Luke 7:1--9:62

¹ tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

² tn Grk “After he had completed all his sayings in the hearing of the people.”

³ sn Capernaum was a town on the northwest shore of the Sea of Galilee, 680 ft (204 m) below sea level. It was a major trade and economic center in the North Galilean region.

map For location see Map1 D2; Map2 C3; Map3 B2.

⁴ sn A centurion was a noncommissioned officer in the Roman army or one of the auxiliary territorial armies, commanding a centuria of (nominally) 100 men. The responsibilities of centurions were broadly similar to modern junior officers, but there was a wide gap in social status between them and officers, and relatively few were promoted beyond the rank of senior centurion. The Roman troops stationed in Judea were auxiliaries, who would normally be rewarded with Roman citizenship after 25 years of service. Some of the centurions may have served originally in the Roman legions (regular army) and thus gained their citizenship at enlistment. Others may have inherited it, like Paul.

⁵ tn The word “there” is not in the Greek text, but is implied.

⁶ tn Though δοῦλος (doulos) is normally translated “servant,” the word does not bear the connotation of a free individual serving another. BDAG notes that “‘servant’ for ‘slave’ is largely confined to Biblical transl. and early American times… in normal usage at the present time the two words are carefully distinguished” (BDAG 260 s.v. 1). The most accurate translation is “bondservant” (sometimes found in the ASV for δοῦλος) in that it often indicates one who sells himself into slavery to another. But as this is archaic, few today understand its force. In addition, the parallel passage in Matt 8:6 uses the Greek term παῖς (pais), to refer to the centurion’s slave. This was a term often used of a slave who was regarded with some degree of affection, possibly a personal servant.

⁷ tn The term ἔντιμος (entimos) could mean “highly valued,” but this sounds too much like the slave was seen as an asset, while the text suggests a genuine care for the person. More archaically, it could be said the centurion was fond of this slave.

⁸ tn Grk “he”; the referent (the centurion) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

⁹ tn The participle ἀκούσας (akousas) has been taken temporally.

¹⁰ sn Why some Jewish elders are sent as emissaries is not entirely clear, but the centurion was probably respecting ethnic boundaries, which were important in ancient Greco-Roman and Jewish culture. The parallel account in Matt 8:5-13 does not mention the emissaries.

¹¹ tn The participle ἐλθών (elqwn) has been translated as an infinitive in parallel with διασώσῃ (diaswsh) due to requirements of contemporary English style.

¹² tn Here δέ (de) has not been translated.

¹³ tn Although the participle παραγενόμενοι (paragenomenoi) is preceded by the Greek article (οἱ, Joi) which would normally cause it to be regarded as an adjectival or substantival participle, most modern translations, probably as a result of the necessities of contemporary English style, render it as a temporal participle (“when they came”).

¹⁴ tn Or “implored.”

¹⁵ tn Grk “urged him earnestly, saying”; the participle λέγοντες (legontes) is pleonastic (redundant) and has not been translated.

¹⁶ tn Grk “Worthy is he to have you do this”; the term “worthy” comes first in the direct discourse and is emphatic.

¹⁷ tn Or “people.” The use of ἔθνος (eqnos, “nation”) here instead of “God” probably meant the man was not a full proselyte, but that he had simply been supportive of the Jews and their culture. He could have been a God-fearer. The Romans saw a stable religious community as politically helpful and often supported it (Josephus, Ant. 16.6.2 [16.162-165], 19.6.3 [19.300-311]).

¹⁸ tn In the Greek text, the pronoun αὐτός (autos) is included, making this emphatic. Naturally the force of this statement is causative, meaning the centurion either had the synagogue built or donated the cost of its construction.

¹⁹ sn See the note on synagogues in 4:15.

²⁰ tn Here δέ (de) has been translated as “so” to indicate the resultative action.

²¹ tn The participle ἀπέχοντος (apeconto") has been taken temporally.

²² sn See the note on the word centurion in 7:2.

²³ tn Or “do not be bothered.”

²⁴ sn Note the humility in the centurion’s statement I am not worthy in light of what others think (as v. 4 notes). See Luke 5:8 for a similar example of humility.

²⁵ tn Or “roof; therefore.”

²⁶ tn Grk “I did not consider myself worthy to come to you.” See BDAG 94 s.v. ἀξιόω 1. “Presume” assumes this and expresses the idea in terms of offense.

²⁷ tc The aorist imperative ἰαθήτω (iaqhtw, “must be healed”) is found in Ì^75vid B L 1241 sa. Most mss (א A C D W Θ Ψ Ë^1,13 33 Ï latt bo) have instead a future indicative, ἰαθήσεται (iaqhsetai, “will be healed”). This is most likely an assimilation to Matt 8:8, and thus, as a motivated reading, should be considered secondary. The meaning either way is essentially the same.

tn The aorist imperative may be translated as an imperative of command (“must be healed” or, more periphrastically, “command [my servant] to be healed”) or as a permissive imperative (“let my servant be healed”), which lessens the force of the imperative somewhat in English.

²⁸ tn Grk “having soldiers under me.”

²⁹ sn I say to this one, ‘Go,’ and he goes. The illustrations highlight the view of authority the soldier sees in the word of one who has authority. Since the centurion was a commander of a hundred soldiers, he understood what it was both to command others and to be obeyed.

³⁰ tn The word “it” is not in the Greek text, but is implied. Direct objects were frequently omitted in Greek when clear from the context.

³¹ tn Or “pleased with him and amazed.” The expanded translation brings out both Jesus’ sense of wonder at the deep insight of the soldier and the pleasure he had that he could present the man as an example of faith.

³² sn There are two elements to the faith that Jesus commended: The man’s humility and his sense of Jesus’ authority which recognized that only Jesus’ word, not his physical presence, were required.

³³ tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “so” to indicate the summarization at the end of the account.

³⁴ tc Most mss, especially later ones (A C [D] Θ Ψ Ë¹³ 33 Ï), have “the sick slave” here instead of “the slave.” This brings out the contrast of the healing more clearly, but this reading looks secondary both internally (scribes tended toward clarification) and externally (the shorter reading is well supported by a variety of witnesses: Ì⁷⁵ א B L W ˹ 579 700 892* 1241 2542 it co).

³⁵ tn Grk “And it happened that soon.” The introductory phrase ἐγένετο (egeneto, “it happened that”), common in Luke (69 times) and Acts (54 times), is redundant in contemporary English and has not been translated.

³⁶ tc Several variants to ἐγένετο ἐν τῷ (egeneto en tw) are found before the adverb ἑξῆς (Jexh"), all of them clarifying by the use of the feminine article that the next day is meant (τῇ [th] in D; ἐγένετο τῇ in W; ἐγένετο ἐν τῇ in א* C K 565 892 1424 pm). But these readings are decidedly secondary, for they are more specific than Luke usually is, and involve an unparalleled construction (viz., article + ἡμέρα [Jhmera] + ἑξῆς; elsewhere, when Luke uses this adverb, the noun it modifies is either implied or after the adverb [cf. Luke 9:37; Acts 21:1; 25:17; 27:18)]. The reading adopted for the translation is a more general time indicator; the article τῷ modifies an implied χρόνῳ (cronw), with the general sense of “soon afterward.”

³⁷ tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

³⁸ tn The term πόλις (polis) can refer to a small town, which is what Nain was. It was about six miles southeast of Nazareth.

³⁹ tn Grk “behold.” The Greek word ἰδού (idou) has not been translated because it has no exact English equivalent here, but adds interest and emphasis (BDAG 468 s.v. 1).

⁴⁰ tn That is, carried out for burial. This was a funeral procession.

⁴¹ tn Grk “and she.” The clause introduced by καί (kai) has been translated as a relative clause for the sake of English style.

⁴² sn The description of the woman as a widow would mean that she was now socially alone and without protection in 1st century Jewish culture.

⁴³ tn Or “city.”

⁴⁴ tn Grk “And seeing her, the Lord.” Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style. The participle ἰδών (idwn) has been taken temporally.

⁴⁵ sn He had compassion. It is unusual for Luke to note such emotion by Jesus, though the other Synoptics tend to mention it (Matt 14:14; Mark 6:34; Matt 15:32; Mark 8:2).

⁴⁶ tn The verb κλαίω (klaiw) denotes the loud wailing or lamenting typical of 1st century Jewish mourning.

⁴⁷ tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.

⁴⁸ tn Grk “coming up, he touched.” The participle προσελθών (proselqwn) has been translated as a finite verb due to requirements of contemporary English style.

⁴⁹ sn The act of having touched the bier would have rendered Jesus ceremonially unclean, but it did not matter to him, since he was expressing his personal concern (Num 19:11, 16).

⁵⁰ sn Although sometimes translated “coffin,” the bier was actually a stretcher or wooden plank on which the corpse was transported to the place of burial. See L&N 6.109.

⁵¹ tn Grk “And he.” Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style.

⁵² tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “so” to indicate the result of Jesus’ command.

⁵³ tn Or “the deceased.”

⁵⁴ tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

⁵⁵ tn In the context, the verb δίδωμι (didwmi) has been translated “gave back” rather than simply “gave.”

⁵⁶ tn Or “Awe.” Grk “fear,” but the context and the following remark show that it is mixed with wonder; see L&N 53.59. This is a reaction to God’s work; see Luke 5:9.

⁵⁷ tn This imperfect verb has been translated as an ingressive imperfect.

⁵⁸ sn That Jesus was a great prophet was a natural conclusion for the crowd to make, given the healing; but Jesus is more than this. See Luke 9:8, 19-20.

⁵⁹ tn Grk “arisen.”

⁶⁰ tn Grk “visited,” but this conveys a different impression to a modern reader. L&N 85.11 renders the verb, “to be present, with the implication of concern – ‘to be present to help, to be on hand to aid.’ … ‘God has come to help his people’ Lk 7:16.” The language recalls Luke 1:68, 78.

⁶¹ tn Grk “And this.” Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style.

⁶² sn See Luke 4:14 for a similar report.

⁶³ tn Grk “him”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

⁶⁴ tn Grk “went out.”

⁶⁵ tn Grk “through the whole of.”

⁶⁶ tn Grk “And John’s.” Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style. This is a reference to John the Baptist as the following context makes clear.

⁶⁷ tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “so” to indicate that John’s action was a result of the report he had heard.

⁶⁸ tn Grk “And calling two of his disciples, John sent.” The participle προσκαλεσάμενος (proskalesameno") has been translated as a finite verb due to requirements of contemporary English style.

