Luke 10:1--13:35

¹ tn Grk “And after these things.” Here δέ (de) has not been translated.

² tc There is a difficult textual problem here and in v. 17, where the number is either “seventy” (א A C L W Θ Ξ Ψ Ë^1,13 Ï and several church fathers and early versions) or “seventy-two” (Ì⁷⁵ B D 0181 pc lat as well as other versions and fathers). The more difficult reading is “seventy-two,” since scribes would be prone to assimilate this passage to several OT passages that refer to groups of seventy people (Num 11:13-17; Deut 10:22; Judg 8:30; 2 Kgs 10:1 et al.); this reading also has slightly better ms support. “Seventy” could be the preferred reading if scribes drew from the tradition of the number of translators of the LXX, which the Letter of Aristeas puts at seventy-two (TCGNT 127), although this is far less likely. All things considered, “seventy-two” is a much more difficult reading and accounts for the rise of the other. Only Luke notes a second larger mission like the one in 9:1-6.

³ tn Or “city.”

⁴ tn Here δέ (de) has not been translated.

⁵ sn The phrase Lord of the harvest recognizes God’s sovereignty over the harvest process.

⁶ tn Grk “to thrust out.”

⁷ tn Grk “Behold I.” 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).

⁸ sn On the imagery of lambs see Isa 40:11, Ezek 34:11-31, and John 10:1-18.

⁹ sn This imagery of wolves is found in intertestamental Judaism as well; see Pss. Sol. 8:23.

¹⁰ sn On the command Do not carry see Luke 9:3. The travel instructions communicate a note of urgency and stand in contrast to philosophical teachers, who often took a bag. There is no ostentation in this ministry.

¹¹ tn Traditionally, “a purse.”

¹² tn Or possibly “a beggar’s bag” (L&N 6.145; BDAG 811 s.v. πήρα).

¹³ tn Or “no one along the way.”

¹⁴ tn Here δέ (de) has not been translated.

¹⁵ tn Grk “Into whatever house you enter.” This acts as a distributive, meaning every house they enter; this is expressed more naturally in English as “whenever you enter a house.”

¹⁶ sn The statement ‘May peace be on this house!’ is really a benediction, asking for God’s blessing. The requested shalom (peace) is understood as coming from God.

¹⁷ tn Grk “a son of peace,” a Hebrew idiom for a person of a certain class or kind, as specified by the following genitive construction (in this case, “of peace”). Such constructions are discussed further in L&N 9.4. Here the expression refers to someone who responds positively to the disciples’ message, like “wisdom’s child” in Luke 7:30.

¹⁸ sn The response to these messengers determines how God’s blessing is bestowed – if they are not welcomed with peace, their blessing will return to them. Jesus shows just how important their mission is by this remark.

¹⁹ tn Here δέ (de) has not been translated.

²⁰ tn Grk “eating and drinking the things from them” (an idiom for what the people in the house provide the guests).

²¹ sn On the phrase the worker deserves his pay see 1 Tim 5:18 and 1 Cor 9:14.

²² tn Grk “And whatever town you enter,” but this is more often expressed in English as “whenever you enter a town.” Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style.

²³ tn Or “city.” Jesus now speaks of the town as a whole, as he will in vv. 10-12.

²⁴ tn Grk “and they”; the referent (the people who live in the town) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

²⁵ tn 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.

sn Ministry (heal the sick) is to take place where it is well received (note welcome in the preceding verse).

²⁶ tn Grk “in it”; the referent (that town) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

²⁷ 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.

²⁸ tn Or “come near to you,” suggesting the approach (but not arrival) of the kingdom. But the combination of the perfect tense of ἐγγίζω (engizw) with the preposition ἐπί (epi) most likely suggests that the sense is “has come upon” (see BDAG 270 s.v. ἐγγίζω 2; W. R. Hutton, “The Kingdom of God Has Come,” ExpTim 64 [Dec 1952]: 89-91; and D. L. Bock, Luke [BECNT], 2:1000; cf. also NAB “is at hand for you”). These passages argue that a key element of the kingdom is its ability to overcome the power of Satan and those elements in the creation that oppose humanity. Confirmation of this understanding comes in v. 18 and in Luke 11:14-23, especially the parable of vv. 21-23.

²⁹ tn Grk “whatever town you enter,” but this is more often expressed in English as “whenever you enter a town.”

³⁰ tn Or “city.”

³¹ tn Grk “and they”; the referent (the people who live in the town) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

³² sn More discussion takes place concerning rejection (the people do not welcome you), as these verses lead into the condemnation of certain towns for their rejection of God’s kingdom.

³³ tn The term πλατεῖα (plateia) refers to the “broad street,” so this refers to the main roads of the town.

³⁴ tn Or “city.”

³⁵ sn See Luke 9:5, where the verb is different but the meaning is the same. This was a sign of rejection.

³⁶ tn Here ὑμῖν (Jumin) has been translated as a dative of disadvantage.

³⁷ tn Or “has come near.” As in v. 9 (see above), the combination of ἐγγίζω (engizw) with the preposition ἐπί (epi) is decisive in showing that the sense is “has come” (see BDAG 270 s.v. ἐγγίζω 2, and W. R. Hutton, “The Kingdom of God Has Come,” ExpTim 64 [Dec 1952]: 89-91).

³⁸ sn The allusion to Sodom, the most wicked of OT cities from Gen 19:1-29, shows that to reject the current message is even more serious than the worst sins of the old era and will result in more severe punishment. The noun Sodom is in emphatic position in the Greek text.

³⁹ tn Or “city.”

⁴⁰ sn Chorazin was a town of Galilee that was probably fairly small in contrast to Bethsaida and is otherwise unattested. Bethsaida was declared a polis by the tetrarch Herod Philip, sometime after a.d. 30.

⁴¹ tn This introduces a second class (contrary to fact) condition in the Greek text.

⁴² tn Or “powerful deeds.”

⁴³ map For location see Map1 A2; Map2 G2; Map4 A1; JP3 F3; JP4 F3.

⁴⁴ sn Tyre and Sidon are two other notorious OT cities (Isa 23; Jer 25:22; 47:4). The remark is a severe rebuke, in effect: “Even the sinners of the old era would have responded to the proclamation of the kingdom, unlike you!”

map For location see Map1 A1; JP3 F3; JP4 F3.

⁴⁵ 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.

⁴⁶ tn The interrogative particle introducing this question expects a negative reply.

⁴⁷ sn In the OT, Hades was known as Sheol. It is the place where the unrighteous will reside (Matt 11:23; Luke 16:23; Rev 20:13-14).

⁴⁸ tn Grk “hears you”; but as the context of vv. 8-9 makes clear, it is response that is the point. In contemporary English, “listen to” is one way to express this function (L&N 31.56).

⁴⁹ sn Jesus linked himself to the disciples’ message: Responding to the disciples (listens to you) counts as responding to him.

⁵⁰ tn The double mention of rejection in this clause – ἀθετῶν ἀθετεῖ (aqetwn aqetei) in the Greek text – keeps up the emphasis of the section.

⁵¹ sn The one who sent me refers to God.

⁵² tn Here δέ (de) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.

⁵³ tc See the tc note on the number “seventy-two” in Luke 10:1.

⁵⁴ tn Or “the demons obey”; see L&N 36.18.

⁵⁵ tn The prepositional phrase “in your name” indicates the sphere of authority for the messengers’ work of exorcism.

⁵⁶ tn Here δέ (de) has been translated as “so” to indicate that Jesus’ reply in vv. 18-20 follows from the positive report of the messengers in v. 17.

⁵⁷ tn This is an imperfect tense verb.

⁵⁸ tn In Greek, this is a participle and comes at the end of the verse, making it somewhat emphatic.

⁵⁹ tn This is probably best taken as allusion to Isa 14:12; the phrase in common is ἐκ τοῦ οὐρανοῦ (ek tou ouranou). These exorcisms in Jesus’ name are a picture of Satan’s greater defeat at Jesus’ hands (D. L. Bock, Luke [BECNT], 2:1006-7).

⁶⁰ tn Or perhaps, “trample on” (which emphasizes the impact of the feet on the snakes). See L&N 15.226.

⁶¹ sn Snakes and scorpions are examples of the hostility in the creation that is defeated by Jesus. The use of battle imagery shows who the kingdom fights against. See Acts 28:3-6.

⁶² tn Or “I have given you authority to tread on snakes and scorpions, and [authority] over the full force of the enemy.” The second prepositional phrase can be taken either as modifying the infinitive πατεῖν (patein, “to tread”) or the noun ἐξουσίαν (exousian, “power”). The former is to be preferred and has been represented in the translation.

sn The enemy is a reference to Satan (mentioned in v. 18).

⁶³ tn This is an emphatic double negative in the Greek text.

⁶⁴ tn Grk “do not rejoice in this, that.” This is awkward in contemporary English and has been simplified to “do not rejoice that.”

⁶⁵ tn The verb here is a present imperative, so the call is to an attitude of rejoicing.

⁶⁶ tn The verb here, a perfect tense, stresses a present reality of that which was a completed action, that is, their names were etched in the heavenly stone, as it were.

⁶⁷ tn Grk “In that same hour” (L&N 67.1).

⁶⁸ tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

⁶⁹ sn Jesus rejoiced. The account of the mission in 10:1-24 ends with several remarks about joy.

⁷⁰ tn Or “thank.”

⁷¹ sn The title Lord is an important name for God, showing his sovereignty, but it is interesting that it comes next to a reference to the Father, a term indicative of God’s care. The two concepts are often related in the NT; see Eph 1:3-6.

⁷² tn Or “that.”

⁷³ sn See 1 Cor 1:26-31.

⁷⁴ tn Grk “for (to do) thus was well pleasing before you,” BDAG 325 s.v. ἔμπροσθεν 1.δ; speaking of something taking place “before” God is a reverential way of avoiding direct connection of the action to him.

⁷⁵ sn This verse has been noted for its conceptual similarity to teaching in John’s Gospel (10:15; 17:2). The authority of the Son and the Father are totally intertwined.

⁷⁶ tn Or “wishes”; or “intends”; or “plans” (cf. BDAG 182 s.v. βούλομαι 2.b). Here it is the Son who has sovereignty.

⁷⁷ tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.

⁷⁸ tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

⁷⁹ tn Grk “turning to the disciples, he said.” The participle στραφείς (strafei") has been translated as a finite verb due to requirements of contemporary English style.

⁸⁰ tn Grk “the”; in context the article is used as a possessive pronoun (ExSyn 215).

⁸¹ sn This beatitude highlights the great honor bestowed on the disciples to share in this salvation, as v. 20 also noted. See also Luke 2:30.

⁸² sn This is what past prophets and kings had wanted very much to see, yet the fulfillment had come to the disciples. This remark is like 1 Pet 1:10-12 or Heb 1:1-2.

⁸³ tn Grk “And behold.” Here καί (kai) has been translated as “now” to indicate the transition to a new topic. 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).

