Luke 1:32

KJV

He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David:

KJV (with Strong's)

He {G3778} shall be {G2071} great {G3173}, and {G2532} shall be called {G2564} the Son {G5207} of the Highest {G5310}: and {G2532} the Lord {G2962} God {G2316} shall give {G1325} unto him {G846} the throne {G2362} of his {G846} father {G3962} David {G1138}:

Complete Jewish Bible

He will be great, he will be called Son of Ha`Elyon. ADONAI, God, will give him the throne of his forefather David;

Berean Standard Bible

He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David,

American Standard Version

He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Most High: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Luke 1:32 presents the angelic annunciation to Mary, revealing the unparalleled identity and destiny of her miraculously conceived son, Jesus. This pivotal verse declares Jesus' inherent greatness, His unique divine Sonship as "the Son of the Highest," and the foundational promise that the Lord God will bestow upon Him the eternal throne of His ancestor, King David. It encapsulates the convergence of divine nature and messianic kingship, establishing Jesus as the long-awaited fulfillment of Israel's deepest hopes.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Luke 1:32 is nestled within the angelic annunciation to Mary (Luke 1:26-38), following Gabriel's initial greeting and Mary's perplexed response. This passage parallels the earlier annunciation to Zechariah concerning John the Baptist (Luke 1:5-25), yet it immediately elevates the status of Jesus far beyond that of John, who is described as preparing the way for the Lord (Luke 1:17). The verses immediately following Luke 1:32 further elaborate on Jesus' eternal reign and the Holy Spirit's role in His conception (Luke 1:33-35), culminating in Mary's humble acceptance of God's will (Luke 1:38). This annunciation serves as the theological linchpin for understanding Jesus' divine identity and messianic role throughout Luke's Gospel, setting the stage for His birth narrative and subsequent ministry.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** First-century Judea was a land under Roman occupation, yet deeply steeped in its Jewish heritage and messianic expectations. The Jewish people eagerly awaited a Messiah, often envisioned as a powerful political and military leader who would liberate them from foreign rule and restore the glory of the Davidic kingdom. The promise of a descendant of David reigning forever, rooted in the [Davidic Covenant](/2_samuel/7-12-16 "2 Samuel 7:12-16 - The Davidic Covenant"), was central to their national identity and hope. The title "Son of the Highest" would have resonated with Jewish monotheism, identifying God as the supreme, transcendent deity, and thus attributing a unique, divine relationship to Jesus. The humble setting of Nazareth, a small, obscure Galilean village, contrasts sharply with the grandeur of the titles bestowed upon Jesus, highlighting God's sovereign choice and the unexpected nature of His redemptive plan.
* **Key Themes:** This verse is rich with significant theological themes. Foremost is the theme of **Divine Sovereignty and Fulfillment of Prophecy**, as God orchestrates the birth of His Son in accordance with ancient promises, particularly the [Davidic Covenant](/2_samuel/7 "2 Samuel 7 - The Davidic Covenant"). It powerfully introduces the theme of **Jesus' Unique Identity and Divine Sonship**, declaring Him not merely a prophet or king, but "the Son of the Highest," a title emphasizing His inherent deity and intimate relationship with God the Father. Furthermore, it establishes the **Messianic Kingship of Jesus**, affirming His rightful claim to the eternal throne of David, a theme that permeates the Gospels and the entire New Testament, culminating in the vision of His eternal reign in [Revelation](/revelation/11-15 "Revelation 11:15 - The Kingdom of the World Becomes the Kingdom of Our Lord"). The concept of **Greatness** is also central, distinguishing Jesus as supreme above all others, not just in earthly power but in divine authority and eternal significance.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **great (Greek, _mégas'_):** (G3173) This word signifies not merely physical size, but profound importance, eminence, and might. When applied to Jesus, it denotes His unparalleled significance, authority, and power, transcending any earthly measure. His greatness is tied to His divine nature and His eternal, universal reign, setting Him apart from all other human figures.
* **Son (Greek, _huiós'_):** (G5207) While "son" can denote biological offspring or even a close disciple, in this context, when paired with "the Highest," it indicates a unique, essential relationship of divine kinship. It points to Jesus' shared nature and essence with God, establishing His divine origin and identity as the unique Son of God, distinct from any other created being.
* **throne (Greek, _thrónos'_):** (G2362) This term refers to a stately seat of authority, symbolizing power, dominion, and kingship. The promise of "the throne of his father David" directly alludes to the Davidic Covenant, signifying Jesus' rightful claim to the royal lineage and the eternal, universal reign of God's Messiah. It emphasizes His role as the sovereign King whose kingdom will have no end.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"He shall be great":** This opening declaration immediately sets Jesus apart. It is a prophetic statement affirming His unparalleled significance, not just as a prominent figure, but as one possessing inherent, divine greatness. This greatness encompasses His divine nature, His authority, His power, and the eternal scope of His reign, distinguishing Him from all other human beings.
* **"and shall be called the Son of the Highest":** This clause reveals Jesus' unique relationship with God. "The Highest" (G5310, _hýpsistos_) is a common Old Testament (Septuagint) title for God Almighty, emphasizing His supreme transcendence and sovereignty. To be "called the Son of the Highest" is not merely an honorary title but a declaration of Jesus' divine origin, shared essence, and unique filial relationship with God, establishing His deity.
* **"and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David":** This final clause connects Jesus directly to the ancient messianic hopes of Israel. "The Lord God" (G2962 _kýrios_ G2316 _theós_) signifies divine initiative and faithfulness. The "throne of his father David" is a direct reference to the [Davidic Covenant](/2_samuel/7-12-16 "2 Samuel 7:12-16 - The Davidic Covenant"), where God promised David an eternal dynasty. This establishes Jesus as the rightful, divinely appointed heir to David's throne, fulfilling centuries of prophecy and affirming His role as the promised Messiah-King whose reign will be eternal and universal.

