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Gospel of Luke Chapter 9

Theme: Jesus commissions and sends forth the Twelve; Jesus feeds the five thousand; Jesus announces His death and resurrection; Jesus is transfigured; Jesus casts out demons from an only son; Jesus sets His face toward Jerusalem; Jesus puts down test for discipleship.

Jesus Commissions and Sends Forth the Twelve (Luke 9:1-11) (Mat.10:1-4; Mk.3:13-21)

Luke 9:1 Then he called his twelve disciples together, and gave them power and authority over all devils, and to cure diseases. (KJV)

Then he called his twelve disciples together . . . all his twelve disciples, the other nine, besides the three that were with him, when he raised Jairus's daughter, recorded in chapter 8. The twelve apostles, His own twelve, and this agrees with Luke's way of speaking (Lk.8:1; 9:12).
And gave them power and authority over all devils . . . all kinds of devils, mainly to cast them out of the bodies of men, possessed by them.
And to cure diseases . . . of all kinds.

Luke 9:2 And he sent them to preach the kingdom of God, and to heal the sick. (KJV)

And he sent them to preach the kingdom of God . . . the Gospel, which is the story of  the Kingdom of the Messiah, of His kingly office and power, of His church, which is His Kingdom, and of the government of it, by the preaching of it and the ordinances of the Kingdom of grace in the hearts of Christ's subjects, and the nature of it; and of the Kingdom of glory, and what is the saints' fitness for it, and their right unto it.
And to heal the sick . . . of every disease of body, and thereby confirm their assignment and command from Christ, to preach the Gospel, and recommend it to men.

Luke 9:3 And he said unto them, Take nothing for your journey, neither staves, nor scrip, neither bread, neither money; neither have two coats apiece. (KJV)

And he said unto them, Take nothing for your journey . . . all throughout the towns and cities of Judea where they were sent to preach the Gospel.
Neither staves, nor scrip, neither bread, neither money; neither have two coats apiece . . . Mark 6:8 And commanded them that they should take nothing for their journey, save a staff only; no scrip, no bread, no money in their purse: (KJV) . . . And commanded them that they should take nothing for their journey, to provide for them, except those things told to them: a single staff only, for staves in the plural number are forbidden (Mat.10:10).
No scrip, no bread, no money in their purse . . . travelers would put their bread, or other food into their scrips (bag, sack, wallet), and their money in their girdles; but the disciples were not allowed to carry either, because provision was to be made for them wherever they were, it being what their labor was worthy of (Mat.10:9-10).             

Luke 9:4 And whatsoever house ye enter into, there abide, and thence depart. (KJV)

And whatsoever house ye enter into . . . in any town or city, where they would come to in their journey through Judea, and should enter into for the sake of lodging, during their stay.
There abide . . . do not change quarters, or move from house to house.
And thence depart . . . the house you come into first, go out of last, when ye leave the town or city, or remain there until you leave. (Mat.10:11).

Luke 9:5 And whosoever will not receive you, when ye go out of that city, shake off the very dust from your feet for a testimony against them. (KJV)

And whosoever will not receive you . . . into their houses,
When ye go out of the city . . . where food and lodging are refused you.
Shake off the very dust from your feet, for a testimony against them . . . (Mat.10:14; Mk.6:11).

Luke 9:6 And they departed, and went through the towns, preaching the gospel, and healing every where. (KJV)

And they departed, and went through the towns . . . the apostles went from Jesus, and the place where He was, from Capernaum or some place in Galilee.
Preaching the Gospel, and healing every where . . . which explains what is meant by the Kingdom of God (verse 2), and healing everywhere; all sorts of bodily diseases, wherever they came.

Luke 9:7 Now Herod the tetrarch heard of all that was done by him: and he was perplexed, because that it was said of some, that John was risen from the dead; (KJV)

Now Herod the tetrarch . . . of Galilee, who is called a king in Mark 6:14 as he is here.  
Heard of all that was done by him . . . of all the miracles that were done by Christ, and His apostles; the fame of which was all the more spread through the sending of the apostles, and the journey they took through all the towns and cities of Galilee, which were in Herod's jurisdiction. Herod came to the knowledge of all this because the whole country was buzzing with what was going on.
And he was perplexed . . . he was anxious and troubled, not knowing what to think of Christ Jesus, and the different feelings of men about Him. He was afraid that Jesus could be John the Baptist risen from the dead, whom he had beheaded. He wavered about it at first, although he afterwards was fully persuaded, in his own mind, that it was John, as some asserted. This gave him great uneasiness, and filled him with distress and horror.
Because that it was said of some that John was risen from the dead . . . Herod began to fear it was true, although he did not want to believe it, or question it, especially in public.

Luke 9:8 And of some, that Elias had appeared; and of others, that one of the old prophets was risen again. (KJV)

And of some, that Elias had appeared . . . Elijah had been translated (raptured), body and soul, to Heaven (2 Ki.2:11), and whom the Jews expected a little before the coming of the Messiah (Mat.11:14; 16:14; Mk.9:12).
And of others, that one of the old prophets was risen again . . . others there thought it might be one of the former prophets. By one of the former prophets, may mean one of those that were before the times of Elijah, such as Samuel or David.

Luke 9:9 And Herod said, John have I beheaded: but who is this, of whom I hear such things? And he desired to see him. (KJV)

And Herod said, John have I beheaded . . . whom Herod had ordered to be beheaded, and which was done by the executioner; of which he had full proof, since the head was brought him in a charger, and which he delivered to the daughter of Herodias (Mat.14:11).
But who is this of whom I hear such things . . . wonderful and amazing miracles, as were done by Jesus. Herod must have reasoned that surely this cannot be John, for I have beheaded him! But, who could it be? Some were saying that it was John that was risen from the dead, and Herod began to fear that it was John.
And he desired to see him . . . that he might be satisfied whether it was John or not; for he had had personal knowledge of John, and spoke with him, and so he could tell upon seeing him, whether it was John that was risen from the dead, or not. But we do not find that Herod saw Jesus, until He was sent by Pilate to him at Jerusalem (Lk.23:7-8).  Oh, the power of a guilty conscience! He had murdered John, now he is afraid his ghost is haunting him, or that his soul was entered into another body, that it might be revenge on him. Others guessed variously. Herod did not know not what to think, but wanted to see Jesus, possibly that he might make up some judgment about him, possibly out of mere curiosity. But he did see Jesus until Pilate sent Him to him after his examination of Him.

Many thought that Jesus must be someone who had come back to life, perhaps John the Baptist or another prophet. Some suggested that He was Elijah, the great prophet who had not died but had been taken to heaven in a chariot of fire (2 Ki.2:1-11). Very few found the correct answer, as Peter did (verse 20). Multitudes today still have difficulty accepting Jesus for Who He really is! as the fully human yet fully divine Son of God. My friend, until you agree with Peter, that Jesus is Who He says He is: the Christ of God, you are doomed.

Luke 9:10 And the apostles, when they were returned, told him all that they had done. And he took them, and went aside privately into a desert place belonging to the city called Bethsaida. (KJV)

And the apostles, when they were returned . . . from different parts of the land where they had been sent, and had been preaching and working miracles, having gone through their circuit, and finished the service they were sent to do.
Told him all they had done . . . what doctrines they had taught, how they had been received, what success they had, what miracles they had done, how they had dispossessed devils and healed all sorts of diseases.
And he took them and went aside privately . . . by ship, over some part of the Sea of Galilee (Mk.6:32).
Into a desert place belonging to the city called Bethsaida . . . the city of Andrew and Peter (Jn.1:44), and which, as Josephus says, was by the lake of Gennesaret, and this desert place was the desert of Bethsaida, a lonely, wild, uncultivated, and desolate place, not far from it. It was there that Jesus went with His apostles that they might withdraw and be alone, and have some refreshment and rest from their labors, and where they might privately speak together; and where He gave them some fresh instructions, directions and comfort.