⁶⁹ tc ‡ Although most mss (א A W Θ Ψ Ë¹ Ï it sy bo) read πρὸς τὸν ᾿Ιησοῦν (pro" ton Ihsoun, “to Jesus”), other important witnesses (B L Ξ Ë¹³ 33 pc sa) read πρὸς τὸν κύριον (pro" ton kurion, “to the Lord”). A decision is difficult in this instance, as there are good witnesses on both sides. In light of this, that “Jesus” is more widespread than “the Lord” with almost equally important witnesses argues for its authenticity.

⁷⁰ tn Grk “to Jesus, saying,” but since this takes the form of a question, it is preferable to use the phrase “to ask” in English.

⁷¹ sn Aspects of Jesus’ ministry may have led John to question whether Jesus was the promised stronger and greater one who is to come that he had preached about in Luke 3:15-17.

⁷² tn Grk “And when.” Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style.

⁷³ tn Grk “him”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

⁷⁴ tn Grk “to you, saying,” but since this takes the form of a question, it is preferable to use the phrase “to ask” in English.

⁷⁵ tn This question is repeated word for word from v. 19.

⁷⁶ tn Grk “In that hour.”

⁷⁷ tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

⁷⁸ tn Grk “and sicknesses,” but καί (kai) has not been translated since English normally uses a coordinating conjunction only between the last two elements in a series of three or more.

⁷⁹ tn Or “and bestowed (sight) on.”

⁸⁰ tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “so” to indicate the relationship to Jesus’ miraculous cures in the preceding sentence.

⁸¹ tn Grk “answering, he said to them.” This is redundant in English and has been simplified in the translation to “he answered them.”

⁸² sn The same verb has been translated “inform” in 7:18.

⁸³ sn What you have seen and heard. The following activities all paraphrase various OT descriptions of the time of promised salvation: Isa 35:5-6; 26:19; 29:18-19; 61:1. Jesus is answering not by acknowledging a title, but by pointing to the nature of his works, thus indicating the nature of the time.

⁸⁴ tn Grk “and the,” but καί (kai) has not been translated since English normally uses a coordinating conjunction only between the last two elements in a series of three or more.

⁸⁵ tn Grk “whoever.”

⁸⁶ tn Here δέ (de) has not been translated.

⁸⁷ tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

⁸⁸ tn Or “desert.”

⁸⁹ tn There is a debate as to whether one should read this figuratively (“to see someone who is easily blown over?”) or literally (Grk “to see the wilderness vegetation?…No, to see a prophet”). Either view makes good sense, but the following examples suggest the question should be read literally and understood to point to the fact that a prophet drew them to the desert.

⁹⁰ tn Grk “But what.” Here ἀλλά (alla, a strong contrastive in Greek) produces a somewhat awkward sense in English, and has not been translated. The same situation occurs at the beginning of v. 26.

⁹¹ tn Or “soft”; see L&N 79.100.

⁹² sn The reference to fancy clothes makes the point that John was not rich or powerful, in that he did not come from the wealthy classes.

⁹³ tn See L&N 88.253, “to revel, to carouse, to live a life of luxury.”

⁹⁴ tn Or “palaces.”

⁹⁵ tn John the Baptist is “more” because he introduces the one (Jesus) who brings the new era. The term is neuter, but may be understood as masculine in this context (BDAG 806 s.v. περισσότερος b.).

⁹⁶ tn Grk “before your face” (an idiom).

⁹⁷ sn The quotation is primarily from Mal 3:1 with pronouns from Exod 23:20. Here is the forerunner who points the way to the arrival of God’s salvation. His job is to prepare and guide the people, as the cloud did for Israel in the desert.

⁹⁸ sn In the Greek text greater is at the beginning of the clause in the emphatic position. John the Baptist was the greatest man of the old era.

⁹⁹ tc The earliest and best mss read simply ᾿Ιωάννου (Iwannou, “John”) here (Ì⁷⁵ א B L W Ξ Ë¹ 579 pc). Others turn this into “John the Baptist” (K 33 565 al it), “the prophet John the Baptist” (A [D] Θ Ë¹³ Ï lat), or “the prophet John” (Ψ 700 [892 1241] pc). “It appears that προφήτης was inserted by pedantic copyists who wished thereby to exclude Christ from the comparison, while others added τοῦ βαπτιστοῦ, assimilating the text to Mt 11.11” (TCGNT 119).

¹⁰⁰ sn After John comes a shift of eras. The new era is so great that the lowest member of it (the one who is least in the kingdom of God) is greater than the greatest one of the previous era.

¹⁰¹ sn The kingdom of God is a major theme of Jesus’ proclamation. It is a realm in which Jesus rules and to which those who trust him belong. See Luke 6:20; 11:20; 17:20-21. It is not strictly future, though its full manifestation is yet to come. That is why membership in it starts right after John the Baptist.

¹⁰² tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “now” to indicate the parenthetical nature of the comment by the author.

¹⁰³ sn See the note on tax collectors in 3:12.

¹⁰⁴ tn Or “vindicated God”; Grk “justified God.” This could be expanded to “vindicated and responded to God.” The point is that God’s goodness and grace as evidenced in the invitation to John was justified and responded to by the group one might least expect, tax collector and sinners. They had more spiritual sensitivity than others. The contrastive response is clear from v. 30.

¹⁰⁵ tn The participle βαπτισθέντες (baptisqente") has been translated as a causal adverbial participle.

¹⁰⁶ sn See the note on Pharisees in 5:17.

¹⁰⁷ tn That is, the experts in the interpretation of the Mosaic law (see also Luke 5:17, although the Greek term is not identical there, and Luke 10:25, where it is the same).

¹⁰⁸ tn Or “plan.”

¹⁰⁹ tn The participle βαπτισθέντες (baptisqente") has been translated as a causal adverbial participle; it could also be translated as means (“for themselves, by not having been baptized”). This is similar to the translation found in the NRSV.

¹¹⁰ tn Grk “by him”; the referent (John the Baptist) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

¹¹¹ sn Luke 7:29-30 forms something of an aside by the author. To indicate this, they have been placed in parentheses.

¹¹² tn Grk “men,” but this is a generic use of ἄνθρωπος (anqrwpo"). The comparison that follows in vv. 32-34 describes “this generation,” not Jesus and John.

¹¹³ tn Grk “They are like children sitting…and calling out…who say.”

¹¹⁴ sn ‘We played the flute for you, yet you did not dance…’ The children of this generation were making the complaint (see vv. 33-34) that others were not playing the game according to the way they played the music. John and Jesus did not follow “their tune.” Jesus’ complaint was that this generation wanted things their way, not God’s.

¹¹⁵ tn The verb ἐθρηνήσαμεν (eqrhnhsamen) refers to the loud wailing and lamenting used to mourn the dead in public in 1st century Jewish culture.

¹¹⁶ tn The perfect tenses in both this verse and the next do more than mere aorists would. They not only summarize, but suggest the characteristics of each ministry were still in existence at the time of speaking.

¹¹⁷ tn Grk “neither eating bread nor drinking wine,” but this is somewhat awkward in contemporary English.

¹¹⁸ sn John the Baptist was too separatist and ascetic for some, and so he was accused of not being directed by God, but by a demon.

¹¹⁹ tn Grk “Behold a man.”

¹²⁰ sn Neither were they happy with Jesus (the Son of Man), even though he was the opposite of John and associated freely with people like tax collectors and sinners. Either way, God’s messengers were subject to complaint.

¹²¹ tn Or “shown to be right.” This is the same verb translated “acknowledged… justice” in v. 29, with a similar sense – including the notion of response. Wisdom’s children are those who respond to God through John and Jesus.

¹²² tn Or “by all those who follow her” (cf. CEV, NLT). Note that the parallel in Matt 11:19 reads “by her deeds.”

¹²³ sn See the note on Pharisees in 5:17.

¹²⁴ tn Grk “him”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

¹²⁵ tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “so” to indicate that Jesus’ action was the result of the Pharisee’s invitation.

¹²⁶ tn Grk “and reclined at table,” as 1st century middle eastern meals were not eaten while sitting at a table, but while reclining on one’s side on the floor with the head closest to the low table and the feet farthest away.

¹²⁷ tn Grk “And behold.” Here καί (kai) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative. The Greek word ἰδού (idou) at the beginning of this statement has not been translated because it has no exact English equivalent here, but adds interest and emphasis (BDAG 468 s.v. 1).

¹²⁸ tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

¹²⁹ tn Grk “was reclining at table.”

¹³⁰ sn A jar made of alabaster stone was normally used for very precious substances like perfumes. It normally had a long neck which was sealed and had to be broken off so the contents could be used.

¹³¹ tn Μύρον (muron) was usually made of myrrh (from which the English word is derived) but here it is used in the sense of ointment or perfumed oil (L&N 6.205). The same phrase occurs at the end of v. 38 and in v. 46.

sn Nard or spikenard is a fragrant oil from the root and spike of the nard plant of northern India. This perfumed oil, if made of something like nard, would have been extremely expensive, costing up to a year’s pay for an average laborer.

¹³² tn Grk “And standing.” Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style. Because of the length and complexity of the Greek sentence, a new sentence was started here in the translation.

¹³³ tn Grk “standing”; the participle στᾶσα (stasa) has been translated as a finite verb due to requirements of contemporary English style.

¹³⁴ tn Grk “tears, and she.” Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style. Because of the length and complexity of the Greek sentence, a new sentence was started here in the translation.

¹³⁵ tn Grk “with the hair of her head.”

¹³⁶ tn Grk “and kissed,” but καί (kai) has not been translated since English normally uses a coordinating conjunction only between the last two elements in a series of three or more.

¹³⁷ tn Grk “kissed his feet,” but this has been replaced by the pronoun “them” in keeping with contemporary English style.

¹³⁸ sn The series of verbs in this verse detail the woman’s every move, much as if the onlookers were watching her every step. That she attended the meal is not so surprising, as teachers often ate an open meal where listeners were welcome, but for her to approach Jesus was unusual and took great nerve, especially given her reputation.

¹³⁹ tn The word “this” is not in the Greek text, but is implied. Direct objects were frequently omitted in Greek when clear from the context.

¹⁴⁰ tn This is a good example of a second class (contrary to fact) Greek conditional sentence. The Pharisee said, in effect, “If this man were a prophet (but he is not)…”

¹⁴¹ sn The Pharisees believed in a form of separationism that would have prevented them from any kind of association with such a sinful woman.

¹⁴² tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “so” to indicate the connection with the preceding statement recording the Pharisee’s thoughts.

¹⁴³ tn Grk “answering, said to him.” This is redundant in contemporary English and has been simplified to “answered him.”

sn Jesus answered him. Note that as the Pharisee is denying to himself that Jesus is a prophet, Jesus is reading his thoughts.

¹⁴⁴ tn Grk “he said.”