⁸⁴ tn Traditionally, “a lawyer.” This was an expert in the interpretation of the Mosaic law (see also Luke 7:30, where the same term occurs).

⁸⁵ tn Grk “him”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

⁸⁶ sn The combination of inherit with eternal life asks, in effect, “What must I do to be saved?”

⁸⁷ tn Grk “How do you read?” The pronoun “it” is not in the Greek text, but is implied. Direct objects were frequently omitted in Greek when clear from the context.

⁸⁸ tn Grk “And he”; the referent (the expert in religious law, shortened here to “the expert”) has been specified in the translation for clarity. Here δέ (de) has not been translated.

⁸⁹ tn Grk “You will love.” The future indicative is used here with imperatival force (see ExSyn 452 and 569).

⁹⁰ sn A quotation from Deut 6:5. The fourfold reference to different parts of the person says, in effect, that one should love God with all one’s being.

⁹¹ tn This portion of the reply is a quotation from Lev 19:18. The verb is repeated in the translation for stylistic reasons.

⁹² tn Grk “And he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity. Here δέ (de) has not been translated.

⁹³ sn Jesus commends the reply (you have answered correctly). What is assumed here, given the previous context, is that he will respond to Jesus’ message, as to love God is to respond to his Son; see v. 22.

⁹⁴ tn Grk “And he”; the referent (the expert in religious law, shortened here to “the expert”) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

⁹⁵ tn Or “vindicate.”

sn The expert in religious law picked up on the remark about the neighbor and sought to limit his responsibility for loving. Some believed this obligation would only be required toward the righteous (Sir 12:1-4). The lawyer was trying to see if that was right and thus confidently establish his righteousness (wanting to justify himself).

⁹⁶ tn Grk “answering, said.” This is redundant in contemporary English and has been simplified to “replied.”

⁹⁷ sn The journey from Jerusalem to Jericho was 17 mi (27 km), descending some 1800 ft (540 m) in altitude. It was known for its danger because the road ran through areas of desert and caves where the robbers hid.

⁹⁸ map For location see Map5 B1; Map6 F3; Map7 E2; Map8 F2; Map10 B3; JP1 F4; JP2 F4; JP3 F4; JP4 F4.

⁹⁹ map For location see Map5 B2; Map6 E1; Map7 E1; Map8 E3; Map10 A2; Map11 A1.

¹⁰⁰ tn Grk “and beat,” 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.

¹⁰¹ sn That is, in a state between life and death; severely wounded.

¹⁰² sn The phrase by chance adds an initial note of hope and fortune to the expectation in the story.

¹⁰³ tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “but” to indicate the contrast present in this context between the priest’s expected action (helping the victim) and what he really did.

¹⁰⁴ tn Grk “him”; the referent (the injured man) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

¹⁰⁵ sn It is not said why the priest passed by and refused to help. It is not relevant to the point of the parable that no help was given in the emergency situation.

¹⁰⁶ sn The text suggests that the priest went out of his way (on the other side) not to get too close to the scene.

¹⁰⁷ tn Here κατά (kata) has been translated “up to”; it could also be translated “upon.”

¹⁰⁸ tn The clause containing the aorist active participle ἐλθών (elqwn) suggests that the Levite came up to the place, took a look, and then moved on.

¹⁰⁹ tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “but” to indicate the contrast present in this context between the previous characters (considered by society to be examples of piety and religious duty) and a hated Samaritan.

¹¹⁰ tn This is at the beginning of the clause, in emphatic position in the Greek text.

¹¹¹ tn The participle ὁδεύων (Jodeuwn) has been translated as an adjectival participle (cf. NAB, NASB, TEV); it could also be taken temporally (“while he was traveling,” cf. NRSV, NIV).

¹¹² tn Grk “he”; the referent (the injured man) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

¹¹³ tn “Him” is not in the Greek text but is implied. The verb means “to feel compassion for,” and the object of the compassion is understood.

sn Here is what made the Samaritan different: He felt compassion for him. In the story, compassion becomes the concrete expression of love. The next verse details explicitly six acts of compassion.

¹¹⁴ tn Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style. Instead, because of the length and complexity of the Greek sentence, a new sentence was started here in the translation.

¹¹⁵ tn The words “to him” are not in the Greek text but are implied. The participle προσελθών (proselqwn) has been translated as a finite verb due to requirements of contemporary English style.

¹¹⁶ sn The ancient practice of pouring oil was designed to comfort and clean the wounds (Isa 1:6).

¹¹⁷ tn Here δέ (de) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative. Because of the length and complexity of this Greek sentence, a new sentence was started here in the translation.

¹¹⁸ tn It is not clear whether the causative nuance of the verb included actual assistance or not (“helped him on” versus “had him get on”; see L&N 15.98), but in light of the severity of the man’s condition as described in the preceding verses, some degree of assistance was almost certainly needed.

¹¹⁹ sn His own animal refers to a riding animal, presumably a donkey, but not specified.

¹²⁰ tn Grk “And the.” Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style.

¹²¹ tn Grk “two denarii.”

sn The two silver coins were denarii. A denarius was a silver coin worth about a day’s pay for a laborer; this would be an amount worth about two days’ pay.

¹²² tn Grk “when I come back”; the words “this way” are part of an English idiom used to translate the phrase.

¹²³ sn Jesus reversed the question the expert in religious law asked in v. 29 to one of becoming a neighbor by loving. “Do not think about who they are, but who you are,” was his reply.

¹²⁴ tn Grk “And he”; the referent (the expert in religious law) has been specified in the translation for clarity. Here δέ (de) has not been translated.

¹²⁵ sn The neighbor did not do what was required (that is why his response is called mercy) but had compassion and out of kindness went the extra step that shows love. See Mic 6:8. Note how the expert in religious law could not bring himself to admit that the example was a Samaritan, someone who would have been seen as a racial half-breed and one not worthy of respect. So Jesus makes a second point that neighbors may appear in surprising places.

¹²⁶ tn Here δέ (de) has been translated as “so” to indicate the concluding summary.

¹²⁷ tn This recalls the verb of the earlier reply in v. 28.

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

¹²⁹ tc Most mss have “into the house” (Ì^3vid א C L Ξ 33 579 pc) or “into her house” (א¹ A C² D W Θ Ψ 070 Ë^1,13 Ï lat) at the end of the sentence. But the English translation masks the multitude of variants: Different forms of “house” (οἰκίαν [oikian], οἶκον [oikon]) and “her” occur (see TCGNT 129). These variations argue against authenticity; they no doubt arose because of the abrupt ending of the sentence (the Greek is more literally translated simply as “Martha received him”), prompting copyists to add the location. The shorter reading is found in Ì^45,75 B sa.

tn For the meaning “to welcome, to have as a guest” see L&N 34.53.

¹³⁰ tn Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style.

¹³¹ tn This reflexive makes it clear that Mary took the initiative in sitting by Jesus.

¹³² sn The description of Mary sitting at the Lord’s feet and listening to him makes her sound like a disciple (compare Luke 8:35).

¹³³ sn The term distracted means “to be pulled away” by something (L&N 25.238). It is a narrative comment that makes clear who is right in the account.

¹³⁴ tn Grk “with much serving.”

¹³⁵ tn Here δέ (de) has been translated as “so” to indicate that the following was a result of Martha’s distraction.

¹³⁶ tn The negative οὐ (ou) used with the verb expects a positive reply. Martha expected Jesus to respond and rebuke Mary.

¹³⁷ tn Grk “has left me to serve alone.”

¹³⁸ tn The conjunction οὖν (oun, “then, therefore”) has not been translated here.

¹³⁹ tc Most mss (A B* C D W Θ Ψ Ë^1,13 Ï it) read “Jesus” instead of “the Lord” here, but κύριος (kurios, “Lord”) has the support of some weighty papyri, uncials, and other witnesses (Ì^3,[45],75 א B² L 579 892 pc lat sa).

¹⁴⁰ tn Grk “answering, said to her.” This is redundant in contemporary English and has been simplified to “answered her.”

¹⁴¹ sn The double vocative Martha, Martha communicates emotion.

¹⁴² tn Or “upset.” Here the meanings of μεριμνάω (merimnaw) and θορυβάζομαι (qorubazomai) reinforce each other (L&N 25.234).

¹⁴³ tc Or, with some mss (̳ [א] B C² L 070^vid ˹ 33 [579] pc), “few things are needed – or only one” (as well as other variants). The textual problem here is a difficult one to decide. The shorter reading is normally preferred, but it is not altogether clear how the variants would arise from it. However, the reading followed in the translation has good support (with some internal variations) from a number of witnesses (Ì^45,75 A C* W Θ Ψ Ë¹³ Ï lat sa).

¹⁴⁴ tn Or “better”; Grk “good.” This is an instance of the positive adjective used in place of the superlative adjective. According to ExSyn 298, this could also be treated as a positive for comparative (“better”).

¹⁴⁵ tn Grk “And it happened that while.” 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 “now” to indicate the transition to a new topic.

¹⁴⁶ tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

¹⁴⁷ tn Because of the length and complexity of the Greek sentence, a new sentence was started here in the translation.

¹⁴⁸ sn John refers to John the Baptist.

¹⁴⁹ sn It was not unusual for Jewish groups to have their own prayer as a way of expressing corporate identity. Judaism had the Eighteen Benedictions and apparently John the Baptist had a prayer for his disciples as well.

¹⁵⁰ sn When you pray. What follows, although traditionally known as the Lord’s prayer, is really the disciples’ prayer. It represents how they are to approach God, by acknowledging his uniqueness and their need for his provision and protection.

¹⁵¹ tc Most mss, including later majority (A C D W Θ Ψ 070 ˹³ 33^vid Ï it), add ἡμῶν ὁ ἐν τοῖς οὐρανοῖς (Jhmwn Jo en toi" oujranoi", “our [Father] in heaven”) here. This makes the prayer begin like the version in Matt 6:9. The shorter version is read by Ì⁷⁵ א B (L: + ἡμῶν) 1 700 pc as well as some versions and fathers. Given this more weighty external evidence, combined with the scribal tendency to harmonize Gospel parallels, the shorter reading is preferred.

sn God is addressed in terms of intimacy (Father). The original Semitic term here was probably Abba. The term is a little unusual in a personal prayer, especially as it lacks qualification. It is not the exact equivalent of “Daddy” (as is sometimes popularly suggested), but it does suggest a close, familial relationship.

¹⁵² tn Grk “hallowed be your name.”

¹⁵³ tc Most mss (א A C D W Θ Ψ 070 ˹³ 33^vid Ï it) read at the end of the verse “may your will be done on earth as [it is] in heaven,” making this version parallel to Matt 6:10. The shorter reading is found, however, in weighty mss (Ì⁷⁵ B L pc), and cannot be easily explained as arising from the longer reading.

sn Your kingdom come represents the hope for the full manifestation of God’s promised rule.