#### Literary Devices
Luke 1:32 employs several powerful literary devices to convey its profound theological truths. The most prominent is **Prophecy**, as the angel Gabriel delivers a direct divine utterance concerning the future identity and destiny of Jesus. This prophecy is rich with **Allusion**, specifically to the [Davidic Covenant](/2_samuel/7 "2 Samuel 7 - The Davidic Covenant"), connecting Jesus' future reign directly to God's ancient promises to King David. The phrase "Son of the Highest" functions as a significant **Title/Appellation**, serving as a theological declaration of Jesus' divine nature and unique relationship with God. The "throne of his father David" is a powerful **Symbolism**, representing not just an earthly seat of power but the eternal, spiritual, and universal kingdom that Jesus would establish. The entire verse is an example of **Foreshadowing**, setting the stage for Jesus' later claims of divine authority and His ultimate establishment of the Kingdom of God.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Luke 1:32 is a cornerstone of Christian theology, profoundly shaping our understanding of Jesus' identity. It beautifully intertwines His divine nature with His messianic role, demonstrating that the long-awaited King of Israel is also the very Son of God. This verse underscores God's faithfulness to His covenant promises, particularly the Davidic Covenant, revealing that His plan for redemption unfolds precisely as prophesied. It speaks to the nature of Jesus' kingdom—one that is not merely earthly or temporal, but eternal and universal, reflecting His divine authority. The declaration of Jesus' greatness and divine sonship lays the foundation for the entire New Testament's Christology, emphasizing His supremacy and unique position in salvation history.

* [2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2_samuel/7-12-16 "The Davidic Covenant: God's Promise to David")
* [Isaiah 9:6-7](/isaiah/9-6-7 "Prophecy of the Messiah's Eternal Kingdom")
* [Daniel 7:13-14](/daniel/7-13-14 "The Son of Man's Eternal Dominion")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Luke 1:32 offers profound assurance and hope for believers. It reminds us that Jesus is not merely a historical figure, a good teacher, or a moral example, but the divinely appointed, eternal King and Son of God. This truth provides a stable foundation for our faith, assuring us that God's promises are trustworthy and His plan for humanity is unfolding according to His sovereign will. Understanding Jesus as "the Son of the Highest" deepens our worship and reverence, recognizing His supreme authority and inherent deity. His reign on "the throne of his father David" signifies a kingdom that is everlasting, bringing ultimate justice, peace, and righteousness. This means that our hope is not in fleeting earthly powers, but in an eternal King whose dominion will never end, offering true security and purpose in a chaotic world. It calls us to align our lives with His kingdom values and to live in anticipation of His full and final reign.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding Jesus as "the Son of the Highest" impact your view of His authority and your personal submission to Him?**
* **What comfort or challenge do you find in the promise that Jesus' kingdom, inherited from David, will be eternal?**
* **In what ways does this verse encourage you to trust in God's faithfulness to His promises, even when circumstances seem uncertain?**

