Luke·Chapter 9

How to Apply

This week, take a moment to reflect on who you believe Jesus is. Spend some time journaling or talking with a friend about your thoughts. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to explore them—read about Jesus, ask around, or even pray about it. You could also take a step to learn more about the historical context of His life and teachings. Engaging with the questions around His identity can deepen your understanding and connection to the story.

Chapter Context

Leading up to this moment, Jesus has been performing miracles and teaching with authority, creating a buzz all around Him. People are amazed, and they want to know—who is this man? The confusion builds as they grapple with the possibilities of His identity. This verse shows a pivotal moment where the public is trying to make sense of Jesus’ impact, reflecting their hopes and fears. Right after this, Jesus takes the opportunity to ask His own disciples directly, 'But what about you? Who do you say I am?' It’s a dramatic twist that pushes the narrative forward, inviting a deeper personal connection to His identity.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• they - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• answered - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• john - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• baptist - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• but - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• others - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• elijah - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• and - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• others - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• that - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

In this moment of speculation, what stands out to you about the names people are using to describe Jesus? Why do you think those particular figures resonate with their hopes?

Related Verses

• Matthew 17:10 - This verse shows that the disciples were also confused about Elijah's role, hinting at the deeper prophetic significance of Jesus’ mission.
• Malachi 4:5 - Written about 400 years before this moment, it predicted the return of Elijah before the great day of the Lord, connecting to the people's expectations.
• Mark 8:28 - This verse parallels Luke’s moment, where people are trying to piece together who Jesus is, revealing the widespread intrigue and confusion about His identity.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in Luke 9:19. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Key Verses

Luke 9:1-2, Luke 9:16-17, Luke 9:18-20, Luke 9:23, Luke 9:36

Historical Context

Luke's Gospel is written with a focus on the marginalized and the universal nature of Jesus' message. Chapter 9 serves as a transitional point in the narrative, where Jesus' ministry expands through the sending out of the twelve disciples. This chapter highlights key elements of Jesus' mission while also preparing for the journey towards Jerusalem, where He will ultimately face suffering and death. The feeding of the five thousand is an important miracle, demonstrating Jesus' care for physical needs while symbolizing deeper spiritual truths. This chapter is also critical in forming the disciples' understanding of Jesus as the Messiah, setting the stage for the events to follow in the later chapters.