¹⁵⁴ tn Or “Give us bread each day for the coming day,” or “Give us each day the bread we need for today.” The term ἐπιούσιος (epiousio") does not occur outside of early Christian literature (other occurrences are in Matt 6:11 and Didache 8:2), so its meaning is difficult to determine. Various suggestions include “daily,” “the coming day,” and “for existence.” See BDAG 376 s.v.; L&N 67:183, 206.

¹⁵⁵ tn Grk “who is indebted to us” (an idiom). The picture of sin as debt is not unusual. As for forgiveness offered and forgiveness given, see 1 Pet 3:7.

¹⁵⁶ tc Most mss (א¹ A C D W Θ Ψ 070 ˹³ 33 Ï it sy^c,p,h) add “but deliver us from the evil one,” an assimilation to Matt 6:13. The shorter reading has better attestation (Ì⁷⁵ א*^,2 B L 1 700 pc vg sa Or). Internally, since the mss that have the longer reading here display the same tendency throughout the Lord’s Prayer to assimilate the Lukan version to the Matthean version, the shorter reading should be regarded as authentic in Luke.

tn Or “into a time of testing.”

sn The request Do not lead us into temptation is not to suggest that God causes temptation, but is a rhetorical way to ask for his protection from sin.

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

¹⁵⁸ tn Grk “Who among you will have a friend and go to him.”

¹⁵⁹ tn Grk “he will go to him.”

¹⁶⁰ tn The words “of bread” are not in the Greek text, but are implied by ἄρτους (artou", “loaves”).

¹⁶¹ tn Grk “has come to me from the road.”

¹⁶² sn The background to the statement I have nothing to set before him is that in ancient Middle Eastern culture it was a matter of cultural honor to be a good host to visitors.

¹⁶³ tn Κἀκεῖνος (kakeino") has been translated “Then he.”

¹⁶⁴ tn Grk “answering, he will say.” This is redundant in contemporary English and has been simplified to “he will reply.”

¹⁶⁵ tn Grk “my children are with me in the bed.” In Jewish homes in the time of Jesus, the beds were often all together in one room; thus the householder may be speaking of individual beds (using a collective singular) rather than a common bed.

¹⁶⁶ tn The syntax of vv. 6-7 is complex. In the Greek text Jesus’ words in v. 6 begin as a question. Some see Jesus’ question ending at v. 6, but the reply starting in v. 8 favors extending the question through the entire illustration. The translation breaks up the long sentence at the beginning of v. 7 and translates Jesus’ words as a statement for reasons of English style.

¹⁶⁷ tn Grk “he”; the referent (the man in bed in the house) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

¹⁶⁸ tn Grk “his”; the referent (the first man mentioned) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

¹⁶⁹ tn The term ἀναίδεια (anaideia) is hard to translate. It refers to a combination of ideas, a boldness that persists over time, or “audacity,” which comes close. It most likely describes the one making the request, since the unit’s teaching is an exhortation about persistence in prayer. Some translate the term “shamelessness” which is the term’s normal meaning, and apply it to the neighbor as an illustration of God responding for the sake of his honor. But the original question was posed in terms of the first man who makes the request, not of the neighbor, so the teaching underscores the action of the one making the request.

¹⁷⁰ tn Here καί (kai, from καγώ [kagw]) has been translated as “so” to indicate the conclusion drawn from the preceding parable.

¹⁷¹ sn The three present imperatives in this verse (Ask…seek…knock) are probably intended to call for a repeated or continual approach before God.

¹⁷² tn Grk “it”; the referent (a door) is implied by the context and has been specified in the translation for clarity.

¹⁷³ sn The actions of asking, seeking, and knocking are repeated here from v. 9 with the encouragement that God does respond.

¹⁷⁴ tn Grk “it”; the referent (a door) is implied by the context and has been specified in the translation for clarity.

¹⁷⁵ tn Grk “the”; in context the article is used as a possessive pronoun (ExSyn 215).

¹⁷⁶ tc Most mss (א A C D L W Θ Ψ Ë^1,13 33 Ï lat sy^c,p,h bo) have “bread, does not give him a stone instead, or” before “a fish”; the longer reading, however, looks like a harmonization to Matt 7:9. The shorter reading is thus preferred, attested by Ì^45,75 B 1241 pc sy^s sa.

¹⁷⁷ sn The snake probably refers to a water snake.

¹⁷⁸ sn The two questions of vv. 11-12 expect the answer, “No father would do this!”

¹⁷⁹ tn The participle ὑπάρχοντες (Juparconte") has been translated as a concessive participle.

¹⁸⁰ sn The provision of the Holy Spirit is probably a reference to the wisdom and guidance supplied in response to repeated requests. Some apply it to the general provision of the Spirit, but this would seem to look only at one request in a context that speaks of repeated asking. The teaching as a whole stresses not that God gives everything his children want, but that God gives the good that they need. The parallel account in Matthew (7:11) refers to good things where Luke mentions the Holy Spirit.

¹⁸¹ tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “now” to indicate the transition to a new topic.

¹⁸² tn The phrase “a demon that was mute” should probably be understood to mean that the demon caused muteness or speechlessness in its victim, although it is sometimes taken to refer to the demon’s own inability to speak (cf. TEV, “a demon that could not talk”).

¹⁸³ 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. Here δέ (de) has not been translated either.

¹⁸⁴ sn This miracle is different from others in Luke. The miracle is told entirely in one verse and with minimum detail, while the response covers several verses. The emphasis is on explaining what Jesus’ work means.

¹⁸⁵ tn Grk “By Beelzebul.”

sn Beelzebul is another name for Satan. So some people recognized Jesus’ work as supernatural, but called it diabolical.

¹⁸⁶ tn Or “prince.”

¹⁸⁷ tn Grk “testing”; the participle is taken as indicating the purpose of the demand.

¹⁸⁸ tn The pronoun “him” is not in the Greek text, but is implied. Direct objects were frequently omitted in Greek when clear from the context.

¹⁸⁹ tn Grk “seeking from him.” The imperfect ἐζήτουν (ezhtoun) is taken ingressively. It is also possible to regard it as iterative (“kept on asking”).

¹⁹⁰ sn What exactly this sign would have been, given what Jesus was already doing, is not clear. But here is where the fence-sitters reside, refusing to commit to him.

¹⁹¹ tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

¹⁹² sn Jesus here demonstrated the absurdity of the thinking of those who maintained that he was in league with Satan and that he actually derived his power from the devil. He first teaches (vv. 17-20) that if he casts out demons by the ruler of the demons, then in reality Satan is fighting against himself, with the result that his kingdom has come to an end. He then teaches (v. 21-22) about defeating the strong man to prove that he does not need to align himself with the devil because he is more powerful. Jesus defeated Satan at his temptation (4:1-13) and by his exorcisms he clearly demonstrated himself to be stronger than the devil. The passage reveals the desperate condition of the religious leaders, who in their hatred for Jesus end up attributing the work of the Holy Spirit to Satan.

¹⁹³ tn Or “is left in ruins.”

¹⁹⁴ tn Grk “and house falls on house.” This phrase pictures one house collapsing on another, what is called today a “house of cards.”

¹⁹⁵ tn Here δέ (de) has been translated as “so” to indicate that the clause that follows is a logical conclusion based on the preceding examples.

¹⁹⁶ tn This first class condition, the first of three “if” clauses in the following verses, presents the example vividly as if it were so. In fact, all three conditions in these verses are first class. The examples are made totally parallel. The expected answer is that Satan’s kingdom will not stand, so the suggestion makes no sense. Satan would not seek to heal.

¹⁹⁷ tn Grk “because.” “I ask you this” is supplied for the sake of English.

¹⁹⁸ sn Most read your sons as a reference to Jewish exorcists (cf. “your followers,” L&N 9.4; for various views see D. L. Bock, Luke [BECNT], 2:1077-78), but more likely this is a reference to the disciples of Jesus themselves, who are also Jewish and have been healing as well (R. J. Shirock, “Whose Exorcists are they? The Referents of οἱ υἱοὶ ὑμῶν at Matthew 12:27/Luke 11:19,” JSNT 46 [1992]: 41-51). If this is a reference to the disciples, then Jesus’ point is that it is not only him, but those associated with him whose power the hearers must assess. The following reference to judging also favors this reading.

¹⁹⁹ tn The pronoun “them” is not in the Greek text, but is implied. Direct objects were frequently omitted in Greek when clear from the context.

²⁰⁰ sn The finger of God is a figurative reference to God’s power (L&N 76.3). This phrase was used of God’s activity during the Exodus (Exod 8:19).

²⁰¹ 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.

²⁰² tn The phrase ἔφθασεν ἐφ᾿ ὑμᾶς (efqasen ef’ Juma") is important. Does it mean merely “approach” (which would be reflected in a translation like “has come near to you”) or actually “come upon” (as in the translation given above, “has already overtaken you,” which has the added connotation of suddenness)? The issue here is like the one in 10:9 (see note there on the phrase “come on”). Is the arrival of the kingdom merely anticipated or already in process? Two factors favor arrival over anticipation here. First, the prepositional phrase “upon you” suggests arrival (Dan 4:24, 28 Theodotion). Second, the following illustration in vv. 21-23 looks at the healing as portraying Satan being overrun. So the presence of God’s authority has arrived. See also L&N 13.123 for the translation of φθάνω (fqanw) as “to happen to already, to come upon, to come upon already.”

²⁰³ tn The referent of the expression “a strong man” is Satan.

²⁰⁴ tn The word αὐλή (aulh) describes any building large and elaborate enough to have an interior courtyard, thus “dwelling, palace, mansion” (L&N 7.6).

²⁰⁵ tn Grk “his goods are in peace.”

²⁰⁶ tn Because of the length and complexity of the Greek sentence, a new sentence was started here in the translation.

²⁰⁷ tn The referent of the expression “a stronger man” is Jesus.

²⁰⁸ tn Grk “stronger man than he attacks.”

²⁰⁹ tn Grk “his”; the referent (the first man mentioned) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

²¹⁰ tn Grk “on which he relied.”

²¹¹ tn Or “and distributes.”

²¹² sn Some see the imagery here as similar to Eph 4:7-10, although no opponents are explicitly named in that passage. Jesus has the victory over Satan. Jesus’ acts of healing mean that the war is being won and the kingdom is coming.

²¹³ sn Whoever is not with me is against me. The call here is to join the victor. Failure to do so means that one is being destructive. Responding to Jesus is the issue.

²¹⁴ sn For the image of scattering, see Pss. Sol. 17:18.

²¹⁵ sn This is a reference to an evil spirit. See Luke 4:33.

²¹⁶ tn Grk “man.” This is a generic use of ἄνθρωπος (anqrwpo"), referring to both males and females.

²¹⁷ sn The background for the reference to waterless places is not entirely clear, though some Jewish texts suggest spirits must have a place to dwell, but not with water (Luke 8:29-31; Tob 8:3). Some suggest that the image of the desert or deserted cities as the places demons dwell is where this idea started (Isa 13:21; 34:14).

²¹⁸ tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “but” to indicate the contrast present in this context.