### FAQ

**What does it mean for Jesus to be "called the Son of the Highest"?**

Answer: To be "called the Son of the Highest" is a profound theological declaration of Jesus' unique divine identity. "The Highest" (Greek: _Hypsistos_) is a title frequently used in the Septuagint (the Greek Old Testament) to refer to God Almighty, emphasizing His supreme transcendence and sovereignty. Therefore, calling Jesus "the Son of the Highest" means He shares the very nature and essence of God. It signifies His pre-existence, His divine origin, and His unique, intimate relationship with God the Father, establishing Him as truly God. This is not merely an honorary title but a statement of His intrinsic deity, distinguishing Him from all other beings and affirming His co-equality with God, as further elaborated in passages like [John 1:1-3](/john/1-1-3 "John 1:1-3 - The Word Was God") and [Colossians 1:15-17](/colossians/1-15-17 "Colossians 1:15-17 - Christ's Supremacy").

**How does Jesus, born to Mary, inherit "the throne of his father David"?**

Answer: Jesus inherits "the throne of his father David" through both His legal lineage and divine appointment, fulfilling ancient prophecies. Legally, Jesus' earthly father, Joseph, was a descendant of David (as recorded in [Matthew 1:1-17](/matthew/1-1-17 "Matthew 1:1-17 - The Genealogy of Jesus") and [Luke 3:23-38](/luke/3-23-38 "Luke 3:23-38 - The Genealogy of Jesus")). Although Jesus was conceived by the Holy Spirit and not biologically Joseph's son, Joseph's legal fatherhood conferred upon Jesus the legal right to the Davidic throne. Furthermore, Mary herself was also of the lineage of David, strengthening this connection. More importantly, this inheritance is a direct fulfillment of the [Davidic Covenant](/2_samuel/7-12-16 "2 Samuel 7:12-16 - God's Promise to David"), where God promised King David that his "house and his kingdom shall be established forever." Jesus, as the Messiah, is the ultimate heir to this promise, establishing an eternal spiritual kingdom that transcends earthly boundaries, as described in [Isaiah 9:7](/isaiah/9-7 "Isaiah 9:7 - The Everlasting Kingdom").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Luke 1:32 finds its ultimate and profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who embodies every aspect of this angelic prophecy. "He shall be great" is realized in Jesus' unparalleled life, miraculous ministry, authoritative teaching, and His ultimate triumph over sin and death through His crucifixion and resurrection. He is indeed "the Son of the Highest," a truth affirmed by His divine claims, His unique relationship with the Father, and His miraculous works, culminating in His ascension where He is seated at the right hand of God, demonstrating His supreme deity and authority (cf. [Hebrews 1:3](/hebrews/1-3 "Hebrews 1:3 - Christ's Supremacy")). The promise that "the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David" is fulfilled not in an earthly political kingdom, but in Jesus' establishment of an eternal, spiritual kingdom that encompasses all believers. His resurrection and ascension signify His enthronement as the King of kings and Lord of lords, reigning from heaven (cf. [Acts 2:30-36](/acts/2-30-36 "Acts 2:30-36 - Peter's Sermon on David and the Resurrection")). This reign is both present, as He rules in the hearts of His followers, and future, as He will return to fully establish His glorious kingdom, bringing all things under His perfect dominion (cf. [Revelation 11:15](/revelation/11-15 "Revelation 11:15 - The Kingdom of the World Becomes the Kingdom of Our Lord")). Thus, Luke 1:32 is a powerful testament to Jesus as the divine, great, and eternally reigning Messiah, the promised King who perfectly fulfills God's ancient covenant with David.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Isaiah 9:6

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

Isaiah 9:7

Of the increase of [his] government and peace [there shall be] no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.

Isaiah 16:5

And in mercy shall the throne be established: and he shall sit upon it in truth in the tabernacle of David, judging, and seeking judgment, and hasting righteousness.

Luke 1:35

And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.

2 Samuel 7:11

And as since the time that I commanded judges [to be] over my people Israel, and have caused thee to rest from all thine enemies. Also the LORD telleth thee that he will make thee an house.

2 Samuel 7:13

He shall build an house for my name, and I will stablish the throne of his kingdom for ever.

Psalms 132:11

¶ The LORD hath sworn [in] truth unto David; he will not turn from it; Of the fruit of thy body will I set upon thy throne.