Luke 9:11 And the people, when they knew it, followed him: and he received them, and spake unto them of the kingdom of God, and healed them that had need of healing. (KJV)

And the people, when they knew it . . . having heard of His departure and seeing him go off by themselves,
Followed him . . . not by ship, but on foot, going over the bridge at Chainmath of Gadara, and got there before Jesus and His apostles did.
And he received them . . . in a very kind and affectionate manner, and with great respect, although they had not permitted the private interview between Him and His apostles.
And he spake unto them of the kingdom of God . . . of the Gospel dispensation, now being set up, and of the doctrines and ordinances of it, of the prevailing principle of grace in the hearts of His people, and of the glory of the world to come.
And healed them that had need of healing . . . healed their bodies; as well as preaching the doctrines of grace for the good of their souls; He both taught doctrine and worked miracles.

Jesus Feeds the Five Thousand (Luke 9:12-17)
(Mat.14:15-21; Mk. 6:35-44; Jn.6:5-14)

The apostles put themselves in the very offensive position of being advisors of Christ, telling Him what to do. Sad to say, many of us are guilty of doing this today. Friend, He does NOT need our advice or suggestions on anything!


Luke 9:12 And when the day began to wear away, then came the twelve, and said unto him, Send the multitude away, that they may go into the towns and country round about, and lodge, and get victuals: for we are here in a desert place. (KJV)

When the day began to wear away . . . when the sun was almost set, or when evening came,
Then came the twelve . . . the apostles.
And said unto him, send the multitude away, that they may go into the towns and country round about . . . they brought no provisions with them, and there were none to be had in that desert place; and it was time they had some food; for the usual time of eating was past.                 
And lodge, and get victuals . . . where they might lodge for that night, it being too far for them to reach their homes that evening; and also that they might provide themselves with proper and sufficient food, which was not to be had in the place where they were.
For we are here in a desert place . . . which had no places for lodging, nor any supply of food.

Luke 9:13 But he said unto them, Give ye them to eat. And they said, We have no more but five loaves and two fishes; except we should go and buy meat for all this people. (KJV)

And he said to them, Give ye them to eat . . . He is trying their faith, to make way for the miracle that would soon follow.
And they said, we have no more than five loaves and two fishes . . . and these loaves were barley loaves, and the fishes small (Jn.6:9).
Except we should go and buy meat for all this people . . . which would at least cost them two hundred pence; and which they represent as impossible to be done, either through want of so much money, or the scarcity of provision in those parts; where, had they money, it would be difficult, at least to get such a quantity of provisions at once, which so great a number of persons required.

Jesus then commands them to do an impossible task. They must learn, as we must also learn, that He sometimes commands the impossible (for us). The reason is quite clear. He intends to feed this crowd by a mighty work. Indicating, that it was not His will to dismiss people, and send them scattering abroad into the adjacent cities, towns, or houses; and that there was no need of it, but that His will was, that they should be supplied with provisions out of what they had.

Luke 9:14 For they were about five thousand men. And he said to his disciples, Make them sit down by fifties in a company. (KJV)

For they were about five thousand men . . . beside women and children (Mat.14:21).
And he said to his disciples, Make them to sit down by fifties in a company . . . and by hundreds also; some companies had a hundred apiece in them, and others fifty; and which was done partly, for the more easy numbering of them, and mainly for it to be more convenient to distribute food to them. (Mk.6:39-40).

Luke 9:15 And they did so, and made them all sit down. (KJV)

And they did so, and made them all sit down . . . the apostles did not argue the case anymore with Jesus. They obeyed His orders, and arranged the multitude into companies, a hundred in one, and fifty in another; and ordered them to sit down upon the green grass.

Luke 9:16 Then he took the five loaves and the two fishes, and looking up to heaven, he blessed them, and brake, and gave to the disciples to set before the multitude. (KJV)

Then he took the five loaves and the two fishes . . . into His Hands, being brought to  Him by the apostles from the lad that had them.
And looking up to heaven . . . to His Father there, from whom all the mercies and blessings of life come.
He blessed them . . . asked a blessing on them, that they might multiply and increase, that there might be sufficient for all the people, and that, they might be nourishing to them.
And brake . . . the loaves, and divided the fishes into parts.
And gave to the disciples to set before the multitude . . . as they sat in their separate companies.

Luke 9:17 And they did eat, and were all filled: and there was taken up of fragments that remained to them twelve baskets. (KJV)

And they did eat, and were all filled . . . every person had a part, and enough. And they did all eat . . . (Mat.14:20), Christ Jesus, His twelve apostles and the five thousand men, plus the women and children . . . of the five loaves and two fishes. Everyone had their portion, And were filled . . . they were satisfied, they had a full meal, they had plenty, with some to spare (2 Chron.31:10). The Jews did not consider it a meal, unless a man was filled, and believed it a bad sign if nothing was left.  But, here there WAS fullness, more left than was started with, which was gathered up, either for the use of the poor, or reserved for later. This teaches us charity to the needy, and frugality, we are NOT to waste that which is left.
And there was taken up of fragments that remained to them, twelve baskets . . .SO much waste today! John 6:12 When they were filled, he said unto his disciples, Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost. (KJV)

Jesus Announces His Death and Resurrection (Luke 9:18-26) (Mat.16:13-28)

Luke 9:18 And it came to pass, as he was alone praying, his disciples were with him: and he asked them, saying, Whom say the people that I am? (KJV)

And it came to pass, as he was alone praying . . . to His God and Father, for Himself as Man, and Mediator; for the success of His Gospel, and for His apostles, that they might have a better and clearer understanding of Him; and which they did have, as appears after Peter’s confession of Him, as Peter was the mouth all of them. The place where He now retired for private prayer was somewhere in the coasts of Caesarea Philippi; for He was now gone from the desert of Bethsaida, as appears from (Mat.16:13), and when He is said to be alone, the meaning is that He was away from the multitude, but not from His apostles; for it follows,
His disciples were with him . . . in this solitary place,
And he asked them . . . being with them alone,
Saying, Whom say the people that I am? . . . meaning, what are the opinions of the common people, or of the people in general concerning me?


Luke 9:19 They answering said, John the Baptist; but some say, Elias; and others say, that one of the old prophets is risen again. (KJV)

They answering said, John the Baptist . . . this was the opinion of some who thought that he was risen from the dead, as in verse 7.
But some say Elias . . . Elijah, the prophet, and the Tishbite; who according to the Jewish belief, was to be the forerunner of the Messiah, so in (verse 8).
And others say: that one of the old prophets is risen again . . . so the people were thus divided in their sentiments about Him.


Luke 9:20 He said unto them, But whom say ye that I am? Peter answering said, The Christ of God. (KJV)

He said unto them, But whom say ye that I am? . . . this was the main thing He had in mind in this private conference.
Peter answering . . . Peter was the mouthpiece for the rest of the apostles, they assenting to it.
Said, the Christ of God . . . the Messiah, who is the Son of God, and God over all, blessed forever. (Verse 26).

Luke 9:21 And he straitly charged them, and commanded them to tell no man that thing; (KJV)

And he strictly charged them, and commanded them . . . although He highly approved of their confession, and pronounced Peter blessed by it; and indicated that it was a discovery which flesh and blood could NOT make, but what was made to Peter by His Father: yet he gave them a strict charge, and laid his commands on them,
To tell no man that thing . . . that He was the Messiah, and the eternal Son of God, and the true God, as well as the Son of man, and really man. (Mat.16:20). The reason seems to be that His time had not fully come; He was not willing to arouse the Jewish malice, and to endanger His life, by having it proclaimed that He was the Messiah. He did not want some persons, hearing of this, to rise and proclaim Him King of the Jews, who had the idea of the Messiah being a temporal prince: and also, because the apostles were to bear out the Truth of this after His resurrection. He chose, for the present, that the people would gather this from His own ministry and miracles, which really were quite sufficient to lead them into the knowledge of the Truth, without any statements from the apostles. Even though they were possessed with true faith in Him, for themselves, the apostles did not have the gifts and abilities to defend those doctrines respecting Christ's Person, and His offices, that they had after the Spirit was poured down upon them (Acts 2). Jesus wanted to work in peace as long as possible, without causing trouble over His claims (Jn.8:40; Mat.8:4).