¹⁴⁵ sn A creditor was a moneylender, whose business was to lend money to others at a fixed rate of interest.

¹⁴⁶ tn The word “him” is not in the Greek text, but is implied.

¹⁴⁷ tn Grk “five hundred denarii.”

sn The silver coins were denarii. The denarius was worth about a day’s wage for a laborer; this would be an amount worth not quite two years’ pay. The debts were significant: They represented two months’ pay and one and three quarter years’ pay (20 months) based on a six day work week.

¹⁴⁸ tn The verb ἐχαρίσατο (ecarisato) could be translated as “forgave.” Of course this pictures the forgiveness of God’s grace, which is not earned but bestowed with faith (see v. 49).

¹⁴⁹ tn Grk “answering, said.” This is redundant in contemporary English and has been simplified to “answered.”

¹⁵⁰ tn Grk “the one to whom he forgave more” (see v. 42).

¹⁵¹ tn Grk “He”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity. Here δέ (de) has not been translated.

¹⁵² tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.

¹⁵³ sn It is discussed whether these acts in vv. 44-46 were required by the host. Most think they were not, but this makes the woman’s acts of respect all the more amazing.

¹⁵⁴ tn Grk “no kiss.” This refers to a formalized kiss of greeting, standard in that culture. To convey this to the modern reader, the words “of greeting” have been supplied to qualify what kind of kiss is meant.

¹⁵⁵ sn This event is not equivalent to the anointing of Jesus that takes place in the last week of his life (Matt 26:6-13; Mark 14:3-9; John 12:1-8). That woman was not a sinner, and Jesus was eating in the home of Simon the leper, who, as a leper, could never be a Pharisee.

¹⁵⁶ tn Grk “for she loved much.” The connection between this statement and the preceding probably involves an ellipsis, to the effect that the ὅτι clause gives the evidence of forgiveness, not the ground. For similar examples of an “evidentiary” ὅτι, cf. Luke 1:22; 6:21; 13:2. See discussion in D. L. Bock, Luke [BECNT], 1:703-5. Further evidence that this is the case here is the final statement: “the one who is forgiven little loves little” means that the one who is forgiven little is thus not able to love much. The REB renders this verse: “her great love proves that her many sins have been forgiven; where little has been forgiven, little love is shown.”

sn She loved much. Jesus’ point is that the person who realizes how great a gift forgiveness is (because they have a deep sense of sin) has a great love for the one who forgives, that is, God. The woman’s acts of reverence to Jesus honored him as the one who brought God’s message of grace.

¹⁵⁷ tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.

¹⁵⁸ tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

¹⁵⁹ sn Jesus showed his authority to forgive sins, something that was quite controversial. See Luke 5:17-26 and the next verse.

¹⁶⁰ tn Grk “And”; here καί (kai) has been translated as an adversative (contrastive).

¹⁶¹ tn Grk “were reclining at table.”

¹⁶² tn Here δέ (de) has not been translated.

¹⁶³ sn On faith see Luke 5:20; 7:9; 8:25; 12:28; 17:6; 18:8; 22:32.

¹⁶⁴ sn The questioning did not stop Jesus. He declared authoritatively that the woman was forgiven by God (your faith has saved you). This event is a concrete example of Luke 5:31-32.

¹⁶⁵ tn Grk “And it happened that some time.” The introductory phrase ἐγένετο (egeneto, “it happened that”), common in Luke (69 times) and Acts (54 times), is redundant in contemporary English and has not been translated.

¹⁶⁶ tn Καθεξῆς (Kaqexh") is a general temporal term and need not mean “soon afterward”; see Luke 1:3; Acts 3:24; 11:4; 18:23 and L&N 61.1.

¹⁶⁷ tn Or “cities.”

¹⁶⁸ sn The combination of preaching and proclaiming the good news is a bit emphatic, stressing Jesus’ teaching ministry on the rule of God.

¹⁶⁹ sn The kingdom of God is a major theme of Jesus. It is a realm in which Jesus rules and to which those who trust him belong. See Luke 6:20; 11:20; 17:20-21.

¹⁷⁰ tn Grk “And the.” Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style.

¹⁷¹ sn There is an important respect shown to women in this text, as their contributions were often ignored in ancient society.

¹⁷² tn Or “illnesses.” The term ἀσθένεια (asqeneia) refers to the state of being ill and thus incapacitated in some way – “illness, disability, weakness.” (L&N 23.143).

¹⁷³ sn This Mary is not the woman mentioned in the previous passage (as some church fathers claimed), because she is introduced as a new figure here. In addition, she is further specified by Luke with the notation called Magdalene, which seems to distinguish her from the woman at Simon the Pharisee’s house.

¹⁷⁴ sn Cuza is also spelled “Chuza” in many English translations.

¹⁷⁵ sn Herod’s refers here to Herod Antipas. See the note on Herod Antipas in 3:1.

¹⁷⁶ tn Here ἐπίτροπος (epitropo") is understood as referring to the majordomo or manager of Herod’s household (BDAG 385 s.v. ἐπίτροπος 1). However, as BDAG notes, the office may be political in nature and would then be translated something like “governor” or “procurator.” Note that in either case the gospel was reaching into the highest levels of society.

¹⁷⁷ tc Many mss (א A L Ψ Ë¹ 33 565 579 1241 2542 pm it co) read “for him,” but “for them” also has good ms support (B D K W Γ Δ Θ Ë¹³ 700 892 1424 pm lat). From an internal standpoint the singular pronoun looks like an assimilation to texts like Matt 27:55 and Mark 15:41.

¹⁷⁸ tn Grk “to him”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

¹⁷⁹ tn This phrase renders a distributive use of κατά (kata) with πόλις (polis), literally “according to [each] town.”

¹⁸⁰ tn The words “to them” do not appear in the Greek text but are supplied in the translation for clarity.

¹⁸¹ sn A sower went out to sow. The background for this well-known parable is a field through which a well-worn path runs in the Palestinian countryside. Sowing would occur in late fall or early winter (October to December) in the rainy season, looking for sprouting in April or May and a June harvest. The use of seed as a figure for God’s giving life has OT roots: Isa 55:10-11.

¹⁸² tn Luke’s version of the parable, like Mark’s (cf. Mark 4:1-9) uses the collective singular to refer to the seed throughout, so singular pronouns have been used consistently throughout this parable in the English translation. However, the parallel account in Matt 13:1-9 begins with plural pronouns in v. 4 but then switches to the collective singular in v. 5 ff.

¹⁸³ tn Grk “the birds of the sky” or “the birds of the heaven”; the Greek word οὐρανός (ouranos) may be translated either “sky” or “heaven,” depending on the context. The idiomatic expression “birds of the sky” refers to wild birds as opposed to domesticated fowl (cf. BDAG 809 s.v. πετεινόν).

¹⁸⁴ sn The rock in Palestine would be a limestone base lying right under the soil.

¹⁸⁵ sn Palestinian weeds like these thorns could grow up to six feet in height and have a major root system.

¹⁸⁶ sn That is, crowded out the good plants.

¹⁸⁷ tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “but” to indicate the contrast present in the final stage of the parable.

¹⁸⁸ tn Grk “when it grew, after it grew.”

¹⁸⁹ sn Unlike the parallel accounts in Matt 13:8 and Mark 4:8, there is no distinction in yield in this version of the parable.

¹⁹⁰ tn Grk “said these things.”

¹⁹¹ tn The translation “had better listen!” captures the force of the third person imperative more effectively than the traditional “let him hear,” which sounds more like a permissive than an imperative to the modern English reader. This was Jesus’ common expression to listen and heed carefully (cf. Matt 11:15; 13:9, 43; Mark 4:9, 23; Luke 14:35).

¹⁹² tn Here δέ (de) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.

¹⁹³ tn Grk “what this parable might be” (an optative after a secondary tense, in keeping with good Koine style).

¹⁹⁴ tn Here δέ (de) has not been translated.

¹⁹⁵ tn This is an example of a so-called “divine passive,” with God understood to be the source of the revelation (see ExSyn 437-38).

¹⁹⁶ tn Grk “it has been given to you to know.” The dative pronoun occurs first, in emphatic position in the Greek text, although this position is awkward in contemporary English.

¹⁹⁷ tn Grk “the mysteries.”

sn The key term secrets (μυστήριον, musthrion) can mean either (1) a new revelation or (2) a revealing interpretation of existing revelation as in Dan 2:17-23, 27-30. Jesus seems to be explaining how current events develop old promises, since the NT consistently links the events of Jesus’ ministry and message with old promises (Rom 1:1-4; Heb 1:1-2). The traditional translation of this word, “mystery,” is misleading to the modern English reader because this English word suggests a secret which people have tried to uncover but which they have failed to understand (L&N 28.77).

¹⁹⁸ sn The kingdom of God is a major theme of Jesus. It is a realm in which Jesus rules and to which those who trust him belong. See Luke 6:20; 11:20; 17:20-21.

¹⁹⁹ sn A quotation from Isa 6:9. Thus parables both conceal or reveal depending on whether one is open to hearing what they teach.

²⁰⁰ tn Grk “is,” but in this context it is clearly giving an explanation of the parable.

²⁰¹ sn Interestingly, the synoptic parallels each use a different word for the devil here: Matt 13:19 has “the evil one,” while Mark 4:15 has “Satan.” This illustrates the fluidity of the gospel tradition in often using synonyms at the same point of the parallel tradition.

²⁰² sn The word of Jesus has the potential to save if it germinates in a person’s heart, something the devil is very much against.

²⁰³ tn The participle πιστεύσαντες (pisteusante") has been translated as a finite verb here. It may be regarded as an adverbial participle of attendant circumstance. From a logical standpoint the negative must govern both the participle and the finite verb.

²⁰⁴ tn Here δέ (de) has not been translated.

²⁰⁵ sn This time of temporary faith represented by the description believe for a while is presented rather tragically in the passage. The seed does not get a chance to do all it can.

²⁰⁶ tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “but” to indicate the contrast present in this context.

²⁰⁷ tn Traditionally, “temptation.” Such a translation puts the emphasis on temptation to sin rather than testing of faith, which is what the context seems to indicate.

²⁰⁸ sn Fall away. On the idea of falling away and the warnings against it, see 2 Tim 3:1; Heb 3:12; Jer 3:14; Dan 9:9.

²⁰⁹ tn Grk “What”; the referent (the seed) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

²¹⁰ tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “but” to indicate the contrast present in this context.

²¹¹ sn That is, their concern for spiritual things is crowded out by material things.

²¹² sn On warnings about the dangers of excessive material attachments, described here as the worries and riches and pleasures of life, see Luke 12:12-21; 16:19-31.