²¹⁹ tc ‡ Most mss, including a few early and important ones (Ì⁴⁵ א* A C D W Ψ Ë^1,13 Ï lat), lack τότε (tote, “then”). Other mss, including some early and important ones (Ì⁷⁵ א² B L Θ Ξ 070 33 579 892 1241 pc co), have the adverb. Although the external evidence better supports the longer reading, the internal evidence is on the side of the shorter, for conjunctions and adverbs were frequently added by copyists to remove asyndeton and to add clarification. The shorter reading is thus preferred. The translation, however, adds “Then” because of English stylistic requirements. NA²⁷ has τότε in brackets indicating doubts as to its authenticity.

²²⁰ tn Grk “I will return to my house from which I came.”

²²¹ tn Grk “comes.”

²²² tn The words “the house” are not in Greek but are implied.

²²³ sn The image of the house swept clean and put in order refers to the life of the person from whom the demon departed. The key to the example appears to be that no one else has been invited in to dwell. If an exorcism occurs and there is no response to God, then the way is free for the demon to return. Some see the reference to exorcism as more symbolic; thus the story’s only point is about responding to Jesus. This is possible and certainly is an application of the passage.

²²⁴ tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “so” to indicate the concluding point of the story.

²²⁵ tn Grk “man.” This is a generic use of ἄνθρωπος (anqrwpo"), referring to both males and females.

²²⁶ sn The point of the story is that to fail to respond is to risk a worse fate than when one started.

²²⁷ 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 δέ (de) has not been translated.

²²⁸ tn Grk “lifted up her voice and said.” This idiom is somewhat redundant in contemporary English and has been simplified to “spoke out.”

²²⁹ tn For this term see L&N 8.69.

²³⁰ sn Both the reference to the womb and the breasts form a figure of speech called metonymy. In this case the parts are mentioned instead of the whole; the meaning is “Blessed is your mother!” The warnings seem to have sparked a little nervousness that brought forth this response. In the culture a mother was valued for the accomplishments of her son. So this amounts to a compliment to Jesus.

²³¹ tn Grk “said.”

²³² sn This is another reference to hearing and doing the word of God, which here describes Jesus’ teaching; see Luke 8:21.

²³³ tn Here δέ (de) has not been translated.

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

²³⁵ sn The mention of a sign alludes back to Luke 11:16. Given what Jesus had done, nothing would be good enough. This leads to the rebuke that follows.

²³⁶ sn As the following comparisons to Solomon and Jonah show, in the present context the sign of Jonah is not an allusion to Jonah being three days in the belly of the fish, but to Jesus’ teaching about wisdom and repentance.

²³⁷ tn Grk “to the Ninevites.” What the Ninevites experienced was Jonah’s message (Jonah 3:4, 10; 4:1).

²³⁸ tn The repetition of the words “a sign” are not in the Greek text, but are implied and are supplied here for clarity.

²³⁹ tc Only the Western ms D and a few Itala mss add here a long reference to Jonah being in the belly of the fish for three days and nights and the Son of Man being three days in the earth, apparently harmonizing the text to the parallel in Matt 12:40.

²⁴⁰ sn On the queen of the South see 1 Kgs 10:1-3 and 2 Chr 9:1-12, as well as Josephus, Ant. 8.6.5-6 (8.165-175). The South most likely refers to modern southwest Arabia, possibly the eastern part of modern Yemen, although there is an ancient tradition reflected in Josephus which identifies this geo-political entity as Ethiopia.

²⁴¹ sn For the imagery of judgment, see Luke 10:13-15 and 11:19. The warnings are coming consistently now.

²⁴² tn Grk “men”; the word here (ἀνήρ, anhr) usually indicates males or husbands, but occasionally is used in a generic sense of people in general, as is the case here (cf. BDAG 79 s.v. 1, 2). The same term, translated the same way, occurs in v. 32.

²⁴³ tn Grk “behold.”

²⁴⁴ sn The message of Jesus was something greater than what Solomon offered. On Jesus and wisdom, see Luke 7:35; 10:21-22; 1 Cor 1:24, 30.

²⁴⁵ tn See the note on the word “people” in v. 31.

²⁴⁶ tn Grk “at the preaching of Jonah.”

sn The phrase repented when Jonah preached to them confirms that in this context the sign of Jonah (v. 30) is his message.

²⁴⁷ tn Grk “behold.”

²⁴⁸ tn Or perhaps “in a cellar” (L&N 28.78). The point is that the light of Jesus’ teaching has been put in public view.

²⁴⁹ tc The phrase “or under a basket” is lacking in some important and early mss (Ì^45,75 L Γ Ξ 070 ˹ 700* 1241 2542 pc sy^s sa). It is hard to decide in this case, since the inclusion of “or under a basket” is widely attested by some early and decent witnesses, as well as the overwhelming majority of mss (א A B C D W Θ Ψ Ë¹³ Ï latt). The parallel passage in Luke 8:16 does not include “under a basket.” If the phrase “under a basket” were added as a harmonization with Mark 4:21 and Matt 5:15, it is perhaps surprising that scribes did not add the phrase at Luke 8:16 as well. It seems somewhat more likely that a scribe copying Luke would be inclined to harmonize 11:33 with 8:16 by omitting the phrase here. Thus, the words “or under a basket” seem to have the marks of authenticity.

tn Or “a bowl”; this refers to any container for dry material of about eight liters (two gallons) capacity. It could be translated “basket, box, bowl” (L&N 6.151).

²⁵⁰ tn Or “sound” (so L&N 23.132 and most scholars). A few scholars take this word to mean something like “generous” here (L&N 57.107), partly due to the immediate context of this saying in Matt 6:22 which concerns money, in which case the “eye” is a metonymy for the entire person (“if you are generous”).

²⁵¹ tn Or “when it is sick” (L&N 23.149).

sn There may be a slight wordplay here, as this term can also mean “evil,” so the figure uses a term that points to the real meaning of being careful as to what one pays attention to or looks at.

²⁵² tn This is a present imperative, calling for a constant watch (L&N 24.32; ExSyn 721).

²⁵³ sn Here you is a singular pronoun, individualizing the application.

²⁵⁴ tn This is a first class condition in the Greek text, so the example ends on a hopeful, positive note.

²⁵⁵ tn Grk “Therefore”; the same conjunction as at the beginning of v. 35, but since it indicates a further inference or conclusion, it has been translated “then” here.

²⁵⁶ tn Grk “not having any part dark.”

²⁵⁷ tn Grk “it will be completely illumined as when a lamp illumines you with its rays.”

²⁵⁸ tn The use of the aorist infinitive here should probably be translated “as he spoke” rather than “while he was speaking” (see ExSyn 595). The Pharisee did not necessarily interrupt Jesus to issue the invitation.

²⁵⁹ sn See the note on Pharisees in 5:17.

²⁶⁰ tn Grk “him”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

²⁶¹ 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.

²⁶² tn Here δέ (de) has not been translated.

²⁶³ tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

²⁶⁴ tn The words “his hands” are not in the Greek text, but have been supplied for clarity.

sn Washing before meals was a cultural practice that was described in the OT, but not prescribed there (Gen 18:4; Judg 19:21). It was apparently related to concern about contracting ceremonial uncleanness (Lev 11:31-38; t. Demai 2.11-12).

²⁶⁵ sn The allusion to washing (clean the outside of the cup) shows Jesus knew what they were thinking and deliberately set up a contrast that charged them with hypocrisy and majoring on minors.

²⁶⁶ tn Or “and evil.”

²⁶⁷ sn You fools is a rebuke which in the OT refers to someone who is blind to God (Ps 14:1, 53:1; 92:6; Prov 6:12).

²⁶⁸ tn The question includes a Greek particle, οὐ (ou), that expects a positive reply. God, the maker of both, is concerned for what is both inside and outside.

²⁶⁹ tn Grk “Give the things inside as alms.” Three different approaches have been taken to the syntax and meaning of this phrase: (1) τὰ ἐνόντα (ta enonta, “the things inside”) is an accusative of respect (“give alms with respect to the things inside”); (2) τὰ ἐνόντα is an adverbial accusative (“give alms inwardly,” i.e., from the heart); (3) the word translated “alms” represents a mistranslation of the original Aramaic term “cleanse,” so the statement urges the hearers to “cleanse the things inside.” According to D. L. Bock (Luke [BECNT], 2:1115) the latter meaning is unlikely because the present verse is independent of Matt 23:26, not parallel to it, and makes good sense as it stands.

sn In Jewish culture giving alms to the poor was a very important religious observance; it was meant to be an act of mercy, kindness, and love (D. L. Bock, Luke [BECNT], 2:1114). The implication from the text is that the Pharisees gave alms, but without any of the spiritual concern which should have motivated those generous actions. Here Jesus commands the Pharisees to give from within themselves to those in need instead of just giving of their possessions. In so doing they would show true inner purity acceptable to God. This is in keeping with the author’s social concerns elsewhere in the Gospel (cf., e.g., 1:52-53, 4:18-19, 6:20-21, 14:13).

²⁷⁰ tn Grk “and behold.” The Greek word ἰδού (idou) at the beginning of this clause has not been translated because it has no exact English equivalent here, but adds interest and emphasis (BDAG 468 s.v. 1).

²⁷¹ sn The expression everything will be clean for you refers to the agreement that should exist between the overt practice of one’s religious duties, such as almsgiving, and the inner condition of one’s heart, including true love for God and the poor; one is not only to wash the outside of the cup and plate, but the inside as well, since as Jesus said, God created the inside too. Religious duties are not to be performed hypocritically, i.e., for the applause and esteem of people, but rather they are to be done out of a deep love for God and a sensitivity to and concern for the needs of others. Then, everything will be clean, both hearts and lives.

²⁷² tn Grk “Woe to you…because you…” The causal particle ὅτι (Joti) has not been translated here for rhetorical effect (and so to the end of this chapter).

²⁷³ tn Or “you tithe mint.”

²⁷⁴ sn These small herbs were tithed with great care (Mishnah, m. Demai 2:1).

²⁷⁵ tn Grk “and rue.” 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.

sn Rue was an evergreen herb used for seasoning.

²⁷⁶ sn Justice was a major theme of OT ethics (Mic 6:8; Zech 7:8-10).

²⁷⁷ tn Grk “those”; but this has been translated as “the others” to clarify which are meant.

²⁷⁸ tn Or “seats of honor.” The term here is plural and is not a reference only to the lead “seat of Moses” in the synagogue, but includes the front seats near the ark.

²⁷⁹ sn See the note on synagogues in 4:15.

²⁸⁰ tn Grk “and the greetings.”

sn The later Jewish summary of oral tradition, the Talmud, notes elaborate greetings for rabbis. The rebuke here is for pride.

²⁸¹ tc Most mss (A [D] W Θ Ψ Ë¹³ Ï it) have “experts in the law and Pharisees, hypocrites” after “you,” but this looks like an assimilation to the parallel in Matt 23:25, 27, 29. The shorter reading has earlier attestation from a variety of reliable mss (Ì^45,75 א B C L ˹ 33 1241 2542 lat sa).

