Luke 9:51

KJV

¶ And it came to pass, when the time was come that he should be received up, he stedfastly set his face to go to Jerusalem,

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G1161} it came to pass {G1096}, when {G1722} the time {G2250} was come {G4845} that he {G846} should be received up {G354},{G2532} he {G846} stedfastly set {G4741} his {G846} face {G4383} to go {G4198} to {G1519} Jerusalem {G2419},

Complete Jewish Bible

As the time approached for him to be taken up into heaven, he made his decision to set out for Yerushalayim.

Berean Standard Bible

As the day of His ascension approached, Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem.

American Standard Version

And it came to pass, when the days were well-nigh come that he should be received up, he stedfastly set his face to go to Jerusalem,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Luke 9:51 marks a profound and pivotal moment in Jesus's earthly ministry, signaling a decisive shift in the narrative of Luke's Gospel. This verse introduces the final, resolute phase of His journey, as He, with unwavering determination, turns His steps directly towards Jerusalem. This eastward trajectory is not merely a geographical movement but a divinely appointed progression towards the culmination of His redemptive mission, encompassing His suffering, death, resurrection, and ultimate ascension. It underscores His conscious and steadfast commitment to fulfilling the Father's will, even in the face of the immense suffering He knew awaited Him in the holy city.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows the profound event of the [Transfiguration](/luke/9-28-36 "Luke 9:28-36 - The Transfiguration"), where Moses and Elijah appeared with Jesus, speaking of His "departure" or "exodus" (Greek: _exodos_). This "exodus," to be accomplished in Jerusalem, encompasses His crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension. The divine confirmation of His path at the Transfiguration empowers Jesus to move forward with unwavering resolve. Luke 9:51 thus initiates a significant and unique section of Luke's Gospel, often referred to as the "Travel Narrative" (extending from [Luke 9:51](/luke/9-51 "Luke 9:51 - Jesus Sets His Face Toward Jerusalem") to [Luke 19:27](/luke/19-27 "Luke 19:27 - Parable of the Minas")), detailing Jesus's teachings, parables, and interactions specifically as He journeys towards Jerusalem, knowing full well what awaits Him there. This extended journey emphasizes the intentionality and purpose behind His final approach to the cross.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Jerusalem was the spiritual, political, and cultural heart of Judaism, the site of the Temple, and the place where prophets were often rejected and killed. For Jesus to "set His face to go to Jerusalem" was to embrace His destiny as the Suffering Servant, fulfilling ancient prophecies. The city was a focal point for Jewish messianic expectations, yet also a place of intense religious and political opposition to Jesus. His journey was not a casual visit but a deliberate pilgrimage to the place of ultimate sacrifice, echoing the Passover lambs brought to Jerusalem for slaughter. Culturally, setting one's face towards a destination signified firm resolve and commitment, a concept deeply understood in the ancient Near East.

* **Key Themes:** Luke 9:51 powerfully introduces several overarching themes that permeate the remainder of Luke's Gospel. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Purpose and Sovereignty**, emphasizing that Jesus's life and destiny were not accidental but part of a preordained divine plan for salvation, as confirmed by the heavenly conversation at the [Transfiguration](/luke/9-31 "Luke 9:31 - Moses and Elijah Speak of His Exodus"). Secondly, it underscores Jesus's **Unwavering Determination and Obedience**, portrayed by the powerful imagery of "stedfastly set his face." This resolve, despite foreknowledge of suffering, demonstrates His complete submission to the Father's will, echoing prophetic imagery of the suffering servant who [set his face like a flint](/isaiah/50-7 "Isaiah 50:7 - The Suffering Servant's Resolve"). Finally, the phrase "should be received up" introduces the theme of **Sacrifice and Exaltation**, pointing not only to His ultimate ascension but encompassing the entire climactic period of His Passion, death, and resurrection, all of which were necessary for His eventual glorification. This journey to Jerusalem is the path to His "exodus" and subsequent triumph.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **stedfastly set (Greek, _stērízō_):** This verb, derived from a root meaning "to set fast," signifies to make firm, establish, or fix resolutely. In this context, it literally means "to strengthen" or "to fix" His face. It powerfully conveys Jesus's unyielding resolve and firm determination. It's not a casual decision but a resolute commitment to a specific, difficult path, demonstrating an unshakeable inner resolve.
* **face (Greek, _prósōpon_):** This noun refers to the front, the countenance, or the aspect. When combined with _stērízō_, it forms a powerful Hebraism, "to set one's face," which denotes an unyielding, determined resolve. It indicates a firm decision to proceed despite obstacles, a complete lack of hesitation or wavering. It reflects the inner disposition made visible through outward expression.
* **received up (Greek, _análēpsis_):** From a verb meaning "to take up," this noun specifically refers to "ascension." While it ultimately points to Jesus's physical ascent into heaven, in this immediate context, it encompasses the entire climactic period of His earthly ministry: His Passion, death, resurrection, and ultimate return to the Father. It signifies the completion of His redemptive work on earth and His subsequent glorification.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"¶ And it came to pass,"**: This is a common Lukan transitional phrase (Greek: _kai egeneto_). It serves to mark a significant new development in the narrative, indicating that what follows is an event of importance and a turning point. It draws the reader's attention to the impending shift in Jesus's ministry and geographical focus.
* **"when the time was come that he should be received up,"**: This clause reveals the divine timing and purpose behind Jesus's actions. The "time" (Greek: _hēméra_, day/period) was divinely appointed, indicating that His suffering, death, resurrection, and ascension (the "receiving up" or _análēpsis_) were not accidental but part of God's sovereign plan. It emphasizes that Jesus was moving towards a preordained destiny, the culmination of His earthly mission.
* **"he stedfastly set his face to go to Jerusalem,"**: This is the core declaration of the verse, conveying Jesus's unwavering resolve. The Hebraism "stedfastly set his face" (Greek: _estērixen to prosōpon autou_) signifies absolute determination and an unyielding commitment to His path, despite knowing the suffering that awaited Him. His journey to Jerusalem was a deliberate, resolute act of obedience to the Father's will, marking the beginning of His final, sacrificial journey.

