpose. Though throughout there is not even an inkling of real conflict between the three accounts 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.1-40.13.9|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 13:1 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.1-41.4.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.1-41.4.9|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:1 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.4-42.8.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.4-42.8.8|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:4 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), yet in not a single case does a verse in Luke exactly duplicate the corresponding verse in either of the other Gospels.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 Thus in verse 4 Luke omits the place where this parable was spoken (from a boat near the shore, according to Matthew and Mark). In this same verse, for in [or: by means of] parables Luke substitutes by way of parable. In verse 5 it is Luke alone who omits the introductory interjection Behold (thus literally), and at the end of that sentence adds his seed. In the next line of that same verse it is Luke alone who quotes the Master as telling the audience that the seed which fell along the path was trodden under foot, and that the birds of the air gobbled it up. In verse 6 the beloved physician represents Jesus as saying that the seed which fell on rock withered away for lack of moisture, and in verse 7 that the thorns there mentioned shot up along with the seed. Finally, in verse 8 Luke mentions only the hundredfold yield.
He omits any reference to smaller yields. There is no contradiction: Luke does not quote the Master as saying that all of that seed yielded a hundredfold! As happens repeatedly throughout this Gospel, the author abbreviates.) 4. Now when a large throng was gathering and people from town after town were coming to Jesus & Again a large crowd. Cf. 4:40, 42; 5:1, 3, 15, 19; 6:17 19; 7:11. In view of the Master s unique style of preaching and in view of his miracles, including even the raising of the dead, the gathering of this huge crowd is understandable.
The people had come from town after town. Today we would probably say, from ever so many places. Continued: he said by way of parable & From a boat near the shore Jesus, making use of parables, addresses the vast multitude.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.47-42.6.49|AUTODETECT|” This was not the first time Jesus made use of an earthly story with a heavenly meaning. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.47-42.6.49|AUTODETECT|” Luke 6:47 49) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.34|AUTODETECT|” is also a parable. For parables and parabolic sayings see also 4:23; 5:10, 31, 34 39; 6:38, 39, 41 45; 7:24, 25, 31 35. The words of our Lord were always sparkling with figures of speech, proverbs, similes, metaphors, etc. But this time the parabolic form began to predominate; see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.34|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 13:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.34|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.34|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.0|AUTODETECT|” As ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.0|AUTODETECT|” Matthew 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 indicates, Jesus at this particular occasion delivered a series of kingdom parables. See N.T.C. on Matthew, pp. 21 25, for their number, character, and classification. First, basic, and probably most important of all was the parable of The Sower, also called that of The Four Kinds of Soil.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 5. The sower went out to sow his seed. As he was sowing, some (seed) fell by the side of the path. It was trodden under foot, and the birds of the air gobbled it up. The scene must have been familiar to most of the people in the audience, perhaps to all. It was customary for wheat, barley, etc., to be sown by hand.
But it made all the difference in the world how that seed was received. As this man was sowing, it was unavoidable that a portion of his seed would fall on or along the path which he was treading. Human footsteps had hardened this part of the ground, so that it was impossible for the seed to enter into the soil. It had no chance at all. It was trodden down, and a little later down (see the original) it went into the alimentary canals of the air s feathered creatures.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.6|AUTODETECT|” 6. Some fell on rock. As soon as it sprang up, it withered away because it had no moisture. It is typical of Palestine now Israel and its surroundings that a considerable portion of its tillable soil is found on top of layers of rock. Often the rocky layer reaches up so near the surface that the soil above it has hardly any depth. In such a situation the seed, in the process of sprouting, has only one way to go, namely, up. So, instead of becoming firmly rooted, it springs up immediately. However, not having roots to draw water from the soil, and the soil itself being very inadequate, the little plant soon withers away for lack of moisture. This process of withering is hastened by the sun s scorching rays 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.6|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 13:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.6|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 7. Some fell in the midst of the thorns. They shot up along with it and choked it off. Since each patch of ground had room for only a definitely restricted amount of plant life, and nothing grows faster than that which is not wanted, soon the thorns outgrew the noble grain and choked it to death.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.26.12|AUTODETECT|” Not all was lost, however. 8a. And some fell into good soil, grew up, and bore fruit, a hundredfold. There was also some perhaps even a considerable amount of good soil; that is, soil not hardened by human footsteps, nor lacking in depth, nor infested with weeds, but wholly suitable for healthy plant growth. Here the seed yielded an abundant crop. Matthew (13:8) and Mark (4:8) make mention of thirtyfold and sixtyfold (as well as hundredfold) yields. Luke, bypassing these smaller results, refers only to the maximum yield, namely, a hundredfold, one grain of seed producing a hundred grains. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.26.12|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 26:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.11.15|AUTODETECT|” 8b. While saying these things, he was crying out, He who has ears to hear, let him hear. Loudly perhaps even again and again Jesus cried out these words. Ears must be used to hear, that is, to listen closely and take to heart. In all of Christ s teaching, both on earth and from heaven, it would be difficult to discover any exhortation that he repeated more often, in one form or another, than the one of verse 8b. See also 8:18 in both Mark and Luke; 13:9 in both Matthew and Revelation; further: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.11.15|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 11:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.43|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.43|AUTODETECT|” 13:43) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.23|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.23|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.14.35|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.14.35|AUTODETECT|” Luke 14:35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.7|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 2:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.11|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.11|AUTODETECT|” 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.17|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.17|AUTODETECT|” 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.29|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.29|AUTODETECT|” 29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.6|AUTODETECT|” 3:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.13|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.13|AUTODETECT|” 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.22|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.22|AUTODETECT|” 22) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . This repetition is not surprising. Is not lack of receptivity that which, if persisted in, leads directly to the unpardonable sin? The results of unwillingness to hear, or of hearing but not heeding, are set forth in Jesus own explanation of the parable (verse 12 14).) 1 3 2 8 0 0 For Practical Lessons and Greek Words, etc., see pp. 431 435.) ) 8:9, 10 The Purpose of the Parables) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.10-40.13.17|AUTODETECT|” Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.10-40.13.17|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 13:10 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.10-41.4.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.10-41.4.12|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:10 12) 1 4 2 8 0 0 9 His disciples were asking��301�� him what this parable meant. 10 He said, To you it has been granted to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God, but to the rest I speak in parables, that:) seeing, they may not see;) and hearing, they may not understand. ) ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.10|AUTODETECT|” 9. His disciples were asking him what this parable meant. The connection is again almost unforgettable, for it is natural to assume that the disciples The Twelve and those who happened to be with them 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.10|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) would ask Jesus what the parable meant. Sowing and at a later time fruit-bearing presuppose a gradual and time-consuming process, one which the disciples, often impatient, may not have expected with respect to the kingdom.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 10. He said, To you it has been granted to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.2.0|AUTODETECT|” The word mystery is very interesting. Outside of Christendom, in the realm of paganism, it referred to a secret teaching, rite, or ceremony having something to do with religion but hidden from the masses, and known (or practiced) only by a group of initiates. In the LXX (Greek) translation of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.2.0|AUTODETECT|” Daniel 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.11.25|AUTODETECT|” , where the word occurs no less than eight times (as a singular in verses 18, 19, 27, 30, and 47b; as a plural in verses 28, 29, and 47a), it refers to a secret that must be revealed, a riddle that must be interpreted. In the book of Revelation, where it occurs four times (1:20; 10:7; 17:5, 7), it is perhaps best explained as being the symbolical meaning of that which required explanation. The word occurs twenty-one times in Paul s epistles 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.11.25|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 11:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.25|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.25|AUTODETECT|” 16:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.2.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.2.1|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 2:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.2.7|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.2.7|AUTODETECT|” 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.4.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.4.1|AUTODETECT|” 4:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.13.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.13.2|AUTODETECT|” 13:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.14.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.14.2|AUTODETECT|” 14:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.51|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.51|AUTODETECT|” 15:51) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.9|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 1:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.3|AUTODETECT|” 3:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.4|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.4|AUTODETECT|” 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.9|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.9|AUTODETECT|” 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.32|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.32|AUTODETECT|” 5:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.19|AUTODETECT|” 6:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.26|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.26|AUTODETECT|” Col. 1:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.27|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.27|AUTODETECT|” 27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.2|AUTODETECT|” 2:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.3|AUTODETECT|” 4:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.7|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 2:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.9|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 3:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.16|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.16|AUTODETECT|” 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). There it can be defined as a person or a truth that would have remained unknown had not God revealed him or it.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.11|AUTODETECT|” This same general definition of mystery, namely that it is a divinely disclosed secret, fits very well into the context of the present passage of Luke s Gospel (8:10) and its parallels 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.11|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 13:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.11|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), the only Gospel instances of its use. Here the mystery is the powerful manifestation of the reign of God in human hearts and lives; this reign, in connection with Christ s coming, was attended by mighty works in both the physical and the spiritual realms. Jesus declares that this mystery that it was indeed God who was doing all these things, not Satan had been given, that is, graciously disclosed to those who were with him at this time; in fact, to all who had accepted him by genuine faith.) 1 4 2 8 0 0 To the true followers of Jesus, then, the fact that he speaks in parables will not be hurtful. In fact, it will be helpful, for not only will the stories, etc., readily fix themselves in their minds but the Author is their Lord, Savior, and Friend, and will be glad to give them the needed explanations.) Continued: but to the rest I speak in parables, that:) seeing, they may not see;) and hearing, they may not understand.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.5.21|AUTODETECT|” The rest of the people are obviously those who had not accepted Jesus by genuine faith but had hardened themselves. Self-righteous scribes and Pharisees had shown increasing hostility to Jesus. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.5.21|AUTODETECT|” Luke 5:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.5.30|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.5.30|AUTODETECT|” 30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.2|AUTODETECT|” 6:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.7|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.7|AUTODETECT|” 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.11|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.11|AUTODETECT|” 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.30|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.30|AUTODETECT|” 7:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.44-42.7.46|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.44-42.7.46|AUTODETECT|” 44 46) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . They had many followers.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.6.9|AUTODETECT|” When Luke writes, that seeing, they may not see, etc., he is reproducing the words of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.6.9|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 6:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.6.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.6.10|AUTODETECT|” 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.13-40.13.15|AUTODETECT|” in greatly abbreviated form. One might also say, Luke, having before him Mark s already abbreviated reproduction of Isaiah s words, abbreviates them still further. The most complete quotation is found in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.13-40.13.15|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 13:13 15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 0 There is a difference, however, between Matthew s reproduction and that of Mark-Luke. Matthew states that Jesus made use of parables because the people s heart had become dull, their ears hard of hearing, etc. Mark-Luke changes this because or for into that or in order that. Which report is right, Matthew s or Mark-Luke s?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.18|AUTODETECT|” The answer is: Both are correct. It was because by their own choice these impenitent Pharisees and their followers had refused to see and hear, that, as a punishment for this refusal, they are now addressed in parables, that [or in order that] seeing, they may not see; and hearing, they may not understand. They must endure the blame of their own blindness and hardness (Calvin on this passage). God had given these people a wonderful opportunity; but they had refused to avail themselves of it. Result: it is God s sovereign will to remove what man is unwilling to improve, to darken the heart that refuses to hearken. He hardens those that have hardened themselves. If God even surrenders to the lusts of their hearts the unenlightened heathen when they hold back the truth in unrighteousness 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.18|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 1:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.26|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.26|AUTODETECT|” 26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.13|AUTODETECT|” ), will he not punish more severely the impenitents before whom the Light of the world is constantly confirming the truthfulness of his message? And if he blesses those who accept the mysterious, will he not curse those who reject the obvious? It is evident, therefore, that ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.13|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 13:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.12|AUTODETECT|” is in harmony with ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.12|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.10|AUTODETECT|” and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.10|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ; in fact, the because of the former helps to explain the that or in order that of the latter. When, of their own accord and after repeated threats and promises, people reject the Lord and spurn his messages, then he hardens them, in order that those who were not willing to repent will not be able to repent and be forgiven.) 1 3 2 8 0 0 For Practical Lessons and Greek Words, etc., see pp. 431 435.) ) 8:11 15 Explanation of the Parable of The Sower) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.18-40.13.23|AUTODETECT|” Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.18-40.13.23|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 13:18 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.13-41.4.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.13-41.4.20|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:13 20) 1 6 2 8 0 0 11 Now this is the (meaning of the) parable:) The seed is the word��302�� of God. 12 Those along the path are the ones who heard it; then the devil comes and snatches away the word from their hearts, that they may not believe and be saved.) 13 Those on rock are the ones who when they hear the word receive it with joy, but they have no root. For a while they believe, but in time of trial��303�� they fall away.) 14 As for that which fell among the thorns, those are the ones who have heard, but they are being progressively choked by the cares, riches, and pleasures of life. So they never mature.) 15 But as for that in good soil, those are the ones who, having heard the word with an honest and good heart, cling to it and by persevering produce a crop. ) ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.37|AUTODETECT|” 11. Now this is the (meaning of the) parable. Jesus now gives a more specific answer to the question asked by his followers (see verse 9). He says, The seed is the word of God. It is the message coming from God, in the present instance clearly by the mouth of Jesus. This also answers the question with respect to the identity of the sower. That sower is, of course, the Speaker, namely, Jesus. See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.37|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 13:37) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.16|AUTODETECT|” , The one who sows the good seed is the Son of man, and anyone who truly represents him, any genuine Christian witness-bearer. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.16|AUTODETECT|” Luke 10:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.19|AUTODETECT|” What is meant by the soil? Clearly man s heart. This is definitely implied in verse 12, & from their hearts. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.19|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 13:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 a.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.12|AUTODETECT|” In each of the four instances recorded in the parable the ground or soil, that is, the heart, hence the person, is different. One might speak of the unresponsive heart 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.12|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), the impulsive heart (verse 13), the preoccupied heart (verse 14), and the good, responsive, or well-prepared heart (verse 15). The heart indicates the person or hearer as he is in his inner being. The following is therefore correct: What, then, is the lesson? The Savior has given us the answer in his own interpretation of the story. The seed is the word of God, or the word of the kingdom; and the soil is human hearts: so that, reduced to a general law, the teaching of the parable is, that the result of the hearing of the gospel always and everywhere depends on the condition of heart of those to whom it is addressed. The character of the hearer determines the effect of the word upon him. ��304��) 1 3 2 8 0 0 Unresponsive Hearts) Jesus continues: 12. Those along the path are the ones who heard it; then the devil comes and snatches away the word from their hearts, that they may not believe and be saved.) Meaning: the people that are represented by seed sown along the path (see verse 5) are the kind that allow the devil, the great adversary, to snatch away the message that has been sown in them. By no means does Jesus excuse these people, as if only the devil and not they themselves were responsible for what happened to the divine message that had been spoken to them. Verse 12 does not cancel verse 8b or verse 18a! But here in verse 12 these frivolous hearers are being told that in treating the word of God so lightly they are co-operating with the prince of evil, whose purpose is to prevent them from believing and being saved!) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.24.25|AUTODETECT|” These people do nothing with the message. They do not use it to good advantage. Immediately after they have heard it, any favorable effect it might have had on them is annihilated. What accounts for their negative reaction? Perhaps it is ill will toward the messenger. Or perhaps hostility with respect to this particular message. Or they do not wish to be inconvenienced 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.24.25|AUTODETECT|” Acts 24:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). The spirit of indifference may have crept into them, perhaps little by little until it was total, their hearts having become as hard as the path on which the seed of the parable was scattered.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.33.32|AUTODETECT|” The Lord, addressing Ezekiel, gave this description of the prophet s audience: You are to them like a lovely song, sung with a beautiful voice, and played well on an instrument; for they hear your words, but refuse to practice them 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.33.32|AUTODETECT|” Ezek. 33:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.49|AUTODETECT|” ). Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.49|AUTODETECT|” Luke 6:49) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . The following lines may also be appropriate in this connection:) 1 6 2 8 0 0 And I always came to his church before my Sally were dead,) And I heard him a bumming away like a buzzard clock over my head;) And I never knew what he meant, but I thought he had something to say,) And I thought he said what he ought to have said, and I went away.) Impulsive Hearts) 13. Those on rock are the ones who when they hear the word receive it with joy, but they have no root. For a while they believe, but in time of trial they fall away.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.19|AUTODETECT|” These are the emotional people. Now it is a good thing to be emotional. Did not the penitent woman described in 7:37 50 weep because of sorrow for her sins, and probably also because of gratitude for the salvation she had found in Christ? Did not Paul shed tears on more than one occasion? See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.19|AUTODETECT|” Acts 20:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.31|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.31|AUTODETECT|” 31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.18|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 3:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.37|AUTODETECT|” , and the section on Paul s Deeply Emotional Nature, N.T.C. on Philippians, p. 181. See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.37|AUTODETECT|” Acts 20:37) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.35|AUTODETECT|” . Did not Jesus himself weep at the grave of Lazarus 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.35|AUTODETECT|” John 11:35) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 )? However, the trouble with the people symbolized by seed that fell on rock is that their emotions are superficial, not based on deep-seated convictions. These people have no root. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.20|AUTODETECT|” They are impulsive. After the sermon especially, perhaps, when it is delivered by a visiting pastor they rush 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.20|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 13:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.16|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) toward the preacher to tell him how his message gripped them. They are overwhelmed, moved to tears. In fact, they may even faint. The orator would do well, however, not to congratulate himself too readily. She performs that little trick every once in a while; then goes back to her old sinful ways, was the way the conduct of a certain individual was described by those who knew her well.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.1.12|AUTODETECT|” In any given case, how does one know whether marked emotional behavior is the evidence of genuine faith? The answer is, It is, if it can endure testing. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.1.12|AUTODETECT|” James 1:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.13|AUTODETECT|” . The people described in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.13|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.2.19|AUTODETECT|” cannot. In time of trial they fall away. Of course, such people never really belonged to Christ s flock. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.2.19|AUTODETECT|” I John 2:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.27|AUTODETECT|” describes their situation exactly, They left us, but they never really belonged to us; for if they had belonged to us, they would have stayed with us. See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.27|AUTODETECT|” John 10:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.28|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.28|AUTODETECT|” 28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.6|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 1:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 3 2 8 0 0 Preoccupied Hearts) 14. As for that which fell among the thorns, those are the ones who have heard, but they are being progressively choked by the cares, riches, and pleasures of life. So they never mature.) This parable is truly striking. Each group of people differs from the one described before. Those belonging to the first category, represented by the seed that fell along the path, never respond in any way to the preaching of the word. They are and remain callous, insensitive. Those of the second group respond immediately and enthusiastically & and as quickly drop out. Those belonging to Class No. 3 also perish, but more gradually.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.20|AUTODETECT|” At the outset these individuals show some interest in the message of the kingdom. We think of Herod Antipas who actually used to enjoy listening to John the Baptist and was greatly perplexed . However, his entanglements spelled his ruin. That characterizes the group: extraneous matters soon begin to crowd out whatever good plans or intentions these people may have had. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.20|AUTODETECT|” Mark 6:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 0 As his message is summarized by Luke in verse 14 Jesus warns especially against three dangers:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.4-42.12.12|AUTODETECT|” First, the cares or worries of life. We speak of corroding cares, that is, worries that eat away one s soul little by little. Worry not only breaks down resistance to disease and therefore shortens life, but also prevents one from concentrating on the blessings God is constantly providing. Jesus said many fine things on this subject 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.4-42.12.12|AUTODETECT|” Luke 12:4 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.22-42.12.34|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.22-42.12.34|AUTODETECT|” 22 34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.25-40.6.34|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.25-40.6.34|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 6:25 34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.19|AUTODETECT|” 10:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.20|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.20|AUTODETECT|” 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.28-40.10.31|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.28-40.10.31|AUTODETECT|” 28 31) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.18.18-42.18.24|AUTODETECT|” The second danger to the development of spiritual life one might say the second thorn is riches, the craving for wealth and/or the inordinate yearning to cling to it, come what may. A good example is that of the rich young ruler 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.18.18-42.18.24|AUTODETECT|” Luke 18:18 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.13-42.12.21|AUTODETECT|” ). See also the unforgettable parables of that notorious character, The Rich Fool 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.13-42.12.21|AUTODETECT|” Luke 12:13 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), and of The Show-off and The Beggar, i.e., The Rich Man and Lazarus (16:19 31).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Thirdly, there are the pleasures of life. These, too, if a person does not watch out, may become soul-ruining entanglements. They are of two kinds: (a) those that are wrong in themselves: drunkenness, drug addiction, gambling, sexual vice, etc.; (b) those that are wrong when a person over-indulges in them: games, sports, entertainments, etc.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.36|AUTODETECT|” Like a proliferating cancer gradually killing the body, or a destructive parasite little by little destroying its host, so also these thorns slowly but surely choke the souls of those people who extend a welcome to them. Such individuals never mature. They never produce fruit for everlasting life 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.36|AUTODETECT|” John 4:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.10|AUTODETECT|” ). Demas has deserted me, because he fell in love with the present world 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.10|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 4:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.2.16|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.2.16|AUTODETECT|” I John 2:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.55.11|AUTODETECT|” Nevertheless, not all the sowing had been in vain 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.55.11|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 55:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ):) 1 2 2 8 0 0 Responsive Hearts) 15. But as for that in good soil, those are the ones who, having heard the word with an honest and good heart, cling to it and by persevering produce a crop.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.17.10-44.17.12|AUTODETECT|” These people receive the message with an open, unprejudiced mind, as did the Bereans described in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.17.10-44.17.12|AUTODETECT|” Acts 17:10 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.119.18|AUTODETECT|” . Their prayer is that of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.119.18|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 119:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , Open thou my eyes, that I may contemplate the wonders of thy law. ) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Moreover, they keep clinging to it. How do they do that? Of course, by giving away this precious message, proclaiming it everywhere, and this not only by means of their words but also, and most of all, by consecrated lives.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.22|AUTODETECT|” Finally, by means of their perseverance these people produce a crop; for example, love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, meekness, self-control 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.22|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 5:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.23|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.23|AUTODETECT|” 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), unto their own inner joy, the conversion of souls, and God s glory.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.9|AUTODETECT|” The real lesson of the parable is not grasped unless its clear implication is understood. On the basis of 8:8, 18 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.9|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 13:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.9|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), that lesson is, Examine yourself to discover to which group you belong. If you belong to any one of the first three groups, be converted! Not, of course, by power residing in yourself but by God s sovereign grace! Even if you should belong to the fourth group, ask yourself the question, Am I sufficiently fruitful? The parable is therefore really An Exhortation to Self-examination, leading either to Basic Conversion or else to further Sanctification.) 1 3 2 8 0 0 For Practical Lessons and Greek Words, etc., see pp. 431 435.) ) 8:16 18 Various Sayings of Jesus) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.21-41.4.25|AUTODETECT|” Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.21-41.4.25|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:21 25) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Also) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.15|AUTODETECT|” For verse 16 cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.15|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 5:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.11.33|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.11.33|AUTODETECT|” Luke 11:33) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.26|AUTODETECT|” For verse 17 cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.26|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 10:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.2|AUTODETECT|” Luke 12:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.11.15|AUTODETECT|” For verse 18a cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.11.15|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 11:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.9|AUTODETECT|” 13:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.43|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.43|AUTODETECT|” 43) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.9|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.14.35|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.14.35|AUTODETECT|” Luke 14:35) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ;) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.8|AUTODETECT|” and see above: the explanation of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.8|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 b.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.12|AUTODETECT|” For verse 18b cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.12|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 13:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.29|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.29|AUTODETECT|” 25:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.19.26|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.19.26|AUTODETECT|” Luke 19:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 3 2 8 0 0 16 No one lights a lamp and covers it with a vessel or puts it under a bed. On the contrary, he puts it on a lampstand in order that those who enter may see the light. 17 For there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be known and brought to light. 18 Take care, therefore, how you listen. For whoever has, to him (more) will be given, but whoever does not have, even what he thinks he has will be taken away from him. ) ) Though the connection between the parable of The Sower (8:4 8, 11 15) and the present little paragraph, containing other sayings of Jesus, is not clear, it may have been as follows:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.16|AUTODETECT|” Soil must be productive; that is, hearts must be fertile. Now fertile hearts resemble shining lamps, witness-bearing, hence fruit-bearing. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.16|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 5:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.11|AUTODETECT|” . The word or message of God is symbolized by a seed that is sown 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.11|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.119.105|AUTODETECT|” ). It is also called a lamp 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.119.105|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 119:105) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). It was that seed and that lamp which the rabbis were hiding under an elaborate load of human traditions and hypocritical actions. That seed must reveal its power once more. The lamp must shine forth again in all the pristine purity of its light, in order to be a blessing to men. So Jesus says:) 1 3 2 8 0 0 16. No one lights a lamp and covers it with a vessel or puts it under a bed. On the contrary, he puts it on a lampstand in order that those who enter may see the light.) The bed, to which reference is made here, was a kind of mattress which, when not in use, was rolled up. No one, says Jesus, would think of first lighting a lamp and then covering it up with this or that vessel or placing it under a rolled-up mattress. A lit lamp belongs on the lampstand. Then only will it serve its purpose for those who enter the house.) As to the lamp, it was often a terra cotta saucer-shaped object with a handle on one end; on the other end there was a nozzle-shaped extension with a hole for a wick.
In the lamp s upper surface there were two holes, one for adding oil, the other for air. The lampstand was generally a very simple object. It might be a shelf extending from the pillar in the center of the room, or a single stone projecting inward from the wall, or even a piece of metal conspicuously placed and used for the same purpose.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.14-40.5.16|AUTODETECT|” The point is, of course, that believers, too, must let their light shine. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.14-40.5.16|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 5:14 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.15|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 2:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . They must permit the word of God to be in full control of their lives. It is God s intention that the mystery given to his children be disclosed. It is hidden only from those who continue to harden themselves against its appeal. Thus, while the teaching of 8:10b is not retracted, the emphasis is now on that which must happen first of all: the seed must be sown; the lamp must shine; the mystery must be disclosed, not concealed.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=21.11.9|AUTODETECT|” But whether revealed or concealed, whatever is done with it will not go unnoticed: 17. For there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be known and brought to light. Men may try to cover up things, but they will be unsuccessful, for God brings everything out into the open. One day whatever is now concealed will be revealed. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=21.11.9|AUTODETECT|” Eccles. 11:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=21.12.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=21.12.14|AUTODETECT|” 12:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.26|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.26|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 10:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.36|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.36|AUTODETECT|” 12:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.27|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.27|AUTODETECT|” 16:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.22|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.2|AUTODETECT|” Luke 12:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.6|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 2:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.16|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.16|AUTODETECT|” 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.4.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.4.5|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 4:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.3|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.4|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.4|AUTODETECT|” 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.23|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.23|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 2:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.12|AUTODETECT|” 20:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.13|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.13|AUTODETECT|” 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . Men may think that they can get away with their evil thoughts, plans, words, and actions. God, however, will expose all this. It is therefore not surprising that, as reported by Luke, Jesus continues: 18. Take care, therefore, how you listen.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 With respect to men s responsibility in the matter of hearing or listening, three things are stressed in the Gospels:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.8|AUTODETECT|” a. That they should hear 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.8|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 b), the emphasis being on hearing over against refusing to hear;) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.24|AUTODETECT|” b. What they should hear 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.24|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), over against what not to hear; and) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.18|AUTODETECT|” c. How they should hear 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.18|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), attentively, judiciously, over against how not to hear.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.21.8|AUTODETECT|” As to Take care, Take heed, or Be on your guard, see also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.21.8|AUTODETECT|” Luke 21:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 2 2 8 0 0 Continued: For whoever has, to him (more) will be given, but whoever does not have, even what he thinks he has will be taken away from him.) In line with the preceding context (see especially verse 15), the meaning must be: whoever with due attention and a yearning for salvation listens to the message and by means of the exercise of faith obeys it, yielding fruit, will receive the blessings of salvation in an ever-increasing measure.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.6|AUTODETECT|” In matters spiritual, standing still is impossible. A person either gains or loses; he either advances or declines. Whoever has, to him will be given. The disciples (exception Judas Iscariot) had accepted Jesus. With reference to them he was later on going to say to the Father, They have kept thy word 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.6|AUTODETECT|” John 17:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.47.1-26.47.5|AUTODETECT|” ) and They are not of the world (17:16). To be sure, this faith was accompanied by many a weakness, error, and flaw. But the beginning had been made. Therefore, according to heaven s rule, further progress was assured: an advance in knowledge, love, holiness, joy, etc., in all the blessings of the kingdom of heaven, for salvation is an ever deepening stream 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.47.1-26.47.5|AUTODETECT|” Ezek. 47:1 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.16|AUTODETECT|” ). Every blessing is a guarantee of further blessings to come 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.16|AUTODETECT|” John 1:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). He shall have abundantly. The theory according to which Jesus (or Luke) was referring only to an increase of knowledge or even insight is improbable. Such discernment is, to be sure, included, but there is nothing in the context that would limit so rigidly the blessing here promised.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.24-40.25.30|AUTODETECT|” On the other hand, whoever does not have, from him shall be taken away even that semblance of knowledge, that superficial acquaintance with matters spiritual, which he once had or thought he had. Is there not an analogy of this in the realm of knowledge on a level below the strictly spiritual? Is it not true that the person who has learned enough music to play a few simple melodies, but not really enough to be able to say, I have mastered this or that instrument, and then stops practicing altogether, will soon discover that the little skill which he had at one time has vanished? The man who refuses to make proper use of his one talent loses even that 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.24-40.25.30|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 25:24 30) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).��305��) 1 1 2 8 0 0 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.4-42.8.18|AUTODETECT|” Practical Lessons Derived from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.4-42.8.18|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:4 18) 1 3 2 8 0 0 Verses 4 8, 11 15) Some (seed) fell by the side of the path& . Some on rock& . Some in the midst of thorns & some into good soil. Let the preacher be encouraged by the fact that at least some of the seed (the message) falls into good soil (well-prepared hearts).) Verse 10) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.9.16|AUTODETECT|” To you it has been granted to know the mystery of the kingdom of God. By no means has this mystery been revealed to all. That it was made known to us was pure grace. Hence, all the more we should, with gratitude to God, share what we have freely received. Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.9.16|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 9:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Verse 16) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.6.4|AUTODETECT|” No one lights a lamp and covers it with a vessel or puts it under a bed, etc. Lighting a lamp and then deliberately covering it up is ridiculous. Becoming enlightened 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.6.4|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 6:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) and then concealing this Light from others is ruinous.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 Verse 18) Take care, therefore, how you listen. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.40.21|AUTODETECT|” Some people listen hardly at all 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.40.21|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 40:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.33.31|AUTODETECT|” Some listen merely to be entertained 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.33.31|AUTODETECT|” Ezek. 33:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.33.32|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.33.32|AUTODETECT|” 32) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.12.13|AUTODETECT|” Some listen in order to find fault 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.12.13|AUTODETECT|” Mark 12:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.11.54|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.11.54|AUTODETECT|” Luke 11:54) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.17.10|AUTODETECT|” Some listen in order to obtain true wisdom and to put it to good use 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.17.10|AUTODETECT|” Acts 17:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.17.11|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.17.11|AUTODETECT|” 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 23 2 8 0 0 ) Notes on Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 8:4 18) Verse 4) Does this verse present (a) two co-ordinate genitive absolutes: Now a large throng gathering, and people from town after town resorting to him [i.e., to Jesus] ? Or (b) should the translation be, Now when a large throng was gathering, namely, of those who & ? Either is possible. If (a) is correct, then the large throng could be folks from nearby Capernaum, and the people from town after town, those from the surrounding places. If (b) is chosen, we are simply being told that the crowd was large because many a town contributed its quota of individuals. For ��������� see the note on 9:18 on page 509.) Verse 5) Note the following four words, all based on the same stem:) �������, sower; ��� �������, articular aor. act. infinitive of purpose; �x� ������, cognate accusative (seed); and � �� ��������, articular pres. infinitive active, where we would probably expect a participle.
But such an infinitive is not unusual, especially by reason of Hebrew or Aramaic influence. The basic verb is ������.) Note also that C �r� (verse 5) is followed by ��v ����� in verses 6, 7, and 8. Some insist that �����, being neuter, cannot refer to ������, which is masc. The question might well be asked, To what then does it refer? To an implied portion (�����, ��) perhaps? But even then, it would be a portion of the seed the sower was scattering.
But the concord between words and their antecedents was not nearly as rigid as it is sometimes represented to have been. See N.T.C. on Ephesians, p. 123, footnote 61. The translation some & some, etc. L.N.T. (A. and G.), p. 315 is correct.) Verse 6) �t� ������ should probably be interpreted generically; hence, not the rock, but rock. ) ����, nom. s. neut. 2nd aor. pass. participle (ingressive) of ���, to grow, germinate, spring up. Cf. physical.) �������, third per. s. aor. indicat. pass. of �������, to dry up, wither. Cf. xerox, a duplicating machine operating by means of a dry electric process.) 0�����, acc. s. of 0����, moisture.) Verse 7) ����������, nom. pl. fem. aor. pass. participle (intransitive) of ������, in the pass.: to grow up with.