²⁸² tn Grk “men.” This is a generic use of ἄνθρωπος (anqrwpo"), referring to both males and females.

²⁸³ sn In Judaism to come into contact with the dead or what is associated with them, even without knowing it, makes one unclean (Num 19:11-22; Lev 21:1-3; Mishnah, m. Demai 2:3). To Pharisees, who would have been so sensitive about contracting ceremonial uncleanness, it would have been quite a stinging rebuke to be told they caused it.

²⁸⁴ sn That is, an expert in the interpretation of the Mosaic law. They worked closely with the Pharisees.

²⁸⁵ tn For this term, see Matt 22;6; Luke 18:32; Acts 14:5; 1 Thess 2:2.

²⁸⁶ tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

²⁸⁷ tn Grk “said.”

²⁸⁸ tn Here “as well” is used to translate καί (kai) at the beginning of the statement.

²⁸⁹ tn Grk “men.” This is a generic use of ἄνθρωπος (anqrwpo"), referring to both males and females.

²⁹⁰ tn Grk “you yourselves do not touch.” This could mean one of two things: (1) Either they make others do what they themselves do not (through various technical exceptions) or (2) they make no effort to help the others fulfill what they are required to do. Considering the care these religious figures are said to have given to the law, the second option is more likely (see L&N 18.11).

²⁹¹ sn The effect of what the experts in the law were doing was to deny the message of the prophets and thus honor their death by supporting those who had sought their removal. The charge that this is what previous generations did shows the problem is chronic. As T. W. Manson said, the charge here is “The only prophet you honor is a dead prophet!” (The Sayings of Jesus, 101).

²⁹² tn Or “forefathers”; Grk “fathers.”

²⁹³ tn Grk “you are witnesses and approve of.”

²⁹⁴ tn Or “forefathers”; Grk “fathers.”

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

²⁹⁶ tn “Their,” i.e., the prophets.

²⁹⁷ tc The majority of mss list a specific object (“their tombs”), filling out the sentence (although there are two different words for “tombs” among the mss, as well as different word orders: αὐτῶν τὰ μνημεῖα (autwn ta mnhmeia; found in A C W Θ Ψ 33 Ï) and τοὺς τάφους αὐτῶν (tou" tafou" autwn; found in Ë^1,[13] 2542 pc). This suggests that early copyists had no term in front of them but felt the verb needed an object. But since a wide distribution of early Alexandrian and Western mss lack these words (Ì⁷⁵ א B D L 579 1241 it sa), it is likely that they were not part of the original text of Luke. Nevertheless, the words “their tombs” are inserted in the translation because of requirements of English style.

²⁹⁸ sn The expression the wisdom of God is a personification of an attribute of God that refers to his wise will.

²⁹⁹ tn Or “that this generation may be charged with”; or “the blood of all the prophets… may be required from this generation.” This is a warning of judgment. These people are responsible for the shedding of prophetic blood.

³⁰⁰ tn Or “foundation.” However, this does not suggest a time to the modern reader.

³⁰¹ tn The order of the clauses in this complicated sentence has been rearranged to simplify it for the modern reader.

³⁰² sn Gen 4:10 indicates that Abel’s blood cried out for justice.

³⁰³ sn It is not clear which Zechariah is meant here. It is probably the person mentioned in 2 Chr 24:20-25.

³⁰⁴ tn Or “who perished.”

³⁰⁵ tn Or “and the temple”; Grk “and the house,” but in this context a reference to the house of God as a place of sanctuary.

³⁰⁶ tn Or “required from.”

³⁰⁷ sn You have taken away the key to knowledge is another stinging rebuke. They had done the opposite of what they were trying to do.

³⁰⁸ tn Or “you tried to prevent.”

³⁰⁹ tn Or “the scribes.” See the note on the phrase “experts in the law” in 5:21.

³¹⁰ tn Or “terribly.”

³¹¹ tn For this term see L&N 33.183.

³¹² tn Grk “lying in ambush against,” but this is a figurative extension of that meaning.

³¹³ tn This term was often used in a hunting context (BDAG 455 s.v. θηρεύω; L&N 27.30). Later examples of this appear in Luke 20.

³¹⁴ tn The phrase ἐν οἷς (en Jois) can be translated “meanwhile.”

³¹⁵ tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

³¹⁶ tn According to L&N 27.59, “to pay attention to, to keep on the lookout for, to be alert for, to be on your guard against.” This is another Lukan present imperative calling for constant vigilance.

³¹⁷ sn See the note on Pharisees in 5:17.

³¹⁸ sn The pursuit of popularity can lead to hypocrisy, if one is not careful.

³¹⁹ tn Or “concealed.”

³²⁰ sn I.e., be revealed by God. The passive voice verbs here (“be revealed,” be made known”) see the revelation as coming from God. The text is both a warning about bad things being revealed and an encouragement that good things will be made known, though the stress with the images of darkness and what is hidden in vv. 2-3 is on the attempt to conceal.

³²¹ tn Or “because.” Understanding this verse as a result of v. 2 is a slightly better reading of the context. Knowing what is coming should impact our behavior now.

³²² tn Grk “spoken in the ear,” an idiom. The contemporary expression is “whispered.”

³²³ sn The term translated private rooms refers to the inner room of a house, normally without any windows opening outside, the most private location possible (BDAG 988 s.v. ταμεῖον 2).

³²⁴ tn The expression “proclaimed from the housetops” is an idiom for proclaiming something publicly (L&N 7.51). Roofs of many first century Jewish houses in Judea and Galilee were flat and had access either from outside or from within the house. Something shouted from atop a house would be heard by everyone in the street below.

³²⁵ tn Here δέ (de) has not been translated.

³²⁶ sn Judaism had a similar exhortation in 4 Macc 13:14-15.

³²⁷ tn Grk “will show,” but in this reflective context such a demonstration is a warning or exhortation.

³²⁸ sn The actual performer of the killing is not here specified. It could be understood to be God (so NASB, NRSV) but it could simply emphasize that, after a killing has taken place, it is God who casts the person into hell.

³²⁹ tn The direct object (“you”) is understood.

³³⁰ sn The word translated hell is “Gehenna” (γέεννα, geenna), a Greek transliteration of the Hebrew words ge hinnom (“Valley of Hinnom”). This was the valley along the south side of Jerusalem. In OT times it was used for human sacrifices to the pagan god Molech (cf. Jer 7:31; 19:5-6; 32:35), and it came to be used as a place where human excrement and rubbish were disposed of and burned. In the intertestamental period, it came to be used symbolically as the place of divine punishment (cf. 1 En. 27:2, 90:26; 4 Ezra 7:36).

³³¹ sn The pennies refer to the assarion, a small Roman copper coin. One of them was worth one sixteenth of a denarius or less than a half hour’s average wage. Sparrows were the cheapest thing sold in the market. God knows about even the most financially insignificant things; see Isa 49:15.

³³² sn Do not be afraid. One should respect and show reverence to God (v. 5), but need not fear his tender care.

³³³ tn Here δέ (de) has not been translated.

³³⁴ tn Or “confesses.”

³³⁵ tn Although this is a generic reference and includes both males and females, in this context “men” has been retained because of the wordplay with the Son of Man and the contrast with the angels. The same is true of the occurrence of “men” in v. 9.

³³⁶ sn This acknowledgment will take place at the judgment. Of course, the Son of Man is a reference to Jesus as it has been throughout the Gospel. On Jesus and judgment, see 22:69; Acts 10:42-43; 17:31.

³³⁷ sn Blasphemy against the Holy Spirit probably refers to a total rejection of the testimony that the Spirit gives to Jesus and the plan of God. This is not so much a sin of the moment as of one’s entire life, an obstinate rejection of God’s message and testimony. Cf. Matt 12:31-32 and Mark 3:28-30.

³³⁸ tn Grk “it will not be forgiven the person who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit.”

³³⁹ sn The saying looks at persecution both from a Jewish context as the mention of synagogues suggests, and from a Gentile one as the reference to the rulers and the authorities suggests.

sn See the note on synagogues in 4:15.

³⁴⁰ 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.

³⁴¹ tn Grk “about how or what you should say in your defense,” but this is redundant with the following clause, “or what you should say.”

³⁴² tn Grk “in that very hour” (an idiom).

³⁴³ tn Grk “what it is necessary to say.”

³⁴⁴ tn Here δέ (de) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.

³⁴⁵ sn Tell my brother. In 1st century Jewish culture, a figure like a rabbi was often asked to mediate disputes, except that here mediation was not requested, but representation.

³⁴⁶ tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

³⁴⁷ tn This term of address can be harsh or gentle depending on the context (BDAG 82 s.v. ἄνθρωπος 8). Here it is a rebuke.

³⁴⁸ tn The pronoun ὑμᾶς (Jumas) is plural, referring to both the man and his brother; thus the translation “you two.”

³⁴⁹ tn Here δέ (de) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.

³⁵⁰ tn See L&N 13.154 for this use of the middle voice of φυλάσσω (fulassw) in this verse.

³⁵¹ tn Or “avarice,” “covetousness.” Note the warning covers more than money and gets at the root attitude – the strong desire to acquire more and more possessions and experiences.

³⁵² tn Grk “And he.” Here δέ (de) has been translated as “then” to indicate the connection to the preceding statement.

³⁵³ tn Grk “a parable, saying.” The participle λέγων (legwn) is redundant in contemporary English and has not been translated here.

³⁵⁴ tn Or “yielded a plentiful harvest.”

³⁵⁵ tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “so” to indicate that this is a result of the preceding statement.

³⁵⁶ tn Grk “to himself, saying.” The participle λέγων (legwn) is redundant in contemporary English and has not been translated here.

³⁵⁷ sn I have nowhere to store my crops. The thinking here is prudent in terms of recognizing the problem. The issue in the parable will be the rich man’s solution, particularly the arrogance reflected in v. 19.

³⁵⁸ tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.

³⁵⁹ sn Note how often the first person pronoun is present in these verses. The farmer is totally self absorbed.

³⁶⁰ tn Grk “to my soul,” which is repeated as a vocative in the following statement, but is left untranslated as redundant.

³⁶¹ tn Grk “your soul,” but ψυχή (yuch) is frequently used of one’s physical life. It clearly has that meaning in this context.

³⁶² tn Or “required back.” This term, ἀπαιτέω (apaitew), has an economic feel to it and is often used of a debt being called in for repayment (BDAG 96 s.v. 1).

³⁶³ tn Grk “the things you have prepared, whose will they be?” The words “for yourself” are not in the Greek text, but are implied.

³⁶⁴ sn It is selfishness that is rebuked here, in the accumulation of riches for himself. Recall the emphasis on the first person pronouns throughout the parable.

³⁶⁵ tn Here δέ (de) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative. Jesus’ remarks to the disciples are an application of the point made in the previous parable.

