Luke 24:7 – “The Son of Man must be delivered over to the hands of sinners, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, the angels remind the women at the empty tomb of Jesus’ earlier teaching. Jesus had clearly told His followers that His suffering, death, and resurrection were part of God’s plan. The title “Son of Man” refers to His role as the promised Messiah, a term Jesus often used for Himself to highlight both His humanity and divine authority.
The key word here is “must,” which points to the necessity of His suffering. Jesus’ death wasn’t an accident or a failure—it was the fulfillment of God’s plan for redemption. The angels emphasized that His death and resurrection were not only predicted but required for the salvation of the world. His crucifixion was the price for humanity’s sin, and His resurrection was the victory over death.
Historical Context
Jesus had warned His disciples multiple times that He would be betrayed, killed, and then rise again (Luke 9:22, Mark 8:31). But during His ministry, many people, including His closest followers, struggled to understand how the Messiah could suffer. In Jewish expectations, the Messiah was often seen as a victorious king who would restore Israel politically and militarily. The idea of a suffering and crucified Messiah was difficult to accept.
Roman crucifixion was a brutal and shameful form of execution, reserved for criminals and rebels. To the disciples, Jesus’ death by crucifixion must have seemed like a devastating defeat. But through the resurrection, God transformed what appeared to be failure into triumph.
Theological Implications
This verse reveals the heart of the gospel: Jesus’ death and resurrection were necessary for humanity’s salvation. Sin had created a separation between humanity and God, and only a perfect sacrifice could bridge that gap. Jesus, fully God and fully human, willingly took on this role as the “Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29).
The resurrection proves that Jesus’ death was not the end. By rising from the dead, He demonstrated His victory over sin and death, ensuring eternal life for those who believe in Him (1 Corinthians 15:17). The phrase “on the third day” is significant because it shows that God’s plan was specific, intentional, and fulfilled exactly as promised.
Literary Analysis
Luke presents this statement as a direct, simple reminder, reflecting the clarity of Jesus’ teaching. The angels connect the past (Jesus’ predictions) with the present reality of the resurrection. The phrase “must be delivered” emphasizes the inevitability of these events and points to God’s sovereign plan.
The structure of the verse moves through three critical stages: betrayal, death, and resurrection. This progression highlights the completeness of God’s plan, with the resurrection serving as the climactic conclusion. The mention of “sinners” also reinforces the idea that Jesus’ death was a substitutionary sacrifice—He was innocent but took on the punishment we deserved.
Biblical Cross-References
- Luke 9:22 – “The Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests and the teachers of the law, and he must be killed and on the third day be raised to life.”
- Mark 8:31 – Jesus taught His disciples about His suffering, death, and resurrection.
- Isaiah 53:5 – A prophecy about the suffering servant who would be “pierced for our transgressions.”
- Acts 2:23-24 – Peter’s sermon on how Jesus’ death was part of God’s plan, and His resurrection was proof of His victory.
- 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 – Paul explains that Christ’s death and resurrection were in accordance with the Scriptures.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse reminds Christians that Jesus’ suffering and death were not random events but part of a divine rescue mission. Because Jesus paid the price for sin, believers are no longer condemned but are set free to live in the hope of eternal life. His resurrection assures us that even in our most difficult moments, God’s plan is still at work.
It also challenges believers to trust God’s timing. Just as Jesus rose on the third day according to God’s plan, we can trust that God will fulfill His promises to us. His resurrection is proof that we serve a living Savior who is still active in our lives today.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reveals the depth of God’s love. God did not abandon humanity in its sin but provided a way for reconciliation through the sacrifice of His Son. Jesus willingly submitted to God’s plan, knowing that His suffering would lead to salvation for those who believe.
God’s love is seen in the resurrection. By raising Jesus from the dead, God showed that death does not have the final say. His love is victorious and eternal, ensuring that those who trust in Him will experience life beyond the grave (Romans 8:38-39).
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is at the center of this verse. As the Son of Man, He fulfilled the prophecies of the Old Testament by suffering and rising from the dead. His crucifixion was the ultimate act of obedience and love, and His resurrection proved His divinity and power over death.
Throughout His ministry, Jesus made it clear that His mission was to seek and save the lost (Luke 19:10). His death and resurrection completed this mission. By rising on the third day, Jesus fulfilled His own words and confirmed that He is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does knowing that Jesus’ suffering and resurrection were part of God’s plan affect the way you view difficult situations in your life?
- Why do you think Jesus used the title “Son of Man” to describe Himself?
- What does this verse teach you about God’s timing and faithfulness?
- How does the resurrection give you confidence in the promises of God?
- In what ways can you share the message of Jesus’ death and resurrection with those who need hope?