²¹³ tn The verb τελεσφορέω (telesforew) means “to produce mature or ripe fruit” (L&N 23.203). Once again the seed does not reach its goal.

²¹⁴ tn The aorist participle ἀκούσαντες (akousante") has been taken temporally, reflecting action antecedent (prior to) that of the main verb.

²¹⁵ sn There is a tenacity that is a part of spiritual fruitfulness.

²¹⁶ sn In an ancient context, the qualifier good described the ethical person who possessed integrity. Here it is integrity concerning God’s revelation through Jesus.

²¹⁷ sn Given the pressures noted in the previous soils, bearing fruit takes time (steadfast endurance), just as it does for the farmer. See Jas 1:2-4.

²¹⁸ tn The participle ἅψας ({aya") has been translated as a finite verb due to requirements of contemporary English style.

²¹⁹ sn This is probably an ancient oil burning lamp or perhaps a candlestick. Jesus is comparing revelation to light, particularly the revelation of his ministry; see 1:78-79.

²²⁰ tn Or “its light,” if the Greek article is translated as a possessive pronoun (for such usage, cf. ExSyn 215).

²²¹ sn Nothing is hidden. Light also exposes, and Jesus was suggesting that his teaching likewise revealed where people are and where they will be. Truth will be manifest in the future, just as it was declared by him then. Nothing will be concealed.

²²² tn Or “disclosed.”

²²³ tn Or “Therefore pay close attention”; Grk “Take heed therefore how you hear.”

²²⁴ tn Grk “and.” Here καί (kai) has been translated as “but” to indicate the contrast present in this context.

²²⁵ sn The phrase what he thinks he has is important, because it is not what a person thinks he has that is important but whether he actually has something or not. Jesus describes the person who does not heed his word as having nothing. The person who has nothing loses even that which he thought was something but was not. In other words, he has absolutely nothing at all. Jesus’ teaching must be taken seriously.

²²⁶ tn Grk “his”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

²²⁷ sn The issue of whether Jesus had brothers (siblings) has had a long history in the church. Epiphanius, in the 4th century, argued that Mary was a perpetual virgin and had no offspring other than Jesus. Others argued that these brothers were really cousins. Nothing in the text suggests any of this. See also John 7:3.

²²⁸ tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “but” to indicate the contrast present in this context.

²²⁹ tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “so” to indicate the sequence of events.

²³⁰ tn Grk “answering, he said.” This is redundant in contemporary English and has been simplified to “he replied.”

²³¹ tn There is some discussion about the grammar of this verse in Greek. If “these” is the subject, then it reads, “These are my mother and brothers, those who.” If “these” is a nominative absolute, which is slightly more likely, then the verse more literally reads, “So my mother and brothers, they are those who.” The sense in either case is the same.

²³² sn Hearing and doing the word of God is another important NT theme: Luke 6:47-49; Jas 1:22-25.

²³³ tn Grk “Now it happened that one.” The introductory phrase ἐγένετο (egeneto, “it happened that”), common in Luke (69 times) and Acts (54 times), is redundant in contemporary English and has not been translated. Here δέ (de) has not been translated either.

²³⁴ tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

²³⁵ sn A boat that held all the disciples would be of significant size.

²³⁶ tn Grk “lake, and.” Here καί (kai) has been translated as “so” to indicate the response to Jesus’ request. In addition, because of the length and complexity of the Greek sentence, a new sentence was started here in the translation.

²³⁷ tn Or “a squall.”

²³⁸ sn A violent windstorm came down on the lake. The Sea of Galilee is located in a depression some 700 ft (200 m) below sea level and is surrounded by hills. Frequently a rush of wind and the right mix of temperatures can cause a storm to come suddenly on the lake. Storms on the Sea of Galilee were known for their suddenness and violence.

²³⁹ tn Grk “they were being swamped,” but English idiom speaks of the boat being swamped rather than the people in it, so the referent (the boat) has been supplied to reflect this usage.

²⁴⁰ tn Here δέ (de) has not been translated.

²⁴¹ tn The participle προσελθόντες (proselqonte") has been translated as a finite verb due to requirements of contemporary English style.

²⁴² tn The double vocative shows great emotion.

²⁴³ tn Here δέ (de) has been translated as “so” to indicate the connection to the preceding events.

²⁴⁴ tn Or “commanded” (often with the implication of a threat, L&N 33.331).

²⁴⁵ sn Who has authority over the seas and winds is discussed in the OT: Ps 104:3; 135:7; 107:23-30. When Jesus rebuked the wind and the raging waves he was making a statement about who he was.

²⁴⁶ tn Here δέ (de) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.

²⁴⁷ sn “Where is your faith?” The call is to trust God and realize that those who exercise faith can trust in his care.

²⁴⁸ sn The combination of fear and respect (afraid and amazed) shows that the disciples are becoming impressed with the great power at work in Jesus, a realization that fuels their question. For a similar reaction, see Luke 5:9.

²⁴⁹ sn Jesus’ authority over creation raised a question for the disciples about who he was exactly (“Who then is this?”). This verse shows that the disciples followed Jesus even though they did not know all about him yet.

²⁵⁰ tn Grk “And.” Here καί (kai) has been translated as “so” to indicate a summary and transition in the narrative.

²⁵¹ tc The textual tradition here is quite complicated. Most mss, especially later ones (A W Ψ Ë¹³ Ï sy), read “Gadarenes,” which is the better reading in Matt 8:28. Some mss (א L Θ Ξ Ë¹ 33 579 700* 1241 pc) have “Gergesenes.” But early and important representatives of the Alexandrian and Western texttypes (Ì⁷⁵ B D latt) have “Gerasenes,” the reading followed in the translation. The difference between Matthew and Luke may well have to do with uses of variant regional terms.

sn The region of the Gerasenes would be in Gentile territory on the (south)eastern side of the Sea of Galilee across from Galilee. Matthew 8:28 records this miracle as occurring “in the region of the Gadarenes.” “Irrespective of how one settles this issue, for the Third Evangelist the chief concern is that Jesus has crossed over into Gentile territory, ‘opposite Galilee’” (J. B. Green, Luke [NICNT], 337). The region of Gadara extended to the Sea of Galilee and included the town of Sennabris on the southern shore – the town that the herdsmen most likely entered after the drowning of the pigs.

²⁵² sn That is, across the Sea of Galilee from Galilee.

²⁵³ tn Here δέ (de) has not been translated.

²⁵⁴ tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

²⁵⁵ tn Grk “stepped out on land.”

²⁵⁶ tn Or “city.”

²⁵⁷ tn Grk “who had demons.”

²⁵⁸ tn Grk “he”; the referent (the demon-possessed man) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

²⁵⁹ tn Or “in.”

²⁶⁰ tn Grk “And seeing.” The participle ἰδών (idwn) has been taken temporally. Here δέ (de) has not been translated.

²⁶¹ tn Grk “and fell,” but καί (kai) has not been translated since English normally uses a coordinating conjunction only between the last two elements in a series of three or more.

²⁶² tn Grk “What to me and to you?” (an idiom). The phrase τί ἐμοὶ καὶ σοί (ti emoi kai soi) is Semitic in origin, though it made its way into colloquial Greek (BDAG 275 s.v. ἐγώ). The equivalent Hebrew expression in the OT had two basic meanings: (1) When one person was unjustly bothering another, the injured party could say “What to me and to you?” meaning, “What have I done to you that you should do this to me?” (Judg 11:12; 2 Chr 35:21; 1 Kgs 17:18). (2) When someone was asked to get involved in a matter he felt was no business of his own, he could say to the one asking him, “What to me and to you?” meaning, “That is your business, how am I involved?” (2 Kgs 3:13; Hos 14:8). These nuances were apparently expanded in Greek, but the basic notions of defensive hostility (option 1) and indifference or disengagement (option 2) are still present. BDAG suggests the following as glosses for this expression: What have I to do with you? What have we in common? Leave me alone! Never mind! Hostility between Jesus and the demons is certainly to be understood in this context, hence the translation: “Leave me alone….”

²⁶³ sn On the title Most High see Luke 1:35.

²⁶⁴ sn The demons’ plea “do not torment me” is a recognition of Jesus’ inherent authority over evil forces. The request is that Jesus not bother them. There was an appointed time in which demons would face their judgment, and they seem to have viewed Jesus’ arrival on the scene as an illegitimate change in God’s plan regarding the time when their sentence would be executed.

²⁶⁵ tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

²⁶⁶ tc ‡ Although the external evidence favors the aorist παρήγγειλεν (parhngeilen, “he commanded”; Ì⁷⁵ B Θ Ξ Ψ Ë¹³ 579 700 1241 1424 2542 pm), the internal evidence favors the imperfect παρήγγελλεν (parhngellen, here translated “he had started commanding”; א A C K L W Γ Δ 1 33 565 892 pm). The aorist is suspect because it can more easily be taken as a single command, and thus an immediate exorcism. The imperfect would most likely be ingressive (BDF §§328; 329; 331), suggesting that Jesus started to command the evil spirit to depart, and continued the command.

²⁶⁷ tn Grk “unclean.”

²⁶⁸ tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “so,” introducing a clause that gives the result of the man being seized by the demon.

²⁶⁹ tn Or “fetters”; these were chains for the feet.

²⁷⁰ tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “but” to indicate the contrast present in this context.

²⁷¹ tn Grk “into the deserts.” The plural use here has been translated as “deserted places,” that is, uninhabited areas.

²⁷² sn This is a parenthetical, explanatory comment by the author.

²⁷³ tn Grk “And Jesus.” Here δέ (de) has been translated as “then” to pick up the sequence of the narrative prior to the parenthetical note by the author.

²⁷⁴ tn Here δέ (de) has not been translated.

²⁷⁵ sn The name Legion means “thousands,” a word taken from a Latin term for a large group of soldiers. The term not only suggests a multiple possession, but also adds a military feel to the account. This is a true battle.

²⁷⁶ tn One could also translate the imperfect tense here with a repetitive force like “begged him repeatedly.”

²⁷⁷ tn Or “command.”

²⁷⁸ tn This word, ἄβυσσος (abusso"), is a term for the place where the dead await the judgment. It also could hold hostile spirits according to Jewish belief (Jub. 5:6-7; 1 En. 10:4-6; 18:11-16).

²⁷⁹ tn Grk “mountain,” but this might give the English reader the impression of a far higher summit.

²⁸⁰ tn Grk “they”; the referent (the demonic spirits) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

²⁸¹ tn Grk “him”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

²⁸² sn Many have discussed why Jesus gave them permission, since the animals were destroyed. However, this is another example of a miracle that is a visual lesson. The demons are destructive: They were destroying the man. They destroyed the pigs. They destroy whatever they touch. The point was to take demonic influence seriously, as well as Jesus’ power over it as a picture of the larger battle for human souls. There would be no doubt how the man’s transformation had taken place.