³⁶⁶ tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

³⁶⁷ tc αὐτοῦ (autou, “his”) is lacking in Ì^45vid,75 B 1241 c e. Although the addition of clarifying pronouns is a known scribal alteration, in this case it is probably better to view the dropping of the pronoun as the alteration in light of its minimal attestation.

³⁶⁸ tn Or “do not be anxious.”

³⁶⁹ tc Most mss (Ì⁴⁵ Ψ 070 ˹³ 33 Ï) supply the pronoun ὑμῶν (Jumwn, “your”) here, although several important and early witnesses omit it (Ì⁷⁵ א A B D L Q W Θ Ë¹ 700 2542 al lat). Externally, the shorter reading is superior. Internally, the pronoun looks to be a scribal clarification. In context the article can be translated as a possessive pronoun anyway (ExSyn 215), as it has been done for this translation.

³⁷⁰ tc Some mss (B 070 ˹³ 33 1424 al) supply the pronoun ὑμῶν (Jumwn, “your”) here, although the witnesses for the omission are early, important, and varied (Ì^45vid,75 א A D L Q W Θ Ψ Ë¹ Ï lat). See previous tc note for more discussion.

³⁷¹ tn Or “crows.” Crows and ravens belong to the same family of birds. English uses “crow” as a general word for the family. Palestine has several indigenous members of the crow family.

³⁷² tn Or “God gives them food to eat.” L&N 23.6 has both “to provide food for” and “to give food to someone to eat.”

³⁷³ tn Or “by being anxious.”

³⁷⁴ tn Or “a cubit to his height.” A cubit (πῆχυς, phcu") can measure length (normally about 45 cm or 18 inches) or time (a small unit, “hour” is usually used [BDAG 812 s.v.] although “day” has been suggested [L&N 67.151]). The term ἡλικία (Jhlikia) is ambiguous in the same way as πῆχυς. Most scholars take the term to describe age or length of life here, although a few refer it to bodily stature (see BDAG 435-36 s.v. 1.a for discussion). Worry about length of life seems a more natural figure than worry about height. However, the point either way is clear: Worrying adds nothing to life span or height.

³⁷⁵ tn This is a first class condition in the Greek text.

³⁷⁶ tn Or “why are you anxious for.”

³⁷⁷ tn Traditionally, “lilies.” According to L&N 3.32, “Though traditionally κρίνον has been regarded as a type of lily, scholars have suggested several other possible types of flowers, including an anemone, a poppy, a gladiolus, and a rather inconspicuous type of daisy.” In view of the uncertainty, the more generic “flowers” has been used in the translation.

³⁷⁸ tn Traditionally, “toil.” Although it might be argued that “work hard” would be a more precise translation of κοπιάω (kopiaw) here, the line in English scans better in terms of cadence with a single syllable.

³⁷⁹ tn This is a first class condition in the Greek text.

³⁸⁰ tn Grk “grass in the field.”

³⁸¹ tn Grk “which is in the field today.”

³⁸² tn Grk “into the oven.” The expanded translation “into the fire to heat the oven” has been used to avoid misunderstanding; most items put into modern ovens are put there to be baked, not burned.

sn The oven was most likely a rounded clay oven used for baking bread, which was heated by burning wood and dried grass.

³⁸³ sn The phrase how much more is a typical form of rabbinic argumentation, from the lesser to the greater. If God cares for the little things, surely he will care for the more important things.

³⁸⁴ tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “so” to indicate a conclusion drawn from the previous illustrations.

³⁸⁵ tn Grk “do not seek,” but this could be misunderstood to mean that people should make no attempt to obtain their food. The translation “do not be overly concerned” attempts to reflect the force of the original.

³⁸⁶ tn The words “about such things” have been supplied to qualify the meaning; the phrase relates to obtaining food and drink mentioned in the previous clause.

³⁸⁷ tn Grk “seek.”

³⁸⁸ tn Grk “seek,” but in the sense of the previous verses.

³⁸⁹ tc Most mss (Ì⁴⁵ A D¹ Q W Θ 070 Ë^1,13 33 Ï lat sy) read τοῦ θεοῦ (tou qeou, “of God”) instead of αὐτοῦ (autou, “his”; found in א B D* L Ψ 579 892 pc co). But such a clarifying reading is suspect. αὐτοῦ is superior on both internal and external grounds. Ì⁷⁵ includes neither and as such would support the translation above since the article alone can often be translated as a possessive pronoun.

³⁹⁰ sn His (that is, God’s) kingdom 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.

³⁹¹ tn Or perhaps, “your Father chooses.”

³⁹² sn The call to sell your possessions is a call to a lack of attachment to the earth and a generosity as a result.

³⁹³ tn Grk “give alms,” but this term is not in common use today.

³⁹⁴ tn Grk “in the heavens.”

³⁹⁵ tn Or “an unfailing treasure in heaven,” or “an inexhaustible treasure in heaven.”

³⁹⁶ tn The term σής (shs) refers to moths in general. It is specifically the larvae of moths that destroy clothing by eating holes in it (L&N 4.49; BDAG 922 s.v.). See Jas 5:2, which mentions “moth-eaten” clothing.

³⁹⁷ sn Seeking heavenly treasure means serving others and honoring God by doing so; see Luke 6:35-36.

³⁹⁸ tn Grk “Let your loins be girded,” an idiom referring to the practice of tucking the ends of the long cloak (outer garment) into the belt to shorten it in preparation for activities like running, etc.

³⁹⁹ sn Keep your lamps burning means to be ready at all times.

⁴⁰⁰ tn That is, like slaves (who are mentioned later, vv. 37-38), although the term ἀνθρώποις (anqrwpoi") is used here. Since in this context it appears generic rather than gender-specific, the translation “people” is employed.

⁴⁰¹ sn An ancient wedding celebration could last for days (Tob 11:18).

⁴⁰² tn See the note on the word “slave” in 7:2.

⁴⁰³ tn Or “watching”; Grk “awake,” but in context this is not just being awake but alert and looking out.

⁴⁰⁴ tn Grk “Truly (ἀμήν, amhn), I say to you.”

⁴⁰⁵ tn See v. 35 (same verb).

⁴⁰⁶ tn Grk “have them recline 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.

⁴⁰⁷ tn The participle παρελθών (parelqwn) has been translated as a finite verb due to requirements of contemporary English style.

⁴⁰⁸ sn He…will come and wait on them is a reversal of expectation, but shows that what Jesus asks for he is willing to do as well; see John 13:5 and 15:18-27, although those instances merely foreshadow what is in view here.

⁴⁰⁹ sn The second or third watch of the night would be between 9 p.m. and 3 a.m. on a Roman schedule and 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. on a Jewish schedule. Luke uses the four-watch schedule of the Romans in Acts 12:4, so that is more probable here. Regardless of the precise times of the watches, however, it is clear that the late-night watches when a person is least alert are in view here.

⁴¹⁰ tn Grk “finds (them) thus”; but this has been clarified in the translation by referring to the status (“alert”) mentioned in v. 37.

⁴¹¹ tn Grk “blessed are they”; the referent (the watchful slaves, v. 37) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

⁴¹² sn On Jesus pictured as a returning thief, see 1 Thess 5:2, 4; 2 Pet 3:10; Rev 3:3; 16:15.

⁴¹³ tc Most mss (א¹ A B L Q W Θ Ψ 070 Ë^1,13 33 Ï lat sy^p,h sa^ms bo) read “he would have watched and not let” here, but this looks like an assimilation to Matt 24:43. The alliance of two important and early mss along with a few others (Ì⁷⁵ א* [D] e i sy^s,c sa^mss), coupled with much stronger internal evidence, suggests that the shorter reading is authentic.

⁴¹⁴ sn Jesus made clear that his coming could not be timed, and suggested it might take some time – so long, in fact, that some would not be looking for him any longer (at an hour when you do not expect him).

⁴¹⁵ tn Grk “And Peter.” Here δέ (de) has been translated as “then” to indicate the connection to the preceding statement.

⁴¹⁶ sn Is the parable only for disciples (us) or for all humanity (everyone)? Or does Peter mean for disciples (us) or for the crowd (everyone)? The fact that unfaithful slaves are mentioned in v. 46 looks to a warning that includes a broad audience, though it is quality of service that is addressed. This means the parable focuses on those who are associated with Jesus.

⁴¹⁷ tn Grk “And the Lord said.” Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style.

⁴¹⁸ tn Or “administrator,” “steward” (L&N 37.39).

⁴¹⁹ tn This term, θεραπεία (qerapeia), describes the group of servants working in a particular household (L&N 46.6).

⁴²⁰ tn See the note on the word “slave” in 7:2.

⁴²¹ tn That is, doing his job, doing what he is supposed to be doing.

⁴²² tn Grk “Truly (ἀληθῶς, alhqw"), I say to you.”

⁴²³ tn Grk “he”; the referent (the master) has been specified in the translation for clarity. See also Luke 19:11-27.

⁴²⁴ tn In the Greek text this is a third class condition that for all practical purposes is a hypothetical condition (note the translation of the following verb “should say”).

⁴²⁵ tn The term “that” (ἐκεῖνος, ekeino") is used as a catchword to list out, in the form of a number of hypothetical circumstances, what the possible responses of “that” servant could be. He could be faithful (vv. 43-44) or totally unfaithful (vv. 45-46). He does not complete his master’s will with knowledge (v. 47) or from ignorance (v 48). These differences are indicated by the different levels of punishment in vv. 46-48.

⁴²⁶ tn Grk “should say in his heart.”

⁴²⁷ tn Or “is taking a long time.”

⁴²⁸ sn The slave’s action in beginning to beat the other slaves was not only a failure to carry out what was commanded but involved doing the exact reverse.

⁴²⁹ tn The word “other” is not in the Greek text, but is implied.

⁴³⁰ tn Grk “the menservants and the maidservants.” The term here, used in both masculine and feminine grammatical forms, is παῖς (pais), which can refer to a slave, but also to a slave who is a personal servant, and thus regarded kindly (L&N 87.77).

⁴³¹ tn The verb διχοτομέω (dicotomew) means to cut an object into two parts (L&N 19.19). This is an extremely severe punishment compared to the other two later punishments. To translate it simply as “punish” is too mild. If taken literally this servant is dismembered, although it is possible to view the stated punishment as hyperbole (L&N 38.12).

⁴³² tn Or “unbelieving.” Here the translation employs the slightly more ambiguous “unfaithful,” which creates a link with the point of the parable – faithfulness versus unfaithfulness in servants. The example of this verse must be taken together with the examples of vv. 47-48 as part of a scale of reactions with the most disobedient response coming here. The fact that this servant is placed in a distinct group, unlike the one in vv. 47-48, also suggests ultimate exclusion. This is the hypocrite of Matt 24:51.

⁴³³ tn Here δέ (de) has not been translated.

⁴³⁴ tn Grk “or do according to his will”; the referent (the master) has been specified in the translation for clarity. This example deals with the slave who knew what the command was and yet failed to complete it.

