Luke 10:24

For I tell you, that many Prophets, and kings haue desired to see those things which yee see, and haue not seene them: & to heare those things which yee heare, and haue not heard them. Luke 10:24 (KJV)

In this chapter Jesus sends out seventy disciples ahead of him to various towns and places where he himself intended to go. They were given authority to heal the sick and to proclaim the kingdom of God. When they return they joyfully report their success to Jesus.

In Luke 10:24 Jesus expresses his appreciation for the disciples’ privileged position. He emphasizes that the prophets and kings of the past longed to witness and hear what the disciples were experiencing firsthand, and he acknowledges the unique opportunity the disciples had to see the fulfillment of prophecy and to learn directly from Him.

By mentioning “prophets and kings,” Jesus refers to the revered figures of the Old Testament. Throughout the Old Testament there were prophecies and promises concerning the coming Messiah and the establishment of God’s kingdom. Prophets such as Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel yearned to see those promises fulfilled, and the kings of Israel, like David and Solomon, longed to witness the Messiah’s arrival, yet they did not have that privilege.

Jesus’ statement highlights the mystery and privilege of his ministry. The disciples had the extraordinary privilege of seeing and hearing Jesus, the fulfillment of the Old Testament promises. They witnessed his miracles, listened to his teachings, and were personally trained by him, giving them a unique opportunity to grasp the fullness of God’s plan for salvation.

Jesus’ words remind the disciples to appreciate the value of their firsthand experience with him. They were to cherish the revelation and teachings they received, recognizing that this privilege also carried a responsibility to share the good news of the kingdom of God with others.

For believers today Luke 10:24 encourages gratitude for the revelation of God’s plan of salvation through Jesus Christ. We possess the complete Bible, which reveals the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, and this knowledge should motivate us to share the good news with those who have not heard or understood it.

In summary, Luke 10:24 emphasizes the unique privilege the disciples had in witnessing the fulfillment of prophecy and hearing Jesus’ teachings. It calls us to gratitude for the revelation we have received and reminds us of our responsibility to proclaim that revelation to others.