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Book of Luke - Chapter 9 - Verse 60

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

Meaning

When Jesus said, "Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God," he was emphasizing the importance of prioritizing spiritual matters over worldly obligations. In this passage, Jesus was speaking to a man who wanted to bury his father before following Him. While burying a loved one is a significant responsibility in Jewish culture, Jesus was teaching that spreading the message of the kingdom of God should take precedence over everything else. By using the phrase "Let the dead bury their dead," Jesus was not referring to physical death, but rather a spiritual death of those who are not focused on following Him and spreading His teachings. This verse serves as a reminder for believers to stay committed to spreading the word of God and living out their faith, even when faced with difficult choices or distractions.

Theological Overview

One possible theological interpretation of the verse "Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God" can be understood through the lens of prioritizing spiritual life over worldly obligations. In this context, Jesus is emphasizing the urgency and importance of spreading the message of the kingdom of God. By instructing the individual to leave behind the traditional funeral rites and follow Him, Jesus is highlighting the transformative power of His teachings and the need for immediate action in spreading the Gospel. This verse serves as a reminder to prioritize our spiritual calling and mission above all else, even familial duties or societal expectations. Furthermore, this passage underscores the radical nature of discipleship, calling believers to wholeheartedly commit themselves to the proclamation of God's kingdom, regardless of the personal sacrifices that may be required. Through this challenging directive, Jesus invites His followers to embrace a life of radical obedience and unwavering dedication to fulfilling the Great Commission.

American Standard Version

But he said unto him, Leave the dead to bury their own dead; but go thou and publish abroad the kingdom of God.
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