⁴³⁵ tn Grk “did not know”; the phrase “his master’s will” is not in the Greek text, but is implied. Direct objects were frequently omitted in Greek when clear from the context, but must be supplied for the contemporary English reader.

⁴³⁶ tn Grk “blows.”

⁴³⁷ tn Grk “will receive few (blows).”

⁴³⁸ tn Grk “required from him”; but the words “from him” are redundant in English and have not been translated.

⁴³⁹ sn Entrusted with much. To be gifted with precious responsibility is something that requires faithfulness.

⁴⁴⁰ tn Grk “they will ask even more.”

⁴⁴¹ sn This mission statement, “I have come to bring fire on the earth,” looks to the purging and division Jesus causes: See Luke 3:9, 17; 9:54; 17:29 for fire, 5:32; 7:34; 9:58; 12:51 for the topic of mission.

⁴⁴² tn Grk “cast.” For βάλλω (ballw) in the sense of causing a state or condition, see L&N 13.14.

⁴⁴³ sn The figure of the baptism is variously interpreted, as some see a reference (1) to martyrdom or (2) to inundation with God’s judgment. The OT background, however, suggests the latter sense: Jesus is about to be uniquely inundated with God’s judgment as he is rejected, persecuted, and killed (Ps 18:4, 16; 42:7; 69:1-2; Isa 8:7-8; 30:27-28; Jonah 2:3-6).

⁴⁴⁴ tn Grk “to be baptized with.”

⁴⁴⁵ tn Or “hostility.” This term pictures dissension and hostility (BDAG 234 s.v. διαμερισμός).

⁴⁴⁶ sn From now on is a popular phrase in Luke: 1:48; 5:10; 22:18, 69; see Mic 7:6.

⁴⁴⁷ tn There is dispute whether this phrase belongs to the end of v. 52 or begins v. 53. Given the shift of object, a connection to v. 53 is slightly preferred.

⁴⁴⁸ tn Grk “He”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity. Here καί (kai) has been translated as “also” and δέ (de) has not been translated.

⁴⁴⁹ sn A cloud rising in the west refers to moisture coming from the Mediterranean Sea.

⁴⁵⁰ tn The term ὄμβρος (ombro") refers to heavy rain, such as in a thunderstorm (L&N 14.12).

⁴⁵¹ sn The south wind comes from the desert, and thus brings scorching heat.

⁴⁵² sn In Luke, the term hypocrites occurs here, in 6:42, and in 13:15.

⁴⁵³ tc Most mss (Ì⁴⁵ A W Ψ Ë^1,13 Ï lat) have a syntax here that reflects a slightly different rhetorical question: “but how do you not interpret the present time?” The reading behind the translation, however, has overall superior support: Ì⁷⁵ א B L Θ 33 892 1241 pc.

⁴⁵⁴ tn Jesus calls for some personal reflection. However, this unit probably does connect to the previous one – thus the translation of δέ (de) here as “And” – to make a good spiritual assessment, thus calling for application to the spiritual, rather than personal, realm.

⁴⁵⁵ sn The term magistrate (ἄρχων, arcwn) refers to an official who, under the authority of the government, serves as judge in legal cases (see L&N 56.29).

⁴⁵⁶ sn The officer (πράκτωρ, praktwr) was a civil official who functioned like a bailiff and was in charge of debtor’s prison. The use of the term, however, does not automatically demand a Hellenistic setting (BDAG 859 s.v.; K. H. Rengstorf, TDNT 8:539; C. Maurer, TDNT 6:642).

⁴⁵⁷ tn Here the English word “cent” is used as opposed to the parallel in Matt 5:26 where “penny” appears, since the Greek word there is different and refers to a different but similar coin.

sn This cent was a lepton, the smallest coin available. It was copper or bronze, worth one-half of a quadrans or 1/128 of a denarius. The parallel in Matt 5:26 mentions the quadrans instead of the lepton. The illustration refers to the debt one owes God and being sure to settle with him in the right time, before it is too late. Some interpreters, however, consider it to be like Matt 5:26, which has similar imagery but a completely different context.

⁴⁵⁸ tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “now” to indicate the transition to a new topic.

⁴⁵⁹ sn This is an event that otherwise is unattested, though several events similar to it are noted in Josephus (J. W. 2.9.2-4 [2.169-177]; Ant. 13.13.5 [13.372-73], 18.3.1-2 [18.55-62]; 18.4.1 [18.85-87]). It would have caused a major furor.

⁴⁶⁰ tn Grk “And he.” Here καί (kai) has been translated as “now” to indicate the transition to a new topic.

⁴⁶¹ sn Jesus did not want his hearers to think that tragedy was necessarily a judgment on these people because they were worse sinners.

⁴⁶² sn Jesus was stressing that all stand at risk of death, if they do not repent and receive life.

⁴⁶³ tn Or “you will all likewise perish,” but this could be misunderstood to mean that they would perish by the same means as the Galileans. Jesus’ point is that apart from repentance all will perish.

⁴⁶⁴ tn Grk “on whom the tower in Siloam fell and killed them.” This relative clause embedded in a prepositional phrase is complex in English and has been simplified to an adjectival and a temporal clause in the translation.

⁴⁶⁵ sn Unlike the previous event, when the tower in Siloam fell on them, it was an accident of fate. It raised the question, however, “Was this a judgment?”

⁴⁶⁶ map For location see Map5 B1; Map6 F3; Map7 E2; Map8 F2; Map10 B3; JP1 F4; JP2 F4; JP3 F4; JP4 F4.

⁴⁶⁷ sn Jesus’ point repeats v. 3. The circumstances make no difference. All must deal with the reality of what death means.

⁴⁶⁸ tn Grk “similarly.”

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

⁴⁷⁰ tn Grk “he”; the referent has been specified in the translation for clarity.

⁴⁷¹ sn The fig tree is a variation on the picture of a vine as representing the nation; see Isa 5:1-7.

⁴⁷² tn Here δέ (de) has been translated as “so” to indicate the man’s response as a result of the lack of figs in the preceding clause.

⁴⁷³ tn Grk “Behold, for.”

⁴⁷⁴ sn The elapsed time could be six years total since planting, since often a fig was given three years before one even started to look for fruit. The point in any case is that enough time had been given to expect fruit.

⁴⁷⁵ tn The phrase “each time I inspect it” is not in the Greek text but has been supplied to indicate the customary nature of the man’s search for fruit.

⁴⁷⁶ tc ‡ Several witnesses (Ì⁷⁵ A L Θ Ψ 070 ˹³ 33 579 892 al lat co) have “therefore” (οὖν, oun) here. This conjunction has the effect of strengthening the logical connection with the preceding statement but also of reducing the rhetorical power and urgency of the imperative. In light of the slightly greater internal probability of adding a conjunction to an otherwise asyndetic sentence, as well as significant external support for the omission (א B D W ˹ Ï), the shorter reading appears to be more likely as the original wording here. NA²⁷ puts the conjunction in brackets, indicating some doubts as to its authenticity.

⁴⁷⁷ tn Grk “Why indeed.” Here καί (kai) has not been translated.

⁴⁷⁸ sn Such fig trees would deplete the soil, robbing it of nutrients needed by other trees and plants.

⁴⁷⁹ tn Grk “he”; the referent (the worker who tended the vineyard) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

⁴⁸⁰ tn Grk “toss manure [on it].” This is a reference to manure used as fertilizer.

⁴⁸¹ tn This is a third class condition in the Greek text. The conjunction καί (kai, a component of κάν [kan]) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.

⁴⁸² tn Grk “the coming [season].”

⁴⁸³ tn The phrase “very well” is supplied in the translation to complete the elided idea, but its absence is telling.

⁴⁸⁴ tn This is a first class condition in the Greek text, showing which of the options is assumed.

⁴⁸⁵ sn See the note on synagogues in 4:15.

⁴⁸⁶ tn Grk “and behold, a woman.” 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).

⁴⁸⁷ tn Grk “a woman having a spirit of weakness” (or “a spirit of infirmity”).

⁴⁸⁸ tn Grk “years, and.” 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.

⁴⁸⁹ tn Or “and could not straighten herself up at all.” If εἰς τὸ παντελές (ei" to pantele") is understood to modify δυναμένη (dunamenh), the meaning is “she was not able at all to straighten herself up”; but the phrase may be taken with ἀνακύψαι (anakuyai) and understood to mean the same as the adverb παντελῶς (pantelws), with the meaning “she was not able to straighten herself up completely.” See BDAG 754 s.v. παντελής 1 for further discussion. The second option is preferred in the translation because of proximity: The phrase in question follows ἀνακύψαι in the Greek text.

⁴⁹⁰ tn The participle ἰδών (idwn) has been taken temporally. Here δέ (de) has not been translated.

⁴⁹¹ tn The verb προσεφώνησεν (prosefwnhsen) has been translated as “called (her) to (him),” with the direct object (“her”) and the indirect object (“him”) both understood.

⁴⁹² sn Woman was a polite form of address (see BDAG 208-9 s.v. γυνή), similar to “Madam” or “Ma’am” used in English in different regions.

⁴⁹³ tn Or “released.”

⁴⁹⁴ tn Or “sickness.”

⁴⁹⁵ tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.

⁴⁹⁶ sn The healing took place immediately.

⁴⁹⁷ sn The irony is that Jesus’ “work” consisted of merely touching the woman. There is no sense of joy that eighteen years of suffering was reversed with his touch.

⁴⁹⁸ tn Grk “on which it is necessary to work.” This has been simplified in the translation.

⁴⁹⁹ tn The participle ἐρχόμενοι (ercomenoi) has been translated as a finite verb due to requirements of contemporary English style.

⁵⁰⁰ tn Grk “answered him and said.” This is redundant in contemporary English and has been shortened to “answered him.”

⁵⁰¹ tn Grk “from the manger [feeding trough],” but by metonymy of part for whole this can be rendered “stall.”

⁵⁰² sn The charge here is hypocrisy, but it is only part one of the response. Various ancient laws detail what was allowed with cattle; see Mishnah, m. Shabbat 5; CD 11:5-6.

⁵⁰³ tn Here δέ (de) has been translated as “then” to show the connection with Jesus’ previous statement.

⁵⁰⁴ tn Grk “is it not necessary that.” Jesus argues that no other day is more appropriate to heal a descendant of Abraham than the Sabbath, the exact opposite view of the synagogue leader.

⁵⁰⁵ sn Note that this is again a battle between Satan and God; see 11:18-23.

⁵⁰⁶ tn The word “long” reflects the emphasis added in the Greek text by ἰδού (idou). See BDAG 468 s.v. 1.

⁵⁰⁷ tn Or “bondage”; Grk “bond.”

⁵⁰⁸ tn Grk “And when.” Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style.

⁵⁰⁹ tn Or “were put to shame.”

⁵¹⁰ tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “but” to indicate the contrast present in this context.

⁵¹¹ sn Concerning all the wonderful things see Luke 7:16; 19:37.

⁵¹² tn Grk “that were being done by him.” The passive has been converted to an active construction in the translation.