Luke 9:22 Saying, The Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be slain, and be raised the third day. (KJV)

Saying, The son of man must suffer many things . . . in His person and His character, in His soul and body, at the Hands of God, and of men, and devils.
And be rejected of the elders, and chief priests, and Scribes . . . who made up the grand Sanhedrim of the nation: for it was by these He was to be, and was rejected as the Messiah; and when put up with another which should be released, that other would be preferred, and He rejected. This was done at the urging and provocation of these Jewish men, who were the builders; of whom it was foretold that they would reject the head stone of the corner (Ps.118:22).  
And be slain . . . put to death, the horrible death of the cross.
And be raised the third day . . . according to the prophecies of the Old Testament. This Jesus added for the comfort of His apostles.  

Luke 9:23 And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. (KJV)

And he said to them all . . . now it was not just to the apostles, but to the multitude, for it is clear that Jesus had then called the people unto Him before He spoke the following words (Mk.8:34).
Any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me . . . the same is said here, as in (Mat.16:24; Mk.8:34), only here the word "daily" is added, showing that afflictions, trials and persecutions of one kind or another, are to be expected each and every day by the people of God, and should be continually endured with confidence and hope. Hebrews 13:5 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. (KJV) . . . Jesus will NEVER forsake God’s children!

Luke 9:24 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it. (KJV)

For whosoever will save his life shall lose it . . . anyone who wants to preserve himself (save his life) from troubles, reproaches, persecutions and death; and does so by forsaking Christ, denying His Gospel, and raising up favors with men, in order to obtain for himself worldly honor, peace, pleasure, riches and life, shall lose it . . . anyone who will NOT accept the risks involved in becoming a disciple of the Lord Jesus Christ will, in the long run, lose his life eternally, for he exposes himself to: the wrath of God, to everlasting punishment, the destruction of soul and body in Hell, which is the second death and will be his portion (Rev.20:11-15). The opposite is also true. At Christ's Second Coming all accounts will be settled and everyone will receive their proper rewards (1 Cor.3:12-15)
But whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it . . . BUT, whosoever will lose his life for my sake . . . meaning whoever is willing to forego all the pleasures and comforts of this temporal life on Earth, and possibly be subject to poverty and distress, and even to lay down life itself, for the sake of Christ and the Gospel, rather than deny Him and Truth, shall save it, shall find it . . . eternal life (Jn.3:15-16; 14:2-3; 1 Pet.1:3-5), in the bliss of Heaven, he shall enjoy an endless and eternal life, free from all troubles, uneasiness and affliction, and full of everlasting joys and pleasures. (Mat.16:25). Our choice!

Luke 9:25 For what is a man advantaged, if he gain the whole world, and lose himself, or be cast away? (KJV)

For what is a man advantaged if he gain the whole world . . . the somber Truth stated here was fitting in this matter, because Peter's opposition to the Lord's death was inspired mainly by his expectation that Jesus would establish an earthly kingdom and conquer the whole world. But, Jesus is teaching that something far more valuable than the whole world is to be gained by following Him, even IF it should involve the loss of physical life.
And lose himself, or be cast away . . . (Mat.16:26; Mk.8:36) If he shall gain the whole world,  and lose his own soul? . . . (Mk.8:36; Lk.9:25). IF a person makes it in the present world, obtaining its various forms of riches, honors and pleasures, which is the object of supreme pursuit by millions upon millions of people . . . he gains the whole world . . . BUT along with it he forfeits his own soul . . . is that good? NO! BEWARE!!! When a person gives himself entirely up to the world, he gains the whole world. BUT, if he does gain all the temporary treasures, what happens to his soul? It goes to an everlasting Hell. What is he profited? "What shall a man give in exchange for his soul?" Mark 8:38 Whosoever therefore shall be ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation; of him also shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he cometh in the glory of his Father with the holy angels. (KJV) . . . My friend, Jesus will render back to that person his own treatment, disowning him before the most impressive of all assemblies, and putting him to "shame and everlasting contempt" (Dan.12:2; Jer.6:15). But when Christ and "His words" are unpopular, the same natural desire to stand with others brings on the temptation to be ashamed of Him. We must have wisdom and courage to NEVER deny or reject or be ashamed of Jesus!
Mat.16:26; Mk.8:37) Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? . . . when someone does not know Christ, they make huge decisions as though there were no afterlife. The FACT is: this life on Earth is just the place where we decide to spend eternity; it is just the introduction to eternity. How we live this brief life on Earth determines our eternal state. What we accumulate on Earth has absolutely NO value whatsoever in gaining eternal life (Jn.14:6; Acts 4:12), and has absolutely NO value whatsoever in Heaven (Mat.6:19-21). Even the highest social or civic honors CANNOT earn us entrance into Heaven (Eph.2:8-9). We must evaluate our lifestyle from an eternal viewpoint, because our soul is eternal.  

Luke 9:26 For whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he shall come in his own glory, and in his Father's, and of the holy angels. (KJV)

For whosoever shall be ashamed of me . . . of His Person and His offices, of Christ Jesus as the Messiah, Saviour and Redeemer, of His grace, His righteousness, His Blood and His Sacrifice,  
And of my words . . . and of His doctrines of the Gospel. Mark 8:38 adds: in this adulterous and sinful generation, having a special concern to the people of the Jews, and the age in which Jesus lived; but is true of any other people and age in which men live. ALL are sinful!
Of him shall the son of man be ashamed, when he shall come in his own glory, and in his Father's . . . IF you do NOT take a stand FOR Christ, you are ashamed of Him! IF you do NOT take notice of Him; IF you do NOT confess His Name, you are ashamed of Him! IF you turn away from Him, or do NOT say one favorable word about Him or for Him, you are ashamed of Him! What you in fact are doing is, requesting Him to go away from you, and my friend, this He will do. . . . BEWARE!!!

In his own glory, and in his Father's . . . in the glory of His human nature, when His glorious body, as of now is in Heaven, shall be seen by all; and in the glory of His office as Mediator, and the Judge of all the Earth; and in the glory of His divine nature, which will appear in the resurrection of the dead, in the gathering of all nations before Him, in separating one sort from another (Mat.25:32-33), and in passing and executing the final sentence upon them; especially the glory of His omnipotence and omniscience will be very obvious. Jesus’ glory is the same glory that the Father has, being His Son, and of the same nature as Him, and equal to Him (Jn.10:30); and as Mediator, He is endued with power and authority from Him, to judge the world; and when He comes, he will be accompanied,  
And of the holy angels . . . these shall attend Him at His Second Coming, and be employed in many offices under Him. (Mat.16:26; Mk.8:38). The holy angels will descend from Heaven with Him, and be employed on Earth by Him. Angels serve Christ: (Dan.7:10; Mat.13:41; 16:27; 24:31; 25:31; 26:53; Mk.8:38; Lk.2:13; 22:43; Jn.1:51; 2 Thes.1:7; Heb.1:6; Rev.1:1; 5:11). See: Mat.16:27.               

The meaning of this Passage is, that whosoever shall REFUSE, through lust, pride or wickedness, to acknowledge and serve Christ here on Earth, shall be excluded from His Kingdom in the hereafter.
The Lord Jesus was poor, lowly, meek and despised. Yet there was a matchless beauty about Him.  My dear friend, He will come again, this time in an awesome and majestic splendor! NOT as the Babe of Bethlehem; NOT as the Man of Nazareth; but as the Son of God, in majesty and glory. All those that would NOT acknowledge Him here in this life, shall be rejected by Him there in His eternal Kingdom! They that would NOT serve Him willingly in this life, will never enjoy His Presence in Heaven! Everyone that would cast Him out and despise Him, shall be cast out by Him, condemned and consigned to eternal, hopeless sorrow. . . BEWARE!!! BEWARE!!! Whosoever shall be ashamed: (Isa.53:3; Mat.10:32-33; Mk.8:38; Lk.9:26; 12:9; Jn.5:44; 12:43; Rom.2:5; 1 Cor.6:9-10; 2 Thes.1:8-10; 2 Tim.1:8; 1 Jn.2:23; Rev.20:11; 21:8).

