Summary of Meaning

This verse captures a moment when Jesus, having risen from the dead, reassures His disciples who are understandably troubled by His appearance. It emphasizes the human response of fear and doubt in the face of extraordinary events. By asking, "Why are ye troubled?" Jesus not only acknowledges their fear but also invites them to reflect on their doubts and to find peace in His presence. This interaction reveals both the compassion of Jesus and the ongoing need for His followers to shift their focus from fear to faith.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry highlights that Jesus' appearance was startling to the disciples, who had previously experienced His teachings and miracles. The fear they felt was a natural reaction to the supernatural, revealing human nature's propensity to doubt even amidst the fulfillment of prophecy.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes emphasizes the significance of Jesus' question, suggesting that He seeks to encourage His followers to overcome their fears with faith. He links this occurrence with the need for believers to allow their hearts to be filled with hope rather than fear during times of uncertainty.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke discusses the implications of Jesus’ question, suggesting that it serves as a gentle rebuke, prompting the disciples to recognize the truth of the resurrection. He also notes how this incident underlines the concept of inner turmoil that believers may face and the need for divine comfort.

Bible Cross-References

• 1 John 4:18 - "There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear..."
• Matthew 14:27 - "But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid."
• John 20:19 - "Then the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut... came Jesus and stood in the midst..."
• Isaiah 41:10 - "Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God..."
• Philippians 4:7 - "And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."
• Luke 12:32 - "Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom."
• Matthew 28:10 - "Then said Jesus unto them, Be not afraid: go tell my brethren..."
• Mark 16:6 - "And he saith unto them, Be not affrighted: Ye seek Jesus of Nazareth..."
• John 14:1 - "Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me."
• Luke 1:30 - "And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God."

Thematic Connections

• Overcoming Fear: This theme runs throughout scripture as believers are consistently encouraged to find peace in God’s presence.
• Messiah’s Assurance: Many instances in the Gospels depict Jesus offering comfort, pointing to His role as the Messiah who brings hope.
• Resurrection and Faith: The resurrection narrative provides a foundation for faith, moving believers from doubt to conviction.

Conclusion

Luke 24:38 serves as a poignant reminder of the human experience of doubt, especially when faced with unexpected divine realities. Through the insights of various biblical commentators, we can better understand the importance of Jesus' message, urging us to cast aside our fears and embrace the hope offered through His resurrection. As we reflect on the connections between this verse and others, we enhance our grasp of the overarching themes of peace and faith in the Christian narrative.