This is a compound of ��� (verse 6).) ��������, third per. pl. aor. (effective) act. of �������*, to choke off. See also verse 33. Cf. pneumonia. See related form in verse 14.) Verse 8) �����, third per. s. imperf. indicat. act. of �����, to call, call out, cry out. Cf. telephone, symphony.) Verse 9) �4�, third per. s. pres. optat. in an indirect question after a verb in the past (here imperf. indicat. act.) tense. In direct discourse the verb would have been ����.) Verse 10) �������, third per. s. perf. indicat. pass. of ������, to give.) ������, aor. act. infinitive of �������.
This verb refers to a knowledge by recognition, observation, or experience, as distinguished from �6��, which indicates a knowledge by intuition, reflection or insight.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.6.9|AUTODETECT|” 5��, that, or in order that. In the present case it expresses purpose. What follows 5�� is clearly a quotation from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.6.9|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 6:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.6.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.6.10|AUTODETECT|” 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.6.9|AUTODETECT|” , which expresses purpose, as the context there plainly indicates; note: lest they see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, etc., meaning, in order that they may not see with their eyes, etc. The very fact that Jesus connects parabolic teaching with the citation from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.6.9|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 6:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ff. shows that he considers the arcane parables to be indeed a judgment on deliberate unbelief, stubborn hardness of heart.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 Accordingly, assigning a weakened sense to 5�� as here used see, for example, H. Sch�rmann, Das Lukasevangelium (Herders Theologischer Kommentar zum Neuen Testament), Freiburg, etc., 1969, Vol. I, pp. 460, 461 is questionable. A. T. Robertson, in his Translation, pp. 52, 176, ascribes the consecutive sense to 5�� as used here.
But cf. his Word Pictures, Vol. II, pp. 112, 113.) Favoring the telic or purposive sense (that, in the sense of in order that) are also the following, among others: John Calvin, Commentary on a Harmony of the Evangelists, Matthew, Mark, and Luke, Grand Rapids, 1949 ff., Vol. II, p. 129; S. Greijdanus, Korte Verklaring, pp. 202, 203; A. Plummer, op. cit., p. 220; R. C.
H. Lenski, op. cit., pp. 282, 283; C. R. Erdman, An Exposition of the Gospel of Luke, Philadelphia, 1929, p. 83; F. Godet, op. cit., Vol. I, pp. 370, 371; N.
Geldenhuys, op. cit., p. 243; and E. E. Ellis, op. cit., p. 128. See also on 5��, L.N.T. (A. and G.), p. 378.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.12|AUTODETECT|” Others, though accepting the theory that 5��, both here and in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.12|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , expresses purpose, are convinced that Jesus himself could never have taught this, and that the error (as they see it) must be ascribed to whoever was responsible for these Gospels in the form in which they have been transmitted to us. See, for example, S. M. Gilmour, op. cit., pp. 148, 149. Cf. W. Manson, op. cit., p. 90; and J. De Zwaan, Het Evangelie van Lucas, Tekst en Uitleg, Groningen, Den Haag, 1917, p. 84. But there is no reason whatever to doubt the genuine character of these words as ascribed to Jesus. They are in complete harmony with the Isaiah passage. For the rest, see the explanation in this commentary.) 1 9 2 8 0 0 Verse 12) 5�� �t & �������, telic again, & that they may not (believe and) be saved. The verb is third per. pl. aor. subjunct. pass. of ����, to save.) Verse 13) ���������, third per. pl. pres. middle of �������. Cf. apostasy, apostatize.) Verse 14) Note �x �r & �����, �W��� �0���: that which fell & these are. Not strictly grammatical? What matters is that the sense is clear: that which fell among the thorns represents those who, etc.) �������, that which divides (cf. ������, to divide; �����, piece) the mind; that which makes one go to pieces, care, worry. Hence Q�x �������� means by the cares. ) �������, wealth, riches. Cf. plutocrat.) !����, pleasure. Cf. hedonist.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.22|AUTODETECT|” ������������, third per. pl. pres. indicat. pass. of ��������. See also verse 42 and cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.22|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 13:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.7|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.19|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.19|AUTODETECT|” 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , to crowd together, press upon; by an easy transition the word develops (in the passive) into to choke.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.8.14|AUTODETECT|” For the construction of ����������� ������������ see the article by S. Zedda, Poreuomenoi sympnigontai 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.8.14|AUTODETECT|” Lc. 8, 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), Eunt Dec. 27 (1 2, 1974), pp. 92 108. Zedda argues convincingly that ����������� is a descriptive participle, marking the transition from one action to another. In the LXX (by which Luke was influenced) such a construction indicates continuity and progression. Here the thought conveyed is that the seed that fell among the thorns represents those people who are being progressively choked by the cares, riches, and pleasures of life, until at last they are completely suffocated and perish.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 �������������, third per. pl. pres. indicat. act. of ����������, lit. to bring to maturity; here: to mature. Cf. �����, end, goal.) Verse 15) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.18|AUTODETECT|” ���������� (= ���� and ��), to hold down, hold fast, cling to. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.18|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 1:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 8 2 8 0 0 Verse 16) ������, lamp; ������, lampstand. Cf. light, luminous.) ���, aor. participle of ���; in act., to light, kindle; in middle, to touch, take hold of, cling to. See on 7:14.) Verse 17) �������, hidden, concealed. Cf. cryptic.) ��������, hidden away. Cf. apocryphal books. Those were the ones that were hidden away from i.e., were not to be read to the assembled congregation, because they were not considered authentic but spurious.) Note the emphatic negative �P �t preceding the third per. s. aor. subjunct. pass. (������); i.e., everything will most certainly be made known.) Verse 18) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.24|AUTODETECT|” ��������, third per. s. fut. indicat. pass. of �4��, to take up, pick up, lift up, take (snatch or sweep) away, take along, remove, destroy; here in passive: will be taken away. In ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.24|AUTODETECT|” John 10:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 (with �t� ����� !���) the meaning is to keep (us) in suspense.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 ) 8:19 21 The Mother and The Brothers of Jesus) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.46-40.12.50|AUTODETECT|” Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.46-40.12.50|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 12:46 50) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.3.31-41.3.35|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.3.31-41.3.35|AUTODETECT|” Mark 3:31 35) 1 3 2 8 0 0 19 And Jesus mother and his brothers came to (see) him, but they could not get near him because of the crowd. 20 And it was told him, Your mother and your brothers are standing outside, wishing to see you. 21 But he answered them, Mother to me and brothers to me are those who are listening to the word of God and are putting it into practice. ��306��) ) Matthew and Mark place this incident before the parable of The Sower. Luke, without in any way indicating when it occurred, places it here, perhaps because it embodies a concrete illustration of that parable and its appended sayings. Note:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.15|AUTODETECT|” But as for that in good soil, those are the ones who, having heard the word with an honest and good heart, cling to it and by persevering produce a crop 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.15|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 5 2 8 0 0 Take care, therefore, how you listen (8:18).) And now 8:21: Mother to me and brothers to me are those who are listening to the word of God and are putting it into practice. ) All these passages emphasize the fact that those, those alone, belong to Christ s true family, who not only hear the message but also live in accordance with it.) As happens so often, Luke here again abbreviates. Comparing his account with Mark s we notice that Luke omits any reference (a) to the person who was sent to Jesus to call him, (b) to the question Jesus asked , and (c) to the fact that Jesus looked around at those who were sitting in a circle about him. Also, Matthew s item about Jesus stretching out his hand over his disciples (12:49) is not found in the Third Gospel.) 19. And Jesus mother and his brothers came to (see) him, but they could not get near him because of the crowd.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.3.21|AUTODETECT|” Just why the mother and the brothers of Jesus were trying to contact him has not been revealed. It is probable, however, that ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.3.21|AUTODETECT|” Mark 3:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.3.22|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.3.22|AUTODETECT|” 22) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 sheds some light on this question. If so, then the most charitable and probably also the most natural explanation would be that disturbing remarks about Jesus for example, that his opponents regarded him as being demon-possessed and that even his friends thought he was out of his mind had induced Mary and Jesus brothers, out of natural affection and concern, to try to remove him from the public eye and to provide for him a haven of rest and refreshment.) 1 3 2 8 0 0 As to the identity of these brothers, the evidence favors the position that Jesus and these men had issued from the same womb. For arguments in favor of this view see above: the explanation of 2:7.) In their attempt to reach Jesus these people encounter a difficulty: the huge crowd (cf. 8:4) makes direct access to him impossible.) 20. And it was told him, Your mother and your brothers are standing outside, wishing to see you.) 7 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.3.32|AUTODETECT|” Mark 3:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 supplies the details which Luke omits. One can almost see and hear how the message is being passed from Jesus mother and brothers to the special messenger, from him to the people sitting closest to the Master, and from them to Jesus himself. In a very natural and thoroughly human way Jesus has now received the information that his mother and brothers are looking for him and wish him to come out to them.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 21. But he answered them, Mother to me and brothers to me are those who are listening to the word of God and are putting it into practice.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.19.25-43.19.27|AUTODETECT|” What Jesus means is that spiritual ties supersede physical ties. Not as if physical ties are unimportant. On the contrary, the relation between Jesus and his earthly mother was a close one, so close that even when he was suffering the agonies of hell on the cross he thought of and tenderly provided for her 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.19.25-43.19.27|AUTODETECT|” John 19:25 27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.14|AUTODETECT|” ). In fact, subsequently both the mother and the brothers came to believe in him as their Savior 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.14|AUTODETECT|” Acts 1:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.4|AUTODETECT|” ). But what the Master so strikingly teaches at this time is that the will of his heavenly Father must be obeyed. The Son of man must do the work which the Father gave him to do 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.4|AUTODETECT|” John 17:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Interference cannot be tolerated.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 Therefore, those who not only listen to the word of God but also actually obey it are to be considered Christ s mother and brothers. All who have taken to heart the messages of Jesus, and have translated them into lives rich in fruits to God s glory, belong to the spiritual family, a family far more important than any merely physical family could ever hope to be.��307��) ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.19-42.8.21|AUTODETECT|” Practical Lesson Derived from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.19-42.8.21|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:19 21) 1 2 2 8 0 0 Verse 21) Mother to me and brothers to me are those who are listening to the word of God and are putting it into practice. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.15|AUTODETECT|” Loyalty to one s spiritual family see N.T.C. on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.15|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 3:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.59-42.9.61|AUTODETECT|” should transcend all other loyalties 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.59-42.9.61|AUTODETECT|” Luke 9:59 61) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.14.26|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.14.26|AUTODETECT|” 14:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Observing this rule is also the best service we can render to our earthly family.) 1 13 2 8 0 0 The great importance which Jesus attached to listening to the word or message of God is also clear from this passage. Even more: the necessity of putting into practice what is heard.) ) Notes on Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 8:19 21) Verse 19) ����������, third per. s. 2nd aor. indicat. of �����������. It is sing. because of the closest noun in the compound subject. The plural of this verb is implied in connection with and his brothers. See also the note on 7:4 on page 380.) ���������, 2nd aor. infinitive of ���������� (= ��� plus �������, to meet with), to get near, approach.) Verse 20) �������, third per. s. 2nd aor. indicat. pass. of ��������, to announce, declare, proclaim, tell (back); here in pass.: it was told (him). See also the note on 8:36 on page 453.) ��������, third per. pl. 2nd perf. indicat. of 5�����, they have taken their stand; hence, are (still) standing.) Verse 21) Though �W��� is the subject, note emphatic position of the predicate, which can be reflected in the translation.) ) 8:22 25 A Tempest Stilled) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.23-40.8.27|AUTODETECT|” Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.23-40.8.27|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 8:23 27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.35-41.4.41|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.35-41.4.41|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:35 41) 1 6 2 8 0 0 22 Now it came about on one of those days that Jesus��308�� got into a boat with his disciples; and he said to them, Let us cross over to the other side of the lake. So they set out. 23 Now as they were sailing he fell asleep. Then a furious squall��309�� descended upon the lake, and they began to be swamped and to be in danger.) 24 So they came to him and woke him up, saying, Master, Master, we re perishing! He got up and rebuked the wind and the surge of the water. They subsided and there was a calm.) 25 Then he said to them, Where (is) your faith? Awestruck and filled with amazement they asked one another, Who then is this, that he commands even the winds and the water, and they obey him? ) ) A.
Departure by boat to the lake s eastern shore) 22. Now it came about on one of those days that Jesus got into a boat with his disciples; and he said to them, Let us cross over to the other side of the lake. So they set out.) 7 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.35|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.46-40.12.50|AUTODETECT|” makes clear that this incident occurred during the evening of the day when Jesus addressed the multitudes by means of parables, including the one of The Sower. Luke, on the other hand, by writing, on one of those days, shows that he is not interested in the exact time when this event took place. If he had been, he probably would not have placed this account right after the one concerning the mother and the brothers of Jesus. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.46-40.12.50|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 12:46 50) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.3.31-41.3.35|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.3.31-41.3.35|AUTODETECT|” Mark 3:31 35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.0|AUTODETECT|” . In both of these places that story precedes the report concerning the kingdom parables 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.0|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.0|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.0|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). All Luke is interested in is to show how Jesus revealed himself, his power and his love, during a violent storm.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 For the relation between Luke s account and the somewhat more detailed coverage of this event in Matthew and Mark see N.T.C. on Matthew, pp. 409 413; and on Mark, p. 175.) It had been a very busy day for Jesus. From a boat offshore he had been speaking, probably somewhat at length. Afterward at home (or: in a house) he had been giving private instruction to his disciples. It is not surprising that when evening arrived he was tired and exhausted.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.36|AUTODETECT|” So back to the shore he went, and said to the disciples, Let us cross over to the other side of the lake . Since Jesus was not only thoroughly divine but also thoroughly human, he was in need of rest. He needed to get away from all those people: not only did they crowd the shore; they even surrounded him in boats, as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=41.4.36|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 shows.) 1 5 2 8 0 0 Though Mark states that the disciples took Jesus along with them in the boat, it was he who took the initiative by issuing the order, Let us cross over.& But they were the boatsmen, the navigators. So up the sea they went.) We must not forget that divine guidance was operative here, as always: Jesus must be on these waters in order, by means of an astounding miracle, to strengthen the faith of his disciples. He must land on the eastern shore because there a demon-possessed man needs him (8:26 39). To what extent Jesus, according to his human nature, was aware of these matters is not revealed.) B. A furious tempest) 23. Now as they were sailing he fell asleep.
Do not these words create the impression that the Master fell asleep as soon as (or almost as soon as) the boat had left the shore? Soon he was sound asleep, showing how very tired he must have been; also showing that his trust in the heavenly Father his own Father was unfaltering.) Then a furious squall descended upon the lake, and they began to be swamped and to be in danger.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.38.1|AUTODETECT|” To describe this violent atmospheric disturbance Mark and Luke speak of a lailaps, that is a whirlwind 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.38.1|AUTODETECT|” Job 38:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=32.1.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=32.1.4|AUTODETECT|” Jonah 1:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) or storm that breaks forth in furious gusts, a fearful squall or series of squalls. Matthew calls it a great shaking or sea-quake. It must have been a very violent upheaval, a howling tempest. Suddenly this lailaps came down upon the lake.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 What caused this storm? The opinion has been expressed that Satan had a hand in it.��310�� In support of this theory the following arguments have been presented:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.1.12|AUTODETECT|” 1.) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.1.12|AUTODETECT|” Job 1:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.1.19|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.1.19|AUTODETECT|” 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 suggests that it was Satan who caused a great wind to come up from the desert.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 2. In the present account it is made clear that in the region toward which the group was sailing there were many demons (see verse 30).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.39|AUTODETECT|” 3. Verse 24 states that Jesus rebuked the wind, etc. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.39|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:39) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , Be muzzled. These expressions imply that he was addressing an animate object.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 However, this line of argumentation is rather weak, because:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=18.28.25|AUTODETECT|”
- According to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.28.25|AUTODETECT|” Job 28:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.48.7|AUTODETECT|” it is God, not Satan, who is in control of the winds. See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.48.7|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 48:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.78.26|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.78.26|AUTODETECT|” 78:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.104.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.104.3|AUTODETECT|” 104:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.107.25|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.107.25|AUTODETECT|” 107:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.135.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.135.7|AUTODETECT|” 135:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.147.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.147.18|AUTODETECT|” 147:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.148.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.148.8|AUTODETECT|” 148:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.11.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.11.15|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 11:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.10.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.10.13|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 10:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=30.4.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=30.4.13|AUTODETECT|” Amos 4:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=32.1.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=32.1.4|AUTODETECT|” Jonah 1:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=32.4.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=32.4.8|AUTODETECT|” 4:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 7 2 8 0 0
- That these demons had anything to do with bringing on the storm is not stated.) 3. See on verse 24.) Far more reasonable, therefore, is the theory according to which it was God who made use of physical forces he had himself brought into being, employing them for the realization of his own purpose. The so-called laws of nature are, after all, his laws. In this connection note the following:) The sea of Galilee is located in the north of the valley of the Jordan. It is about thirteen miles in length and seven and one-half miles in width.
