Luke 9:60

But Jesus told him, "Let the dead bury their own dead. You, however, go and proclaim the kingdom of God."

Study Bible

But Jesus told him
This phrase introduces the direct words of Jesus, emphasizing His authority and the importance of His teachings. In the Greek, the word for "told" is "εἶπεν" (eipen), which is often used to denote a significant or authoritative statement. Jesus' words are not mere suggestions but carry the weight of divine instruction. This sets the stage for a teaching moment that challenges conventional priorities and calls for radical discipleship.

Let the dead
The phrase "the dead" here is translated from the Greek word "νεκρούς" (nekrous), which can refer to both physical and spiritual death. In this context, Jesus is likely referring to those who are spiritually dead, those who have not embraced the life-giving message of the Gospel. This highlights the distinction between those who are alive in Christ and those who are not, underscoring the urgency of spiritual matters over earthly concerns.

bury their own dead
The repetition of "dead" in this phrase serves to emphasize the contrast between the spiritually dead and the living followers of Christ. The act of burying the dead was a significant cultural and religious duty in Jewish society, often seen as a sacred obligation. However, Jesus is challenging His followers to prioritize the Kingdom of God above even the most sacred of earthly duties. This radical call to discipleship requires a reordering of priorities, where following Jesus takes precedence over all else.

But you
This phrase marks a direct and personal address, indicating a shift in focus from the general to the specific. Jesus is speaking directly to the individual, calling for a personal response. The Greek word "σὺ" (sy) is emphatic, highlighting the personal responsibility and decision required in following Christ. It serves as a reminder that discipleship is a personal journey that demands individual commitment.

go and proclaim
The command to "go and proclaim" is an imperative, indicating an urgent and active mission. The Greek word for "proclaim" is "διακήρυξον" (diakēryxon), which means to announce or herald. This is not a passive suggestion but a call to active engagement in spreading the Gospel. It underscores the missionary nature of the Christian life, where believers are called to be active participants in the Great Commission.

the kingdom of God
The "kingdom of God" is a central theme in Jesus' teachings, representing God's sovereign rule and reign. In the Greek, "βασιλείαν τοῦ Θεοῦ" (basileian tou Theou) conveys both a present reality and a future hope. It is a call to live under God's authority and to work towards the realization of His kingdom on earth. This phrase encapsulates the ultimate goal of the Christian mission, to bring others into the transformative reality of God's kingdom.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus
The central figure in this passage, Jesus is addressing a potential disciple, emphasizing the urgency and priority of proclaiming the kingdom of God.

2. The Potential Disciple
An unnamed individual who expresses a desire to follow Jesus but first wants to bury his father, representing a common cultural and familial obligation.

3. The Dead
Refers to both the physically dead and, metaphorically, to those who are spiritually dead, highlighting a distinction between earthly and spiritual priorities.

4. The Kingdom of God
The central theme of Jesus' ministry, representing God's sovereign rule and the call to live under His authority.

Teaching Points

Prioritizing the Kingdom
Jesus calls His followers to prioritize the kingdom of God above all earthly obligations, even those that are culturally significant.

Understanding Spiritual Life and Death
The passage challenges us to discern between physical and spiritual realities, urging us to focus on spiritual life and the mission of the gospel.

The Urgency of the Gospel
The call to "proclaim the kingdom of God" is urgent and requires immediate action, reflecting the importance of the gospel message.

Cultural and Familial Obligations
While cultural and familial duties are important, they should not supersede our commitment to Christ and His mission.

Living with Eternal Perspective
Believers are encouraged to live with an eternal perspective, recognizing that our ultimate allegiance is to God's kingdom.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does Jesus' response in Luke 9:60 reveal about the priorities of a disciple of Christ?

2. How can we balance cultural and familial obligations with our commitment to the kingdom of God in our daily lives?

3. In what ways does the concept of being "spiritually dead" challenge our understanding of life and death?

4. How does the urgency of proclaiming the kingdom of God influence your personal evangelism efforts?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to choose between a cultural obligation and your commitment to Christ. How did you handle it, and what did you learn from the experience?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 8:21-22
This parallel passage reinforces the urgency of following Jesus without delay, emphasizing the same teaching about prioritizing the kingdom of God over traditional obligations.

Ephesians 2:1-5
Discusses being spiritually dead in sin and being made alive in Christ, which connects to the metaphorical use of "the dead" in Luke 9:60.

Colossians 3:1-2
Encourages believers to set their minds on things above, not on earthly things, aligning with Jesus' call to prioritize the kingdom of God.