Meaning of Luke 9:51

This verse marks a pivotal turning point in Jesus' ministry, signaling his deliberate and determined journey toward his crucifixion and subsequent ascension. The phrase "As the time approached for him to be taken up to heaven" (Greek: anabepsis, a term often associated with ascension) indicates that Jesus was acutely aware of his impending destiny, a destiny that would culminate in Jerusalem. His decision to "resolutely set out for Jerusalem" (Greek: sterizo, meaning to fix, set firmly, direct one's course) demonstrates unwavering resolve and a conscious acceptance of the path laid out for him, even though it led to suffering and death. This is not a passive yielding to fate, but an active, purposeful movement towards the ultimate redemptive act.

Context and Background

Luke 9:51 immediately follows the Transfiguration (Luke 9:28-36), where Jesus' divine glory was revealed to Peter, James, and John, and where Moses and Elijah spoke with him about his coming "departure" (exodos) in Jerusalem (Luke 9:31). This cosmic affirmation of Jesus' identity and mission likely strengthened his resolve for the difficult journey ahead. The preceding chapters have detailed Jesus' ministry in Galilee, including miracles, teachings, and the commissioning of the twelve apostles. However, the focus now shifts decisively towards Jerusalem, the city where the prophets were often killed and where Jesus knew he would face his ultimate opposition and fulfillment of prophecy.

Key Themes and Messages

• Divine Purpose and Foreknowledge: Jesus acts with full knowledge of his impending death and ascension. His journey is not a reaction to circumstances but a fulfillment of divine purpose.
• Resolve and Determination: The word sterizo emphasizes Jesus' steadfastness. He is not wavering but actively moving towards his appointed end with unwavering commitment.
• The Centrality of Jerusalem: Jerusalem is presented as the focal point of Jesus' mission, the stage for his ultimate sacrifice and the inauguration of the new covenant.
• The Inevitability of Suffering: The journey to Jerusalem foreshadows the suffering and rejection Jesus would endure, a necessary prelude to his exaltation.

Spiritual Significance and Application

This verse calls believers to embrace their own divinely appointed paths, even when they involve hardship or sacrifice. It highlights the importance of resoluteness in following Christ, understanding that obedience to God's will often requires a determined spirit. Jesus' example encourages us to face our own challenges with faith, knowing that God's purposes are being worked out, even in difficult seasons. It also reminds us that suffering is often a precursor to greater glory, both for individuals and for the Kingdom of God.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

Luke 9:51 directly connects Jesus' ministry to the Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah's suffering and eventual triumph, particularly passages like Isaiah 53. His journey to Jerusalem echoes the pilgrimage of the Passover lambs, symbolizing his role as the ultimate sacrifice for sin. This event initiates the "Travel Narrative" of Luke's Gospel, a significant section that traces Jesus' journey from Galilee to Jerusalem, detailing his teachings and actions as he moves towards his appointed destiny.

Analogies

One analogy for Jesus' resoluteness is a ship captain who, knowing a storm is coming and that his ultimate destination lies beyond it, deliberately steers his vessel towards the challenging waters with a fixed course. Another is an athlete who, with the Olympic Games in sight, dedicates themselves to rigorous training, knowing the pain and effort are necessary to reach their goal. Jesus, like the captain and the athlete, has a clear objective and undertakes the necessary, albeit difficult, steps to achieve it.

Relation to Other Verses

• Luke 9:31: Where Moses and Elijah speak with Jesus about his "departure" (exodos) to be accomplished in Jerusalem, directly preceding Luke 9:51.
• Luke 13:33: Jesus states, "Nevertheless, I must keep going today and tomorrow and the day after, for it is unthinkable that a prophet should perish outside Jerusalem." This reiterates his awareness and determination.
• John 11:7-8: Jesus tells his disciples, "Let us go back to Judea." When they express concern about the Jews seeking to stone him, Jesus replies, "Are there not twelve hours in the day? Anyone who walks in the daytime does not stumble, for they see the light of this world." This demonstrates a similar resolute spirit in the face of danger.
• Philippians 2:8: "...and being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!" This verse encapsulates the obedient journey to suffering that Jesus embarks upon.