This amazing Jesus, constantly turns the world's viewpoint upside down with His Words of first and last, saving and losing. My dear friend, He gives us a choice! We have a free will, and we can make decisions for ourselves! We can reject Jesus now and be rejected by Him at His Second Coming, OR we can accept Him now and be accepted by Him then. Rejecting Christ could help us escape shame here and now, but it will guarantee an eternity of shame later on.

The Lord does not reveal His person apart from His work of redemption. After Peter confessed who He was and the apostles truly recognized Him, He immediately told them, "...the Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected of the elders, and of the chief priests, and scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again" (Mk.8:31). He is NOT putting down a condition of salvation, but He is stating the position of those who are saved. This is what He is talking about. "Whosoever therefore shall be ashamed of me" . . . what kind of a Christian are you today? Are you one who acknowledges Him and serves Him and makes every attempt to glorify Him? My friend, this is very important in these days in which we live: an adulterous and sinful generation! Are you ready for Judgment Day?

Transfiguration of Jesus (Luke 9:27-36)
(Mat.17:1-13; Mk.9: 9:2-13)

In dealing with the Transfiguration, Luke adds something that the other Gospel writers leave out.

Luke 9:27 But I tell you of a truth, there be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the kingdom of God. (KJV)

But I tell you of a truth . . . Mat.16:28 says: Verily I say unto you . . . meaning: listen to Me! Jesus says, the following is a forceful statement of Truth, and it should be received as such. You may assured, that not only at the last day, the Son of Man will come in this glorious manner, but that He shall show His anger and resentment to all who have been ashamed of Him; but also
There be some standing here, which shall not, taste of death till they see the kingdom of God . . . Mark 8:34 And when he had called the people unto him with his disciples also, he said unto them, Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. (KJV) . . . It is clear that the people were called to Him with His apostles, when He said the following words.
Which shall not taste of death, till they see the Son of man coming in his kingdom . . . there are several thoughts on this statement. #1. Because all the disciples died before Christ's Return, many believe that Jesus' Words were fulfilled at the Transfiguration when Peter, James and John saw His glory (Mat.17:1-3). #2. Others say this statement refers to the Resurrection (Mat.28; Mk.16; Lk.24; Jn.20) and Ascension of Jesus (Acts 1:9-11). #3. Still others believe that the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2) and the beginning of Christ's church fulfilled Jesus' Words. In any of the above, there were certain apostles and most likely, some of the people that were eyewitnesses to the power and glory of Christ's Kingdom. I must go along with #1.  I think that this verse belongs with chapter 17 because the account of the transfiguration of Jesus explains what He meant when He made this statement.

A TRUE disciple of Christ is one that follows Jesus in loving duty, and shall follow Him to glory. A TRUE disciple is one that walks the same way that Christ Jesus walked, being  led by His Spirit (Rom.8:9), and walks in His steps, where ever he goes. A TRUE disciple denies self, which is a most difficult lesson indeed, but IF we are to imitate out Lord and Master, we must do what He did, and Jesus certainly DID deny self! We are to take up our cross, meaning the troubles that befalls us. Each of us have our own particular cross; we are not to think that we could bear another's cross better than our own. Our cross has been appointed to us, and we must make the best of it. We are NEVER alone in carrying this cross! He is always just a prayer away! We must always remember this.

If we will take on the Name and credit of a disciple of Christ Jesus (Christian), we must follow Christ in the work and duty of a disciple, if we are to be worthy of Him. We must remember that ALL worldly things are worthless when compared with eternal life, so we must cast off all lusts of the body. Thousands upon thousands lose their souls for the smallest gain or the most worthless indulgence, and worse, often from mere laziness and negligence. Consider this: Whatever it is that men forsake Christ for, that is the price for which Satan buys their souls. My dear friend, one lone soul is worth more than all the world has to offer! Christ Jesus knew the price of souls, for it is He that redeemed them. Christ would never underrate the world, for He made it. Christ, Creator: (Jn. 1:3,10; Gen.1:1,26; Ps.33:6; 102:25; Isa.45:12,18; Eph.3:9; Col.1:16-17; Heb. 1:2-3,10-12; 3:3-4; Rev.4:11). .   
The dying transgressor CANNOT purchase one hour's delay to seek mercy for his perishing soul. Let us be aware of the value of our souls, and know that Christ and Christ alone is the only Saviour of them.
1 John 2:16-17  For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. [17] And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever. (KJV)

Luke 9:28 And it came to pass about an eight days after these sayings, he took Peter and John and James, and went up into a mountain to pray. (KJV)

And it came to pass, about an eight days after those sayings . . . about a week or so after He had spoken the above things, at or near Caesarea Philippi. Matthew and Mark say it was six days after (Mat.17:1; Mk.9:2). It must have been this length of time since Christ's conversation with His apostles at Caesarea Philippi, Peter's confession of Him, and after He had spoken about His apostles taking up their cross, and following Him, and of men losing and finding their lives; and after the promise, or prophecy, that He had given out, that some then present should not die, until He came into His Kingdom.
He took Peter, and John, and James . . . the same ones that he took with Him at the raising of Jairus's daughter, and in the garden afterwards.
And went up into a mountain to pray . . . to His God and Father, that His apostles might have a visible display of His glory, as a symbol and pledge of that in which he shall hereafter appear. It was common with Christ to go up into a mountain to pray (Mat.17:1; Mk.9:2).

Luke 9:29 And as he prayed, the fashion of his countenance was altered, and his raiment was white and glistering. (KJV)

And as he prayed, the fashion of his countenance was altered . . . His Face became exceeding bright and radiant, it shone like the sun (Mat.17:2), and thus His prayer was answered, as Jesus was heard and answered, while He was still speaking, so it is with His people sometimes, when they are favored with a close relationship with God, and instead of having a sad and gloomy countenance, they have a cheerful one.
And his raiment was white and glistering . . . it was as white as the light, white as newly fallen snow, and whiter than any fuller on earth could whiten, and so glistened exceedingly. (Mat.17:2; Mk.9:3).

Luke 9:30 And, behold, there talked with him two men, which were Moses and Elias: (KJV)

And, behold, there talked with him two men, which were Moses and Elias . . . one was the giver of the Law from God to the people "of Israel", as well as the redeemer of them from Egyptian bondage, and who led them through the wilderness, to the borders of Canaan's land; and the other was Elijah, a prophet famous for his zeal for God, and his worship, and who was translated, soul and body, to Heaven (2 Ki.2:11), about nine hundred years before this. Now they came, speaking with the Lord Jesus. These appeared and talked with Jesus on the mount; and what they talked of is mentioned in the following verse. (Mat.17:3).

Luke 9:31 Who appeared in glory, and spake of his decease which he should accomplish at Jerusalem. (KJV)

Who appeared in glory . . . Moses and Elijah appeared in a very glorious manner, in most divine and beautiful forms to Jesus and His apostles.
And spake of his decease, which he should accomplish at Jerusalem . . . the sufferings and death of Christ Jesus were what Moses and the prophets had foretold; and now these two speak of the same things; and which confirm what Jesus had said a few days ago to His apostles; that He must go to Jerusalem, and there suffer and die. Of his decease . . . "departure"; beautiful synonym (softened term) for death, which Peter, who witnessed the scene, uses to express his own expected death, and which seems to have recalled the whole of this Moses and Elijah appeared by a sudden rush of recollection, and occasioned that delightful allusion to this scene which we find in 2 Peter 1:15-18. Which he should accomplish . . . would fulfil.