²⁸³ tn Here δέ (de) has been translated as “so” to indicate a conclusion and transition in the narrative.

²⁸⁴ tn The words “of pigs” are supplied because of the following verb in English, “were drowned,” which is plural.

²⁸⁵ tn Here δέ (de) has not been translated.

²⁸⁶ tn Or “reported it.” This verb is used three times in the next few verses (vv. 36, 37), showing how the healing became a major topic of conversation in the district.

²⁸⁷ tn Or “city.”

²⁸⁸ tn Here δέ (de) has been translated as “so” to indicate the people’s response to the report.

²⁸⁹ tn Grk “Jesus, and they.” Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style. Because of the length and complexity of the Greek sentence, a new sentence was started here in the translation.

²⁹⁰ tn Here δέ (de) has not been translated.

²⁹¹ tn Or “had been delivered”; Grk “had been saved.” This should not be understood as an expression for full salvation. They were only discussing the healing.

²⁹² tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.

²⁹³ tc See the tc note on “Gerasenes” in v. 26 for the same geographical options for the textual variants.

²⁹⁴ tn Grk “all the people of the surrounding region of the Gerasenes,” but according to L&N 1.80, “περίχωρος may include not only the surrounding region but also the point of reference, for example…‘the Gerasenes and the people living around them’ Lk 8:37.”

²⁹⁵ tn Grk “him”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

²⁹⁶ tn Or “to depart from them.”

²⁹⁷ sn Again there is great fear at God’s activity, but there is a different reaction. Some people want nothing to do with God’s presence. Mark 5:16 hints that economic reasons motivated their request.

²⁹⁸ tn Here δέ (de) has been translated as “so” to indicate that Jesus’ departure was the result of the Gerasenes’ response. A new sentence was started in the translation at this point for stylistic reasons.

²⁹⁹ tn Grk “returned,” but the effect is that he departed from the Gerasene region.

³⁰⁰ tn Grk “be,” that is, “remain.” In this context that would involve accompanying Jesus as he went on his way.

³⁰¹ tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

³⁰² tn Grk “your house.”

³⁰³ tn Or “describe.”

³⁰⁴ sn Jesus instructs the man to declare what God has done for him, in contrast to the usual instructions (e.g., 8:56; 9:21) to remain silent. Here in Gentile territory Jesus allowed more open discussion of his ministry. D. L. Bock (Luke [BECNT], 1:781) suggests that with few Jewish religious representatives present, there would be less danger of misunderstanding Jesus’ ministry as political.

³⁰⁵ tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “so” to indicate the man’s response to Jesus’ instructions.

³⁰⁶ tn Or “city.”

³⁰⁷ sn Note that the man could not separate what God had done from the one through whom God had done it (what Jesus had done for him). This man was called to witness to God’s goodness at home.

³⁰⁸ tn This is a temporal infinitival clause in contrast to Mark’s genitive absolute (Mark 5:21).

sn Here the author notes that Jesus returned to the western shore of the Sea of Galilee after his brief excursion into Gentile territory (8:26-39; cf. also Mark 5:21).

³⁰⁹ tn Grk “And behold.” Here καί (kai) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative. The Greek word ἰδού (idou) at the beginning of this statement has not been translated because it has no exact English equivalent here, but adds interest and emphasis (BDAG 468 s.v. 1).

³¹⁰ tn Jairus is described as ἄρχων τῆς συναγωγῆς (arcwn th" sunagwghs), the main elder at the synagogue who was in charge of organizing the services.

³¹¹ sn See the note on synagogues in 4:15.

³¹² tn Grk “and falling.” Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style. Because of the length and complexity of the Greek sentence, a new sentence was started in the translation at this point.

³¹³ tn This verb is an imperfect tense, commonly used by Luke for vividness.

³¹⁴ tn This imperfect verb could be understood ingressively: “she was beginning to die” or “was approaching death.”

³¹⁵ sn Pressed is a very emphatic term – the crowds were pressing in so hard that one could hardly breathe (L&N 19.48).

³¹⁶ tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “now” to indicate the transition to a new topic.

³¹⁷ tn Grk “a flow of blood.”

³¹⁸ tc ‡ Most mss, including the majority of later mss (א[* C] A L W Θ Ξ [Ψ] Ë^1,13 33 [1424] Ï [lat sy^c,p,h]) read here, “having spent all her money on doctors.” Uncertainty over its authenticity is due primarily to the fact that certain important witnesses do not have the phrase (e.g., Ì⁷⁵ B [D] 0279 sy^s sa Or). This evidence alone renders its authenticity unlikely. It may have been intentionally added by later scribes in order to harmonize Luke’s account with similar material in Mark 5:26 (see TCGNT 121). NA²⁷ includes the words in brackets, indicating doubt as to their authenticity.

³¹⁹ tn Because of the length and complexity of the Greek sentence, a new sentence was started here in the translation.

³²⁰ tn Grk “him”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

³²¹ sn The edge of his cloak refers to the kraspedon, the blue tassel on the garment that symbolized a Jewish man’s obedience to the law (cf. Num 15:37-41). The woman thus touched the very part of Jesus’ clothing that indicated his ritual purity.

³²² tn Grk “garment,” but here ἱμάτιον (Jimation) denotes the outer garment in particular.

³²³ tn Grk “the flow of her blood.”

sn The woman was most likely suffering from a vaginal hemorrhage, in which case her bleeding would make her ritually unclean.

³²⁴ tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.

³²⁵ tn Grk “said.”

³²⁶ tc Most mss, especially the later ones (א A C*^,3 D L W Θ Ξ Ψ Ë^1,13 33 Ï latt), also have “and those together with him” (with two different Greek constructions for the phrase “with him”), while several important witnesses omit this phrase (Ì⁷⁵ B Π 700* al sa). The singular verb εἶπεν (eipen, “he said”) could possibly suggest that only Peter was originally mentioned, but, if the longer reading is authentic, then εἶπεν would focus on Peter as the spokesman for the group, highlighting his prominence (cf. ExSyn 401-2). Nevertheless, the longer reading looks like a clarifying note, harmonizing this account with Mark 5:31.

³²⁷ sn Pressing is a graphic term used in everyday Greek of pressing grapes. Peter says in effect, “How could you ask this? Everyone is touching you!”

³²⁸ tn This is a consummative perfect. Jesus sensed that someone had approached him to be healed, as his reference to power makes clear. The perception underlies Jesus’ prophetic sense as well.

³²⁹ tn Here δέ (de) has not been translated.

³³⁰ tn Or “could not remain unnoticed” (see L&N 28.83).

³³¹ tn Because of the length and complexity of the Greek sentence, a new sentence was started here in the translation. The order of the clauses in the remainder of the verse has been rearranged to reflect contemporary English style.

³³² tn Grk “told for what reason.”

³³³ tn Here δέ (de) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.

³³⁴ tn Or “has delivered you”; Grk “has saved you.” This should not be understood as an expression for full salvation in the immediate context; it refers only to the woman’s healing.

³³⁵ tn That is, “the official in charge of the synagogue”; ἀρχισυνάγωγος (arcisunagwgo") refers to the “president of a synagogue” (so BDAG 139 s.v. and L&N 53.93). In this case the referent is Jairus (v. 41).

³³⁶ tn Grk “answered.”

³³⁷ tn Or “will be delivered”; Grk “will be saved.” This should not be understood as an expression for full salvation in the immediate context; it refers only to the girl’s healing.

³³⁸ tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

³³⁹ tn Grk “and John,” but καί (kai) has not been translated since English normally uses a coordinating conjunction only between the last two elements in a series of three or more.

³⁴⁰ sn This group probably includes outside or even professional mourners, not just family, because a large group seems to be present.

³⁴¹ tn Grk “beating the breasts” (in mourning); see L&N 52.1.

³⁴² tn This imperfect verb has been translated as an ingressive imperfect.

³⁴³ tn The participle εἰδότες (eidotes) has been translated as a causal adverbial participle.

³⁴⁴ tn Or “had died.”

³⁴⁵ tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

³⁴⁶ tn Grk “and called, saying.” This is redundant in contemporary English and has been simplified in the translation to “and said.”

³⁴⁷ tn Grk “And her.” Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style.

³⁴⁸ sn In other words, she came back to life; see Acts 20:10.

³⁴⁹ tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative. Because of the length and complexity of the Greek sentence, a new sentence was started here in the translation.

³⁵⁰ tn Grk “And her.” Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style.

³⁵¹ sn Jesus ordered them to tell no one because he desired that miracles not become the center of his ministry.

³⁵² tn Here δέ (de) has not been translated.

³⁵³ tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

³⁵⁴ tn An aorist participle preceding an aorist main verb may indicate either contemporaneous (simultaneous) action (“When he called… he gave”) or antecedent (prior) action (“After he called… he gave”). The participle συγκαλεσάμενος (sunkalesameno") has been translated here as indicating antecedent action.

³⁵⁵ tc Some mss add ἀποστόλους (apostolou", “apostles”; א C* L Θ Ψ 070 0291 ˹³ 33 579 892 1241 1424 2542 pc lat) or μαθητὰς αὐτοῦ (maqhta" autou, “his disciples”; C³ al it) here, but such clarifying notes are clearly secondary.

³⁵⁶ sn Note how Luke distinguishes between exorcisms (authority over all demons) and diseases here.

³⁵⁷ sn “To send out” is often a term of divine commission in Luke: 1:19; 4:18, 43; 7:27; 9:48; 10:1, 16; 11:49; 13:34; 24:49.

³⁵⁸ tn Or “to preach.”

³⁵⁹ sn The kingdom of God is a major theme of Jesus. It is a realm in which Jesus rules and to which those who trust him belong. See Luke 6:20; 11:20; 17:20-21.

³⁶⁰ sn As Jesus’ own ministry (Luke 4:16-44) involved both word (to proclaim) and deed (to heal) so also would that of the disciples.

³⁶¹ tn Grk “And he.” Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style.

³⁶² tn Grk “the”; in context the article is used as a possessive pronoun (ExSyn 215).

³⁶³ sn Mark 6:8 allows one staff. It might be that Luke’s summary (cf. Matt 10:9-10) means not taking an extra staff or that the expression is merely rhetorical for “traveling light” which has been rendered in two slightly different ways.

³⁶⁴ tn Or “no traveler’s bag”; or possibly “no beggar’s bag” (L&N 6.145; BDAG 811 s.v. πήρα).

³⁶⁵ tn Grk “have two tunics.” See the note on the word “tunics” in 3:11.