It lies approximately six hundred eighty feet below the level of the Mediterranean. Its bed is a depression surrounded by hills, especially on the east side with its precipitous cliffs. When cool currents rush down from Mt. Hermon (9,200 feet) or from elsewhere and through narrow passages between the steep hills collide with the heated air above the lake basin, this downrush is impetuous. The violent winds whip the water into a fury, causing high waves that splash over bow, side rails, etc., of any vessel that happens to be plying the water surface. In the present instance the fishing craft, swamped by towering billows, was becoming water-logged, the toy of the raging elements.
When Luke says, They began to be swamped, he means Their boat did. From a human point of view the little group was certainly in great danger.) C. A frantic outcry) 24. So they came to him and woke him up, saying, Master, Master, we re perishing!) The disciples were thoroughly frightened. This shows that the present storm must have been something out of the ordinary. After all, these veteran fishermen were used to this lake and its erratic behavior.
They must have encountered many a storm. But this one was different. Probably never before had they experienced anything like it. Humanly speaking, the peril to which they were now exposed was formidable, the danger increasingly grave. So, in their state of alarm they woke up the still sleeping Master. It was to him they went for help.
So far so good. Did not John the Baptist, when seized with doubt, also turn to Jesus for a solution?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.25|AUTODETECT|” On the other hand, in what spirit did the disciples approach the now awakened Savior? To be sure, with an earnest plea, an urgent entreaty, as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.25|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 8:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.38|AUTODETECT|” shows , but alas, also with words of reproach, as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.38|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:38) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 indicates .) 1 4 2 8 0 0 Luke omits both the plea and the implied rebuke. On the other hand, this evangelist, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, makes his own contribution. By doubling the word of address hence, Master, Master, we re perishing he in his own way gives expression to the frantic terror that had taken hold of these men.) Besides, before we begin to shout Gospel discrepancy we should bear in mind that in a situation of terrified distress one disciple would cry one thing, another something else.) D. An astounding miracle) He got up and rebuked the wind and the surge of the water. They subsided and there was a calm.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.26|AUTODETECT|” According to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.26|AUTODETECT|” Matthew 8:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.39|AUTODETECT|” Jesus stood up and rebuked the winds and the sea. According to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.39|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:39) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.39|AUTODETECT|” he rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, Hush! Be still. Luke, too, uses the same verb rebuked. There are those who say that this verb implies an animate object. They maintain that this inference is strengthened by ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.39|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:39) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.39|AUTODETECT|” , which is then translated, Peace! Be muzzled! But, to begin with the latter, a word does not always retain its basic or primary connotation. Hush! [or Peace!] Be still! is the more usual and better rendering of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.39|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:39) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.19.5|AUTODETECT|” As to the expression, He rebuked, it should be borne in mind that Luke does not say, Jesus rebuked the devil, or the demons, or the evil spirits that were in the wind. He simply says, He rebuked the wind and the surge [or raging] of the water. It would seem, therefore, that this is simply a figurative or poetic manner of speaking 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.19.5|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 19:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.98.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.98.8|AUTODETECT|” 98:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.106.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.106.9|AUTODETECT|” 106:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.55.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.55.12|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 55:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.39|AUTODETECT|” ; etc.). So also in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.39|AUTODETECT|” Luke 4:39) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , where we are told that Jesus rebuked the fever by which Peter s mother-in-law was being afflicted. The really important fact conveyed by the expression He rebuked is that in a very effective manner Jesus asserted his authority over the elements of nature, so that their fury subsided and all became calm.) 1 4 2 8 0 0 What is very striking is that not only the winds immediately quiet down, but so do even the waves. Generally, as is well known, after the winds have perceptibly diminished, the billows will continue to roll for a while, surging and subsiding as if unwilling to follow the example of the now subdued air currents above them. But in this instance winds and waves synchronize in the sublime symphony of a solemn silence. Something comparable to an evening stillness of the starry heavens settles upon the waters. Suddenly the surface of the lake had become smooth as a mirror.) E. A loving admonition) 25.
Then he said to them, Where (is) your faith?) As Matthew pictures it (8:25, 26), when Jesus was awakened from his sleep he did not immediately still the storm. On the contrary, while the tempest was still raging and the boat being tossed to and fro by the billows, the Master with perfect serenity and self-composure addressed his terrified disciples as follows, Why are you frightened, O men of little faith? ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.6.5|AUTODETECT|” On the other hand, Luke, in the passage before us, makes it clear that not only before but also after the miracle the disciples were afraid and needed to be strengthened in their faith. They had been frightened by the storm. Now they were filled with fear because of the presence of One who had so suddenly, completely, and dramatically stilled the storm. For similar instances of awe induced by the consciousness of being in the presence of Majesty see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.6.5|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 6:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.1.28|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.1.28|AUTODETECT|” Ezek. 1:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.5.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.5.8|AUTODETECT|” Luke 5:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.1.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.1.17|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 1:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.13.20|AUTODETECT|” . Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.13.20|AUTODETECT|” Judg. 13:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.13.22|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.13.22|AUTODETECT|” 22) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 6 2 8 0 0 So Jesus asks them, Where (is) your faith? As if to say, has not the stilling of the storm and the soothing of the waves taught you that this Master of yours is not only very powerful but also very loving? Therefore, should not your response be that of childlike trust?) It is also possible that by asking, Where is your faith? Jesus is referring both to their recent and their present fear. If so, his question would mean, With me as your Lord and Protector, why were you so afraid of the storm, and why are you even now so afraid because I stilled it? Where is your childlike trust? ) F.
A profound effect) Awestruck and filled with amazement they asked one another, Who then is this, that he commands even the winds and the water, and they obey him?) Note both the awe and the amazement, the fear and the astonishment, of the disciples. As we would express it today, They just couldn t get over it. Filled with deep reverence were they. They began to realize: Jesus is even greater than we had previously imagined. He exercises control not only over audiences (4:32), sicknesses (6:19), demons (4:35, 36), and death (7:11 17; cf. 7:22), but even over the elements of nature, the winds and the water.) Much that is wrong on earth can be corrected. There are mothers who dry tears, repairmen who fix machines, surgeons who remove diseased tissues, counselors who solve family problems, etc.
But it takes deity to change the weather. It is Jesus who commands the elements of the weather, with the result that even the winds and the water obey him!) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.5.17|AUTODETECT|” To be sure, in answer to prayer Elijah, in a sense, had caused a drought and afterward had brought down the rain 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.5.17|AUTODETECT|” James 5:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.5.18|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.5.18|AUTODETECT|” 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). But here was One who, in his own right and by the exercise of his own power and authority, had brought about a sudden and radical change in the weather. Who, then, is this?) 1 3 2 8 0 0 The answer is not given. See, however, verse 28. Very appropriately the present narrative ends by fixing the attention upon the person of Jesus Christ, so that everyone who reads it may give his own answer, may profess his own faith, and add his own doxology.) To the extent to which The Twelve were filled with holy reverence they must be commended. But was there not also a sinful element in their fear ? See Practical Lessons at the end of this section.��311��) ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.22-42.8.25|AUTODETECT|” Practical Lessons Derived from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.22-42.8.25|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:22 25) 1 3 2 8 0 0 Verses 23, 24) Now as they were sailing he fell asleep.& So they & woke him up. It is comforting to know that an outcry of human distress awakens the One whom a most violent storm cannot awaken.) Verse 25) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.4.4|AUTODETECT|” Then he said to them, Where (is) your faith? First these men had been afraid of the storm. That is understandable, though not entirely excusable. Afterward they were filled with awe because of the presence of One who had suddenly and dramatically revealed his power and authority in stilling the storm. Up to a point such awe is good. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.4.4|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 4:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.15.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.15.4|AUTODETECT|” 15:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.33.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.33.8|AUTODETECT|” 33:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.119.161|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.119.161|AUTODETECT|” 119:161) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.23.4|AUTODETECT|” . The element of holy reverence is to be commended. On the other hand, the element of panic must be condemned. The disciples exhibited this hysterical fear. They were filled with it both while the storm was still raging and also afterward. They should have said, Even though we walk through the valley of the shadow of death, we will fear no harm, for thou art with us 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.23.4|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 23:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.27.1|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.27.1|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 27:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.46.1-19.46.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.46.1-19.46.3|AUTODETECT|” 46:1 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 5 2 8 0 0 ) Notes on Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 8:22 25) Verse 22) ����, third per. s. 2nd aor. of ������, to step or get into, embark. Note ������ in verse 23.) For ��������� see the note on 2:15 on page 161.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.22|AUTODETECT|” ��������, third per. pl. aor. pass. of ����. In Luke s writings this word occurs with great frequency; both in the sense of to lead or bring up 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.22|AUTODETECT|” Luke 2:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.5|AUTODETECT|” 4:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.9.39|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.9.39|AUTODETECT|” Acts 9:39) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.16.34|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.16.34|AUTODETECT|” 16:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.22|AUTODETECT|” ) and as a nautical term 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.22|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.13.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.13.13|AUTODETECT|” Acts 13:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.16.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.16.11|AUTODETECT|” 16:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.18.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.18.21|AUTODETECT|” 18:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.3|AUTODETECT|” 20:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.13|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.13|AUTODETECT|” 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.4.1|AUTODETECT|” , etc.), to set sail, set out, put to sea. The verb is also found in non-Lucan New Testament writings, but not in a nautical sense 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.4.1|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 4:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.10.7|AUTODETECT|” ; and in connection with Christ s resurrection, his being brought up from the dead, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.10.7|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 10:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.13.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.13.20|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 13:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Verse 23) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.18.17|AUTODETECT|” ��������, gen. pl. masc. pres. participle of ����, to sail. Cf. float, fleet. Except for ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.18.17|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 18:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.21.3|AUTODETECT|” , in the New Testament this verb is peculiar to Luke 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.21.3|AUTODETECT|” Acts 21:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.27.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.27.2|AUTODETECT|” 27:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.27.6|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.27.6|AUTODETECT|” 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.27.24|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.27.24|AUTODETECT|” 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 ��������, third per. s. aor. (ingressive); here: to go off to sleep, fall asleep. The form is derived from ������. Cf. hypnotism.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.51|AUTODETECT|” �������������, third per. pl. imperf. indicat. pass. of ���������**, to fill up; here, they began to be filled up (with water) ; i.e., they [their boat] began to be swamped. In all three New Testament instances the verb occurs in the passive. When it is used in connection with a span or a point of time, the idea conveyed is that according to God s plan this span is running out 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.51|AUTODETECT|” Luke 9:51) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.1|AUTODETECT|” ) or this predetermined day has arrived 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.1|AUTODETECT|” Acts 2:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Accordingly, to bring out their full meaning these two passages would have to be translated after this fashion: Now it came about that, as the predetermined days before his ascension were running out, etc. And when, in fulfilment of God s plan, the day of Pentecost had come. See G. Delling on this verb, Th.D.N.T., Vol. VI, p. 308.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.19.27|AUTODETECT|” ����������, third per. pl. imperf. indicat. of ���������, to be in danger; so also in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.19.27|AUTODETECT|” Acts 19:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.19.40|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.19.40|AUTODETECT|” 40) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.30|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.30|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 15:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Verse 24) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.39|AUTODETECT|” ���������, third per. pl. aor. indicat. act. of ��������, to awaken thoroughly, to arouse; see also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.39|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:39) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.18|AUTODETECT|” John 6:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.1.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.1.13|AUTODETECT|” II Peter 1:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.3.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.3.1|AUTODETECT|” 3:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . From the same basic verb comes also ����������, nom. s. masc. participle, aor. pass.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 �������, voc. of ��������, one who stands over others, overseer, master. See also N.T.C. on Mark, p. 177, footnote 172.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.15.0|AUTODETECT|” ���������, third per. pl. pres. (durative) indicat. middle of �������, to destroy, kill; in the middle: to perish, be ruined, be lost. Forms of this verb abound in the New Testament, especially in the Gospels 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.15.0|AUTODETECT|” Luke 15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 6 2 8 0 0 For ��������� see the note on 4:35 on page 267.) Verse 25) Note ��� ��; here �� is added to enliven the narrative; that is, to emphasize the question and to make it more vivid. It should not be skipped in translation.) ) 8:26 39 In the Land of the Gergesenes:) Helpfulness over against Heartlessness) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.28-40.8.34|AUTODETECT|” Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.28-40.8.34|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 8:28 34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.1-41.5.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=41.5.1-41.5.20|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:1 20) 1 9 2 8 0 0 26 They sailed on to the region of the Gergesenes,��312�� which is opposite Galilee. 27 Now when Jesus stepped ashore, a certain demon-possessed man from the town met him. For a long time he had worn no clothes, and he was not living in a house but in the tombs. 28 Now when he saw Jesus he cried out and fell down before him, shouting at the top of his voice, Why do you bother me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I beg you, don t torture me! (29 For Jesus had commanded the unclean spirit to come out of the man. Because many a time it had seized him, and though he was bound with chains and shackles and kept under guard, he would snap his bonds and by the demon would be driven into solitary places.)) 30 Jesus asked him, What is your name? Legion, he replied, because many demons had gone into him. 31 And they begged Jesus again and again not to order them to go into the abyss.) 32 Now a herd of many pigs was feeding there on the hillside. So the demons begged him to let them enter them; and he gave them permission. 33 When the demons came out of the man, they entered the pigs.
And the herd rushed headlong down the cliff into the lake and were drowned.) 34 When those in charge of the pigs saw what had happened, they fled and spread the news in town and countryside. 35 So the people came out to see what had happened. They came to see Jesus and found the man from whom the demons had gone out, sitting at Jesus feet, clothed and in his right mind; and they were afraid.��313�� 36 Those who had seen it told the people how the demon-possessed man had been cured. 37 Thereupon, because they were terribly frightened, the entire population of the region of the Gergesenes asked Jesus to leave them. So he stepped into a boat and returned.) 38 Now the man from whom the demons had gone out kept begging to go with him. But Jesus sent him away, saying, 39 Return home, and tell what great things God has done for you. So he went away, proclaiming all over town what great things Jesus had done for him.) ) The connection between the preceding paragraph and this one is probably as follows: (a) chronological. The two events actually followed each other in historical sequence.
Note Let us cross over.& So they set out.& Now as they were sailing.& They sailed on to [implying: and arrived at] the region of the Gergesenes. Also (b) topical or thematic. Note the sharp contrast between, on the one hand, the howling tempest and hysterical disciples of verses 22 25; similarly, the screaming demoniac, clamoring demons, terrified pigs, and frightened populace of verses 26 39; and, on the other hand, in both accounts, Jesus, endowed with majestic calm, as is clear from all his words and actions.) A. Jesus asserts his authority over the demons) 26. They sailed on to the region of the Gergesenes, which is opposite Galilee.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.28|AUTODETECT|” The group, consisting of Jesus and The Twelve, had sailed up the lake from the shore (8:22), and then down toward the land. They now arrived there. According to the reading of the original, as represented here by Grk. N.T. (A-B-M-W), the region where they stepped ashore was that of the Gergesenes. However, in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.28|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 8:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.1|AUTODETECT|” the same source has Gadarenes; and in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.1|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 Gerasenes. In each case variant readings are recognized in the notes.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 It was a region of tombs, some of them probably empty, chambers hewn into the cliffs arising from the eastern shore of the lake. The territory was located over against Galilee. A steep hill descended sharply to the very edge of the water (verse 33). The combined information given in the text suits Khersa, situated diagonally opposite Capernaum.��314��) 27 29. Now when Jesus stepped ashore, a certain demon-possessed man from the town met him. For a long time he had worn no clothes, and he was not living in a house but in the tombs.