Luke 9:32  But Peter and they that were with him were heavy with sleep: and when they were awake, they saw his glory, and the two men that stood with him. (KJV)

But Peter, and they that were with him . . . the other two disciples, James and John,
Were heavy with sleep . . . while Christ was praying, and as He had been now, being tired from the labors of the day, and as they were afterwards in the garden (Lk.22:45-46).
And when they were awake . . . scarcely awake, for they were so heavy with sleep, that it was hard for them to be awakened out of it, even by the rays of light and glory that were about them. They were suddenly surprised out of their sleep; and being completely awake,
They saw his glory . . . the brilliance of His countenance, and the whiteness of His clothing, and the two men that stood with Him: Moses and Elijah, and the glory in which they appeared.

Luke 9:33 And it came to pass, as they departed from him, Peter said unto Jesus, Master, it is good for us to be here: and let us make three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias: not knowing what he said. (KJV)

And it came to pass, as they departed from him . . . meaning when Moses and Elijah departed from Christ, or maybe when they began to depart, or made some indication by which the disciples decided they were about to go; for, as yet, they were not gone.
Peter said unto Jesus, master, it is good for us to be here, let us make three tabernacles, one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias . . . every occasion was favorable for Peter to make a speech. He generally got to his feet to say something, and usually it was to say the wrong thing . . .  UNTIL the Day of Pentecost. Here it is the wrong thing; he should have kept quiet. God Himself rebukes Peter, because he was attempting to place Moses and Elijah on the same plane with the Lord Jesus. Have you ever talked without knowing what you are saying? Ever talked without thinking? Peter was rebuked. He should have kept still.
Not knowing what he said . . .  and Mark, "for he wist not what to say" (Mk.9:6). One represents Peter with the joy and surprise, not himself; and the other, under the awe and dread of such majesty, at the utmost loss what to say.  (Mat.17:4).           

Luke 9:34 While he thus spake, there came a cloud, and overshadowed them: and they feared as they entered into the cloud. (KJV)

While he thus spake there came a cloud, and overshadowed them . . . while Peter was making the above request, before an answer was returned, a very uncommon cloud appeared, a cloud as a symbol of the divine Presence, and overshadowed Jesus, Moses, Elias and the apostles.
And they feared as they entered into the cloud . . . they feared because of the glory of it, and the splendor that attended it, and they feared when they saw Moses and Elias enter into the cloud, which took them out of the sight of the apostles; just as the cloud received Jesus out of the sight of His disciples, when He ascended into Heaven. Clouds, Divine Presence: (Ex.13:21-22; Num.10:11-12; 1 Ki.8:10-11; Mat.17:5; Lk.9:34; Acts 1:9; Rev.1:7; 14:14-16).

Luke 9:35 And there came a voice out of the cloud, saying, This is my beloved Son: hear him. (KJV)

And there came a voice out of the cloud, saying, This is my beloved Son: hear him . . . Matthew begins with the word "behold", and is to both the cloud and to the Voice out of it, which were both wonderful and surprising; and which Voice came from Heaven, from the excellent glory of God the Father in Heaven.
This is my beloved Son . . . Jesus was NOT just a mortal man like Moses, Elias, and the rest of the prophets. Although as Mediator, and considered in this office capacity, He was a Servant; but in this Passage, He is considered in His personal character and relationship to the Father, as a Divine Person, Who was the only begotten Son of God: (Jn.3:16), NOT by Creation, as the angels and men which are called the sons of God, NOT by adoption, as saints are; or because of His miraculous incarnation, and resurrection from the dead; for indeed, He was here declared to be the Son of God by His Father in Heaven, which He WAS before the manifestation of His incarnation (Jn.1:1-3). Jesus’ natural relationship to God, His Father, was the eternal, essential, and only begotten Son of God, in a way that NO created being is. Since He is the dearly beloved of God His Father, being His image and the brightness of His glory (Heb.1:3); of the same nature and perfections with Him, He is equal to Him (Jn.10:30). So it is that He always was, and always will be, the Father’s beloved Son. Adoption, spiritual: (Jn.1:12-13; 3:3-8; Rom.8:15; 9:4,8; 2 Cor.6:18; Gal.3:26; 4:5-6; 2 Cor.6:18; Eph.1:5; 2:19; Heb.2:13; 8:10; 1 Jn.3:1).
In whom I am well pleased . . . (Mat.12:18), Mark and Luke do not have this clause, but Peter, who was present, and heard the words spoken, speaks of it. 2 Peter 1:17 For he received from God the Father honour and glory, when there came such a voice to him from the excellent glory, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. (KJV) The Father was well pleased with His Son’s righteousness, whereby the Law was magnified, and made honorable; and with the Sacrifice He was about to offer up, which would be of a sweet smelling savour to Him (Eph.5:2), God’s justice was entirely satisfied with it; and with all that His Son did.   
Hear ye him . . . this clause is like the very words which Moses delivered, when he spoke of the Messiah, the Great Prophet like unto himself, that should be raised up among the Jews; saying, "unto him ye shall hearken" (Deut.18:15). "Hear ye him" so very clearly points to Christ, as being this Prophet, who is to be heard. It is Jesus, and Jesus alone, NOT Moses, but Jesus, the Prophet Moses prophesied of . . . NOT Elias, or any of the other prophets, but One greater than them all put together! They were to hear and believe Jesus’ prophecies, concerning His sufferings, death and resurrection, recently delivered by Him. They were to listen to and embrace His doctrines, as coming from directly from God. This is God the Father's testimony of Jesus, the Son. Jesus is the final authority in matters of revelation. What Moses, Elijah and the prophets had to say was great, but what Jesus says is greater! Hebrews 1:1-2 God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, [2] Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds; (KJV) The Son is the One who came to Earth as the final revelation of God to man. (Mat.17:5).

Luke 9:36 And when the voice was past, Jesus was found alone. And they kept it close, and told no man in those days any of those things which they had seen. (KJV)

And when, the voice was past . . . when the above words were spoken by the Voice from Heaven, and it was heard no more:
Jesus was found alone . . . by His apostles. Moses and Elias were gone, and Jesus was in the same form in which He was before His transfiguration.
And they kept it close . . . as Jesus firmly charged them, when coming down from the mountain with them. (Mat.17:9).
And told no man in those days any of those things which they had seen . . . not even to any of their fellow apostles, until Jesus was risen from the dead.

A Stubborn Demon Cast from an Only Son (Luke 9:37-43) (Mat.17:14-21; Mk. 9:14-29)

Luke 9:37 And it came to pass, that on the next day, when they were come down from the hill, much people met him. (KJV)

And it came to pass, that on the next day . . . it seems that they stayed all night on the mountain.  The next day, Jesus and His apostles, Peter, James, and John came down from the mountain to the other nine. There had gathered a multitude of the people during their stay on the mountain.
When they were come down from the hill . . . to the bottom of it.
Much people met him . . . a multitude had gathered while they were gone.

Luke 9:38  And, behold, a man of the company cried out, saying, Master, I beseech thee, look upon my son: for he is mine only child. (KJV)

And behold, a man of the company . . . one that was in the company, and among the multitude, met Jesus and His three apostles. There came to him a certain man . . . who was "one of the multitude" (Mk.9:17). This man had come to the nine apostles on the behalf of his son for help, with no success, and was waiting until Jesus came back from the mountain. When the man saw him, he went up to Him.
Cried out . . . with great passion and earnestness.
Saying, Master . . . doctor, or "Rabbi",
I beseech thee, look upon my son . . . most humbly, for he was now on his knees. He needed the  pity, compassion and help from Jesus.
For he is mine only child. . . therefore the child was very dear unto him, and he was greatly concerned for him, earnestly desiring that his health be restored. Matthew says: Kneeling down to him . . . (Mat.17:14) in the manner of petitioning, showing Him respect, reverence and worship, thus showing his great respect of Him, and regard for Him.