#### Literary Devices
Luke 9:51 is rich in literary significance. The phrase "he stedfastly set his face to go to Jerusalem" is a powerful **Hebraism**, reflecting Old Testament prophetic language (e.g., [Isaiah 50:7](/isaiah/50-7 "Isaiah 50:7 - The Servant's Unwavering Resolve")) that denotes unwavering determination and resolve in the face of adversity. This imagery provides a profound sense of Jesus's intentionality and obedience. The entire verse functions as a dramatic **Turning Point** or **Pivot** in Luke's narrative, shifting the geographical and thematic focus from Galilee to the decisive journey towards Jerusalem. It serves as a narrative hinge, introducing the "Travel Narrative" section of the Gospel. Furthermore, the mention of "the time was come that he should be received up" acts as significant **Foreshadowing**, hinting at the Passion, Resurrection, and Ascension that will unfold in Jerusalem, building suspense and emphasizing the divine orchestration of these events. There is also **Symbolism** in Jerusalem itself, representing not just a city but the place of ultimate sacrifice and the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Luke 9:51 stands as a profound theological statement, revealing Jesus's divine nature, His perfect obedience, and the sovereign plan of God for salvation. His resolute journey to Jerusalem underscores the intentionality of His sacrifice, demonstrating that His suffering was not a tragic accident but a deliberate act of love and submission to the Father's will. This commitment to His "exodus" (Passion, Resurrection, Ascension) highlights the foundational truth that salvation is accomplished through Christ's unwavering resolve to fulfill His mission, culminating in His atoning death and victorious resurrection. It portrays Jesus as the ultimate example of purposeful living and steadfast devotion to God's calling, even when it leads to immense personal cost.

* [Isaiah 50:7](/isaiah/50-7 "Isaiah 50:7 - The Suffering Servant's Resolve")
* [John 13:1](/john/13-1 "John 13:1 - Jesus Knows His Hour Has Come")
* [Hebrews 12:2](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Jesus, the Author and Finisher of Our Faith")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Luke 9:51 offers profound lessons for believers today, challenging us to emulate Christ's steadfastness in our own walk of faith. Jesus's unwavering resolve to fulfill His divine purpose, even in the face of immense suffering, calls us to examine our own commitment to God's will. Are we willing to embrace the path God has set before us, even when it is difficult, unpopular, or requires significant personal sacrifice? This verse encourages us to live with intentionality, aligning our lives and decisions with God's greater plan, rather than being swayed by fleeting desires or worldly pressures. Just as Jesus fixed His gaze on Jerusalem, we are called to fix our gaze on Christ, the author and finisher of our faith, trusting that He will equip us to face adversity with the same steadfast determination. His journey reminds us that true discipleship often involves a costly commitment, but it is a path that ultimately leads to glory and the fulfillment of God's purposes in and through us.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "Jerusalem" might God be calling you to face in your life, requiring steadfast resolve and trust?**
* **How does Jesus's unwavering commitment in Luke 9:51 inspire you to live with greater purpose and obedience to God's will?**
* **In what areas of your life do you need to "stedfastly set your face" and resist wavering or turning back?**
* **How does understanding Jesus's "receiving up" (Passion, Resurrection, Ascension) impact your perspective on suffering and ultimate hope?**

