Luke 24:2

They found the stone rolled away from the tomb,

Study Bible

They found
The phrase "they found" indicates a discovery made by the women who came to the tomb early in the morning. In the Greek, the word used is "εὗρον" (heurisko), which means to find or discover something that was not previously known. This discovery is significant as it marks the beginning of the revelation of the resurrection. The women were expecting to find Jesus' body, but instead, they found something entirely different, which would change the course of history. This moment of discovery is a testament to the unexpected ways in which God works, often beyond human understanding or expectation.

the stone
The "stone" refers to the large rock that was placed at the entrance of Jesus' tomb. In the context of first-century Jewish burial practices, such stones were used to seal tombs, preventing animals or grave robbers from entering. The Greek word "λίθος" (lithos) is used here, emphasizing the physical barrier that was meant to keep the dead in and the living out. The stone's removal is symbolic of the power of God to overcome obstacles and barriers, both physical and spiritual. It signifies the opening of a new era where death is no longer the final word.

rolled away
The phrase "rolled away" is translated from the Greek word "ἀποκεκυλισμένον" (apokekulismenon), which implies a deliberate action. The passive voice suggests divine intervention, as the women could not have moved the stone themselves due to its size and weight. This action signifies God's direct involvement in the resurrection event. The rolling away of the stone is not just a physical act but a spiritual one, symbolizing the removal of the barrier between humanity and God, made possible through Jesus' victory over death.

from the tomb
The "tomb" is the place where Jesus was laid after His crucifixion. The Greek word "μνημεῖον" (mnemeion) refers to a memorial or a sepulcher. In the historical context, tombs were often carved out of rock and were a place of final rest. However, in this narrative, the tomb becomes a place of new beginnings. The empty tomb is a powerful symbol of the resurrection, serving as evidence that Jesus has risen, as He had promised. It challenges believers to move from a place of mourning to one of hope and joy, knowing that death has been conquered.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Women
The women who came to the tomb early in the morning, including Mary Magdalene, Joanna, and Mary the mother of James, as mentioned in the surrounding verses. They were followers of Jesus who came to anoint His body with spices.

2. The Tomb
The burial place of Jesus, which was a new tomb hewn out of rock, belonging to Joseph of Arimathea. It was located in a garden near the site of the crucifixion.

3. The Stone
A large stone that was rolled in front of the entrance to the tomb to seal it. Its removal signifies divine intervention and the resurrection of Jesus.

4. The Resurrection
The event of Jesus rising from the dead, which is central to Christian faith. The empty tomb is the first sign of this miraculous event.

5. The Angels
Although not mentioned in verse 2, the subsequent verses describe angels who appeared to the women, explaining the significance of the empty tomb.

Teaching Points

Divine Intervention
The removal of the stone signifies God's power over death and His active role in the resurrection. Believers can trust in God's ability to overcome obstacles in their lives.

Faith in the Resurrection
The empty tomb is a foundational proof of Jesus' victory over death. Christians are called to live in the hope and assurance of the resurrection.

Witness and Testimony
The women were the first to witness the empty tomb and share the news of the resurrection. Believers are encouraged to be bold in sharing their faith and the truth of the Gospel.

Fulfillment of Prophecy
The resurrection fulfills Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah. Understanding these connections strengthens faith in the reliability of Scripture.

Hope in Christ
The resurrection provides hope for eternal life. Christians are reminded to focus on the eternal perspective and the promise of life beyond the grave.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the removal of the stone symbolize in the context of God's power and intervention in our lives?

2. How does the account of the empty tomb strengthen your faith in the resurrection of Jesus and the promises of Scripture?

3. In what ways can you be a witness to the resurrection of Christ in your daily life, following the example of the women at the tomb?

4. How does understanding the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies in the resurrection of Jesus impact your view of the Bible's reliability?

5. What are some practical ways you can live out the hope of the resurrection in your interactions with others and in facing life's challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 28:2-4
Describes the earthquake and the angel of the Lord who rolled back the stone, emphasizing the divine power involved in the resurrection.

Mark 16:4
Also notes the stone being rolled away, highlighting the women's concern about who would move it for them, which underscores the miraculous nature of its removal.

John 20:1
Provides another account of Mary Magdalene discovering the stone rolled away, reinforcing the consistency of the resurrection account across the Gospels.

1 Corinthians 15:4
Paul affirms that Christ was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, connecting the event to the fulfillment of prophecy.