Luke 9:39 And, lo, a spirit taketh him, and he suddenly crieth out; and it teareth him that he foameth again, and bruising him hardly departeth from him. (KJV)

And, lo, a spirit taketh him . . . an evil spirit, the devil, as in verse 42, seizes and tears him at once.
And he suddenly crieth out . . . in a most terrible manner, with dreadful shrieks, as soon as he knows that he is seized by the demon.
And it teareth him, that he foameth again . . . throws him into convulsions, so that he foams at the mouth.
And bruising him hardly departeth from him . . . by dashing him against the wall, or throwing him to the ground. He is very reluctant to leave him, even after he has distressed, convulsed, and bruised him in this dreadful manner, such was his cruelty and malice. See: Mat.17:15; Mk.9:18, for more on this.  

Luke 9:40 And I besought thy disciples to cast him out; and they could not. (KJV)

And I besought thy disciples . . . the man had come to the nine apostles that were left behind, while Jesus and the other three, were gone up into the mountain.
To cast him out; and they could not. . . the apostles could not cast the devil out of his child.
(Mat.17:16).

Luke 9:41 And Jesus answering said, O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you, and suffer you? Bring thy son hither. (KJV)

And Jesus answering, said, O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you,and suffer you? bring thy son hither . . . to the father of the child, and those that were with him; and especially to the Scribes and Pharisees, who had been insulting the disciples, and prevailing over them, because of their inability to cast out the evil spirit. I do not think the words were spoken to the apostles, as they might seem to be at first glance, but to the unbelieving Jews. O faithless and perverse generation . . . (Deut.32:5). Jesus had to be speaking to the man and the multitude, because this way of speaking was NEVER used by Jesus when speaking to the apostles. (Mat.17:17; Mk.9:19).

Luke 9:42 And as he was yet a coming, the devil threw him down, and tare him. And Jesus rebuked the unclean spirit, and healed the child, and delivered him again to his father. (KJV)

And as he was yet a coming . . . while the man was in the way bringing the boy to Jesus, before he came to Him,  
The devil threw him down, and tare him . . . knowing who Jesus was, and that he was able to dispossess him: and having good reason to believe he would, was resolved to do all the mischief he could, and give him all the pain add distress he was able to while he was in him; thus throwing him to the ground, and shook him in a terrible manner at the same time.
And Jesus rebuked the unclean spirit . . . for his malice and cruelty, and ordered him to depart.
And healed the child . . . by dispossessing the evil spirit.
And delivered him again to his father . . . free from all the possession of the devil, and in perfect health, and which must have been a tremendous blessing to him.


Luke 9:43 And they were all amazed at the mighty power of God. But while they wondered every one at all things which Jesus did, he said unto his disciples, (KJV)

And they were all amazed at the mighty power of God . . . at the greatness and majesty of God which was clearly displayed in this cure: for the great power of God was clearly seen in it, to the astonishment of the apostles, who could not cure this child, and of the parent and friends of it, and of the whole multitude . . . and to the confusion of the Scribes and Pharisees.
But while they wondered every one, at all things which Jesus did . . . and were applauding Him for them, and speaking in His praise on account of them,
He said unto his disciples . . . privately, when they were alone together, the words in the following verses, that He might not seem to be lifted up with the praise of men; and also to show the people’s inconstancy, for those who now greatly admired Him, would one day crucify Him; and to take off the thoughts of the apostles from a temporal kingdom and glory they were expecting, and which every miracle done by Jesus, and the applause He got from men, strengthened them in it all the more.

Jesus Tells of His Death and Resurrection (Luke 9:44-56) (Mat.17:22-23; Mk.9:30-32)

After delivering the demon-possessed boy, the Lord and His disciples head for Jerusalem. Once again our Lord speaks about His impending death.

Luke 9:44  Let these sayings sink down into your ears: for the Son of man shall be delivered into the hands of men. (KJV)

Let these sayings sink down into your ears . . . some versions read: in your hearts. Let these sayings . . . this may refer to the sayings of the people, who had seen His miracles, and who on that account had praised and glorified God. On that ground they had acknowledged Him to be the Christ. It is as if He had said, "I am going to die, and you will then be unhappy, and possibly doubt about my being the Christ. Then you shall remember these miracles, and the confessions of the people, the evidence which I gave you that I was from God."
For the Son of man shall be delivered into the hands of men . . . or it may mean, " I am about to die, and let my sayings about this, sink down into your hearts, for you will have need of remembering, when it takes place, that I told you of it," for the Son of Man shall be killed, although He shall rise again the third day. (Mat.17:22-23).

Luke 9:45  But they understood not this saying, and it was hid from them, that they perceived it not: and they feared to ask him of that saying. (KJV)

But they understood not this saying . . . they did not understand what He meant by being betrayed into the hands of men, and by His being put to death. They could not see how these things could possibly be, for they could not by any means reconcile them with the ideas they had of a temporal Redeemer, and victorious Messiah:
And it was hid from them, that they perceived it not . . . the true meaning of this saying was hidden from them, it was veiled with the above idea of the worldly grandeur of the Messiah, that they did not consider.
And they feared to ask him of that saying . . . they were afraid to ask the meaning of it, thinking that He had a secret spiritual meaning in it, which they could not reach; in case He should rebuke them with their dullness and foolishness; or should rebuke them with the similar sharpness and severity that He had reproved Peter not long ago. They just did not quite understand about being raised from the dead. Jesus is talking about His own death, and you would think that these men might have at least made some inquiries.

Who Is Greatest?

Luke 9:46  Then there arose a reasoning among them, which of them should be greatest. (KJV)

Then there arose a reasoning among them . . . these apostles were just men, and they had evil thoughts entered into them, very likely, suggested by Satan,. The thoughts worked their way into words, and started a warm argument among them. It seems that this was when they were travelling from Caesarea Philippi to Capernaum. (Mk.9:33).
Which of them should be greatest . . . meaning who would be the greatest in the Kingdom of the Messiah, which they expected would be a temporal one. This dispute seems not to be about degrees in glory, nor in grace; nor who should be the greatest apostle and preacher of the Gospel; but who would be prime minister to the King Messiah, when He would set up His monarchy in all its grandeur and glory. (Mat.18:1).
They wanted to know which one would be advanced to the highest position, and have the greatest place of authority, honor and dignity, in the Kingdom of the Messiah, that they thought would be in a short time set up. Aside from what Christ had said to them, concerning His being given over to the power of evil men, and concerning His death and resurrection, they still had their previous opinion, to which they did not know how to reconcile His dying; and just chose to leave His meaning in doubt, and remain ignorant about it.

Luke 9:47  And Jesus, perceiving the thought of their heart, took a child, and set him by him, (KJV)

And Jesus perceiving the thought of their heart . . . not by any words Jesus had heard; for the dispute was on the road, as they came along behind Him; but as the omniscient God, who is the discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. He was aware of all their ambition, and the pride and vanity of their minds, and to all their thoughts and arguments, even though Jesus was out in front of them, and not within hearing distance of them. When they came to Capernaum, after having asked them what they disputed about by the way;
He took a child and set him by him . . . there is some controversy over who this child was. It really does NOT matter who he was. This little one simply was the object of one of the Lord Jesus’ awesome teachings. And set him in the midst of them . . . (Mat.18:2), that everyone might

Luke 9:48  And said unto them, Whosoever shall receive this child in my name receiveth me: and whosoever shall receive me receiveth him that sent me: for he that is least among you all, the same shall be great. (KJV)

