Luke 11:49

Because of this, the wisdom of God said, 'I will send them prophets and apostles; some of them they will kill and others they will persecute.'

Study Bible

For this reason
This phrase indicates a conclusion or a purpose. In the context of Luke 11, Jesus is addressing the hypocrisy and the rejection of God's messengers by the religious leaders. The phrase suggests a divine rationale or purpose behind the actions that follow. It implies that what is about to be stated is a direct consequence of the behavior of the people being addressed. In the Greek, "διὰ τοῦτο" (dia touto) is often used to connect a cause with its effect, emphasizing the inevitability of divine justice or fulfillment of prophecy.

the Wisdom of God said
This phrase personifies wisdom, attributing it to God Himself. In the Jewish tradition, wisdom (Greek: "σοφία," sophia) is often seen as an attribute of God, sometimes even personified as a divine agent. The phrase suggests that what follows is not merely human insight but a divine pronouncement. The "Wisdom of God" can be understood as a reference to the divine plan or purpose, which is consistent with the Old Testament portrayal of wisdom as a guiding principle in creation and history (Proverbs 8).

I will send them prophets and apostles
Here, God declares His intention to send messengers to His people. Prophets and apostles are distinct yet complementary roles within the biblical narrative. Prophets (Greek: "προφήτης," prophētēs) are those who speak forth God's word, often calling for repentance and foretelling future events. Apostles (Greek: "ἀπόστολος," apostolos) are "sent ones," specifically chosen to carry the message of the Gospel. This sending is an act of divine grace, offering guidance and correction to the people.

some of whom they will kill and others they will persecute
This phrase highlights the tragic response of the people to God's messengers. The history of Israel is marked by the rejection and persecution of prophets, as seen in the Old Testament (e.g., Jeremiah, Elijah). The Greek word for "kill" (ἀποκτείνω, apokteinō) indicates a violent rejection, while "persecute" (διώκω, diōkō) suggests ongoing harassment and opposition. This pattern of rejection is fulfilled in the New Testament with the persecution of the apostles and early Christians, underscoring the resistance to divine truth throughout history.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Wisdom of God
This phrase refers to God's divine plan and foreknowledge. It is personified here, indicating God's sovereign decision-making and prophetic declarations.

2. Prophets
These are individuals chosen by God to deliver His messages to the people. In the context of this verse, they are sent by God to guide, warn, and call people back to righteousness.

3. Apostles
The term "apostles" refers to those sent out by Jesus to spread the Gospel. They are foundational figures in the early Church, tasked with teaching and establishing Christian communities.

4. Persecution
This refers to the suffering and hostility faced by the prophets and apostles. It highlights the resistance and rejection of God's messengers by those who oppose His message.

5. Killing of Prophets and Apostles
This event underscores the historical pattern of rejection and violence against those who speak God's truth, as seen throughout biblical history.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Sending Messengers
God, in His wisdom, sends prophets and apostles to guide His people. This demonstrates His ongoing involvement and care for humanity.

The Cost of Discipleship
Following God's call can lead to persecution and suffering. Believers should be prepared to face opposition for their faith.

Historical Pattern of Rejection
The rejection of God's messengers is a recurring theme in Scripture. This serves as a warning to remain open to God's truth and not harden our hearts.

The Role of Prophets and Apostles Today
While the office of apostle as in the early Church is unique, the principles of being sent to proclaim God's truth continue. Believers are called to be messengers of the Gospel in their contexts.

Endurance in Faith
Despite persecution, believers are encouraged to remain steadfast, trusting in God's ultimate justice and reward.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the role of prophets and apostles in biblical history help us appreciate their significance in God's plan?

2. In what ways can we identify and respond to modern-day "prophets" or messengers of God's truth in our lives?

3. How can we prepare ourselves to face persecution or opposition for our faith, as the prophets and apostles did?

4. What lessons can we learn from the historical pattern of rejecting God's messengers, and how can we apply these lessons to avoid similar mistakes?

5. How do the themes of persecution and endurance in Luke 11:49 connect with other New Testament teachings on suffering for the faith?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 23:34-35
This passage parallels Luke 11:49, where Jesus laments over Jerusalem's history of killing prophets and those sent to her.

Acts 7:52
Stephen, the first Christian martyr, accuses the Jewish leaders of betraying and murdering the prophets, connecting to the theme of persecution.

Hebrews 11:36-38
This passage describes the suffering of the prophets and faithful servants of God, emphasizing their endurance and faith despite persecution.