³⁶⁶ tn Grk “And whatever.” Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style.

³⁶⁷ sn Jesus telling his disciples to stay there in one house contrasts with the practice of religious philosophers in the ancient world who went from house to house begging.

³⁶⁸ tn Grk “and depart from there.” The literal wording could be easily misunderstood; the meaning is that the disciples were not to move from house to house in the same town or locality, but remain at the same house as long as they were in that place.

³⁶⁹ tn Grk “And wherever.” Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style.

³⁷⁰ tn Grk “all those who do not receive you.”

³⁷¹ tn Or “city.”

³⁷² sn To shake the dust off represented shaking off the uncleanness from one’s feet; see Luke 10:11; Acts 13:51; 18:6. It was a sign of rejection.

³⁷³ tn Here δέ (de) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.

³⁷⁴ tn This is a distributive use of κατά (kata); see L&N 83:12 where this verse is cited as an example of the usage.

³⁷⁵ tn Or “preaching the gospel.”

sn This verse is similar to Luke 9:2, except for good news at this point. The change means that to “preach the kingdom” is to “preach the good news.” The ideas are interchangeable as summaries for the disciples’ message. They are combined in Luke 8:1.

³⁷⁶ sn Herod refers here to Herod Antipas. See the note on Herod Antipas in 3:1.

³⁷⁷ sn See the note on tetrarch in 3:1.

³⁷⁸ tn Or “was very confused.” See L&N 32.10 where this verse is given as an example of the usage.

³⁷⁹ sn John refers to John the Baptist, whom Herod had beheaded (v. 9).

³⁸⁰ sn The appearance of Elijah would mean that the end time had come. According to 2 Kgs 2:11, Elijah was still alive. In Mal 4:5 it is said that Elijah would be the precursor of Messiah.

³⁸¹ sn The phrase had risen could be understood to mean “had been resurrected,” but this is only a possible option, not a necessary one, since the phrase could merely mean that a figure had appeared on the scene who mirrored an earlier historical figure. The three options of vv. 7-8 will be repeated in v. 19.

³⁸² tn Grk “John I beheaded”; John’s name is in emphatic position in the Greek text. The verb is causative, since Herod would not have personally carried out the execution.

³⁸³ tn The expression ἐζήτει ἰδεῖν αὐτόν (ezhtei idein auton, “was seeking to see him”) probably indicates that Herod, for curiosity’s sake or more likely for evil purposes, wanted to get to know Jesus, i.e., who he was and what he was doing. See I. H. Marshall, Luke (NIGTC), 357. Herod finally got his wish in Luke 23:6-12, with inconclusive results from his point of view.

³⁸⁴ tn Grk “And when.” Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style.

³⁸⁵ tn The participle ὑποστρέψαντες (Jupostreyante") has been taken temporally.

³⁸⁶ tn Grk “him”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

³⁸⁷ tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.

³⁸⁸ tc There is a seeming myriad of variants for this text. Many mss read εἰς τόπον ἔρημον (ei" topon erhmon, “to a deserted place”; א*^,2 [1241]) or εἰς τόπον ἔρημον πόλεως καλουμένης Βηθσαϊδά (ei" topon erhmon polew" kaloumenh" Bhqsai>da, “to a deserted place of a town called Bethsaida”; [A] C W Ξ^mg [Ë^1,13] [565] Ï) here, while others have εἰς κώμην λεγομένην Βηδσαϊδά (ei" kwmhn legomenhn Bhdsai>da, “to a village called Bedsaida”; D), εἰς κώμην καλουμένην Βηθσαϊδά εἰς τόπον ἔρημον (ei" kwmhn kaloumenhn Bhqsai>da ei" topon erhmon, “to a village called Bethsaida to a deserted place”; Θ), or εἰς τόπον καλουμένον Βηθσαϊδά (ei" topon kaloumenon Bhqsaida, “to a place called Bethsaida”; Ψ). The Greek behind the translation (εἰς πόλιν καλουμένην Βηθσαϊδά, ei" polin kaloumenhn Bhqsai>da) is supported by (Ì⁷⁵) א¹ B L Ξ* 33 2542 pc co. The variants can be grouped generally into those that speak of a “deserted place” and those that speak of a place/city/town called Bethsaida. The Byzantine reading is evidently a conflation of the earlier texts, and should be dismissed as secondary. The variants that speak of a deserted place are an assimilation to Mark 6:32, as well a harmonization with v. 12, and should also be regarded as secondary. The reading that best explains the rise of the others – both internally and externally – is the one that stands behind the translation and is found in the text of NA²⁷.

tn Or “city.”

³⁸⁹ sn Bethsaida was a town on the northeast side of the Sea of Galilee. Probably this should be understood to mean a place in the vicinity of the town. It represents an attempt to reconcile the location with the place of the miraculous feeding that follows.

³⁹⁰ tn Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style.

³⁹¹ sn The kingdom of God is a major theme of Jesus. It is a realm in which Jesus rules and to which those who trust him belong. See Luke 6:20; 11:20; 17:20-21.

³⁹² sn Again the combination of word (spoke to them) and healing (cured, compassionate deed) is what summarizes Jesus’ ministry: See Luke 4:38-44; 6:17-19; 7:22 (as also the disciples, 9:6).

³⁹³ tn Grk “the day began to decline,” looking to the approach of sunset.

³⁹⁴ tn Here δέ (de) has been translated as “so” to indicate that the disciples’ request was related to the approach of sunset.

³⁹⁵ tn Grk “him”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

³⁹⁶ tn That is, find someone to show them hospitality. L&N 34.61 has “find lodging,” using this verse as an example.

³⁹⁷ tn Or “in a desert” (meaning a deserted or desolate area with sparse vegetation). Here ὧδε (Jwde) has not been translated.

³⁹⁸ tn Here the pronoun ὑμεῖς (Jumeis) is used, making “you” in the translation emphatic.

³⁹⁹ tn Here δέ (de) has not been translated.

⁴⁰⁰ tn Grk “said.”

⁴⁰¹ tn This possibility is introduced through a conditional clause, but it is expressed with some skepticism (BDF §376).

⁴⁰² tn The participle πορευθέντες (poreuqente") has been taken as indicating attendant circumstance.

⁴⁰³ sn Not only would going and buying food have been expensive and awkward at this late time of day, it would have taken quite a logistical effort to get the food back out to this isolated location.

⁴⁰⁴ tn The Greek text reads here ἄνδρες (andres) – that is, adult males. The actual count would be larger, since the use of this Greek term suggests that women and children were not included in this number (see the parallel in Matt 14:21).

⁴⁰⁵ sn This is a parenthetical note by the author.

⁴⁰⁶ tn Here δέ (de) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.

⁴⁰⁷ tn Or “Make” (depending on how the force of the imperative verb is understood). Grk “cause them to recline” (the verb has causative force here).

⁴⁰⁸ tn Grk “And they did thus.” Here καί (kai) has been translated as “so” to indicate that the disciples’ action was a result of Jesus’ instructions. The adverb οὕτως ({outw", “thus”) has been expanded in the translation to “as Jesus directed” to clarify what was done.

⁴⁰⁹ tn Grk “and they”; the referent (the people) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

⁴¹⁰ tn Here δέ (de) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.

⁴¹¹ sn Gave thanks adds a note of gratitude to the setting. The scene is like two other later meals: Luke 22:19 and 24:30. Jesus gives thanks to God “with respect to” the provision of food. The disciples learn how Jesus is the mediator of blessing. John 6 speaks of him in this scene as picturing the “Bread of Life.”

⁴¹² sn There was more than enough for everybody, as indicated by the gathering of what was left over.

⁴¹³ tn Grk “And it happened that.” The introductory phrase ἐγένετο (egeneto, “it happened that”), common in Luke (69 times) and Acts (54 times), is redundant in contemporary English and has not been translated. Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style.

⁴¹⁴ tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

⁴¹⁵ sn Prayer is a favorite theme of Luke and he is the only one of the gospel authors to mention it in the following texts (with the exception of 22:41): Luke 3:21; 5:16; 6:12; 9:28-29; 11:1; 22:41; 23:34, 46.

⁴¹⁶ tn Grk “the disciples were with him, and he asked them, saying.”

⁴¹⁷ sn “Who do the crowds say that I am?” The question of who Jesus is occurs frequently in this section of Luke: 7:49; 8:25; 9:9. The answer resolves a major theme of Luke’s Gospel.

⁴¹⁸ tn Grk “And they.” Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style.

⁴¹⁹ tn Grk “And answering, they said.” This is redundant in contemporary English and has been simplified to “They answered.”

⁴²⁰ sn The appearance of Elijah would mean that the end time had come. According to 2 Kgs 2:11, Elijah was still alive. In Mal 4:5 it is said that Elijah would be the precursor of Messiah.

⁴²¹ sn The phrase has risen could be understood to mean “has been resurrected,” but this is only a possible option, not a necessary one, since the phrase could merely mean that a figure had appeared on the scene who mirrored an earlier historical figure. Note that the three categories in the reply match the ones in Luke 9:7-8.

⁴²² tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.

⁴²³ tn Here δέ (de) has not been translated.

⁴²⁴ tn Grk “Peter answering, said.” This is redundant in contemporary English and has been simplified to “Peter answered.”

⁴²⁵ tn Or “Messiah”; both “Christ” (Greek) and “Messiah” (Hebrew and Aramaic) mean “one who has been anointed.”

sn See the note on Christ in 2:11.

⁴²⁶ tn The combination of the participle and verb ἐπιτιμήσας and παρήγγειλεν (epitimhsa" and parhngeilen, “commanding, he ordered”) is a hendiadys that makes the instruction emphatic.

⁴²⁷ sn No explanation for the command not to tell this to anyone is given, but the central section of Luke, chapters 9-19, appears to reveal a reason. The disciples needed to understand who the Messiah really was and exactly what he would do before they were ready to proclaim Jesus as such. But they and the people had an expectation that needed some instruction to be correct.

⁴²⁸ sn The necessity that the Son of Man suffer is the particular point that needed emphasis, since for many 1st century Jews the Messiah was a glorious and powerful figure, not a suffering one.

⁴²⁹ sn Rejection in Luke is especially by the Jewish leadership (here elders, chief priests, and experts in the law), though in Luke 23 almost all will join in.

⁴³⁰ tn Or “and scribes.” See the note on the phrase “experts in the law” in 5:21.

⁴³¹ sn The description of the Son of Man being rejected…killed, and…raised is the first of six passion summaries in Luke: 9:44; 17:25; 18:31-33; 24:7; 24:46-47.

⁴³² tn Here δέ (de) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.

