Luke 24:9 – “When they came back from the tomb, they told all these things to the Eleven and to all the others.”
Extended Explanation
This verse describes the women’s reaction after their life-changing encounter at the empty tomb. After remembering Jesus’ words and realizing that He had risen, they didn’t stay at the tomb—they immediately went to tell His disciples. The women were the first to carry the message of the resurrection, and they shared the news with the Eleven (the remaining disciples after Judas Iscariot’s betrayal) and others who were gathered with them.
Their response shows the power of encountering the truth. When they understood that Jesus was alive, they couldn’t keep it to themselves. Their testimony was the first proclamation of the resurrection, an act that would eventually lead to the spread of the gospel across the world.
Historical Context
In first-century Jewish culture, women were generally not considered reliable witnesses in legal matters. Their testimony was often disregarded or devalued. Yet, God chose these women to be the first witnesses of the resurrection. This choice was radical and significant—it demonstrated God’s pattern of using the unexpected to accomplish His purposes.
The disciples were likely hiding or in a state of fear and confusion after Jesus’ crucifixion. To them, the events of the last few days must have seemed like the end of everything they had believed in. The women’s message of an empty tomb and a risen Lord challenged their despair and offered a spark of hope.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the importance of testimony in the Christian faith. The women didn’t just experience the resurrection—they shared it. Their obedience to spread the news shows that God calls His people to be witnesses of His work. The resurrection isn’t just a historical event to be remembered; it’s a truth to be shared.
The fact that women were the first witnesses of the resurrection also reflects God’s grace and inclusion. God does not operate by human standards of status or authority. He elevates those the world often overlooks and invites everyone to participate in His redemptive work.
Additionally, this verse points to the role of community in faith. The women didn’t keep the good news to themselves—they shared it with the disciples, who would later become key leaders in spreading the gospel. Faith is meant to be lived out and shared within a community of believers.
Literary Analysis
Luke’s narrative style in this verse is action-oriented and focused on the immediate response. The phrase “they told all these things” emphasizes that the women did not hesitate—they were compelled to share everything they had seen and heard. The repetition of the word “all” underscores the completeness of their testimony—they held nothing back.
Luke often highlights the role of witnesses in his Gospel and the Book of Acts. The act of bearing witness is central to his portrayal of the early Christian movement. This verse serves as a transition, moving from the revelation at the empty tomb to the spreading of the resurrection message.
Biblical Cross-References
- Mark 16:10 – Mary Magdalene went and told those who had been with Jesus, who were mourning and weeping.
- John 20:18 – Mary Magdalene announced to the disciples, “I have seen the Lord!”
- Acts 1:8 – Jesus told His disciples, “You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
- Matthew 28:7 – The angel instructed the women to go quickly and tell the disciples that Jesus had risen.
- Psalm 68:11 – “The Lord announces the word, and the women who proclaim it are a mighty throng.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is a reminder that encountering Jesus leads to sharing the good news. Just like the women who couldn’t keep the resurrection to themselves, believers are called to share the hope and truth of Jesus with others. Whether through words, actions, or living out one’s faith, Christians are witnesses to the power of the risen Christ.
It also encourages believers to be bold, even when their message might be dismissed or ignored. Just as the women faced the possibility of being disbelieved because of their social status, Christians today may face skepticism or rejection. But their responsibility is to share the message faithfully, trusting that God will work through it.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is shown in how He invites ordinary people to be part of His extraordinary plan. The women weren’t religious leaders or people of influence, yet they were entrusted with the most important message in history. This reflects God’s inclusive love—He values everyone, regardless of their social standing, and calls them to participate in His mission.
God’s love is also evident in the message itself. The news of the resurrection is the ultimate proof of His love, showing that He was willing to conquer sin and death to restore humanity to Himself. By allowing the women to be the first to share this message, God demonstrates that His love breaks down barriers and reaches all people.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse connects directly to Jesus as the risen Savior who fulfills God’s plan of salvation. The women’s testimony of the resurrection shows that Jesus is alive and that His victory over death is real. Throughout His ministry, Jesus emphasized the importance of bearing witness to God’s work, and this moment is the beginning of that witness.
Jesus’ resurrection is central to the Christian faith because it confirms His identity as the Son of God and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. His rising from the dead is the foundation for the mission He gave His followers to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Why do you think God chose the women to be the first witnesses of the resurrection?
- How does their obedience to share the good news challenge or inspire you in your own faith?
- What are some practical ways you can share the hope of the resurrection with others in your life?
- How do you handle situations where your testimony about Jesus is met with skepticism or rejection?
- How does this verse encourage you to see your role in God’s plan, regardless of your background or status?