Luke 24:4-6 is about the angelic beings questioning the women at the empty tomb, reminding them of Jesus’ resurrection and pointing them to the truth that He is risen from the dead as He said.
4 While they were perplexed about this, behold, two men stood by them in dazzling apparel.
5 And as they were frightened and bowed their faces to the ground, the men said to them, “Why do you seek the living among the dead?
6 He is not here, but has risen. Remember how he told you, while he was still in Galilee,
Setting the Scene for Luke 24:4-6
In Luke chapter 24, we find the scene at the tomb of Jesus on the morning of the resurrection. Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and other women had come to the tomb with spices to anoint Jesus’ body. As they arrived, they were surprised to find the stone rolled away from the entrance.
The women entered the tomb and found it empty, except for two men in dazzling apparel. These men were angels who appeared to them and said, “Why do you seek the living among the dead? He is not here, but has risen.” The women were filled with awe and confusion at this miraculous sight, realizing that Jesus had indeed risen from the dead, just as He had foretold.
The scene is set in the early morning light, with the sun just beginning to rise, casting a soft glow over the garden tomb. The air is filled with the scent of the spices the women had brought, mingling with the fresh scent of the morning dew. The atmosphere is one of both fear and wonder as the women come face to face with the reality of the resurrection, their hearts filled with a mixture of disbelief and joy at the news they had just received from the angels.
What is Luke 24:4-6 about?
When we reflect on this powerful verse about Jesus’ resurrection being announced by angels to the women at the empty tomb, we are reminded of the profound significance of this moment in the Christian faith. The resurrection of Jesus is at the core of our beliefs, symbolizing hope, new beginnings, and the victory over sin and death. The angels’ presence at the empty tomb signifies the divine intervention and reassurance that Jesus has risen, fulfilling the prophecy and bringing salvation to all who believe in Him.
Imagine the awe and wonder the women must have felt when they encountered the angels at the empty tomb, hearing the news that Jesus had overcome death. This moment serves as a reminder to us all that through Jesus’ resurrection, we too can experience transformation, forgiveness, and eternal life. It is a testament to the power of God’s love and the fulfillment of His promises. Let us hold onto this verse as a beacon of hope and a reminder of the ultimate victory that Jesus achieved through His resurrection.
Understanding what Luke 24:4-6 really means
After the crucifixion of Jesus, on the morning of His resurrection, the women who followed Him went to His tomb to anoint His body with spices. Upon finding the stone rolled away and the tomb empty, they were perplexed about this, reflecting the common human response of confusion when faced with divine actions that surpass our understanding. The appearance of two men in dazzling clothes, who were angels, signified divine intervention and the importance of the message they were about to deliver. Their question, “Why do you look for the living among the dead?” challenged the women, and us, to shift our perspective from death to life, from despair to hope.
The proclamation, “He is not here, but has risen,” encapsulates the core of the Christian faith – the resurrection of Jesus. This event signifies victory over death and offers the promise of eternal life to all believers. Similar accounts of the resurrection can be found in Matthew 28:5-6, where the angel reassures the women not to fear and confirms Jesus’ resurrection. In 1 Corinthians 15:20-22, Paul explains the significance of Christ’s resurrection as the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep, emphasizing the hope it brings to all believers. Romans 6:4 further elaborates on the concept of being buried with Christ through baptism into death, leading to a new life in Him.
The relevance of this passage to people today lies in its foundational role in the Christian faith, offering hope and assurance of life beyond death. In moments of confusion and despair, it serves as a reminder that God’s plans often surpass our understanding, bringing life out of situations that may seem hopeless. This passage encourages believers to seek the living Christ in their daily lives, focusing on the hope and new life He offers rather than dwelling on past failures or losses.
To illustrate this shift from despair to hope, consider a person who has lost their job and feels hopeless. Similar to the women at the tomb, they may be searching for answers in futile places. However, by turning to their faith and community, they can find support and new opportunities, symbolizing the transition from seeking the living among the dead to embracing new life and possibilities. Ultimately, this passage calls us to recognize the living presence of Jesus in our lives today, urging us to move from confusion to understanding, from despair to hope, and from death to life. Embracing the resurrection allows us to find renewed purpose and direction, trusting in God’s plan even when it defies our expectations.
What meaning do we seek in the resurrection?
The resurrection carries deep significance for Christians, as it is a powerful affirmation of Jesus’ divinity and victory over death. It represents hope, redemption, and the promise of eternal life for believers. Through his resurrection, Jesus conquered sin and death, offering believers the opportunity for forgiveness and salvation.
The resurrection also serves as a reassurance of God’s faithfulness and power. It demonstrates God’s ability to bring about new life and transformation in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Believers are promised the hope of resurrection and eternal life with God in heaven, just as Jesus overcame death. Believers find a sense of purpose and meaning in the resurrection of Jesus, which is a foundational belief in Christian faith. It symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and serves as a reminder of the profound love and grace that God has for humanity.
Application
Let the miracle of the empty tomb ignite a fire within your soul. Allow the power of Christ’s resurrection to drive out fear and doubt from your heart. Share this incredible story with the same passion and zeal you bring to your work and family. Will you seize this opportunity to spread the message of hope and redemption to those around you?
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.