⁴³³ sn Here them all could be limited to the disciples, since Jesus was alone with them in v. 18. It could also be that by this time the crowd had followed and found him, and he addressed them, or this could be construed as a separate occasion from the discussion with the disciples in 9:18-22. The cost of discipleship is something Jesus was willing to tell both insiders and outsiders about. The rejection he felt would also fall on his followers.

⁴³⁴ tn Grk “to come after me.”

⁴³⁵ tn This translation better expresses the force of the Greek third person imperative than the traditional “let him deny,” which could be understood as merely permissive.

⁴³⁶ sn Only Luke mentions taking up one’s cross daily. To bear the cross means to accept the rejection of the world for turning to Jesus and following him. Discipleship involves a death that is like a crucifixion; see Gal 6:14.

⁴³⁷ sn The point of the saying whoever wants to save his life will lose it is that if one comes to Jesus then rejection by many will certainly follow. If self-protection is a key motivation, then one will not respond to Jesus and will not be saved. One who is willing to risk rejection will respond and find true life.

⁴³⁸ tn Grk “a man,” but ἄνθρωπος (anqrwpo") is used in a generic sense here to refer to both men and women.

⁴³⁹ sn How one responds now to Jesus and his teaching is a reflection of how Jesus, as the Son of Man who judges, will respond then in the final judgment.

⁴⁴⁰ tn This pronoun (τοῦτον, touton) is in emphatic position in its own clause in the Greek text: “of that person the Son of Man will be ashamed…”

⁴⁴¹ tn Grk “in the glory of him and of the Father and of the holy angels.” “Glory” is repeated here in the translation for clarity and smoothness because the literal phrase is unacceptably awkward in contemporary English.

⁴⁴² tn Grk “I tell you truly” (λέγω δὲ ὑμῖν ἀληθῶς, legw de Jumin alhqw").

⁴⁴³ tn The Greek negative here (οὐ μή, ou mh) is the strongest possible.

⁴⁴⁴ tn Grk “will not taste.” Here the Greek verb does not mean “sample a small amount” (as a typical English reader might infer from the word “taste”), but “experience something cognitively or emotionally; come to know something” (cf. BDAG 195 s.v. γεύομαι 2).

⁴⁴⁵ sn The meaning of the statement that some will not taste death before they see the kingdom of God is clear at one level, harder at another. Jesus predicts some will experience the kingdom before they die. When does this happen? (1) An initial fulfillment is the next event, the transfiguration. (2) It is also possible in Luke’s understanding that all but Judas experience the initial fulfillment of the coming of God’s presence and rule in the work of Acts 2. In either case, the “kingdom of God” referred to here would be the initial rather than the final phase.

⁴⁴⁶ tn Grk “Now it happened that about.” The introductory phrase ἐγένετο (egeneto, “it happened that”), common in Luke (69 times) and Acts (54 times), is redundant in contemporary English and has not been translated.

⁴⁴⁷ tn Matt 17:1 and Mark 9:2 specify the interval more exactly, saying it was the sixth day. Luke uses ὡσεί (Jwsei, “about”) to give an approximate reference.

⁴⁴⁸ tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

⁴⁴⁹ tn Grk “And as.” Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style.

⁴⁵⁰ tn Here the preposition ἐν (en) plus the dative articular aorist infinitive has been translated as a temporal clause (ExSyn 595).

⁴⁵¹ tn Or “the appearance of his face became different.”

sn In 1st century Judaism and in the NT, there was the belief that the righteous get new, glorified bodies in order to enter heaven (1 Cor 15:42-49; 2 Cor 5:1-10). This transformation means the righteous will share the glory of God. One recalls the way Moses shared the Lord’s glory after his visit to the mountain in Exod 34. So the disciples saw the appearance of his face transformed, and they were getting a sneak preview of the great glory that Jesus would have (only his glory is more inherent to him as one who shares in the rule of the kingdom).

⁴⁵² tn Or “became bright as a flash of lightning” (cf. BDAG 346 s.v. ἐξαστράπτω); or “became brilliant as light” (cf. BDAG 593 s.v. λευκός 1).

⁴⁵³ tn Grk “And behold.” Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style. The Greek word ἰδού (idou) at the beginning of this statement has not been translated because it has no exact English equivalent here, but adds interest and emphasis (BDAG 468 s.v. 1).

⁴⁵⁴ sn Commentators and scholars discuss why Moses and Elijah are present. The most likely explanation is that Moses represents the prophetic office (Acts 3:18-22) and Elijah pictures the presence of the last days (Mal 4:5-6), the prophet of the eschaton (the end times).

⁴⁵⁵ tn Grk “two men were talking with him, who were Moses and Elijah.” The relative clause has been simplified to an appositive and transposed in keeping with contemporary English style.

⁴⁵⁶ tn Grk “his exodus,” which refers to Jesus’ death in Jerusalem and journey back to glory. Here is the first lesson that the disciples must learn. The wondrous rule comes only after suffering.

⁴⁵⁷ tn Or “accomplish,” “bring to completion.”

⁴⁵⁸ map For location see Map5 B1; Map6 F3; Map7 E2; Map8 F2; Map10 B3; JP1 F4; JP2 F4; JP3 F4; JP4 F4.

⁴⁵⁹ tn Grk “weighed down with sleep” (an idiom).

⁴⁶⁰ tn Or “after they became fully awake,” “but they became fully awake and saw.”

⁴⁶¹ tn Grk “And it happened that as.” The introductory phrase ἐγένετο (egeneto, “it happened that”), common in Luke (69 times) and Acts (54 times), is redundant in contemporary English and has not been translated. Here καί (kai) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.

⁴⁶² tn Grk “as they”; the referent (“the men,” referring to Moses and Elijah) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

⁴⁶³ tn Grk “to leave from him.”

⁴⁶⁴ tn Or “booths,” “dwellings” (referring to the temporary booths constructed in the celebration of the feast of Tabernacles).

sn By making three shelters Peter apparently wanted to celebrate the Feast of Tabernacles or Booths that looked forward to the end and to treat Moses, Elijah, and Jesus as equals. It was actually a way of expressing honor to Jesus, but the remark at the end of the verse makes it clear that it was not enough honor.

⁴⁶⁵ tn Here δέ (de) has not been translated.

⁴⁶⁶ sn This cloud is the cloud of God’s presence and the voice is his as well.

⁴⁶⁷ tn Or “appeared.”

⁴⁶⁸ tn Or “surrounded.”

⁴⁶⁹ tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.

⁴⁷⁰ tc Most mss, especially the later ones, have ἀγαπητός (agaphto", “the one I love”; A C* W ˹³ 33 Ï it), or ἀγαπητὸς ἐν ᾧ (ἠ)υδόκησα (agaphto" en |w (h)udokhsa, “the one I love, in whom I am well pleased”; C³ D Ψ pc) here, instead of ἐκλελεγμένος (eklelegmeno", “the Chosen One”), but these variants are probably assimilations to Matt 17:5 and Mark 9:7. The text behind the translation also enjoys excellent support from Ì^45,75 א B L Ξ (579) 892 1241 pc co.

tn The participle ὁ ἐκλελεγμένος (Jo eklelegmeno"), which could be translated “the One who has been chosen,” is best understood as a title rather than a descriptive phrase, probably deriving from Isa 42:1 (LXX) which uses the similar ὁ ἐκλεκτός (Jo eklekto") which also appears in Luke 23:35.

sn This divine endorsement is like Luke 3:22 at Jesus’ baptism. One difference here is the mention of the Chosen One, a reference to the unique and beloved role of the regal, messianic Son.

⁴⁷¹ sn The expression listen to him comes from Deut 18:15 and makes two points: 1) Jesus is a prophet like Moses, a leader-prophet, and 2) they have much yet to learn from him.

⁴⁷² tn Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style.

⁴⁷³ tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “so” to indicate the concluding summary of the account.

⁴⁷⁴ sn Although the disciples told no one at the time, later they did recount this. The commentary on this scene is 2 Pet 1:17-18.

⁴⁷⁵ tn Grk “in those days.”

⁴⁷⁶ tn Grk “Now it happened that on.” The introductory phrase ἐγένετο (egeneto, “it happened that”), common in Luke (69 times) and Acts (54 times), is redundant in contemporary English and has not been translated.

⁴⁷⁷ tn Grk “And behold.” Here καί (kai) has been translated as “then” to indicate the somewhat unexpected appearance of the man. The Greek word ἰδού (idou) at the beginning of this statement has not been translated because it has no exact English equivalent here, but adds interest and emphasis (BDAG 468 s.v. 1).

⁴⁷⁸ tn Grk “cried out, saying.” The participle λέγων (legwn) is redundant in contemporary English and has not been translated.

⁴⁷⁹ tn This verb means “to have regard for”; see Luke 1:48.

⁴⁸⁰ tn Grk “and behold, a.” Because of the length and complexity of the Greek sentence, καί (kai) has not been translated here; instead a new sentence was started in the translation. The Greek word ἰδού (idou) at the beginning of this statement has not been translated because it has no exact English equivalent here, but adds interest and emphasis (BDAG 468 s.v. 1).

⁴⁸¹ tn The Greek here is slightly ambiguous; the subject of the verb “screams” could be either the son or the spirit.

⁴⁸² sn The reaction is like an epileptic fit (see L&N 14.27). See the parallel in Matt 17:14-20.

⁴⁸³ tn Or “bruising,” or “crushing.” This verb appears to allude to the damage caused when it throws him to the ground. According to L&N 19.46 it is difficult to know from this verb precisely what the symptoms caused by the demon were, but it is clear they must have involved severe pain. The multiple details given in the account show how gruesome the condition of the boy was.

⁴⁸⁴ tn Grk “And I.” Because of the length and complexity of the Greek sentence, καί (kai) has not been translated here; instead a new sentence was started in the translation.

⁴⁸⁵ sn Note the repetition of the verb from v. 38, an indication of the father’s desperation.

⁴⁸⁶ tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “but” to indicate the contrast present in this context.

⁴⁸⁷ tn The words “do so” are not in the Greek text, but have been supplied for clarity and stylistic reasons.

⁴⁸⁸ tn Grk “And answering, Jesus said.” This is redundant in contemporary English and has been simplified to “Jesus answered.” Here δέ (de) has not been translated.

⁴⁸⁹ tn Grk “O.” The marker of direct address, ὦ (w), is functionally equivalent to a vocative and is represented in the translation by “you.”

⁴⁹⁰ tn Or “faithless.”

sn The rebuke for lack of faith has OT roots: Num 14:27; Deut 32:5, 30; Isa 59:8.

⁴⁹¹ tn Grk “how long.”

⁴⁹² tn Or “and put up with.” See Num 11:12; Isa 46:4.