Now when he saw Jesus he cried out and fell down before him, shouting at the top of his voice, Why do you bother me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I beg you, don t torture me! (For Jesus had commanded the unclean spirit to come out of the man. Because many a time it had seized him, and though he was bound with chains and shackles and kept under guard, he would snap his bonds and by the demon would be driven into solitary places.)) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.5|AUTODETECT|” The confrontation between Jesus and this man took place right near the shore, the very moment the Master stepped out of the boat. Note that the man was from the town. He had seen better days. There was a time when he lived among his fellows and wore clothes. Now he wore scarcely any; in fact, in view of such passages as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.5|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.15|AUTODETECT|” b, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.15|AUTODETECT|” 15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.39|AUTODETECT|” , probably none at all. He used to have a home 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.39|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:39) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.29|AUTODETECT|” ), but no longer. For a long time he had been living where he was living now, in the tombs.��315�� He was demon-possessed. For more on demon-possession see above, on 4:33 f. He was fierce 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.29|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 8:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.29|AUTODETECT|” ) and, as his loud screams show 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.29|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 8:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.5|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.5|AUTODETECT|” ), thoroughly unhappy. His fellow citizens regarded him as a public nuisance. They had never shown any interest in him, any desire to help him. To protect themselves from him they had again and again tied him up, hand and foot, but even though they kept close watch over him, so strong and ferocious was he that again and again he had snapped his bonds. Meanwhile, in the midst of his hideous screaming, the demoniac was making things worse for himself by gashing the flesh of his naked body with the sharp edges of broken stones 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.5|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.33|AUTODETECT|” The confrontation between Jesus and this fierce, dangerous, unhappy demoniac took the following course. As soon as the wild man notices that a boat with some men aboard is nearing the shore, he starts rushing down the hill for the attack 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.33|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.6|AUTODETECT|” with ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.6|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). He really the demon(s) within him becomes aware of the identity of the little group s Leader. Awed by the latter s majestic presence, he prostrates himself before him. This homage, however, is an act of fear rather than humble reverence. At the top of his voice he shouts, Why do you bother me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? (see above, on 1:32). By thus addressing Jesus, does he not show that he, the demon, has the answer to the question the disciples were still asking? See verse 25.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.8|AUTODETECT|” It must have been at this time that Jesus issued his stern command, Come out of the man 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.8|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.11.24|AUTODETECT|” ). Luke, in characteristic fashion, implies that the Lord was moved by pity for the wretched demon-possessed man, frequently seized by the demon who was in the habit of driving him into solitary places. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.11.24|AUTODETECT|” Luke 11:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 4 2 8 0 0 When the demon realizes that he is about to be expelled from this man over whom he has exercised control for such a long time, he is filled with alarm. He probably thinks, I am about to be driven out of this man, but whither? To the bottomless pit perhaps, the place of torture? So he says, I beg you, don t torture me. For more on this see verse 31.) Without answering this plea Jesus now addresses himself directly to the grievously afflicted person, the demon-possessed man:) 30. Jesus asked him, What is your name?) Jesus wishes to reveal to the demoniac the seriousness of his condition.
- In order to deliver him from it he wishes to calm him down and to strengthen his consciousness of his real self. He wants to draw him out from under, that is, to tear him loose from his close association almost identification with the demon, or demons, that had so long a time exercised dominion over him.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.26.53|AUTODETECT|”
- Legion, he replied, because many demons had gone into him. The reply indicates the depth of the demoniac s misery. He is under the control not of just one demon, the spokesman, but of an entire host, a Legion!��316�� The word must not be taken literally, as if it meant that a force of at least 6000 demons were in control of the poor man. The meaning here is undoubtedly figurative: a very large number. It is also possible that the term Legion conjured up the vision of an army of occupation, cruelty, and destruction. We are not dealing here with a legion of protecting angels 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.26.53|AUTODETECT|”
- Matt. 26:53) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.11.26|AUTODETECT|”
- more than twelve legions of angels ). We are confronted here with Satan s army of terror and death. That more than one demon would at times occupy and enslave a person is clear also from other Scripture passages. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.11.26|AUTODETECT|” Luke 11:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.45|AUTODETECT|” 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.45|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 12:45) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.2|AUTODETECT|” ); ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.2|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.16.9|AUTODETECT|” 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.16.9|AUTODETECT|” Mark 16:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 2 2 8 0 0 It having now been clearly established that the demon who addressed Jesus in verses 28 and 30 was the spokesman for many others, from this point on the plural is used instead of the singular . So the story continues:) 31. And they begged Jesus again and again not to order them to go into the abyss.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.29|AUTODETECT|” Here the agonized request of verse 28b is amplified. See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.29|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 8:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , Did you come here to torture us before the appointed time? The demoniac world realizes that on the day of the final judgment its relative freedom to roam about on earth and in the sky must cease forever, and that its final and most terrible punishment is destined to begin at that time. They know that right now they are face to face with the One to whom the final judgment has been committed. They are afraid that even now, before the appointed time, Jesus might hurl them into the abyss or dungeon, that is, into hell, the place where Satan is kept. But if not into the abyss, what then? The answer is given in verses) 1 1 2 8 0 0 32, 33. Now a herd of many pigs was feeding there on the hillside. So the demons begged him to let them enter them; and he gave them permission. When the demons came out of the man, they entered the pigs. And the herd rushed headlong down the cliff into the lake and were drowned.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.13|AUTODETECT|” In the vicinity, on the hillside, a herd of pigs about two thousand of them 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.13|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) was feeding. So the demons ask permission to enter these pigs. Jesus gave them permission. The point should not escape us that without this permission the demons would not have been able to carry out their plan. The evangelist impresses upon the readers the fact that everything, even the realm of demons, is completely under Christ s control.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.11.7|AUTODETECT|” Jesus granted their wish. Shall we say that pigs according to the law 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.11.7|AUTODETECT|” Lev. 11:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.14.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.14.8|AUTODETECT|” Deut. 14:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) unclean were the proper place for unclean spirits? However that may be, the demons now release their vise-like grip on the man and enter the pigs. Result: all those pigs rush pell-mell down the cliff into the lake and are drowned.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.9.20|AUTODETECT|” Two questions demand consideration. First, What ethical justification was there for Jesus to allow this to happen to these animals? Is not ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.9.20|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 9:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.4.35|AUTODETECT|” , Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God? (A.V. rendering), the real answer? Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=27.4.35|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 4:35) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 4 2 8 0 0 That same answer will also do for the second question, namely, Was it right for Jesus to deprive the owners of so large a proportion of their material possessions? In addition, however, to the appeal to God s sovereignty, it should also be pointed out that by permitting this loss Jesus was actually helping these owners; that is, he was helping them if only they were willing to take the lesson to heart. These owners and in general the people of this community were selfish. In their scale of values the acquisition, retention, and multiplication of material possessions, such as pigs, ranked higher by far than the liberation and restoration to health and freedom of a man unfree, unhappy, unloved, and uncared for; yes, enslaved, wretched, hated, and abandoned. Hence they needed this lesson.) B. He reveals his love to men) 34 36.
When those in charge of the pigs saw what had happened, they fled and spread the news in town and countryside. So the people came out to see what had happened. They came to see Jesus and found the man from whom the demons had gone out, sitting at Jesus feet, clothed and in his right mind; and they were afraid. Those who had seen it told the people how the demon-possessed man had been cured.) The men who had been tending the pigs must have witnessed the meeting between Jesus and the demoniac. They had also observed that the wildness of this man had left him and had, as it were, been transferred to the pigs, with the result that the entire herd had perished in the water. The swineherds drew the correct conclusion that it was Jesus who had ordered and allowed all this to happen.
He had ordered the demons to leave, and had allowed them to enter the pigs. The loss of the pigs was therefore not the fault of those who had been tending them. The herdsmen, accordingly, ran back to where the people were living. They wanted the owners and everybody else, in town and countryside, in the little city and on the farms, to know who was and who was not to blame.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.39|AUTODETECT|” Luke pictures the people coming to see what had happened. This was probably the morning after the miracle had occurred. What did the people see? They saw Jesus. They also carefully observed the man who had been a demoniac. There was no doubt about it. It was the very man. Now, however, he was no longer rushing down the hill but sitting down, and right at the feet of Jesus, reminding us of Mary 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.39|AUTODETECT|” Luke 10:39) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.13|AUTODETECT|” ). No longer was he naked but clothed. And no longer was he acting like a madman but in his right mind 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.13|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 5:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 The power and majesty of Jesus who had brought all this about caused these people to become frightened, a reaction that was not lessened when right here, on the spot where it had all happened, the details of the story how the demoniac had been cured were rehearsed by the eyewitnesses: herdsmen and disciples.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.4.25|AUTODETECT|” What should have been the result? Initial sadness because of the loss of the pigs would have been natural. But should not the owners and all who were in any way affected by this loss have spoken somewhat as follows: We see now that the loss of our property was a small price to pay for the lesson we have learned. These pigs, that property, meant everything to us. We were selfish. We never felt concerned about the needs of our fellow citizen, this poor, wretched man.
Now we see things differently. We now understand that human values surpass material values by far ? Should they not have congratulated the man who was sitting there at Jesus feet? Should they not have brought their sick and handicapped to Jesus to be healed? Surely, the people of this general region could not have been entirely ignorant about this great Benefactor! See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.4.25|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 4:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.40|AUTODETECT|” . Should they not have tried to prevail upon Jesus to stay a while longer in their midst, in order to impart blessings for body and soul? Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.40|AUTODETECT|” John 4:40) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 2 2 8 0 0 Their real reaction was quite different. It was in fact the very opposite. Jesus must leave, the sooner the better:) 37. Thereupon, because they were terribly frightened, the entire population of the region of the Gergesenes asked Jesus to leave them. So he stepped into a boat and returned.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.15|AUTODETECT|” The people were frightened. Did they sense, perhaps, that a Power had been at work here over which they had no control; an action had taken place which they could not even understand? Whatever was the cause of their fear, it did not bring them close to Jesus. It was not the kind of fear described above, in verse 25. That fear was, at least to some extent, a deep reverence which had led to the question, Who then is this & ? On the contrary, the fear of the probably largely heathen population described in the present account was in all likelihood superstitious in character.
It was definitely sinful. Note that they show no interest whatever in the restoration of the demoniac. They seem never to have learned to rejoice with those who rejoice 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.12.15|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 12:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). It should not escape us that this unconcern on their part was all the more reprehensible because their attention had just now been called to the cure of the demoniac! Note the context: Those who had seen it told the people how the demon-possessed man had been cured. Thereupon they & asked Jesus to leave them. Their hearts must have been very hard indeed. And there seem to have been no favorable exceptions among them: the entire population of the region made this request.) 1 6 2 8 0 0 So Jesus left. He was not going to force the favor of his continued presence upon people who by word and deed were saying, We do not want you. Does this mean, then, that his withdrawal was complete and absolute? It does not, as the touchingly beautiful climax will show:) 38, 39. Now the man from whom the demons had gone out kept begging to go with him. But Jesus sent him away, saying, Return home, and tell what great things God has done for you.
So he went away, proclaiming all over town what great things Jesus had done for him.) Note the following:) a. The One who had granted the request of the demons, permitting them to enter the pigs, and of the people, that he leave their district, refuses to grant the request of a man who has become his own ardent follower. We learn from this that when God allows his people to get whatever it is they wish to have, this is not always an unmixed blessing. And when he refuses to say Yes in answer to their earnest petition, this is not necessarily a sign of his disfavor.) b. True missionary activity begins at home.) c. The man is ordered to tell his people what great things God has done for him.
The words, He went away, proclaiming & what great things Jesus had done for him, show that he is aware of the very close relation between God and Jesus.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.20|AUTODETECT|” d. What may well be considered the main lesson is that which concerns the cause of missions. Jesus is showing great kindness, and that not only to this man but to the entire community that had so shamefully rejected him. They had asked him to leave, but he, in his great love, cannot completely separate himself from them. So he sends them a missionary, in fact the best kind of missionary, one of their own people, a person who was able to speak from experience. Return home, Jesus said to him. The cured man did even better than that, for, as Luke indicates, he proclaimed all over town what great things Jesus had done for him. So filled with joy and gratitude was he! In fact, as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.20|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 shows, this man s missionary activity extended even far beyond his own town.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 The cause of missions is indeed basic to the understanding of this story. What Jesus is represented as doing here is breaking down the power of Satan, so that the souls of men may be ready for the reception of the gospel.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.26.18|AUTODETECT|” Demon expulsion and missionary activity are related far more closely than is commonly realized. God s purpose is to turn men from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.26.18|AUTODETECT|” Acts 26:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). This is by no means the only passage in which the destruction of the works of the devil is placed in close relation to the spread of the gospel. See also the following:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.29|AUTODETECT|” Or how can one enter the strong man s house and carry off his goods unless he first binds the strong man? 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.29|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 12:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.18|AUTODETECT|” ). Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.18|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 12:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , And he shall proclaim justice to the Gentiles. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.17|AUTODETECT|” The seventy-two [missionaries] returned with joy, saying, Lord, even the demons were subject to us in thy name! He said to them, I was watching Satan fall from heaven like lightning 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.17|AUTODETECT|” Luke 10:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.18|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.18|AUTODETECT|” 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.31|AUTODETECT|” Now is the judgment of this world. Now shall the prince of this world be cast out. And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to myself 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.31|AUTODETECT|” John 12:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.32|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.32|AUTODETECT|” 32) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , in a context describing how some Greeks expressed the wish to see Jesus).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.1-66.20.3|AUTODETECT|” Undoubtedly these passages also shed light on the true interpretation of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.1-66.20.3|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 20:1 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.26-42.8.39|AUTODETECT|” As was stated earlier see above, on 2:39 the author of the Third Gospel hardly ever describes Jesus in the act of entering Gentile territory. Though even in his first book he repeatedly emphasizes the meaning of Christ for both Jew and Gentile, he reserves the actual story of the evangelization of the Gentiles for his second book, namely, Acts. Yet, here 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.26-42.8.39|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:26 39) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) for once he places Jesus in predominantly Gentile territory. To be sure, the period of the wide opening of the door of grace (multitudes of Gentiles entering in) had not yet arrived. But that door was standing ajar.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 The message and the lesson are clear: Calvary has meaning for both Jew and Gentile. The wonderful story must be joyfully and earnestly proclaimed to both. Satan must be banished from hearts and lives, so that Christ may enter in. That is the central meaning of the present account.��317��) ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.26-42.8.39|AUTODETECT|” Practical Lessons Derived from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.26-42.8.39|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:26 39) 1 3 2 8 0 0 Verse 27) A certain demon-possessed man from the town met Jesus. The reality of Satan and his hosts is clearly demonstrated in this story. What is even more definitely emphasized is the fact that it is God one can also say Jesus Christ who is in control, not the demons. (See verses 28, 31, 32.) It is he who expels demons from human hearts in order that the truth of the gospel may enter in.) Verse 28) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.2.19|AUTODETECT|” Jesus, Son of the Most High God. That was and is correct. Nevertheless the demons are not saved. Why not? Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.2.19|AUTODETECT|” James 2:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.2.20|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.2.20|AUTODETECT|” 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 5 2 8 0 0 Verse 35) They & found the man from whom the demons had gone out, sitting at Jesus feet, clothed and in his right mind. True religion affects every department of life and every faculty of man s innermost being.) Verse 37) The entire population & asked Jesus to leave them. A most terrible request. Contrast it with the request found in verse 41.) Verse 39) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.19|AUTODETECT|” Return home, and tell what great things God has done for you. Even though Jesus himself heeded the request of the people that he leave, he, in his goodness and wisdom, gave them a missionary, one of their own people, the very man whom the Master had healed. For other instances in which Jesus returned good for evil see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.19|AUTODETECT|” Luke 7:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.27-42.7.29|AUTODETECT|” , cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.27-42.7.29|AUTODETECT|” 27 29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.5|AUTODETECT|” 23:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.18|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.18|AUTODETECT|” 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.21|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.21|AUTODETECT|” 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.23|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.23|AUTODETECT|” 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.33|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.33|AUTODETECT|” 33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.23|AUTODETECT|” , cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.23|AUTODETECT|” 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.15-43.18.18|AUTODETECT|” :34; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.15-43.18.18|AUTODETECT|” John 18:15 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.25-43.18.27|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.25-43.18.27|AUTODETECT|” 25 27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.15-43.18.17|AUTODETECT|” , cf. 21:) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.15-43.18.17|AUTODETECT|” 15 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.27-42.6.29|AUTODETECT|” ; and see also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.27-42.6.29|AUTODETECT|” Luke 6:27 29) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 16 2 8 0 0 ) Notes on Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 8:26 39) Verse 26) �����������, third per. pl. aor. indicat. act. of ��������, to sail from the high sea toward the shore; the opposite of ����, to put to sea (verse 22).) �������, opposite.) Verse 27) ����� 1����, for a long time; see the note on 7:6 on page 380.) �P� �������� 1������, he had worn no clothing; aor. where we would normally use the pluperfect. See also verse 29, For Jesus had commanded.& ) 1������, here probably generic, clothing; cf. verse 35.) �����, literally: a memorial erected for the dead; hence, a tomb. Cf. ��������, to remember.) Verse 28) For �� ��v ��v ��� see the note on 4:34 on page 267. On the Most High God see the explanation of 1:31 33.) �� �� ���������, sec. per. s. aor. subjunct. act. in a prohibition, Don t torture me. ��������, to torture. The noun ������� (cf. our English word basanite) indicates (a) basically, a touchstone to test gold and other metals; (b) the instrument of torture by which slaves were tortured; i.e., were forced to reveal the truth; and (c) torment or acute pain. See also footnote 288 on p. 260 of N.T.C. on Mark.) Verse 29) The manuscripts are divided between the aorist ���������� and the imperfect ����������� . The difference is minor, though he had commanded seems more logical: for then the demon s plea, Don t torture me, more naturally follows Christ s command, Come out of the man. ) ������� & ������� can be regarded as locative: on many occasions ; hence, oftentimes, many times.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.6.12|AUTODETECT|” ����������, third per. s. pluperf. indicat. act. of ���������**, to seize. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.6.12|AUTODETECT|” Acts 6:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.19.29|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.19.29|AUTODETECT|” 19:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.27.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.27.15|AUTODETECT|” 27:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 12 2 8 0 0 ���������, third per. s. imperf. pass. of �������, to bind. For ������� ��v ������ see footnote 181, N.T.C. on Mark, p. 189.) ����������, nom. s. pres. act. participle of ��������� (cf. �����������), to rend, break, snap. Cf. break, wreck, fracture, hemorrhage.) �������, third per. s. imperf. passive of �����, to drive. Cf. elastic, which springs (is driven) back.) Verse 31) ������ (= without, plus ������ or �����, depth, bottom), bottomless (pit or region), abyss.) Verses 32, 33) �� & ���������, periphrastic imperf. of �����, to feed. Cf. proboscis, botany. Note also those who were feeding, i.e., the herdsmen (verse 34), and cf. 15:15.) Luke s account is factual rather than emphatically descriptive: note all the aorists: the demons begged him & he gave them permission.
