Luke 24:21

“But we trusted that it had been he which should have redeemed Israel: and beside all this, today is the third day since these things were done.”

Context:Luke 24:21 is part of the account of the two disciples on the road to Emmaus after Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection. They were discussing the events that had taken place in Jerusalem and were expressing their disappointment and confusion about Jesus’ death.

The disciples’ words reveal their disillusionment and shattered expectations. They had hoped that Jesus would be the one to redeem Israel, implying they had expected Him to overthrow the Roman occupation and establish a physical kingdom. However, His crucifixion had seemingly dashed their hopes, leading to confusion and doubt.

The disciples mention that it had been three days since the crucifixion, which shows that they were aware of the timeframe since Jesus’ death. However, they were unaware of the resurrection. They did not yet understand the significance of Jesus’ triumph over death and the fulfillment of prophecy.

This verse highlights a few important theological lessons:

• a) Jesus as the Redeemer:The disciples believed that Jesus was the long-awaited Redeemer of Israel. This reflects the messianic expectations of the time. While their understanding was incomplete, they recognized Jesus’ role as a deliverer.
• b) Human Limited Perspective:The disciples’ disappointment and confusion demonstrate the human tendency to have limited understanding and expectations. Often, we may struggle to comprehend God’s plans and purposes, especially when they don’t align with our preconceived notions.
• c) The Importance of Resurrection:The disciples’ lack of awareness regarding the resurrection reveals the centrality and transformative power of Jesus’ resurrection. It is through His victory over death that He accomplishes redemption, offering salvation to all who believe in Him.

Application:

• a) Trust in God’s Plan:Like the disciples, we may face circumstances that challenge our faith and expectations. It is crucial to trust in God’s sovereign plan, even when we cannot fully comprehend it.
• b) Seek Deeper Understanding:The disciples’ lack of understanding underscores the importance of seeking deeper knowledge of God’s Word and His ways. Studying the Scriptures and seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit can help us grasp the profound truths of God’s redemptive work.
• c) Embrace the Power of Resurrection:Jesus’ resurrection is central to the Christian faith. As believers, we should embrace the transformative power of His resurrection, understanding that it provides victory over sin, death, and all our circumstances. This truth gives us hope and reassurance.