Book of Luke - Chapter 20 - Verse 38
Meaning
When Jesus said, "For he is not a God of the dead, but of the living: for all live unto him," he was emphasizing the eternal nature of God and His relationship with His creation. This verse comes from the Gospel of Luke, where Jesus is responding to a question posed by the Sadducees about the resurrection. Jesus is explaining that God is not a deity of the dead, but of the living, meaning that even those who have passed away physically are still alive in the presence of God. The verse highlights the belief that, in God's eyes, all souls are alive and connected to Him, regardless of their physical state. It serves as a reminder that God's love and presence extend beyond this earthly life and into eternity. This profound statement by Jesus offers comfort to believers, assuring them that their loved ones are still living in the presence of God and that death is not the end, but a transition into an everlasting life with Him.
Theological Overview
When examining the theological interpretation of the verse "For he is not a God of the dead, but of the living: for all live unto him," it is essential to consider the context in which it is spoken. This verse is found in the Gospel of Luke, where Jesus is responding to a question posed by the Sadducees about the resurrection of the dead. In this response, Jesus is affirming the reality of life after death and emphasizing the eternal nature of existence in the presence of God. This verse highlights the belief that God is not limited by death but is sovereign over all of creation, including those who have passed away. The theological significance of this verse lies in its reassurance that God's power extends beyond the physical realm and into the spiritual realm, where all souls continue to live on in His presence.