Luke 9:31 – “They spoke about his departure, which he was about to bring to fulfillment at Jerusalem.”
Extended Explanation
During the transfiguration, Moses and Elijah appear alongside Jesus, and they discuss His “departure,” which He will fulfill in Jerusalem. The word “departure” here is significant—it’s translated from the Greek word exodus, which means a journey or exit. This isn’t just about Jesus leaving Jerusalem or ending His time on earth. It’s a reference to His death, resurrection, and ascension, which will accomplish salvation for humanity.
Just as Moses led the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt in the original exodus, Jesus will lead His people out of slavery to sin and death through His death and resurrection. This conversation between Jesus, Moses, and Elijah emphasizes that His mission isn’t accidental or last-minute—it’s a fulfillment of God’s plan that has been unfolding throughout history.
Historical Context
Moses and Elijah represent the two major divisions of the Old Testament—the Law and the Prophets. Both of them had significant roles in leading God’s people and pointing toward the coming Messiah. Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt and gave them the law, while Elijah called Israel to repentance and demonstrated God’s power through miracles. Their appearance during the transfiguration highlights the connection between the Old Testament and Jesus’ mission.
The fact that they discuss Jesus’ “departure” in Jerusalem points to the significance of that city in God’s redemptive plan. Jerusalem was the center of Jewish worship and the place where sacrifices were made at the temple. Jesus, the ultimate sacrificial Lamb, would offer His life there to atone for the sins of the world (John 1:29).
Theological Implications
- Jesus’ Death Was Part of God’s Plan – The discussion about Jesus’ departure shows that His death wasn’t a tragic accident but a necessary part of God’s plan to redeem humanity.
- A New Exodus – Just as God delivered Israel from slavery in Egypt through Moses, Jesus will deliver humanity from sin and death through His sacrifice.
- Fulfillment of Scripture – The presence of Moses and Elijah affirms that Jesus’ mission is the fulfillment of everything written in the Law and the Prophets.
Literary Analysis
Luke’s use of the word departure is intentional. The term exodus would have immediately reminded the disciples and Jewish readers of the story of Moses leading the Israelites out of Egypt. By connecting Jesus’ death to the exodus, Luke shows that Jesus’ mission is another act of divine deliverance, but on a much greater scale.
The phrase “which he was about to bring to fulfillment” emphasizes that Jesus is actively bringing God’s plan to completion. This isn’t something that is happening to Him passively—He is choosing to obey God’s will and fulfill His purpose. The mention of Jerusalem underscores the significance of that city in God’s redemptive history.
Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 12:31-32 – The original exodus, where Moses leads the Israelites out of Egypt after the Passover.
- Isaiah 53:4-5 – A prophecy about the suffering servant, pointing to Jesus’ sacrificial death.
- John 1:29 – John the Baptist identifies Jesus as the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world.
- Luke 24:44 – After His resurrection, Jesus explains that everything written about Him in the Law, the Prophets, and the Psalms had to be fulfilled.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse reminds Christians that salvation is not something they achieve through their own efforts—it is a gift from God, accomplished through Jesus’ death and resurrection. Just as the exodus freed the Israelites from slavery in Egypt, Jesus’ departure from this world through the cross and resurrection frees believers from the bondage of sin and death.
For Christians today, this verse is a call to trust in God’s plan, even when life is difficult or uncertain. Jesus’ journey to the cross was filled with suffering, but it had a greater purpose. Similarly, the struggles believers face can have meaning and purpose when seen in light of God’s plan for redemption.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is shown through His commitment to deliver His people. Just as He delivered Israel from slavery in Egypt, He sent His Son to deliver humanity from the power of sin and death. The fact that Jesus’ “departure” was planned and discussed shows that God has been working throughout history to bring salvation to His people.
God’s love is also seen in Jesus’ willingness to fulfill His mission. He wasn’t forced to go to the cross—He chose to obey the Father and lay down His life for the sake of humanity. This demonstrates the depth of God’s love and His desire for people to be reconciled to Him.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the central figure of this verse and the fulfillment of everything the Law and the Prophets pointed toward. His “departure” is a reference to His death, resurrection, and ascension, which are the key events in God’s plan of salvation. Just as Moses led an exodus from Egypt, Jesus leads the ultimate exodus, freeing believers from spiritual slavery.
Jesus’ willingness to “bring to fulfillment” God’s plan in Jerusalem highlights His role as the obedient Son of God. His mission is not only to suffer and die but to rise again and reign as the victorious King. The fact that He discusses this plan with Moses and Elijah emphasizes that His death is not the end of the story—it is the beginning of new life for all who believe in Him.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does the idea of Jesus’ “departure” as an exodus help you understand the purpose of His death and resurrection?
- Why is it important to recognize that Jesus’ death was part of God’s plan and not a random event?
- How can this verse encourage you to trust God’s plan, even when you don’t fully understand it?
- In what ways does Jesus’ willingness to fulfill God’s plan inspire you to be obedient in your own life?
- How can you reflect on God’s deliverance in your life and share that testimony with others?