And said unto them, Whosoever shalt receive this child . . . or "one such little child" (Mat.18:5), NOT in age, but in meekness and humility; one that is not proud and haughty, ambitious of worldly honor, and jealous and resentful at the bigger and better state of others.
Whosoever shall receive one of such children . . . (Mk.9:37), meaning any believer, who is like a child in humility, meekness, modesty and lowliness of mind, whosoever performs the task of love and kindness to the lowest believer,
In my name . . . because he belongs to me, is sent by me, and represents me, and delivers my message:
Receiveth me . . . represented by Him, and will be so taken.
And whosoever shall receive me, receiveth him that sent me . . . because the humble believer belongs to Christ, is one of His, partakes of His grace, is loved by Him, and shall be glorified with Him one day . . . such is Christ Jesus’ great respect to His humble followers, that He takes it as if done to Himself. Any humble believer, becomes a member of Him (Jn.14:20), and is like Him, and respected by Him. Christ Jesus is in all TRUE believers, in the form of His Spirit (Jn.14:16,26).
Any time we show respect to one of Christ's members, it is showing respect to Him; and by showing respect to Christ, it is showing respect to His Father, from whence He came, and by whom He was sent, and in Whose Name He acted, and Whose work and service He was concerned about.
For he that is least among you all . . . that is, in his own opinion of himself, and behaves so in his conduct, one who is lowly and meek and humble and considers himself lesser than all, someone who considers himself as the least of the apostles, as did the apostle Paul (Eph.3:8).
The same shall be great . . . shall be greatly honored with gifts, and made greatly useful.
James 4:10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up. (KJV)  

Christ's reasoning is, that whoever receives His apostles, that are meek and lowly, into their houses, or into their hearts and affections; that receives their ministry and message, embraces the Gospel preached by them with readiness and cheerfulness, with faith and love, because of Christ Jesus and His Holy Name, and because they are His apostles, believe in Him, preach His Gospel, and are sent by Him, and represent Him. Anyone that receives the apostles, receives Jesus as well. It would be the same as if they received Jesus, just as if He were Personally present, and Personally received. All the favors shown to His apostles, would be as if they had been done to Him in Person. And all who receive Christ’s Gospel, receives Him, for He is the Sum and Substance of that Gospel! The Lord said this to encourage modesty and humility in the apostles, and to ALL those who followed them as disciples of Christ, meaning us today!

Humility and meekness is a great viewpoint. I really believe that there are some great saints who are the unknown ones in our churches today, who quietly and faithfully serve Him. On Judgment Day these shall be made known. That is enough reward for them. Those proud, higher up ones, always spouting commands to those around them, shall have a big surprise on Judgment Day. A loss of rewards is what they shall receive.  

Luke 9:49 And John answered and said, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name; and we forbad him, because he followeth not with us. (KJV)

And John answered and said, Master we saw one casting out devils in thy name, and we forbad him . . . we do not know if this could have been one of the disciples of John, or one of the seventy whom Jesus had sent out (Lk.10:1), and who, although he did not personally attend Jesus, like the twelve, yet had the power of working miracles. There is no evidence that he was just an exorcist, or that he used the Name of Jesus only as a pretense. And we forbad him . . . to go on in this way, casting out any more devils,
Because he followeth, not us . . . was not one of their company, nor any of Christ's apostles, and had not received authority and commission from Christ, to do what he did. They feared, that the dignity of Jesus would be lessened, and some dishonor and reproach be reflected upon Him; and besides the honor of Christ, that this case was too much like that of Joshua, when Eldad and Medad prophesied in the camp (Num.11:26-29).
Seeing such a man casting out demons provoked John to jealousy, because he thought that none other than the chosen twelve should be honored with this power. Such jealousy in regard to divine privileges is a very common passion, and one against which men occupying positions of trust and authority should be constantly on their guard. (Mk.9:38).

Luke 9:50 And Jesus said unto him, Forbid him not: for he that is not against us is for us. (KJV)

And Jesus said unto him, Forbid him not for he that is not against us, is for us . . . miracles such as casting out devils, or healing any sickness and disease, for such a man can NEVER reproach and blaspheme that Name of Jesus, which He makes use of in doing wonderful works. NO man can call Jesus accursed, who casts out devils in His Name (1 Cor.12:3). Mark says: Mark 9:40 For he that is not against us is on our part. (KJV)  . . . since this man was not against either Christ, or His apostles; he was doing the same work, promoting the same interest, and destroying the kingdom of Satan: and therefore, even though he did not follow them, and as he was opposing the same common enemy, and did nothing against them, he should be counted as one for them, and on their side. An old proverb: All that are not against a man, and take no part of his enemy, are to be counted as his friends.

It is absolutely impossible for anyone to stand on strictly neutral ground in reference to Christ. He must prevail in one way OR the other. If in no way he is against Christ, then he is for Him; and if he is not for Christ, he is against Him (Mat.12:30). NO fence sitting! NO gray area . . . it is either black (Satan), or white (Jesus)!

There is something here that is worthy of discussion. As for John and the rest forbidding him, they seemed to be guilty of two huge errors: #1. Envying for Christ's sake, as Joshua did for Moses's sake (Num.11:26-29), as John's disciples did for their master's sake (Jn.3:26), willing that Christ, and those whom He sent out, should have the honor of those miraculous operations. #2. Limiting the grace of Christ to only that flock which followed Christ, and the twelve; a thing that good men are too prone to.
Much better was the spirit of Paul, who tells us: Phil. 1:15  Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of good will:  . . . 18 What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretence, or in truth, Christ is preached; and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice. (KJV) . . . Christ Jesus wants all His people to have such a spirit, as not to hinder, but commend, not to envy, but to rejoice in the doing good.
These verses are in the context of a discussion that Jesus was having with the twelve apostles. They had been arguing among themselves about "who among them should be the greatest." I think Jesus does an excellent job in His answer.

Luke 9:51 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)

And it came to pass, when the time was come . . . the period of time fixed for Jesus being in Galilee came to an end; when He had fulfilled His ministry, and finished all His sayings, and done all the miracles He was to do in those parts; when He was to leave this country, and go into Judea, and up to Jerusalem, meant in the next clause.
That he should be received up . . . the word here translated "received up" means literally a removal from a lower to a higher place, and here it evidently refers to the solemn ascension of Jesus to Heaven. It is often used to describe that great event (Acts 1:11,22; Mk.16:19; 1 Tim.3:16). The time appointed for Jesus to remain on the earth was deceasing, and He was determined to go to Jerusalem and die. From this we learn that Jesus made a voluntary Sacrifice; He CHOSE to give His life for the sins of mankind. Humanly speaking, had he remained in Galilee He would have been safe; but so that it might appear that he did not shun danger, and that He really was a voluntary sacrifice . . . and that no man had power over His life except that He permitted it (Jn.19:11). He chose to put himself in the way of danger, and even to go into places where He knew would end in His death. (Mat.19:1; Mk.10:1).
He steadfastly set his face to go to Jerusalem . . . He was determined to go to Jerusalem, his time being up in Galilee; and even though He knew what He would meet with and endure; that He should bear the sins of His people, the curse of the law, and wrath of God; and that He would have many enemies, men and devils to contend with, and undergo a painful, shameful, and accursed death; none of these things moved Him away from His goal. (2 Ki.12:17).

Luke 9:52 And sent messengers before his face: and they went, and entered into a village of the Samaritans, to make ready for him. (KJV)

And sent messengers before his face . . . very likely two apostles, James and John, since they so highly resented the ill treatment their master met with from the Samaritans.
And they went, and entered into a village of the Samaritans; to make ready for him . . . to prepare lodging and proper food for Him and His disciples, as they passed on in their journey, for His intention was not to stay there. (Mat.10:5).

Luke 9:53 And they did not receive him, because his face was as though he would go to Jerusalem. (KJV)  

And they did not receive him . . . it seems that this should be; did not entertain them (the messengers) hospitably, or receive them with kindness.
They were glad that so great a person was coming to honor them with His Presence, hoping that miracles would be done by Him among them; and that He would stay with them, but when Christ came in Person, with His apostles and the multitude, they would not admit Him; the reason follows,
Because his face was as though he would go to Jerusalem . . . Jesus was not going to stay there, which was very clear by His words, looks and gestures. He was determined to proceed on to Jerusalem, after He had spent the night there and had refreshed Himself, and therefore they would not receive Him.

