Luke 9:22

Saying, The Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be slain, and be raised the third day.

Luke 9:22 (KJV)

Context

In the preceding verses, Jesus asks His disciples who they believe He is. Peter responds, “The Christ of God.” Then Jesus warns them not to tell anyone and reveals that He must suffer, be rejected, killed, and raised on the third day. This is the first explicit passion prediction in Luke’s Gospel, setting the pattern for the disciples’ understanding of the Messiah.

Meaning

Jesus often referred to Himself as the “Son of Man.” This title carries Messianic implications, coming from Daniel’s vision of “one like a son of man” receiving authority and an everlasting kingdom from God (Daniel 7:13-14). By using this title, Jesus highlights His divine mission and identity as the Messiah.

Jesus states that He must suffer many things. The word “must” indicates divine necessity, not mere fate. His suffering and death were not accidental but essential components of God’s redemptive plan for humanity. Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross was necessary to atone for sins and reconcile people with God.

Jesus predicts rejection by the elders, chief priests, and scribes—the prominent figures in the Jewish religious establishment, who constituted the Sanhedrin, the high court. Their rejection would lead to His crucifixion, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies concerning the suffering Messiah (Isaiah 53:3).

Jesus prophesies that He will be slain and raised on the third day. His death was not the end but a prelude to His resurrection, which demonstrates His victory over sin and death. The resurrection is central to Christian faith, validating Jesus’ claims and offering hope for eternal life.

Biblical connections

This is the first of several passion predictions in Luke (Luke 9:44, 18:31-33, 24:7), paralleled in Matthew 16:21 and Mark 8:31. The resurrection on the third day is later emphasized by Paul in 1 Corinthians 15:3-4. The following verse (Luke 9:23) calls disciples to take up their cross daily, showing that His suffering is the pattern for His followers.

Application

Jesus’ willingness to suffer and die reveals the depth of God’s love and the seriousness of sin. Believers are called to trust in His finished work and to follow Him, even when that involves hardship. The resurrection assures us that suffering is not the final word; God’s purposes end in victory.

Reflection

How does the certainty of Jesus’ resurrection shape your response to trials? The same power that raised Him is at work in those who believe, giving hope and strength for daily faithfulness.