Luke 9:8

And of some, that Elias had appeared; and of others, that one of the old prophets was risen again.

And {G1161} of {G5259} some {G5100}, that {G3754} Elias {G2243} had appeared {G5316}; and {G1161} of others {G243}, that {G3754} one {G1520} of the old {G744} prophets {G4396} was risen again {G450}.

by others that Eliyahu had appeared, and by others that one of the prophets of long ago had come back to life.

others that Elijah had appeared, and still others that a prophet of old had arisen.

and by some, that Elijah had appeared; and by others, that one of the old prophets was risen again.

Commentary

Luke 9:8 KJV is part of a passage detailing the various conjectures people held about Jesus' identity, which had reached the ears of King Herod. This verse specifically highlights two prominent theories among the populace:

Context

Following Jesus' extensive ministry, including miracles like feeding the five thousand (Luke 9:12-17), His fame had spread widely throughout Galilee and beyond. King Herod, who had recently executed John the Baptist, was deeply perplexed by the reports of Jesus' powerful works. While some believed Jesus was John risen from the dead (Luke 9:7), Luke 9:8 presents two other popular opinions regarding Jesus' true nature that were circulating among the people and reported to Herod.

Key Themes

  • Misconceptions about Jesus' Identity: This verse underscores the widespread confusion and speculation surrounding Jesus. People struggled to categorize Him, often attempting to fit Him into familiar prophetic molds rather than recognizing His unique divine nature.
  • The Anticipation of Elijah: The belief that Jesus was "Elias" (the Greek form of Elijah) was significant. Jewish tradition, based on prophecies like Malachi 4:5, anticipated the return of Elijah before the coming of the Messiah. While John the Baptist came in the spirit and power of Elijah, Jesus was far greater than a prophet.
  • Prophetic Continuity: The idea that "one of the old prophets was risen again" reflects a broader belief in the continuity of God's prophetic voice. It suggested that God was once again speaking powerfully through a figure reminiscent of the great prophets of Israel's past, such as Isaiah or Jeremiah.

Linguistic Insights

The name "Elias" is the Greek transliteration of the Hebrew prophet Eliyahu, or Elijah. The strong expectation of Elijah's return was deeply rooted in Jewish eschatology, making it a natural, albeit incorrect, assumption for some regarding Jesus' identity.

Reflection and Application

Luke 9:8 reveals that even amidst Jesus' powerful ministry and undeniable miracles, many people, including those in authority like Herod, failed to grasp His true identity. They saw Him as a remarkable prophet, perhaps even a resurrected one, but not as the Son of God and the promised Messiah. This passage serves as a reminder for us today:

  • It's crucial to move beyond popular opinion and human speculation when seeking to understand Jesus. Our understanding should be based on God's revelation in Scripture.
  • Jesus' ministry transcends any mere prophetic role. He is not just another prophet; He is the culmination of all prophecy, the Lord Himself, as Peter later confesses in this chapter.
  • Our faith should be rooted in the divine truth of who Jesus truly is, not simply in what others believe or what seems plausible.
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Cross-References

  • Luke 9:19 (3 votes)

    They answering said, John the Baptist; but some [say], Elias; and others [say], that one of the old prophets is risen again.

  • John 1:21 (3 votes)

    And they asked him, What then? Art thou Elias? And he saith, I am not. Art thou that prophet? And he answered, No.

  • Mark 6:15 (2 votes)

    Others said, That it is Elias. And others said, That it is a prophet, or as one of the prophets.

  • Mark 8:28 (2 votes)

    And they answered, John the Baptist: but some [say], Elias; and others, One of the prophets.

  • Matthew 17:10 (2 votes)

    And his disciples asked him, saying, Why then say the scribes that Elias must first come?