Having gone out of the man, the demons entered the pigs. The herd rushed headlong down the cliff & and were drowned (where Mark has the descriptive imperfect: and were drowning). The verb A����, to rush headlong, reminds us of hormone; the noun �������, cliff, of the cremaster muscle.) Verses 34, 35) In both verses note �x �������, 2nd perf. participle, neut. s. (here acc.) of �������.) ���������, third per. pl. aor. indicat. pass. of �����, they were afraid; or, if ingressive, they became frightened. See also the note on 2:9 on page 160.) Verse 36) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.14.25|AUTODETECT|” ���������, third per. pl. aor. indicat. act. of ��������, to tell, announce, proclaim, declare. See also the note on 8:20 page 437. This verb occurs frequently in the Third Gospel (besides 8:20 also in 7:18, 22; 8:34, 36, 47; 9:36; 13:1; 14:21; 18:37; 24:9); and especially in Acts (16 times, beginning with 4:23). Matthew uses it 8 times; Mark (1:1 16:8) 3 times; John, in his Gospel, only once (16:25). In the rest of the New Testament it is found only in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.14.25|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 14:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.9|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 1:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.2.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.2.12|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 2:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.1.2|AUTODETECT|” ; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.1.2|AUTODETECT|” I John 1:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.1.3|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.1.3|AUTODETECT|” 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 13 2 8 0 0 Verse 37) ����������, third per. pl. imperf. pass. of ������; literally, to hold together tightly, to hem in, seize; hence, they were held in the grip of, were seized with, great fear (instrumental); they were terribly frightened. See also the note on 4:38 on page 271. In 8:45 the meaning of the verb is: to crowd.) Verse 38) �����, third per. s. imperf. middle of ������; he kept begging.) ���������, third per. s. pluperf. act. of ��������, to go out, depart. Cf. ������ (verse 35).) Verse 39) ������, second per. s. pres. imperat. of ���������, to carry (a narrative) through from beginning to end, to declare, tell. The third pers. pl. aor. indicat. of this verb occurs in 9:10.) The preposition ���� (here ����), which in verses 1 and 4 was used distributively, is here used to indicate extension in space: throughout the whole city, or all over town. ) ) Two Miracles) 8:40 42a, 49 56 The Restoration to Life of Jairus Daughter) and) 8:42b 48 The Healing of the Woman Who Touched Christ s Garment) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.18-40.9.26|AUTODETECT|” Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.18-40.9.26|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 9:18 26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.21-41.5.43|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.21-41.5.43|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:21 43) 1 11 2 8 0 0 40 Now on Jesus return the crowd welcomed him, for they were all expecting him. 41 Just then a man named Jairus, a ruler of the synagogue, came, fell at Jesus feet, and began to plead with him to come to his home, 42 because his only daughter, about twelve years old, was dying. But as he went, the crowds continued to press upon him.��318��) 43 And a woman who had been subject to hemorrhages for a period of twelve years,��319�� and could not be cured by anybody, 44 came from behind and touched the tassel of his garment. Instantly her hemorrhage stopped.) 45 Who was it that touched me? Jesus asked. When they were all denying it, Peter said, Master, the people are crowding and pressing against you. 46 But Jesus said, Someone did touch me, for I was aware that power had gone out of me. ) 47 Now when the woman realized that she had not escaped notice, she came trembling, fell at his feet, and declared in the presence of all the people the reason why she had touched him and how she had been instantly cured.) 48 He said to her, Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace. ) 49 While he was still speaking, someone came from the synagogue ruler s (house), saying, Your daughter is dead; don t bother the Teacher any more. 50 But Jesus, hearing (this), said to Jairus, Fear no longer; only believe, and she will be made well. ) 51 When he arrived at the house, he allowed no one to enter with him, except Peter and John and James and the child s father and mother.) 52 The people, meanwhile, were all weeping and wailing��320�� over her. Jesus said, Stop weeping, for she is not dead but asleep. 53 But they were laughing in his face, for they knew that she was dead. 54 And having grasped her hand, he called out, My child, get up! ) 55 Her spirit returned and she got up at once.
Then he directed that something be given her to eat. 56 Her parents were astonished, but he instructed them to tell no one what had happened.) ) The transition from the preceding section (verses 26 39) to this one (verses 40 56) is well-nigh unforgettable. From the request amounting to please go away, the story advances to the earnest and moving petition, Please come (contrast verse 37 with verse 41). When Jesus was asked to leave, he left; that is, he recrossed the sea and landed at the Capernaum side, where a ruler of the synagogue was in sore need of help, for his little daughter was dying; in fact, before Jesus arrived at the home, she had died (verses 49, 53). So, from the story of the miraculous blessing bestowed on a man who had his dwelling in a locality associated with death (verse 27) we advance to that of triumph over death itself (verses 54, 55).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.18|AUTODETECT|” It would seem that when Jesus landed, the disciples of John the Baptist were waiting for him, with their question about fasting. See N.T.C. on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.18|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 9:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.5.33-42.5.39|AUTODETECT|” 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.5.33-42.5.39|AUTODETECT|” Luke 5:33 39) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). It was while he was still speaking with them that Jairus made his request.) 1 3 2 8 0 0 The synagogue was ruled by a board of elders. One of its responsibilities was to maintain good order at the synagogue meetings. The man who came to Jesus was a member of such a board. Since he was probably living in Capernaum we may assume that he had heard about, and perhaps even witnessed, some of the miracles performed by Jesus.) The reports of the present double miracle vary: Matthew s is very brief, nine verses; Luke s covers seventeen verses; Mark s twenty-three.) Matthew omits the ruler s request (see Mark and Luke) that Jesus heal the very sick child. In fact, Matthew in his very brief summary leaves out several items mentioned by one or both of the other synoptists. However, it is he alone who relates that the ruler asks Jesus to lay his hand upon the dead girl, adding and she will live (9:18). Also, he alone mentions the flute-players in the house of mourning (9:23).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.22|AUTODETECT|” Several items are common to Mark and Luke, though not found in Matthew. Thus we are told that the name of the ruler was Jairus 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.22|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.41|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.41|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:41) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.23|AUTODETECT|” ), that Jairus made his first request before the child had died 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.23|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.42|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.42|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:42) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.42|AUTODETECT|” ), that she was about twelve years of age 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.42|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:42) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.42|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.42|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:42) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.37|AUTODETECT|” ), that Peter, James, and John, and also the child s parents were with Jesus when he performed the miracle 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.37|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:37) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.40|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.40|AUTODETECT|” 40) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.51|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.51|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:51) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.43|AUTODETECT|” ), and that Jesus did not want the news of this miracle to spread 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.43|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:43) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.56|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.56|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:56) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 20 2 8 0 0 It is Luke alone who reports that the daughter was an only child (8:42), and that Jesus did indeed hear the remark to which he paid no attention (8:50). For items peculiar to Mark see N.T.C. on Mark, p. 201.) In all the three accounts the story of the bringing back to life of the daughter of Jairus is interrupted by that of the healing of the woman who touched Christ s garment.) The material as here presented permits the following outline. Under the general theme that has already been indicated (Two Miracles, etc.) we arrive at these subdivisions or points :) Verses ) The first miracle introduced 40 42 ) The first miracle interrupted ) by ) the second miracle ) faith concealed 43 44a ) faith rewarded 44b ) faith revealed 45 48 ) The first miracle performed ) a word of encouragement 49, 50 ) a word of revelation 51 53 ) a word of love and power 54 55a ) a word of tender concern 55b 56 ) ) ) A. The first miracle introduced) 40 42. Now on Jesus return the crowd welcomed him, for they were all expecting him. Just then a man named Jairus, a ruler of the synagogue, came, fell at Jesus feet, and began to plead with him to come to his home, because his only daughter, about twelve years old, was dying.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.21|AUTODETECT|” As ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.21|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.40|AUTODETECT|” shows, Jesus was again to be found beside the sea, near Capernaum, with a large and expectant 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.40|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:40) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.23|AUTODETECT|” ) crowd assembled about him. It was then that Jairus fell prostrate at the Master s feet. Think of it: a ruler of the synagogue, accordingly a man of high position and reputation, expressing his reverential respect for Jesus by means of this humble gesture! Jairus may well have seen and heard Jesus many a time, right here in Capernaum. It is not at all unlikely that he had witnessed previous miracles. And now his pleading is fervent and impassioned, for he loves his dying child. Is she not his only daughter? It is characteristic of Luke to call the reader s attention to such a fact (cf. 7:12; 9:38). She was twelve years old, but he calls her my little daughter 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.23|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 7 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.24|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.19|AUTODETECT|” states that Jesus responded to this urgent request , and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.19|AUTODETECT|” Matthew 9:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 adds that the disciples accompanied him. Luke implies as much; as to Jesus (verse 42b), as to his disciples (verses 45, 51). But as he went, the crowds continued to press upon him. This statement is closely connected with what precedes. It also introduces and sheds light on that which follows in verses 43 48. The fact that the people were almost crushing Jesus made progress toward the house of Jairus slow and difficult. It also explains the action of the woman whose story follows. She thought that because of the huge crowd she would be able to do what she wanted to do, and escape detection (verse 47).) 1 3 2 8 0 0 B. The first miracle interrupted by the second miracle) 1. faith concealed) 43, 44a. And a woman who had been subject to hemorrhages for a period of twelve years, and could not be cured by anybody, came from behind and touched the tassel of his garment.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.5.17-42.5.19|AUTODETECT|” While Jesus is on his way to the home of Jairus suddenly there is an interruption. Again and again during his earthly ministry Jesus was interrupted; namely, in his speaking to a crowd 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.5.17-42.5.19|AUTODETECT|” Luke 5:17 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.35|AUTODETECT|” ), conversing with his disciples (12:12 ff.), sleeping (8:22 24), praying 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.1.35|AUTODETECT|” Mark 1:35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.46|AUTODETECT|” ff.), and traveling 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.46|AUTODETECT|” Mark 10:46) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ff.). The fact that none of these intrusions floor him (not for a moment is he at a loss as to what to do or what to say), shows that we are dealing here with the Son of man who is also the Son of God! What we would call an interruption is for him a springboard or take-off point for the utterance of a great saying or, as here, for the performance of a marvelous deed, revealing his power, wisdom, and love. What for us would have been a painful exigency is to him a golden opportunity.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 This time the interrupter is a woman. For twelve years she had been subject to hemorrhages; literally she had been in (a condition of) flow of blood. There are those who believe that the drain was constant. Another view would be that throughout the twelve years an excessive loss of blood, occurring periodically, had made it impossible for her ever to feel strong and healthy, and that at this particular moment she was again suffering as a result of loss of blood.) Note the coincidence: the daughter of Jairus was twelve years of age. The woman had been sick twelve years.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.14|AUTODETECT|” Mark states, She had suffered much at the hands of many physicians. Though this was true, it is not surprising that Luke, himself a physician 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.14|AUTODETECT|” Col. 4:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), brings out the fact that this woman s illness was, humanly speaking, and in the light of the therapeutics of that day, incurable.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.26|AUTODETECT|” Poor woman! She had lost her health, her wealth 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.26|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.15.19|AUTODETECT|” ), and because of the nature of her illness, also her standing in society, particularly in the religious community. Her condition was such that it would make her ceremonially unclean 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.15.19|AUTODETECT|” Lev. 15:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ff.).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 There was this last reason for hope: Jesus! What is so striking in this connection is that not only prominent people, such as Jairus, turned to Jesus in their distress, but so did also proletarians, like this poor woman. They seemed to have sensed that his power and his pity would respond to the needs of people from every social class.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.15.38|AUTODETECT|” Because of her condition the woman is afraid to come out into the open. She is not going to come into physical contact with Jesus himself. She will merely touch his garment, and even then only one of the four wool tassels which every Israelite was ordered to wear on the corners of his square outer robe 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.15.38|AUTODETECT|” Num. 15:38) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.22.12|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.22.12|AUTODETECT|” Deut. 22:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.5|AUTODETECT|” ) to remind him of the law of God. See also N.T.C. on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.23.5|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 23:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .��321�� Naturally the quickest and easiest way to bring oneself into physical contact with a garment without being noticed was to come from behind and touch the tuft swinging freely from the back of the robe. The wearer, so this woman thought, would never even notice what was happening. So, having heard the wonderful reports about Jesus, she came from behind and touched the tassel.) 1 7 2 8 0 0 2. faith rewarded) 44b. Instantly her hemorrhage stopped.) The greatness of this woman s faith consisted in this, that she believed that the power of Christ to heal was so amazing that even the mere touch of his clothes would result in an instant and complete cure. That this faith was, nevertheless, by no means perfect appears from the fact that she thought that such an actual touch was necessary and that Jesus would never notice it. But imperfect though her faith was, the Lord rewarded it. The recovery, moreover, was instant. In one brief moment the hemorrhage stopped completely.