Luke 9:54 And when his disciples James and John saw this, they said, Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven, and consume them, even as Elias did? (KJV)

And when his disciples, James and John, saw this . . . they were called Boanerges, sons of thunder, probably because of their energy and power in preaching the Gospel, or of their passionate and impulsive zeal; a remarkable example of which we have in this instance. (Mk.3:17).  
They said, Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven, and consume them . . . being enraged at the conduct of the Samaritans towards Jesus, and burning with love to Him, and zeal for His honor. They were for punishing them in a most terrible manner, fire from Heaven; by which Sodom and Gomorrah and the cities of the plain were destroyed.
Even as Elias did . . . upon the two captains of fifties, with their fifties, as recorded in (2 Ki.1:9-12). Vengeance belongs to God: it was not theirs to attempt it.

Luke 9:55 But he turned, and rebuked them, and said, Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of. (KJV)

But he turned and rebuked them . . . Jesus turned Himself around to them, and looking upon them with a harsh countenance, sharply reproved them for their unrestrained zeal, their passion of wrath and anger, and desire of revenge.
And said, Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of . . . you think that you are motivated by a proper love for Me; but it is rather a love of revenge; revengeful feelings toward the Samaritans instead of proper feelings toward me. We must beware of the false pretenses of love and zeal, that are brought on by the devil, and can get us in trouble with the Lord.

Luke 9:56 For the Son of man is not come to destroy men's lives, but to save them. And they went to another village. (KJV)

For the son of man is not come to destroy men's lives; but to save them . . . meaning Himself, in His state of humiliation. He came not to destroy. If He had come for that purpose, He would have destroyed these Samaritans; but He came to save. He is not soon angry. He bears ever so patiently every opposition to Himself, as you and I should bear opposition to Him. You should catch His spirit; adjust your zeal to be like His; seek to do good to those who injure you and Him; be mild, kind, patient and forgiving (Mat 5:10-12). My friend, it is NOT easy to be a “Christian.”  The Son of Man came to seek and to save: (Mat.18:11; 20:28; Mk.10:45; Lk.9:56; 19:10; Jn.3:17; 12:47)        
And they went to another village . . . in Samaria, which was more civil and courteous, and less prejudiced, where they got lodging and food.

Requirements for Discipleship (Luke 9:57-62)

Here we find three hopeful contenders who want to become disciples of the Lord Jesus. Here, Jesus is not stating the WAY of salvation. "What must I do to be saved?" (Acts 16:30), is not asked here. Instead, Jesus tells us what is required to become a follower, and a disciple of Him. The first applicant is a reckless and thoughtless young man.

Luke 9:57 And it came to pass, that, as they went in the way, a certain man said unto him, Lord, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest. (KJV)

And it came to pass, as they went in the way . . . from one village of the Samaritans to another;
A certain man said unto him . . . if this is the same as in Matthew, he is there said to be a scribe (Mat.8:19).
Lord, I will follow thee, wheresoever thou goest . . . for those who have elegant houses, and think them worth glorying in, or that these are the things that they should value themselves on, despising their poor brethren that want such accommodations of this life, consider the text.

Luke 9:58 And Jesus said unto him, Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head. (KJV)

And Jesus said unto him, Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head . . . both the words of this man to Christ, and Christ's answer to him, are exactly the same as in Matthew, which makes it look as if it was the same person; although it is not improbable, that Christ might have been approached in the same manner by another person, at another time and place, and return an identical answer to each. (Mat.8:20).

Luke 9:59 And he said unto another, Follow me. But he said, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father. (KJV)

And he said unto another, Follow me . . . this is not the same man in verse 19. This is not one of His apostles that were called by Him. This is a one of the many disciples (learners) that followed Jesus. Consider: an “apostle” was one of the twelve called by Jesus. The apostles were also disciples. A “disciple” is a follower, someone who adheres completely to the teachings of another. The Pharisees prided themselves in being disciples of Moses (Jn.9:28). Jesus was quite clear about the cost of following Him. Discipleship requires a totally committed life:  Luke 14:33  So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple. (KJV) . . . Sacrifice is expected: Matthew 16:24  Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. (KJV) . . . Not all of Jesus’ followers are able to make such a commitment . . . not then, not now! John 6:66  From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him. (KJV) . . . The term Christian was never used by Jesus. The first time the word Christian is used is found in Acts 11:26. (Mat.8:20-21).
Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father . . . this has been greatly misunderstood. Our first impression is that the “father” had just died and that the family was getting ready to hold the funeral service. Our Lord seems very harsh in His answer.

Luke 9:60 Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God. (KJV)

Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury the dead . . . the word dead is used in this Passage in two different ways. It is apparently a paradox, but is fitted to convey Jesus’ idea very clearly to the mind. The Jews often used the word dead to express indifference to a thing, or to show that the thing has no influence over us. For instance: to be dead to the world; to be dead to the law (Rom.7:4); to be dead to sin (Rom.6:11); means that the world, the law and sin, have no influence or control over us; that we are free from them just as though they did not exist. A body in the grave is unaffected by the splendor and pride, by the gaiety and festivities, by the ambition and luxury that may be close to the tomb. So too, men of the world (unbelievers) are dead to Christ. They cannot see His beauty; cannot hear not His voice; cannot see His beauty. It seems to me that this is the class of people to which the Saviour referred to here. Anyone who is not interested in His work, and who are dead in sin (Eph.2:1), let them take care of the dead. The duty of a TRUE believer is to follow JESUS, no matter what. Jesus would not excuse this man, or any other on this account. A greater honor to Christ Jesus must be had, than to the nearest relative. Matthew 10:37 He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. (KJV)

There may have been two reasons for these seemingly hard and rash words. One was to test the character and attachment of the man. IF he had proper love for Christ, he would be willing to leave his friends and family even in the most tender and trying conditions. A second reason might have been, that the Saviour saw that the effect of visiting his home at that time might have driven away all his serious feelings, and that he would return to Him no more. This man’s feelings might not have been deep enough, and his purpose to follow the Saviour may not have been strong enough to bear the trial to which he would be subjected. Not even the death of a father, and the sorrows of a distressed family, should lead a person to put off the reason to be a Christian. Following Christ is a duty NEVER to be put off or neglected, be it in sickness or health, at home or abroad; whether surrounded by living and happy kindred, or whether a father, a mother, a child, or a sister lies in our house dead. Regard to family, friends and comfort should be secondary to Christ; we should always be ready to sacrifice these when duty to Him requires it. (Mat.8:22).
But go thou and preach the kingdom of God . . . that the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand, the Gospel dispensation is now ushering in, and the Kingdom of the Messiah is setting up; go and publish the things concerning the kingdom of grace, which lies not in outward rites and ceremonies, but in righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Ghost; and speak out about the things relating to the Kingdom of glory, and eternal life and happiness; speak out the Truth, that unless a man is born again (Jn.1:12-13; 3:3-8), and has a much better righteousness than his own. A person is neither fit for, nor has a right to everlasting bliss, without Jesus (Jn.3:15-16; 16:6; Acts 4:12; 1 Cor.1:30; Rom.5:1-2).  

Luke 9:61 And another also said, Lord, I will follow thee; but let me first go bid them farewell, which are at home at my house. (KJV)

And another also said . . . and a third said to Jesus . . . only two are spoken of by Matthew, but a third is added here in Luke.
Lord, I will follow thee . . . this man wants to be a disciple of Jesus, and a preacher of His Gospel, BUT, he adds this condition:
But let me first go bid them farewell, which are at home at my house . . . as Elisha wanted of Elijah, that he might go and kiss his father and his mother and then he promises he would follow him (1 Ki.19:20). This man says, he would come after he says good bye to his friends, and sets in order his family affairs, and dispose of his worldly effects among his domestics, relatives and friends.

Luke 9:62 And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.  (KJV)

And Jesus said unto him, No man having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is not fit for the kingdom of God . . . a man plowing should look ahead of him, on the ground he is plowing, for looking back, he will not make straight furrows, or do his work well. So is it with those that enter ministerial work, looking back, occupies himself in the affairs of the world, setting his heart upon them, and spends his time in them. A person CANNOT serve God and mammon; CANNOT serve his interest in Christ and his own interest at the same time. He cannot rightly perform the work of the ministry, while his thoughts and time are taken up in the affairs of the world.

Gospel of Luke

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