Luke 24:22

Yea, and certain women also of our company made us astonished, which were early at the sepulchre;

Luke 24:22 (KJV)

Context

This verse belongs to the Emmaus road narrative, where two disciples walk from Jerusalem to Emmaus, discussing the crucifixion and the reports of an empty tomb. The risen Jesus joins them, but they do not recognize Him. In verse 22, they tell Him that certain women from their own company had gone early to the sepulchre and had astonished them with their report.

Meaning

The women were faithful followers of Jesus who had witnessed His crucifixion and burial. They went to the tomb early in the morning, intending to anoint His body, not expecting the resurrection. Their report was that they did not find His body and that they had seen a vision of angels who said He was alive (Luke 24:23). This left the disciples astonished and confused, unable to believe or disprove it.

The disciples’ astonishment reflects their struggle to comprehend the resurrection, even as it was being fulfilled. Their reaction shows that the resurrection was not a product of wishful thinking; they were initially skeptical, yet the evidence compelled them to investigate further (Luke 24:24).

Biblical connections

This verse connects to Luke 24:1, where the women are described as going to the tomb very early on the first day of the week, and to Luke 24:10, which names the women. The immediate context continues with Jesus rebuking them for being slow to believe all that the prophets had spoken (Luke 24:25) and explaining that the Christ had to suffer and enter His glory (Luke 24:26).

Application

The women’s role as the first witnesses to the empty tomb highlights the reliability of the resurrection account. Their dedication and commitment are evident as they were the first to arrive at the tomb. This encourages readers to recognize the historical reliability of the biblical narrative and the central importance of Christ’s resurrection in the Christian faith.

Reflection

The empty tomb serves as evidence of Jesus’ victory over death and His power to provide salvation and eternal life to all who believe in Him. The disciples’ journey from astonishment to faith mirrors the experience of many who encounter the resurrection account and must decide how to respond to its claims.