Summary of Meaning

This verse from Luke reveals profound truths regarding the nature of existence after resurrection. Jesus explains that those who are resurrected will no longer experience death, akin to the angels, and will possess a unique relationship with God as His children. This marks a significant shift in understanding life after death, emphasizing eternal life and divine kinship.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry elaborates on the permanence of life after resurrection, suggesting that believers will not face death again. This eternal life reflects the nature of the angels, who exist in unbroken communion with God. The passage emphasizes the special status of believers as God's children, offering comfort and hope for life beyond mortality.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes comments on the meaning of being 'equal unto the angels', suggesting that after resurrection, believers will share in the glory and immortality of heavenly beings. He insists that this transformation is not just physical but relates to a spiritual state of perfection, highlighting the divine nature that believers will attain.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke interprets the 'children of the resurrection' as a designation that signifies believers’ relationship with God. He stresses that this verse underscores the transformation in spiritual status that occurs at resurrection, where believers' identities shift to reflect their heavenly citizenship and relationship to the divine.

Cross-References

Luke 20:36 is interconnected with various other scripture verses that illuminate the themes of resurrection, eternal life, and the nature of God’s children. Here are key cross-references:

• John 11:25-26: Jesus claims to be the resurrection and the life, affirming that those who believe in Him will never die.
• Romans 8:16-17: Believers are described as children of God and joint heirs with Christ, reinforcing the familial bond established in Luke 20:36.
• 1 Corinthians 15:42-44: This passage elaborates on the transformation from perishable to imperishable, echoing the resurrection theme.
• Philippians 3:20-21: Paul speaks of a heavenly citizenship and the transformation of our lowly bodies to be like Christ's glorious body.
• Hebrews 2:10-11: Discusses Jesus bringing many sons to glory, reinforcing the concept of believers' divine kinship.
• Revelation 21:4: A promise that God will wipe away all tears and there will be no more death, aligning with the eternal life promised in Luke 20:36.
• Matthew 22:30: Jesus addresses the same topic, emphasizing that in the resurrection, people neither marry nor are given in marriage but are as angels in heaven.

Thematic Connections

This verse leads to broader themes found throughout the Bible, connecting various theological constructs:

• Resurrection: Many verses affirm the resurrection of the dead, illustrating the transformative power of God.
• Eternal Life: Scriptures throughout the New Testament declare the promise of eternal life for believers.
• Divine Sonship: The theme of believers as children of God appears repeatedly, illustrating a profound spiritual relationship.
• Angelic Nature: References to angels often denote purity, immortality, and proximity to God, resonating with the identity of resurrected believers.

Inter-Biblical Dialogue

This verse encourages exploration of connections between the Old and New Testaments, particularly through themes raised by the Prophets and the Gospels. Understanding how the resurrection is hinted at in the Old Testament (e.g., Isaiah 26:19, Daniel 12:2) invites deeper insight into New Testament teachings.

Practical Applications

This passage serves as a consolation for believers facing death, providing assurance of eternal life. It encourages believers to live with hope, knowing their identity as children of God is affirmed through resurrection.

Conclusion

Luke 20:36 encapsulates fundamental Christian beliefs about life after death. By understanding this verse through various commentaries and cross-references, believers can deepen their faith and appreciation for the promise of eternal life alongside angelic hosts as beloved children of God.