Meaning of Luke 10:5

This verse, spoken by Jesus to his seventy-two disciples as he commissioned them to go out and preach the coming of the Kingdom of God, establishes a foundational principle for their ministry: to actively invoke and offer peace upon those they encountered. It's not merely a polite greeting but a spiritual declaration, a preemptive blessing that signifies the arrival of God's presence and the potential for reconciliation and well-being that the Gospel message brings. The disciples were to discern, by their reception, whether the inhabitants were "worthy" of this peace, implying a spiritual receptivity that would determine the effectiveness of their message and the continuation of that blessing.

Context and Background

Jesus is sending out the seventy-two disciples (Luke 10:1) in pairs ahead of him to every town and place where he himself was about to go. This mission is a precursor to his own arrival, acting as heralds of the Kingdom. The instruction to pronounce peace is part of a larger directive that includes not carrying money, a bag, or sandals, and to greet no one on the way (Luke 10:4). This emphasis on immediate focus and reliance on divine provision underscores the urgency and spiritual nature of their task. The concept of "peace" (Hebrew: shalom) in the Old Testament encompassed not just the absence of conflict but also wholeness, well-being, prosperity, and a right relationship with God and others.

Key Themes and Messages

• The Proclamation of Peace: The primary message is that the disciples are bearers of peace, a peace that originates from God and is embodied in the person and message of Jesus. This peace is not a passive wish but an active invocation, a spiritual force.
• Discernment and Worthiness: The instruction to ascertain if the house is "worthy" of peace introduces the theme of spiritual receptivity. The disciples are to look for signs of openness to God's message. The peace offered is contingent on the response it receives.
• The Kingdom's Arrival: This act of pronouncing peace is intrinsically linked to the coming of the Kingdom of God. Where the disciples and their message are received, the Kingdom's presence and its blessings are inaugurated.
• Reconciliation: Shalom implies reconciliation. By offering peace, the disciples are extending an invitation to be reconciled with God through Jesus Christ.

Spiritual Significance and Application

Spiritually, this verse calls believers today to be intentional about bringing peace into the spaces they enter. It's a reminder that our interactions, whether in homes, workplaces, or communities, can be conduits of God's peace. This requires discernment to understand when our message of peace is being received and when it is being rejected, not necessarily as a personal affront, but as a spiritual reality that impacts the effectiveness of our witness. It also highlights the importance of praying for peace and actively working towards reconciliation in our relationships and society.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This instruction is a continuation of Jesus' ministry, which consistently aimed to bring about reconciliation between humanity and God, and between people. It echoes the Old Testament prophets who spoke of a coming era of peace and restoration. Furthermore, it foreshadows the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20, where disciples are sent to make disciples of all nations, baptizing and teaching them, which ultimately results in the spread of the Gospel of peace. The concept of peace is a recurring motif throughout Scripture, culminating in the Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ, who is our peace (Ephesians 2:14).

Analogies

One analogy for this instruction is that of a diplomat entering a new territory with an olive branch. The olive branch is a symbol of peace and a gesture of goodwill, but its acceptance or rejection signifies the beginning of either peaceful relations or continued conflict. Similarly, the disciples carried the "olive branch" of God's peace, and the reception of this gesture determined the nature of the interaction. Another analogy is a medical professional entering a sickroom. They bring the potential for healing and well-being, but their ability to administer that healing depends on the patient's willingness to receive their care.

Relation to Other Verses

• Matthew 10:12-13: This is the parallel account in Matthew's Gospel, reinforcing the importance of this instruction.
• John 14:27: Jesus says, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." This highlights the unique, divine nature of the peace Jesus offers.
• Ephesians 2:14: Paul describes Jesus as "he himself is our peace, who has made the two one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility." This affirms Jesus as the ultimate source and embodiment of peace.
• Romans 10:15: Quoting Isaiah, Paul states, "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!" The "good news" of the Gospel is the news of peace through Christ.
• Matthew 5:9: Jesus blesses the peacemakers: "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God." This further emphasizes the value and divine nature of peace.