⁵¹³ tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

⁵¹⁴ tn Grk “said,” but what follows is a question.

⁵¹⁵ 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.

⁵¹⁶ sn What is the kingdom of God like? Unlike Mark 4 or Matt 13, where the kingdom parables tend to be all in one location in the narrative, Luke scatters his examples throughout the Gospel.

⁵¹⁷ tn Grk “And to.” Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style.

⁵¹⁸ sn The mustard seed was noted for its tiny size.

⁵¹⁹ tn Grk “threw.”

⁵²⁰ tn Grk “garden, and it.” 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.

⁵²¹ sn Calling the mustard plant a tree is rhetorical hyperbole, since technically it is not one. This plant could be one of two types of mustard popular in Palestine and would be either 10 or 25 ft (3 or 7.5 m) tall.

⁵²² 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).

⁵²³ sn The point of the parable seems to be that while the kingdom of God may appear to have insignificant and unnoticeable beginnings (i.e., in the ministry of Jesus), it will someday (i.e., at the second advent) be great and quite expansive. The kingdom, however, is not to be equated with the church, but rather the church is an expression of the kingdom. Also, there is important OT background in the image of the mustard seed that grew and became a tree: Ezek 17:22-24 pictures the reemergence of the Davidic house where people can find calm and shelter. Like the mustard seed, it would start out small but grow to significant size.

⁵²⁴ tn Grk “And again.” Here καί (kai) has not been translated because of differences between Greek and English style.

⁵²⁵ 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.

⁵²⁶ tn Grk “hid in.”

⁵²⁷ sn This measure was a saton, the Greek name for the Hebrew term “seah.” Three of these was a very large quantity of flour, since a saton is a little over 16 lbs (7 kg) of dry measure (or 13.13 liters). So this was over 47 lbs (21 kg) of flour total, enough to feed over a hundred people.

⁵²⁸ tn Grk “it was all leavened.”

sn The parable of the yeast and the dough teaches that the kingdom of God will start small but eventually grow to permeate everything. Jesus’ point was not to be deceived by its seemingly small start, the same point made in the parable of the mustard seed, which preceded this one.

⁵²⁹ tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.

⁵³⁰ tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

⁵³¹ tn This is a distributive use of κατά (kata); see L&N 83:12.

⁵³² tn Or “cities.”

⁵³³ tn Grk “making his journey toward.” This is the first of several travel notes in Luke’s Jerusalem journey section of Luke 9-19; other notes appear at 17:11; 18:31; 19:28, 41.

⁵³⁴ map For location see Map5 B1; Map6 F3; Map7 E2; Map8 F2; Map10 B3; JP1 F4; JP2 F4; JP3 F4; JP4 F4.

⁵³⁵ tn Here δέ (de) has not been translated.

⁵³⁶ tn Grk “said to.”

⁵³⁷ sn The warnings earlier in Jesus’ teaching have led to the question whether only a few will be saved.

⁵³⁸ tn Here δέ (de) has been translated as “so” to indicate that Jesus’ reply was triggered by the preceding question.

⁵³⁹ tn Or “Make every effort” (L&N 68.74; cf. NIV); “Do your best” (TEV); “Work hard” (NLT); Grk “Struggle.” The idea is to exert one’s maximum effort (cf. BDAG 17 s.v. ἀγωνίζομαι 2.b, “strain every nerve to enter”) because of the supreme importance of attaining entry into the kingdom of God.

⁵⁴⁰ tn The syntactical relationship between vv. 24-25 is disputed. The question turns on whether v. 25 is connected to v. 24 or not. A lack of a clear connective makes an independent idea more likely. However, one must then determine what the beginning of the sentence connects to. Though it makes for slightly awkward English, the translation has opted to connect it to “he will answer” so that this functions, in effect, as an apodosis. One could end the sentence after “us” and begin a new sentence with “He will answer” to make simpler sentences, although the connection between the two sentences is thereby less clear. The point of the passage, however, is clear. Once the door is shut, because one failed to come in through the narrow way, it is closed permanently. The moral: Do not be too late in deciding to respond.

⁵⁴¹ tn Or “the master of the household.”

⁵⁴² tn Or “rises,” or “stands up.”

⁵⁴³ tn Or “Sir.”

⁵⁴⁴ tn Grk “Open to us.”

⁵⁴⁵ tn Grk “and answering, he will say to you.” This is redundant in contemporary English and has been simplified to “he will answer you.”

⁵⁴⁶ sn For the imagery behind the statement “I do not know where you come from,” see Ps 138:6; Isa 63:16; Jer 1:5; Hos 5:3.

⁵⁴⁷ sn This term refers to wide streets, and thus suggests the major streets of a city.

⁵⁴⁸ tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “but” to indicate the contrast present in this context.

⁵⁴⁹ tc Most mss (Ì^75* A D L W Θ Ψ 070 Ë^1,13 Ï) have ἐρεῖ λέγω ὑμῖν (erei legw Jumin; “he will say, ‘I say to you’”) here, while some have only ἐρεῖ ὑμῖν (“he will say to you” in א 579 pc lat sa) or simply ἐρεῖ (“he will say” in 1195 pc). The variety of readings seems to have arisen from the somewhat unusual wording of the original, ἐρεῖ λέγων ὑμῖν (erei legwn Jumin; “he will say, saying to you” found in Ì^75c B 892 pc). Given the indicative λέγω, it is difficult to explain how the other readings would have arisen. But if the participle λέγων were original, the other readings can more easily be explained as arising from it. Although the external evidence is significantly stronger in support of the indicative reading, the internal evidence is on the side of the participle.

tn Grk “he will say, saying to you.” The participle λέγων (legwn) and its indirect object ὑμῖν (Jumin) are redundant in contemporary English and have not been translated.

⁵⁵⁰ sn The issue is not familiarity (with Jesus’ teaching) or even shared activity (eating and drinking with him), but knowing Jesus. Those who do not know him, he will not know where they come from (i.e., will not acknowledge) at the judgment.

⁵⁵¹ tn Grk “all you workers of iniquity.” The phrase resembles Ps 6:8.

⁵⁵² sn Weeping and gnashing of teeth is a figure for remorse and trauma, which occurs here because of exclusion from God’s promise.

⁵⁵³ tn Grk “and Isaac and Jacob,” 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.

⁵⁵⁴ 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.

⁵⁵⁵ tn Or “being thrown out.” The present accusative participle, ἐκβαλλομένους (ekballomenous), related to the object ὑμᾶς (Jumas), seems to suggest that these evildoers will witness their own expulsion from the kingdom.

⁵⁵⁶ tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events in the discourse.

⁵⁵⁷ tn Grk “they”; the referent (people who will come to participate in the kingdom) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

⁵⁵⁸ tn Grk “and recline 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. The word “banquet” has been supplied to clarify for the modern reader the festive nature of the imagery The banquet imagery is a way to describe the fellowship and celebration of accompanying those who are included as the people of God at the end.

⁵⁵⁹ 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.

⁵⁶⁰ tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “but” to indicate the contrast present in this context.

⁵⁶¹ tn Grk “behold.”

⁵⁶² sn Some are last who will be first, and some are first who will be last. Jesus’ answer is that some who are expected to be there (many from Israel) will not be there, while others not expected to be present (from other nations) will be present. The question is not, “Will the saved be few?” (see v. 23), but “Will it be you?”

⁵⁶³ tn Grk “At that very hour.”

⁵⁶⁴ sn See the note on Pharisees in 5:17.

⁵⁶⁵ tn Grk “him”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.

⁵⁶⁶ tn Grk “Go away and leave from here,” which is redundant in English and has been shortened to “Get away from here.”

⁵⁶⁷ sn Herod refers here to Herod Antipas. See the note on Herod Antipas in 3:1.

⁵⁶⁸ tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “but” to indicate the contrast present in this context.

⁵⁶⁹ tn The participle πορευθέντες (poreuqente") has been taken as indicating attendant circumstance.

⁵⁷⁰ sn That fox. This is not fundamentally a figure for cleverness as in modern western culture, but could indicate (1) an insignificant person (Neh 4:3; 2 Esd 13:35 LXX); (2) a deceiver (Song Rabbah 2.15.1 on 2:15); or someone destructive, a destroyer (Ezek 13:4; Lam 5:18; 1 En. 89:10, 42-49, 55). Luke’s emphasis seems to be on destructiveness, since Herod killed John the Baptist, whom Luke calls “the greatest born of women” (Luke 7:28) and later stands opposed to Jesus (Acts 4:26-28). In addition, “a person who is designated a fox is an insignificant or base person. He lacks real power and dignity, using cunning deceit to achieve his aims” (H. W. Hoehner, Herod Antipas [SNTSMS], 347).

⁵⁷¹ sn The third day is a figurative reference to being further on in time, not a reference to three days from now. Jesus is not even in Jerusalem yet, and the events of the last days in Jerusalem take a good week.

⁵⁷² tn Or “I reach my goal.” The verb τελειόω (teleiow) is a key NT term for the completion of God’s plan: See Luke 12:50; 22:37; John 19:30; and (where it has the additional component of meaning “to perfect”) Heb 2:10; 5:8-9; 7:28.

⁵⁷³ tn This is the frequent expression δεῖ (dei, “it is necessary”) that notes something that is a part of God’s plan.

⁵⁷⁴ tn Or “unthinkable.” See L&N 71.4 for both possible meanings.

⁵⁷⁵ tn Or “should perish away from.”

⁵⁷⁶ sn Death in Jerusalem is another key theme in Luke’s material: 7:16, 34; 24:19; Acts 3:22-23. Notice that Jesus sees himself in the role of a prophet here. Jesus’ statement, it is impossible that a prophet should be killed outside Jerusalem, is filled with irony; Jesus, traveling about in Galilee (most likely), has nothing to fear from Herod; it is his own people living in the very center of Jewish religion and worship who present the greatest danger to his life. The underlying idea is that Jerusalem, though she stands at the very heart of the worship of God, often kills the prophets God sends to her (v. 34). In the end, Herod will be much less a threat than Jerusalem.

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

⁵⁷⁷ sn The double use of the city’s name betrays intense emotion.

⁵⁷⁸ tn Although the opening address (“Jerusalem, Jerusalem”) is direct (second person), the remainder of this sentence in the Greek text is third person (“who kills the prophets and stones those sent to her”). The following sentences then revert to second person (“your… you”), so to keep all this consistent in English, the third person pronouns in the present verse were translated as second person (“you who kill… sent to you”).

⁵⁷⁹ sn How often I have longed to gather your children. Jesus, like a lamenting prophet, speaks for God here, who longed to care tenderly for Israel and protect her.

⁵⁸⁰ tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “but” to indicate the contrast present in this context.

⁵⁸¹ tn Grk “you were not willing.”

⁵⁸² sn Your house is forsaken. The language here is from Jer 12:7 and 22:5. It recalls exilic judgment.

⁵⁸³ sn A quotation from Ps 118:26. The judgment to come will not be lifted until the Lord returns. See Luke 19:41-44.