- Health and vigor began to surge through every part of her body.) The reward affected not only her body, also her soul. Not only was her faith rewarded, it was also improved, brought to a higher stage of development, so that faith concealed became:) 3. faith revealed) 45a. Who was it that touched me? Jesus asked.) Jesus was not ignorant of the fact than someone had touched him, and this not accidentally but purposely, and not just with a finger but with faith. He knew that it was to that faith that the power within him and proceeding from him had responded.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=19.50.15|AUTODETECT|”
- What Jesus wants is that whoever it was that had thus meaningfully touched him shall now complete the circle indicated in many passages of Scripture, including, for example, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=19.50.15|AUTODETECT|”
- Ps. 50:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0
- :) 1 3 2 8 0 0
- Call upon me in the day of trouble;) I will deliver you,) And you shall glorify me.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.17.17|AUTODETECT|”
- This woman, in her own way, had called upon Jesus. He had rescued her, but she had not as yet glorified him. Up to this point she was like the nine cleansed lepers of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.17.17|AUTODETECT|”
- Luke 17:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.17.18|AUTODETECT|”
- , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.17.18|AUTODETECT|”
- 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.10.9|AUTODETECT|”
- Then Jesus said, Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine? Was no one found to return and give thanks to God except this foreigner? To be sure, she had believed with her heart. But she had not as yet confessed with her mouth 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.10.9|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 10:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). It was in order to bring about this favorable change that Jesus immediately turned around in the crowd and asked, Who was it that touched me? Interpreted: & touched me meaningfully. ) 1 1 2 8 0 0 45b. When they were all denying it, Peter said, Master, the people are crowding and pressing against you.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.31|AUTODETECT|” At this point, as Luke shows, it was Peter who spoke up. That was typical of him. The other disciples joined in 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.31|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.8.15|AUTODETECT|” ), but Peter, as often, took the lead. It was he who spoke most vociferously. When he said, Master, the people are crowding and pressing against you, he committed the oft repeated error of interpreting Christ s words in the most starkly literal fashion, as if Jesus had been inquiring about a merely physical touch. The following passages are among those that show that the rule of literal interpretation is anything but safe unless it is presented with the proper qualifications: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.8.15|AUTODETECT|” Mark 8:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.8.16|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=41.8.16|AUTODETECT|”
- 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.2.19-43.2.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.2.19-43.2.22|AUTODETECT|” John 2:19 22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.3-43.3.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.3-43.3.5|AUTODETECT|” 3:3 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.10-43.4.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.10-43.4.15|AUTODETECT|” 4:10 15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.52|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.52|AUTODETECT|” 6:52) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.56-43.8.58|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.56-43.8.58|AUTODETECT|” 8:56 58) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.11-43.11.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.11-43.11.13|AUTODETECT|” 11:11 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . To be sure, Jesus was not denying the literal touch, but he meant something far more than this, the touch in faith, the very effective touch. It was a touch with a purpose, not a merely accidental touch.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.22|AUTODETECT|” Peter s remark revealed not only lack of insight but even lack of proper respect, the subdued reverence which this disciple should have shown to his Master. It was thoughtless and tasteless, crude and rude. It reminds one of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.22|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 16:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 0
- But Jesus said, Someone did touch me, for I was aware that power had gone out of me.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.4-23.53.6|AUTODETECT|” Here Jesus shows how he knew that someone had indeed touched him, touched him in faith and with a purpose to be healed, and this not without cost to the Healer 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.4-23.53.6|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 53:4 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.17|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 8:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). He declares that he knew it because at the moment it happened healing power had gone out of him. For the explanation of the last clause see above, on 6:19. He insists, therefore, that the person who had touched him in this manner come out into the open. Why? There may have been several reasons: Confession (public testimony, witness-bearing) is good for the soul of the individual who makes it, as well as for those who hear it. If it is done in the proper spirit, God is glorified by it. Besides, Jesus wants the people in general to know that the person involved is now no longer to be regarded as unclean and excluded from mingling socially and religiously (in synagogue and temple) with the rest of men. The cured individual must be welcomed back.) 1 5 2 8 0 0
- Now when the woman realized that she had not escaped notice, she came trembling, fell at his feet, and declared in the presence of all the people the reason why she had touched him and how she had been instantly cured.) The woman had already started to leave. This is clear from the words, She came, here evidently meaning came back. She had heard Jesus say, Who was it that touched me? And again, Someone did touch me, etc. She now realizes that her earlier plan, namely, to touch the tassel and then quickly slip away, could no longer be carried out.
She must reveal herself. So she came. Her conscience told her to go and to speak.) Nevertheless, it was not easy for her to do what she felt she had to do. At that time and in that country for a woman to speak in public was generally considered improper. This all the more on a subject such as this, the particular physical scourge by which she had been afflicted. And would not even the fact that she, in that condition, deliberately had touched the Master add to the impropriety in the eyes of the bystanders?
Yes, and even, perhaps, in the eyes of Jesus himself? Would he scold her perhaps?) We can understand, therefore, both why she confessed, and why she did this while trembling. In the presence of all the people she declared: (a) the reason why she had touched him, and (b) how she had been instantly cured. See verses 43, 44.) 48. He said to her, Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.27|AUTODETECT|” Lovingly Jesus calls her Daughter, even though she may not have been any younger than he was. But he speaks as a father to his child. Moreover, he praises her for her faith, even though that faith, as has been indicated, was by no means perfect; and even though, as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.27|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.8|AUTODETECT|” indicates, it was he himself who, through his earlier marvelous words and deeds, had brought about that faith. Her faith, though not the basic cause of her cure, had been the channel through which the cure had been accomplished. It had been the instrument used by Christ s power and love to effect her recovery. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.8|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 2:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . Is it not marvelous that Jesus, in speaking to this woman, says nothing about his own power and love, the root cause of her present state of well-being, but makes special mention of that which apart from him she would neither have possessed nor have been able to exercise? Moreover, by saying, Your faith has made you well (cf. 7:50), was he not also stressing the fact that it was his personal response to her personal faith in him that cured her, thereby removing from her mind any remnant, however small, of superstition, as if his clothes had contributed in any way to the cure?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.26.3|AUTODETECT|” As has already been indicated, by means of these cheering words Jesus also opened the way for the woman s complete reinstatement in the social and religious life and fellowship of her people. Now she can go and continue to travel the rest of her life in peace, that is, with the smile of God upon her and the joyful inner knowledge of this smile. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.26.3|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 26:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.43.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.43.1|AUTODETECT|” 43:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.43.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.43.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.1|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 5:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 4 2 8 0 0 Probably even more is included in this encouraging command, Go in peace. In view of the fact that in all probability Jesus spoke these words in the then current language of the Jews (Aramaic), have we not a right to conclude that nothing less than the full measure of the Hebrew Shalom, well-being for both soul and body, is here implied?) C. The first miracle performed) 1. a word of encouragement) 49. While he was still speaking, someone came from the synagogue ruler s (house), saying, Your daughter is dead; don t bother the Teacher any more.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.35|AUTODETECT|” The messenger may have been a relative of Jairus, or perhaps a friend. At any rate, he was not very diplomatic in conveying the alarming news. Rather bluntly he said, Your daughter is dead. He adds, & don t bother the Teacher any more. As this messenger 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.35|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:35) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) saw it, there was not even the remotest possibility that Jesus would be able to restore a dead person. For a while there had been hope, namely, when the child was sick; very sick, to be sure, but Jesus was on the way. But then there had been that tragic interruption (verses 43 48). And now the blossoms of hope had withered away. However, note what happens:) 1 1 2 8 0 0 50. But Jesus, hearing (this), said to Jairus, Fear no longer; only believe, and she will be made well.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.36|AUTODETECT|” Though Jesus hears the words of the messenger, he pays no attention to them 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.36|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). With majestic calmness he refuses completely to lend an ear to the herald of doom, the messenger of despair. He wants Jairus to do the same.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.21|AUTODETECT|” Jairus is afraid. Now it is not easy to drive out fear. There is only one way to do it, namely, by firmly believing in the presence, promises, pity, and power of God in Christ. It takes the positive to drive out the negative 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.21|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 12:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.36|AUTODETECT|” ). Jairus must by an act of faith accept Christ s promise that the child will be healed; that is, will be brought back from death. He must continue to believe this 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.36|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.22.4|AUTODETECT|” Throughout the history of redemption it has ever been thus. When it seemed that all was lost, believers placed their trust in God and were delivered 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.22.4|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 22:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.26.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.26.3|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 26:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.26.4|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.26.4|AUTODETECT|” 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.43.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.43.2|AUTODETECT|” 43:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.22.2|AUTODETECT|” ). This was true with respect to Abraham 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.22.2|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 22:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.2.21-59.2.23|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.2.21-59.2.23|AUTODETECT|” James 2:21 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.14.10|AUTODETECT|” ), Moses 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.14.10|AUTODETECT|” Exod. 14:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.32.10|AUTODETECT|” f.; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.32.10|AUTODETECT|” 32:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.32.30-2.32.32|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.32.30-2.32.32|AUTODETECT|” 30 32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.17.44-9.17.47|AUTODETECT|” ), David 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.17.44-9.17.47|AUTODETECT|” I Sam. 17:44 47) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.27.0|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.27.0|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.20.1|AUTODETECT|” ), and Jehoshaphat 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.20.1|AUTODETECT|” II Chron. 20:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.20.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.20.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.20.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.20.12|AUTODETECT|” 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), to mention but a few. When the need was highest help was nighest.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.18|AUTODETECT|” This was true also in the case of Jairus. The word of encouragement was not in vain. He took it to heart 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.18|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 9:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) and was heard.) 1 3 2 8 0 0 2. a word of revelation) 51. When he arrived at the house, he allowed no one to enter with him, except Peter and John and James and the child s father and mother.) The crowd must have wondered what Jesus was going to do, now that the situation was hopeless. Before entering the house Jesus, with authority, dismissed the entire multitude, even the disciples, with the exception of Peter, James, and John.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.37|AUTODETECT|” Most of the events pertaining to Jesus sojourn on earth could be safely witnessed by all the twelve disciples. There were others, however, that took place in the presence of only three of these men. Exactly why this was we can only guess. Did Jesus allow only three disciples to enter the room where the resurrection of the daughter of Jairus took place, because the presence of the entire group would not have been in accord with proper decorum and might have disturbed the child when she reopened her eyes? Was the Master s Gethsemane agony too sacred to be witnessed by more than three of the disciples 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.37|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 26:37) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.33|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.33|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.17.1|AUTODETECT|” ), and was it for this reason that even then it was witnessed by these three to only a very limited extent? And is it possible that the transfiguration could have only three disciples as eyewitnesses 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.17.1|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 17:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.9.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.9.2|AUTODETECT|” Mark 9:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.28|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.28|AUTODETECT|” Luke 9:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.17.9|AUTODETECT|” ), because otherwise the injunction mentioned in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.17.9|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 17:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 would have been more difficult to enforce? Such may have been the reasons, but we do not know.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.16-40.16.19|AUTODETECT|” That Peter was among the three does not surprise us, in view of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.16-40.16.19|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 16:16 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.23|AUTODETECT|” . It is entirely possible that John s spiritual affinity with his Master he was the disciple whom Jesus loved 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.23|AUTODETECT|” John 13:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.19.26|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.19.26|AUTODETECT|” 19:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.2|AUTODETECT|” 20:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.21.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.21.7|AUTODETECT|” 21:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.21.20|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.21.20|AUTODETECT|” 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.12.2|AUTODETECT|” ) accounted for his inclusion in this innermost circle. But what about James, John s brother? Was it not considerate of the Lord to grant to him, who was going to be the first of The Twelve to seal his testimony with his blood 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.12.2|AUTODETECT|” Acts 12:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), the privilege of being included among the three most intimate witnesses?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.19.15|AUTODETECT|” These are considerations that may well be taken into account in attempting to answer the question, Why these three? Nevertheless, it must be frankly admitted that the answer to this question has not been revealed. It is easier to understand why there had to be witnesses at all, namely, so that, when the proper time arrived, they could testify to the church concerning the things they had seen and heard. Besides, see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.19.15|AUTODETECT|” Deut. 19:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.18.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.18.16|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 18:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.17|AUTODETECT|” John 8:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.13.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.13.1|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 13:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.5.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.5.19|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 5:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 0 52. The people, meanwhile, were all weeping and wailing over her. Jesus said, Stop weeping, for she is not dead but asleep.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.23|AUTODETECT|” A scene of confusion greeted Jesus and the three disciples as they entered the home of the synagogue ruler. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.23|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 9:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 mentions the noise-making crowd; Mark and Luke, the noise or tumult, the loud weeping and wailing, basically (and perhaps here also) breast-beating. It was a thoroughly disorderly mob.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.9.17|AUTODETECT|” As, according to custom, burial followed soon after death, this was the crowd s only opportunity, and the professional mourners 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.9.17|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 9:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.9.18|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.9.18|AUTODETECT|” 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.23|AUTODETECT|” ) made the most of it, perhaps all the more because a ruler of the synagogue was a very important person! Here then was weeping and wailing, moaning and groaning, at its loudest. There was howling without any attempt at restraint. And every once in a while, as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.23|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 9:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 informs us, above the confused noises issuing from the throats of the mourners could be heard the shrill notes of the flute-players.) 1 3 2 8 0 0 Jesus told these noisemakers to stop their clamor, for, said he, she is not dead but asleep. What the mourners were doing was completely out of place, and this for two reasons: (a) they at least many of them were insincere, as verse 53 shows; and (b) there was cause here not for lamentation but for jubilation, not for bewailing a death but for celebrating a near-at-hand triumph over death.) Of course, we cannot very well blame these people for not knowing that life was about to triumph over death. What was wrong, though, was (a) their insincerity, and (b) their unwillingness to accept the fact that what Jesus was saying about the child not being dead but sleeping was a word of revelation, deserving of solemn reflection, not scorn.) That Jesus cannot have meant that the child had merely fallen into a coma is clear from the following:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.53|AUTODETECT|” a. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.53|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:53) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 declares that the people knew that she was dead.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.55|AUTODETECT|” b. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.55|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:55) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 states that at the command of Jesus her spirit returned. It is clear, therefore, that there had been a separation between spirit and body.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.11|AUTODETECT|” c. In ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.11|AUTODETECT|” John 11:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 we have something similar. Jesus tells his disciples, Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep. But in verse 14 he affirms, Lazarus died. ) 1 2 2 8 0 0 In both instances the meaning is that death will not have the final say. Not death but life is going to triumph in the end. Also, just as natural sleep is followed by awakening, so this child is going to become awake, that is, is going to live again.) 53. But they were laughing in his face & ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.24|AUTODETECT|” The identical statement is found also in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.24|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 9:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.40|AUTODETECT|” and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.40|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:40) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . The reference is probably to repeated bursts of derisive laughter aimed at humiliating Jesus. These mourners were endowed with the dubious talent of shifting suddenly from dismal moaning to uproarious mirth. But this very laughter confirms the fact that the child had really died. Hence Luke adds: for they knew that she was dead. Do not this ridicule and this conviction on their part also confirm the genuine nature of the child s restoration from death?) 1 2 2 8 0 0 3. a word of love and power) 54, 55a. And having grasped her hand, he called out, My child, get up! Her spirit returned and she got up at once.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.25|AUTODETECT|” From the house Jesus has expelled the scornful noisemakers 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.25|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 9:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.40|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.40|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:40) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Then he enters the room where the dead child lies. With him in this room are only the child s parents and Peter, James, and John.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.23|AUTODETECT|” The ruler had asked Jesus to place his hands upon the child 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.23|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.41|AUTODETECT|” ). However, the Master does even better, for with authority, power, and tenderness he takes hold of her hand, and as he does this he says, My child, get up. As ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.41|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:41) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.16|AUTODETECT|” indicates, he addresses her in her own native tongue 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.16|AUTODETECT|” John 20:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), using the very words by which her mother had probably often awakened her in the morning, namely, Talitha koum. It has already been shown (see Introduction, point V A) that whereas Mark often retains Aramaic terms, Luke translates them into Greek. So also here.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.42|AUTODETECT|” At the word of Jesus death immediately surrendered its prey: the child s spirit returned. So complete was the restoration to life that she even started to walk around 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.42|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:42) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 3 2 8 0 0 4. a word of tender concern) 55b. Then he directed that something be given her to eat.) Jesus realizes that the little girl, who because of her fatal illness had probably not been able to eat for some time, is in need of food; and that the parents, in the ecstasy of their joy, might overlook this need. Hence, the command.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.57.15|AUTODETECT|” This is a very important point. It should not be lightly passed by. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.57.15|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 57:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . One moment Jesus triumphs over death; the next moment he appeases hunger; rather, in all probability, prevents it from becoming a reality. His power cannot be fathomed; nor his compassion measured.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.18-42.7.35|AUTODETECT|” This is the same Savior who went out of his way to enhance the reputation of one doubter 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.18-42.7.35|AUTODETECT|” Luke 7:18 35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.24-43.20.29|AUTODETECT|” ) and to accept the presumptuous terms of another 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.24-43.20.29|AUTODETECT|” John 20:24 29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.18.1-42.18.8|AUTODETECT|” ), who defended widows 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.18.1-42.18.8|AUTODETECT|” Luke 18:1 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.21.1-42.21.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.21.1-42.21.4|AUTODETECT|” 21:1 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.16|AUTODETECT|” ), helping them in their needs (7:11 17), took little children into his arms and blessed them 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.16|AUTODETECT|” Mark 10:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.18.15-42.18.17|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.18.15-42.18.17|AUTODETECT|” Luke 18:15 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.13.34|AUTODETECT|” ), wept over Jerusalem s recalcitrant inhabitants 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.13.34|AUTODETECT|” Luke 13:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.19.41|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.19.41|AUTODETECT|” 19:41) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.19.26|AUTODETECT|” ), and showed kindness to the woman who had been a public sinner (7:36 50). In his own most bitter agony he provided a home for his mother 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.19.26|AUTODETECT|” John 19:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.19.27|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.19.27|AUTODETECT|” 27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.43|AUTODETECT|” ), entrance into paradise for a robber 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.43|AUTODETECT|” Luke 23:43) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.16.7|AUTODETECT|” ), and forgiveness for his torturers (23:34). Even after his resurrection he is the same tenderhearted Savior; witness his treatment of the man who had but recently disowned him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.16.7|AUTODETECT|” Mark 16:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.61|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.61|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:61) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.21.15-43.21.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.21.15-43.21.17|AUTODETECT|” John 21:15 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.55|AUTODETECT|” ). That is the context in which this very precious passage, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.55|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:55) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , should be read.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.26-42.8.39|AUTODETECT|” Jesus is, moreover, the Hope of the hopeless. He showed this to the man who could not be tamed 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.26-42.8.39|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:26 39) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ); to the woman who could not be cured (verses 43 48); and to the father who was told that he could no longer be helped (verses 40 42; 49 56).) 1 4 2 8 0 0 56. Her parents were astonished, but he instructed them to tell no one what had happened.) That the parents were not only overjoyed but, as stated here, astonished, requires no further comment. But why this order that they tell no one what had happened?) The objection has been raised, But how could this miracle remain hidden? Was not everybody able to see that this child, once dead, was now alive and in good health? Did not everybody know that this restoration to life had occurred after Jesus had entered the death-chamber? The answer is: that is probably true, though with one rather important qualification.