⁴⁹³ sn The pronouns you…you are plural, indicating that Jesus is speaking to a group rather than an individual.

⁴⁹⁴ tn Here δέ (de) has not been translated.

⁴⁹⁵ tn Grk “he”; the referent (the boy) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

⁴⁹⁶ sn At this point the boy was thrown down in another convulsion by the demon. See L&N 23.168.

⁴⁹⁷ tn See L&N 23.167-68, where the second verb συσπαράσσω (susparassw) is taken to mean the violent shaking associated with the convulsions, thus the translation here “and shook him with convulsions.”

⁴⁹⁸ tn Or “commanded” (often with the implication of a threat, L&N 33.331).

⁴⁹⁹ sn This is a reference to an evil spirit. See Luke 4:33.

⁵⁰⁰ tn Here δέ (de) has been translated as “then” to indicate the response at the conclusion of the account.

⁵⁰¹ sn The revelation of the mighty power of God was the manifestation of God’s power shown through Jesus. See Acts 10:38.

⁵⁰² tn Grk “all”; the referent (the crowd) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

⁵⁰³ tc Most mss, especially the later ones (A C W Θ Ψ 0115 ˹³ 33 892 Ï al), actually supply ὁ ᾿Ιησοῦς (Jo Ihsous, “Jesus”) here. Since the earliest and best witnesses, along with many others (Ì⁷⁵ א B D L Ξ Ë¹ 579 700 1241 2542 pc lat), lack the name, and since scribes were unlikely to intentionally omit it, the shorter reading is preferred as the original reading.

tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity. Some mss have done the same.

⁵⁰⁴ tn Grk “Place these words into your ears,” an idiom. The meaning is either “do not forget these words” (L&N 29.5) or “Listen carefully to these words” (L&N 24.64). See also Exod 17:14. For a variation of this expression, see Luke 8:8.

⁵⁰⁵ tn The plural Greek term ἀνθρώπων (anqrwpwn) is considered by some to be used here in a generic sense, referring to both men and women (cf. NRSV, “into human hands”; TEV, “to the power of human beings”). However, because this can be taken as a specific reference to the group responsible for Jesus’ arrest, where it is unlikely women were present (cf. Matt 26:47-56; Mark 14:43-52; Luke 22:47-53; John 18:2-12), the word “men” has been retained in the translation. There may also be a slight wordplay with “the Son of Man” earlier in the verse.

⁵⁰⁶ tn Grk “it”; the referent (the meaning of the statement) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

⁵⁰⁷ sn The passive verb had been concealed probably indicates that some force was preventing them from responding. It is debated whether God or Satan is meant here. By 24:25 it is clear that their lack of response is their own responsibility. The only way to reverse this is to pay careful attention as v. 44a urges.

⁵⁰⁸ tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “yet” to indicate that in spite of their lack of understanding, the disciples were afraid to ask about it. Because of the length and complexity of the Greek sentence, a new sentence was started here in the translation.

⁵⁰⁹ tn Grk “among them”; the referent (the disciples) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

⁵¹⁰ tn The use of the optative mood means the answer is not clear (BDF §§267.2.3; 385.2.2).

⁵¹¹ tn Grk “knowing the thoughts of their hearts” (an idiom).

⁵¹² tn On this use of παρά (para), see BDF §239.1.1.

⁵¹³ tn This verb, δέχομαι (decomai), is a term of hospitality (L&N 34.53).

⁵¹⁴ sn Children were very insignificant in ancient culture, so this child would be the perfect object lesson to counter the disciples’ selfish ambitions.

⁵¹⁵ tn Grk “among you all, this one is great.” The absence of a comparative term here makes the point that comparison should not be done.

⁵¹⁶ tn Grk “And answering, John said.” This is redundant in contemporary English and has been simplified to “John answered.” Here δέ (de) has not been translated.

⁵¹⁷ tc The translation follows the reading that has Luke’s normal imperfect here (ἐκωλύομεν, ekwluomen; found in Ì^75vid א B L Ξ 579 892 1241). Most mss, however, have an aorist (ἐκωλύσαμεν, ekwlusamen; found in A C D W Θ Ψ Ë^1,13 33 Ï co), which would be translated “we forbade him.” The imperfect enjoys the best external and internal support.

⁵¹⁸ tn Grk “does not follow with us.” BDAG 36 s.v. ἀκολουθέω 2 indicates that the pronoun σοι (soi, “you”) is to be supplied after the verb in this particular instance; the translation in the text best represents this nuance.

⁵¹⁹ tn Grk “And it happened that when.” The introductory phrase ἐγένετο (egeneto, “it happened that”), common in Luke (69 times) and Acts (54 times), is redundant in contemporary English and has not been translated.

⁵²⁰ tn Grk “the days were being fulfilled.” There is literary design here. This starts what has been called in the Gospel of Luke the “Jerusalem Journey.” It is not a straight-line trip, but a journey to meet his fate (Luke 13:31-35).

⁵²¹ sn Taken up is a reference to Jesus’ upcoming return to heaven by crucifixion and resurrection (compare Luke 9:31). This term was used in the LXX of Elijah’s departure in 2 Kgs 2:9.

⁵²² tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

⁵²³ tn Grk “he set his face,” a Semitic idiom that speaks of a firm, unshakable resolve to do something (Gen 31:21; Isa 50:7).

⁵²⁴ map For location see Map5 B1; Map6 F3; Map7 E2; Map8 F2; Map10 B3; JP1 F4; JP2 F4; JP3 F4; JP4 F4.

⁵²⁵ tn Grk “And he.” Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style.

⁵²⁶ tn Grk “sent messengers before his face,” an idiom.

⁵²⁷ tn Grk “And going along, they entered.” The aorist passive participle πορευθέντες (poreuqente") has been taken temporally. Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style.

⁵²⁸ tn Or “to prepare (things) for him.”

⁵²⁹ tn Grk “they”; the referent (the villagers) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

⁵³⁰ tn Or “did not receive”; this verb, δέχομαι (decomai), is a term of hospitality or welcome (L&N 34.53).

⁵³¹ tn Grk “because his face was set toward Jerusalem.”

sn Jerusalem is to be the place of rejection, as Luke 9:44 suggested. Jesus had resolved to meet his fate in Jerusalem, so the rejection was no surprise.

⁵³² tn Or “destroy.”

⁵³³ tc Most mss, especially the later ones (A C D W Θ Ψ Ë^1,13 33 Ï it), read here “as also Elijah did,” making the allusion to 2 Kgs 1:10, 12, 14 more explicit. The shorter reading has better and earlier support (Ì^45,75 א B L Ξ 579 700* 1241 pc lat sa). It is difficult to explain how the shorter reading could have arisen from the longer, especially since it is well represented early on. However, the longer reading looks to have been a marginal note originally, incorporated into the text of Luke by early scribes.

sn An allusion to 2 Kgs 1:10, 12, 14.

⁵³⁴ tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

⁵³⁵ tc Many mss ([D] K Γ Θ Ë^1,13 [579] 700 2542 pm it) have at the end of the verse (with slight variations) “and he said, ‘You do not know what sort of spirit you are of, for the Son of Man did not come to destroy people’s lives, but to save [them].’” This variant is clearly secondary, as it gives some content to the rebuke. Further, it is difficult to explain how such rich material would have been omitted by the rest of the witnesses, including the earliest and best mss.

sn The point of the rebuke is that now was not the time for judgment but patience; see 2 Pet 3:9.

⁵³⁶ tn Grk “And as.” Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style.

⁵³⁷ tn Grk “going,” but “walking” is an accurate description of how they traveled about.

⁵³⁸ tc Most mss (A C W Θ Ψ Ë¹³ 33 Ï) add κύριε (kurie, “Lord”) here, but scribes were prone to add to the text, especially appellations for the Lord. The shorter reading also enjoys significant ms support (Ì^45,75 א B D L Ξ Ë¹ lat co).

sn The statement “I will follow you wherever you go” is an offer to follow Jesus as a disciple, no matter what the cost.

⁵³⁹ tn Grk “the birds of the sky” or “the birds of the heaven”; the Greek word οὐρανός (ouranos) may be translated either “sky” or “heaven,” depending on the context. The idiomatic expression “birds of the sky” refers to wild birds as opposed to domesticated fowl (cf. BDAG 809 s.v. πετεινόν).

⁵⁴⁰ sn Jesus’ reply is simply this: Does the man understand the rejection he will be facing? Jesus has no home in the world (the Son of Man has no place to lay his head).

⁵⁴¹ tn Grk “And he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity. Here δέ (de) has not been translated.

⁵⁴² tn Grk “said.”

⁵⁴³ tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

⁵⁴⁴ sn There are several options for the meaning of Jesus’ reply Leave the dead to bury their own dead: (1) Recent research suggests that burial customs in the vicinity of Jerusalem from about 20 b.c. to a.d. 70 involved a reinterment of the bones a year after the initial burial, once the flesh had rotted away. At that point the son would have placed his father’s bones in a special box known as an ossuary to be set into the wall of the tomb. Thus Jesus could well be rebuking the man for wanting to wait around for as much as a year before making a commitment to follow him. In 1st century Jewish culture, to have followed Jesus rather than burying one’s father would have seriously dishonored one’s father (cf. Tobit 4:3-4). (2) The remark is an idiom (possibly a proverbial saying) that means, “The matter in question is not the real issue,” in which case Jesus was making a wordplay on the wording of the man’s (literal) request (see L&N 33.137). (3) This remark could be a figurative reference to various kinds of people, meaning, “Let the spiritually dead bury the dead.” (4) It could also be literal and designed to shock the hearer by the surprise of the contrast. Whichever option is preferred, it is clear that the most important priority is to preach the gospel (proclaim the kingdom of God).

⁵⁴⁵ sn The kingdom of God is a major theme of Jesus. It is a realm in which Jesus rules and to which those who trust him belong. See Luke 6:20; 11:20; 17:20-21.

⁵⁴⁶ tn Grk “And another also said.”

⁵⁴⁷ tn Grk “to those in my house.”

⁵⁴⁸ tn Here δέ (de) has not been translated.

⁵⁴⁹ tn Grk “the”; in context the article is used as a possessive pronoun (ExSyn 215).

⁵⁵⁰ sn Jesus warns that excessive concern for family ties (looks back) will make the kingdom a lesser priority, which is not appropriate for discipleship. The image is graphic, for who can plow straight ahead toward a goal while looking back? Discipleship cannot be double-minded.

⁵⁵¹ sn The kingdom of God is a major theme of Jesus. It is a realm in which Jesus rules and to which those who trust him belong. See Luke 6:20; 11:20; 17:20-21.