This verse, Luke 9:51, is a pivotal point in the Gospel of Luke. Let's break down what it means:
"It came to pass, when the days were near that he should be taken up..." This phrase indicates a turning point. "Taken up" is often understood as a euphemism for Jesus' ascension into heaven after his crucifixion and resurrection. It also subtly hints at the suffering and death that will precede his ultimate glorification. It signals that Jesus is aware of the approaching end of his earthly ministry and the events leading to his death and resurrection.
"...he intently set his face to go to Jerusalem..." This is the key part of the verse.
"Intently set his face": This is a powerful idiom that signifies determination, resolve, and unwavering commitment. Jesus wasn't casually deciding to go to Jerusalem; he was resolutely focused on this journey, knowing what awaited him there. It portrays a deliberate and decisive act of will. The word "intently" (or "steadfastly" in some translations) implies a firmness of purpose, an unshakeable resolve.
"to go to Jerusalem": Jerusalem was the center of Jewish religious and political power. It was the place where Jesus would face opposition from the religious leaders, be arrested, tried, and ultimately crucified. Therefore, going to Jerusalem meant confronting danger and fulfilling his mission of salvation.
In essence, Luke 9:51 signifies:
A Shift in Narrative Focus: This verse marks a transition in Luke's Gospel. The narrative now moves deliberately toward Jerusalem, where the climax of Jesus' earthly ministry will occur.
Jesus' Determination: It highlights Jesus' unyielding commitment to his divine purpose, even in the face of suffering and death. He willingly chose to go to Jerusalem knowing what awaited him.
Fulfillment of Prophecy: It foreshadows the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah's suffering and sacrifice in Jerusalem.
Emphasis on Willing Sacrifice: This verse emphasizes Jesus' willing sacrifice. He wasn't forced to go to Jerusalem, but rather deliberately chose to go there, setting an example of obedience to the Father's will.
In summary, Luke 9:51 is a critical verse that signals the beginning of Jesus' final journey to Jerusalem, highlighting his determination to fulfill his mission despite the impending suffering and death.
This verse, Luke 9:51, is a pivotal point in the Gospel of Luke. Let's break down what it means:
"It came to pass, when the days were near that he should be taken up..." This phrase indicates a turning point. "Taken up" is often understood as a euphemism for Jesus' ascension into heaven after his crucifixion and resurrection. It also subtly hints at the suffering and death that will precede his ultimate glorification. It signals that Jesus is aware of the approaching end of his earthly ministry and the events leading to his death and resurrection.
"...he intently set his face to go to Jerusalem..." This is the key part of the verse.
"Intently set his face": This is a powerful idiom that signifies determination, resolve, and unwavering commitment. Jesus wasn't casually deciding to go to Jerusalem; he was resolutely focused on this journey, knowing what awaited him there. It portrays a deliberate and decisive act of will. The word "intently" (or "steadfastly" in some translations) implies a firmness of purpose, an unshakeable resolve.
"to go to Jerusalem": Jerusalem was the center of Jewish religious and political power. It was the place where Jesus would face opposition from the religious leaders, be arrested, tried, and ultimately crucified. Therefore, going to Jerusalem meant confronting danger and fulfilling his mission of salvation.
In essence, Luke 9:51 signifies:
A Shift in Narrative Focus: This verse marks a transition in Luke's Gospel. The narrative now moves deliberately toward Jerusalem, where the climax of Jesus' earthly ministry will occur.
Jesus' Determination: It highlights Jesus' unyielding commitment to his divine purpose, even in the face of suffering and death. He willingly chose to go to Jerusalem knowing what awaited him.
Fulfillment of Prophecy: It foreshadows the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah's suffering and sacrifice in Jerusalem.
Emphasis on Willing Sacrifice: This verse emphasizes Jesus' willing sacrifice. He wasn't forced to go to Jerusalem, but rather deliberately chose to go there, setting an example of obedience to the Father's will.
In summary, Luke 9:51 is a critical verse that signals the beginning of Jesus' final journey to Jerusalem, highlighting his determination to fulfill his mission despite the impending suffering and death.