Summary of Meaning

The verse describes the reaction of the people in the synagogue in Nazareth when Jesus proclaimed the fulfillment of prophecy through His words. Their anger indicates a rejection of His message, reflecting deeper themes of disbelief and hostility towards God's revelations.

Commentary Insights

This verse illustrates the profound emotions stirred by Jesus' words. Various public domain commentaries offer rich insights into its meaning:

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry observes that the wrath of the people stemmed from their familiarity with Jesus as the carpenter's son. They struggled to accept Him as the Messiah, highlighting human prejudice against divine truth.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes explains that the reaction of anger serves as a reminder of how individuals often respond negatively to truths that challenge their preconceived notions. He emphasizes that their wrath signifies a common plight — rejecting God’s choice and His message.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke notes that the crowd's fury is indicative of their inability to see beyond earthly circumstances. Their hidden disbelief acted as a barrier to recognizing the divine authority of Jesus' proclamations.

Cross-References Related to Luke 4:28

This verse has several correlating themes in the Bible. Here are key cross-references:

• John 1:11: "He came unto his own, and his own received him not." This illustrates the rejection faced by Jesus from His own people.
• Matthew 13:57: "A prophet is not without honor, save in his own country." This highlights the familiar rejection of prophetic messages among one's own kin.
• Mark 6:3: "Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary?" Reflects the disdain stemming from familiarity and underestimation.
• Luke 4:24: "No prophet is accepted in his own country." This directly resonates with the theme of rejection in familiar settings.
• Isaiah 53:3: "He is despised and rejected of men." This foreshadows the eventual consequences of Jesus’ ministry and reception.
• Acts 7:51: "Ye stiff-necked and uncircumcised in heart and ears." Stephen's words echo the disbelief that Jesus faced as a common challenge throughout Scripture.
• Romans 10:16: "But they have not all obeyed the gospel." Reflects on the biblical context of rejection of God’s message through His messengers.

Thematic Connections

Luke 4:28 creates a basis for discussing themes prevalent in both the Old and New Testaments:

• Divine Rejection: The recurring motif of God's chosen being rejected serves as a warning throughout scripture.
• Prophetic Authority: Jesus claiming fulfillment of prophecy is a link to the tradition of prophets in Israel.
• Human Prejudice: This verse demonstrates how preconceived notions affect reception of God's truth.

Tools for Bible Cross-Referencing

To delve deeper into cross-references, consider using the following tools and methods:

• Bible Concordance: A useful tool for finding where specific words are used throughout scripture.
• Bible Cross-Reference Guide: Provides systematic approaches to explore linked verses.
• Cross-Reference Bible Study: Involves looking for thematic ties between scriptures for in-depth study.
• Bible Reference Resources: Resources dedicated to connecting Biblical texts for better understanding.

Conclusion

In understanding Luke 4:28, we see the potential for profound insight into how biblical themes resonate across scripture. Through tools for cross-referencing and an understanding of context, we deepen our grasp on God’s word and the narratives intertwined within it.