V. Another prophecy of the passion (18:31–34)
V. Another prophecy of the passion (18:31–34)
This is often spoken of as Jesus’ third prediction of his suffering, but it is in fact the seventh that Luke records, following others in 5:35; 9:22, 43–45; 12:50; 13:32f.; 17:25.
31. Luke does not tell us when these words were spoken; he simply gives the prophecy, and he includes the assurance that everything that is written of the Son of man will be fulfilled. The purpose of God will be worked out. In the end it is not what people please but what God pleases that will be done.
32–33. Jesus speaks of being delivered to the Gentiles, the first time this note has been sounded. He does not specifically refer to crucifixion, but he does refer to insult and injury and death. He does not leave it at that, however, but goes on to speak of rising again on the third day. The passion is not defeat but victory.
34. On the other side of the cross such sayings must have been very difficult. The disciples did not understand. Jesus said many paradoxical things and they probably reasoned, ‘He cannot mean that he will literally die and rise. This must be something like the dying in order to live that he demands of us’ (cf. 17:33). It took the cross and the empty tomb to make them understand. For the present this saying was hid from them, which may mean that they were prevented from understanding. If so, the thought will be that their failure to grasp it had its place in God’s purpose.