Luke 24:5

As the women bowed their faces to the ground in terror, the two men asked them, "Why do you look for the living among the dead?

Study Bible

As the women bowed their faces to the ground in terror
This phrase captures the immediate reaction of the women who came to the tomb. The Greek word for "bowed" is "klino," which implies a deep reverence or submission. In the context of the resurrection, this act of bowing signifies both fear and awe in the presence of divine messengers. Historically, bowing one's face to the ground was a common expression of humility and respect, especially in the presence of the divine or the supernatural. The women's terror is a natural human response to encountering the unexpected and the holy, reflecting the profound impact of the resurrection event.

the men asked them
The "men" referred to here are angels, as clarified in the surrounding verses. The Greek word "aner" is used, which can mean "man" but in this context refers to angelic beings. Angels often appear in human form in biblical narratives, serving as messengers of God. Their presence at the tomb underscores the divine nature of the resurrection and the fulfillment of Jesus' prophecies. The angels' role is to guide, inform, and comfort the women, redirecting their understanding from death to life.

Why do you look for the living among the dead?
This rhetorical question is profound and central to the resurrection narrative. The Greek word for "living" is "zao," which signifies not just physical life but a vibrant, eternal life. The angels challenge the women—and by extension, all believers—to shift their perspective from the finality of death to the reality of resurrection. This question invites reflection on the nature of Jesus' mission and the transformative power of His resurrection. It serves as a reminder that Jesus has conquered death, and His followers are called to seek Him in the realm of the living, not among the dead. This phrase encapsulates the hope and victory inherent in the Christian faith, emphasizing that Jesus is alive and active in the world today.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Women
These are the women who came to the tomb of Jesus early on the first day of the week. They were followers of Jesus and had come to anoint His body with spices.

2. The Tomb
The place where Jesus was laid after His crucifixion. It was a new tomb, hewn out of rock, where no one had ever been laid before.

3. The Two Men
These are angels who appeared to the women at the tomb. They are described as men in dazzling apparel, signifying their heavenly origin.

4. The Resurrection
The event of Jesus rising from the dead, which is the central focus of this passage. It is the cornerstone of Christian faith, signifying victory over sin and death.

5. The Question
"Why do you look for the living among the dead?" This question challenges the women’s expectations and understanding of Jesus' resurrection.

Teaching Points

The Reality of the Resurrection
The resurrection is a historical and transformative event. It is not merely a spiritual metaphor but a physical reality that changed the course of history.

Faith Over Fear
The women were initially terrified, but the angelic message redirected their fear to faith. In our lives, we must allow the truth of the resurrection to transform our fears into faith.

Seeking the Living Christ
The question posed by the angels challenges us to seek Jesus in the right places. We should not look for life in dead works or empty rituals but in the living Christ.

The Importance of Witness
The women were the first witnesses to the resurrection. Like them, we are called to share the good news of Jesus' victory over death with others.

Understanding Scripture
The resurrection was foretold in Scripture. We must study and understand the Bible to fully grasp the significance of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the question "Why do you look for the living among the dead?" challenge your current understanding of where to find hope and life?

2. In what ways can the reality of the resurrection impact your daily life and decisions?

3. How can you overcome fear with faith when faced with situations that seem hopeless?

4. What are some "dead" places or things in your life where you might be seeking fulfillment instead of turning to the living Christ?

5. How can you be a witness to the resurrection in your community, and what practical steps can you take to share this message with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 28:5-6
This passage also describes the angelic announcement of Jesus' resurrection to the women, emphasizing the fulfillment of Jesus' promise to rise again.

Mark 16:6
Similar to Luke, Mark records the angelic message to the women, affirming the resurrection and instructing them to tell the disciples.

John 20:11-13
John provides a more personal account of Mary Magdalene's encounter with the angels, highlighting her initial misunderstanding and subsequent realization of the resurrection.

1 Corinthians 15:20-22
Paul speaks of Christ as the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep, connecting the resurrection to the hope of eternal life for believers.