### FAQ

**What is the significance of the phrase "should be received up" in Luke 9:51?**

Answer: The phrase "should be received up" (Greek: _analēpsis_) is highly significant. While it directly points to Jesus's ultimate [ascension into heaven](/acts/1-9 "Acts 1:9 - Jesus Ascends to Heaven"), in this specific context, it encompasses the entire culminating period of His earthly ministry. This includes His Passion (suffering), His crucifixion, His resurrection, and finally, His ascension. It signifies the completion of His redemptive work on earth and His triumphant return to the Father. This broader meaning emphasizes that Jesus was moving towards a divinely appointed "exodus" from this world, a concept also discussed by Moses and Elijah with Jesus during the [Transfiguration](/luke/9-31 "Luke 9:31 - Moses and Elijah Speak of His Exodus").

**What does it mean that Jesus "stedfastly set his face to go to Jerusalem"?**

Answer: This powerful expression is a Hebraism, meaning to show firm resolve, unwavering determination, and unyielding commitment. It indicates that Jesus made a deliberate and irreversible decision to proceed towards Jerusalem, fully aware of the suffering and death that awaited Him there. It's not a casual journey but a resolute act of obedience to the Father's will, demonstrating His complete dedication to His mission. This imagery echoes the prophetic description of the Suffering Servant in [Isaiah 50:7](/isaiah/50-7 "Isaiah 50:7 - The Suffering Servant's Resolve"), who "set his face like a flint." It underscores Jesus's courage and divine purpose in embracing His destiny.

**Why is Luke 9:51 considered a pivotal turning point in Luke's Gospel?**

Answer: Luke 9:51 marks a crucial narrative shift in Luke's Gospel. Prior to this verse, Jesus's ministry is primarily focused on Galilee and the surrounding regions. From this point onward, Luke dedicates a substantial portion of his Gospel (often called the "Travel Narrative," [Luke 9:51-19:27](/luke/9-51-19-27 "Luke's Travel Narrative - Journey to Jerusalem")) to Jesus's teachings, parables, and interactions specifically as He journeys towards Jerusalem. This deliberate focus on the journey to the holy city underscores the intentionality of His final approach to the cross and resurrection. It emphasizes that His suffering and death were not accidental but a divinely orchestrated culmination of His mission, highlighting His unwavering commitment to fulfilling God's redemptive plan.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Luke 9:51 is profoundly Christ-centered, revealing the very heart of Jesus's redemptive mission. His resolute decision to "stedfastly set his face to go to Jerusalem" is the ultimate demonstration of His obedient love, not only for the Father but for humanity. This journey was the path to His "receiving up," a term encompassing His Passion, crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension—the very core of the gospel. In His unwavering resolve, we see the perfect Lamb of God willingly going to the slaughter, fulfilling the ancient prophecies and offering Himself as the once-for-all sacrifice for sin. This verse foreshadows the profound humility and obedience described in [Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Humility and Obedience"), where Christ "humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross." His steadfastness in the face of unspeakable suffering ultimately led to His glorious exaltation, as He was "received up" to the Father's right hand, becoming the source of eternal salvation for all who believe ([Hebrews 5:9](/hebrews/5-9 "Hebrews 5:9 - Christ, the Source of Eternal Salvation")). Thus, Luke 9:51 is not merely a geographical marker but a theological declaration of Christ's purposeful journey to accomplish our redemption, culminating in His victory over sin and death and His glorious return to His heavenly throne ([Acts 1:9-11](/acts/1-9-11 "Acts 1:9-11 - Jesus's Ascension and Promise of Return")).

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

Mark 16:19

¶ So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God.

Isaiah 50:5

The Lord GOD hath opened mine ear, and I was not rebellious, neither turned away back.

Isaiah 50:9

Behold, the Lord GOD will help me; who [is] he [that] shall condemn me? lo, they all shall wax old as a garment; the moth shall eat them up.

Luke 13:22

And he went through the cities and villages, teaching, and journeying toward Jerusalem.

Luke 18:31

¶ Then he took [unto him] the twelve, and said unto them, Behold, we go up to Jerusalem, and all things that are written by the prophets concerning the Son of man shall be accomplished.

Luke 17:11

¶ And it came to pass, as he went to Jerusalem, that he passed through the midst of Samaria and Galilee.

Luke 19:11

¶ And as they heard these things, he added and spake a parable, because he was nigh to Jerusalem, and because they thought that the kingdom of God should immediately appear.