- Those people, if there were any, who had given a literal interpretation to the words, She is not dead but asleep, and had believed this to be true, would be able to say that no actual resurrection had taken place. As far as all the others were concerned, including even the professional mourners, who were sure that the child had died, the fact of the child s resurrection could not be concealed.) Nevertheless, Jesus does not want the parents to broadcast what has happened. Let them rather take care of the child. Let them glorify God. Talking to everybody about Jesus miracle-working power is exactly what they should not do. For the probable reason why such an injunction was issued see above, on 5:14.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.4.15|AUTODETECT|”
- Again, the order Jesus issues may seem to be in conflict with verse 39, where Jesus commands the very thing to be done which he here (verse 56) forbids. But Decapolis (including the region of the Gergesenes), with its strongly Gentile atmosphere, was not Galilee. The latter, though far more under the influence of the Gentiles than Judea 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.4.15|AUTODETECT|”
- Matt. 4:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0
- ), was at the same time far more Jewish than Decapolis. And the present miracle has taken us back to Galilee, full of Pharisees, scribes, spies, etc. To be sure, Jesus came on earth to die, but he wished to die at his own predestined hour, not earlier. Therefore the parents, who (except for Peter, James, and John, and the child herself) knew best exactly what had happened to the one so dear to them, must remain silent. Even for the sake of the child the less publicity the better!) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.17.9|AUTODETECT|”
- It is admitted that not all questions have thus been answered. Yet, in light of the facts already mentioned, to which may be added the contents of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.17.9|AUTODETECT|”
- Matt. 17:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=41.9.9|AUTODETECT|”
- ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=41.9.9|AUTODETECT|”
- Mark 9:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=41.9.10|AUTODETECT|”
- , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=41.9.10|AUTODETECT|”
- 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.9.36|AUTODETECT|”
- ; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.9.36|AUTODETECT|”
- Luke 9:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 0
- , Christ s prohibition) 1 2 2 8 0 0
- no longer seems so strange.��322��) ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.8.40-42.8.56|AUTODETECT|”
- Practical Lessons Derived from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.8.40-42.8.56|AUTODETECT|”
- Luke 8:40 56) 1 1 2 8 0 0
- Verse 40) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.10.2|AUTODETECT|”
- The crowd welcomed him. No wonder, for he was concerned about crowds 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.10.2|AUTODETECT|”
- Luke 10:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.13.34|AUTODETECT|”
- ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.13.34|AUTODETECT|”
- 13:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.9.36|AUTODETECT|”
- ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.9.36|AUTODETECT|”
- Matt. 9:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.9.37|AUTODETECT|”
- , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.9.37|AUTODETECT|”
- 37) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.23.37|AUTODETECT|”
- ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.23.37|AUTODETECT|”
- 23:37) 1 1 -1 9 0 0
- ). But, as the present story teaches, he was also concerned about individuals: Jairus, the latter s daughter, a woman subject to hemorrhages, etc. This holds even today.) 1 12 2 8 0 0
- Verse 41) Just then & Jairus & began to plead with him. The best refuge for any troubled heart is Jesus:) From every stormy wind that blows,) From every rising tide of woes) There is a calm, a sweet retreat,) Tis found beneath the mercy seat.) Thomas Hastings) Verse 42) His only daughter, about twelve years old, was dying. Death does not respect age, neither old age nor youthfulness.) Verses 44 46) She touched the tassel of his garment.& Who is it that touched me? & Master, the people are crowding and pressing against you. & But Jesus said, Someone did touch me. There are different ways of touching Jesus: (a) outwardly, or (b) inwardly (by faith). That makes all the difference in the world.) Verse 47) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=24.32.19|AUTODETECT|”
- The woman realized that she had not escaped notice. God s eyes are open to all the ways of men 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=24.32.19|AUTODETECT|”
- Jer. 32:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=58.4.13|AUTODETECT|”
- ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=58.4.13|AUTODETECT|”
- Heb. 4:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0
- ).) 1 9 2 8 0 0
- She & declared in the presence of all the people, etc. Faith concealed must become faith revealed. The woman is impelled to bring her testimony: (a) for her own strengthening in the faith, (b) for the benefit of others, and (c) for the glory of God.) Verse 49) Don t bother the Teacher any more. Whoever said this intended to be kind, but this kindness was mistaken, since it failed to figure with Christ s power. There is a lesson here.) Verse 50) Fear no longer; only believe. ) Only believe, only believe,) All things are possible, only believe.) Paul Rader) Verse 55) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=23.57.15|AUTODETECT|”
- Then he directed that something be given her to eat. The Lord who raises the dead is not insensitive to the needs of a child. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=23.57.15|AUTODETECT|”
- Isa. 57:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0
- .) 1 9 2 8 0 0
- ) Notes on Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 8:40 56) Verse 40) With � the present infinitive is natural, though there are exceptions. See Gram. N.T., p. 891.) ��������, third per. s. aor. indicat. act. of ���������**, to receive with joy, welcome.) &��� & ������������, periphrastic imperf. act. of ���������. They were looking forward to his coming, were (eagerly) expecting him. ) Verse 41) Q������, third per. s. imperf. of Q�����. See also the note on 8:3 on page 421. The New Testament in Modern Greek has &��.) Verse 42) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.1.18|AUTODETECT|”
- For ��������� see the note on 7:12 on page 389; there the reference is to a son; here to a daughter. See also 9:38 (son); ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.1.18|AUTODETECT|”
- John 1:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|”
- ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|”
- 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0
- God s only (begotten) Son.) 1 21 2 8 0 0 ���������, third per. s. imperf. of ��������, to die. The child was dying. Literally, to die off; that is, to die and thus be away from this earthly realm. Cf. German absterben; Dutch afsterven.) ����������, third per. pl. imperf. act. of ��������, to press upon. See the note on 8:14 on page 434.) Verse 43) ����� �5�����, flow of blood, hemorrhage.) As the textual apparatus, Grk.
N.T. (A-B-M-W), indicates, the words translated having spent all she had on doctors have dubious validity.) Verse 44) The noun ��������� can mean edge, hem, or tassel.) ���, third per. s. 2nd aor. indicat. act. of 5�����. The hemorrhage stopped; the blood stopped flowing, stanched.) Verse 45) See 8:37 on ����������, same construction as:) �����������, third per. pl. pres. (progressive) indicat. act. of �������, to press from every side, press (hard) upon or against.) Verse 46) ����, first per. s. 2nd aor. indicat. act. of ������� .) �����������, fem. s. 2nd perf. act. participle of ��������; here in indirect discourse.) Verse 47) �����, third per. s. 2nd aor. indicat. of �������, to escape notice or detection.) ��������, fem. nom. s. pres. participle of �����, to tremble.) Verse 48) �������, third per. s. perf. indicat. act. of ����, to save, restore to health. See also the explanation of 7:50. From the same verb is also ��������� (third per. s. fut. indicat. pass.), verse 50.) Verse 49) ��������, third per. s. perf. indicat. of ������, to die. They said, Your daughter has died [= is dead]. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.36|AUTODETECT|” ������ ������, sec. per. s. pres. imperat. act. of ������, in a negative command. The original meaning of ������ is to skin, flay. The modified and weaker connotation, as here, is bother, trouble. See also N.T.C. on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.9.36|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 9:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ; pp. 439, 440, including footnote 426.) 1 16 2 8 0 0 Verse 52) ��������, third per. pl. imperf. middle of �����; here, to beat one s breast in mourning; hence, to wail or mourn (over) someone. Cf. 23:27.) Verse 53) ���������, third per. pl. imperf. of ���������; lit. to laugh down; hence, to laugh in one s face, to ridicule.) Verse 55) Note the two infinitives: �������, aor. pass. of ������; and ������, 2nd aor. act. of ����.) Verse 56) ��������, third per. pl. 2nd aor. indicat. of �������. Cf. 2:47. They were knocked out of their senses, were (thoroughly) astonished. ) Summary of Chapter 8) Chapter 7 closed with a description of a penitent woman in the act of anointing Jesus. Chapter 8 begins by mentioning the names of other women. They rendered service by contributing to the material support of the little group consisting of Jesus and his disciples.
The names of three of these women are mentioned: Mary Magdalene, Joanna, and Susanna. We are told that there were many others (verses 1 3).) We must not suppose, however, that all those who listened to Jesus responded with deeds of gratitude. Hearts differ. In this respect they resemble the various kinds of soil on or into which seed is sown. These kinds are: hard, rocky, thorn-infested, and good. Only the last of the four produces a harvest, at times yielding as much as a hundredfold (the parable of The Sower verses 4 8).) Next, Jesus described the purpose of addressing the people by means of parables, that purpose being to reveal the mysteries of the kingdom to those who are willing to accept the truth, and to conceal them from those who have hardened their hearts against the truth (verses 9, 10).) At the request of his disciples Jesus then explained to them the parable of The Sower.
He started out by saying, The seed is the word of God. He continued by informing them that the four kinds of soil indicate respectively unresponsive, impulsive, preoccupied, and well-prepared hearts. It is the last kind of heart alone that is fertile (verses 11 15).) Fertile hearts resemble shining lamps. Both are a blessing. Now when a person lights a lamp, he does not hide it under a bed but places it on a stand. Similarly, hearts and lives must be outgoing.
They must not be hid but must shine for Jesus and his kingdom. The mystery must be revealed.) But whether revealed or concealed, whatever is done with the mystery will not go unnoticed. There is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed. This shows how very important it is to listen carefully to whatever Jesus has to say: Take care, therefore, how you listen. Whoever heeds the message will receive an ever-increasing blessing. Whoever hardens himself against it will lose even that which he thinks he already possesses (verses 16 18).) It may have been disturbing remarks about Jesus that his opponents regarded him as being demon-possessed and that even some of his friends thought he was out of his mind that caused his mother Mary and his brothers to make an attempt to contact him, with the intention, probably, to take him along with them, removing him from the public eye and providing for him a haven of rest and refreshment.
But however well-intentioned this attempt, it amounted to sinful interference with Christ s own pre-designed program of activities. Mary and his brothers must be made to understand that his comings and goings cannot be determined by earthly ties but only by the will of God. Hence, when Jesus is told that his mother and brothers are standing outside, wanting to see him, he answers, Mother to me and brothers to me are those who are listening to the word of God and are putting it into practice (verses 19 21).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.35|AUTODETECT|” Once Jesus stepped into a boat with his disciples and said to them, Let us cross over to the other side of the lake. According to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.35|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:35) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 this incident occurred on the evening of the day Jesus addressed the crowds by means of parables. Almost as soon as the boat had left the shore Jesus fell into a deep sleep. He must have been very tired. A furious tempest arose, so that the boat was becoming water-logged. So the disciples, frantic with fear, awaken Jesus, crying, Master, Master, we re perishing. He arises and with a word of command stills the winds and the waves. Addressing his disciples, he asks them, Where (is) your faith? Awestruck and filled with amazement, they ask one another, Who then is this, that he commands even the winds and the water, and they obey him? (verses 22 25).) 1 3 2 8 0 0 In the rest of chapter 8 Luke describes Jesus as the Hope of the hopeless. These closing sections move on to a gradual and exciting climax. They picture a demoniac who was hopelessly wild (verses 26 39), a woman who was hopelessly ill, and a father who became hopelessly bereaved (verses 40 56); hopelessly in each case by human standards. But now notice the climax: the people in general (see verse 29) had reached the point where they were totally unable effectively to bind the demoniac; no one was able to cure the woman (verse 43); and, of course, no power in the universe was able to raise a child from the dead! Not even the Teacher? No, not even the Teacher & so everybody thought.
Note the statement: While he [Jesus] was still speaking, someone came from the synagogue ruler s (house), saying, Your daughter is dead; don t bother the Teacher any more. ) Yet Christ, in his majesty, power, and compassion, triumphed over this hopelessness in all three cases: he dispelled the demons and transformed the demoniac into a missionary; he healed the woman and perfected her faith, changing it from faith concealed to faith revealed; and he not only, to the amazement of everybody, brought the child back to life, but even in his tenderness took care that she got something to eat!) What is especially important is the fact that not only the power but also the pity of Christ is revealed. His compassionate heart is laid bare. The lesson, therefore, is this: Give your heart to the wonderful Savior. A second lesson is this:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.15|AUTODETECT|” I have given you an example, in order that just as I did to you so also you should do 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.15|AUTODETECT|” John 13:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.1|AUTODETECT|” Be therefore imitators of God, as beloved children, and walk in love, just as Christ loved you and gave himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God, for a fragrant odor 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.1|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 5:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 24 2 8 0 0 Satan must be banished from hearts and lives, and the wonderful story must be told!) ) ) ) 296 Or: from whom seven demons had gone out.) 297 Or: Herod s steward.) N.T.C. W. Hendriksen, New Testament Commentary) 298 Notes on Greek words, phrases, and constructions in 8:1 3 begin on this page.) 299 Or: was gathering, namely, of those who from town after town, etc.) 300 Or: he was repeatedly crying out.) 301 Or: began to ask.) 302 Or: message.) 303 Or: testing.) 304 W. M. Taylor, The Parables of Our Savior, Expounded and Illustrated, New York, 1886, p. 22.) 305 Notes on Greek words, phrases, and constructions in 8:4 18 begin on page 432.) L.N.T. (A. and W. F.
Arndt and F. W. Gingrich, A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature) Eunt Euntes Docete) 306 Or: and are doing it.) 307 Notes on Greek words, phrases, and constructions in 8:19 21 begin on this page.) 308 Or simply: One day Jesus, etc.) 309 Literally: a squall of wind.) 310 See S. Greijdanus, Korte Verklaring, p. 211, and many others.) 311 Notes on Greek words, phrases, and constructions in 8:22 25 begin on page 443.) Th.D.N.T. Theological Dictionary of the New Testament, edited by G. Kittel and G.
Friedrich, and translated from the German by G. W. Bromiley) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.1|AUTODETECT|” 312 Some manuscripts read Gerasenes 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.1|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.28|AUTODETECT|” ), others Gadarenes 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.28|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 8:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 8 2 8 0 0 313 Or: became frightened.) Grk. N.T. (A-B-M-W) The Greek New Testament, edited by Kurt Aland, Matthew Black, Bruce M. Metzger, and Allen Wikgren) 314 See A. M. Ross, art., Gadara, Gadarenes, Zondervan Pictorial Bible Dictionary, Grand Rapids, 1963, p. 293; and J. L. Hurlbut and J. H. Vincent, A Bible Atlas, New York, etc., 1940 ed., p. 101.) 315 See S.BK., Vol. I, pp. 491 f.; Vol. IV, p. 516.) 316 The Latin term legio had been absorbed by Hellenistic Greek and even by Aramaic.) A.V. Authorized Version (King James)) 317 Notes on Greek words, phrases, and constructions in 8:26 39 begin on this page.) 318 Or: almost crushed him.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.26|AUTODETECT|” 319 The words, having spent all she had on doctors, are of dubious textual validity. But see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.26|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 6 2 8 0 0 320 Or: weeping and beating (their) breasts.) 321 Cf. S.BK., Vol. IV, p. 277.) 322 Notes on Greek words, phrases, and constructions in 8:40 56 begin on page 465.) Gram. N.T. A. T. Robertson, Grammar of the Greek New Testament in the Light of Historical Research) Grk. N.T. (A-B-M-W) The Greek New Testament, edited by Kurt Aland, Matthew Black, Bruce M. Metzger, and Allen Wikgren) N.T.C. W. Hendriksen, New Testament Commentary)
