LUKE 9:21–22
THE FIRST PREDICTION OF THE PASSION
Text – Luke 9:21–22
21 He rebuked them and directed them not to tell this to anyone.
22 He said, “The Son of Man must suffer greatly and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed and on the third day be raised.”
Historical and Jewish Context
After Peter’s confession, Jesus immediately corrects any political or triumphalistic expectations. In first-century Judaism, many expected a victorious Messiah who would restore Israel’s glory. Jesus instead reveals a suffering Messiah, echoing the “Suffering Servant” tradition (Is 52–53). The elders, chief priests, and scribes formed the Sanhedrin—the authoritative Jewish council. Their rejection reflects the pattern of Israel’s leaders opposing prophets sent by God. “Son of Man” recalls Daniel 7:13–14, now mysteriously linked with suffering and resurrection.
Catholic Theological Perspective
Jesus teaches that His Passion is not accidental but necessary within God’s saving plan—“must suffer.” This divine necessity expresses the love with which He redeems humanity. The Paschal Mystery—suffering, death, and resurrection—is central to Catholic faith. Here Jesus begins forming His disciples to understand the cross not as defeat but as victory. Silence about His identity is commanded because full understanding requires the cross and resurrection; only afterward can the apostles proclaim Him rightly.
Parallels in Scripture
Is 52:13–53:12 – The suffering and vindication of God’s Servant.
Dn 7:13–14 – The Son of Man receiving dominion and glory.
Lk 24:25–27 – Jesus explains that the Messiah must suffer before entering glory.
Acts 2:23–24 – Peter proclaims Christ’s death and resurrection as part of God’s plan.
Key Terms
Son of Man – A messianic title expressing both humility and heavenly authority.
Must suffer – Divine necessity, not merely human tragedy.
Rejected – Fulfillment of the biblical pattern of Israel rejecting God’s messengers.
On the third day – Prophetic fulfillment and the foundation of Christian hope.
Catholic Liturgical Significance
This teaching shapes the Church’s Lenten and Holy Week liturgies, which highlight Christ’s voluntary offering of Himself. It appears in weekday liturgies as a reminder that discipleship involves participation in the Paschal Mystery. The prophecy also forms part of catechesis on Christology and the meaning of salvation.
Conclusion
Jesus reveals the heart of His mission: suffering love that leads to resurrection glory. The disciples must learn that the Messiah’s path is not earthly triumph but self-giving sacrifice. The cross, once a sign of shame, becomes the doorway to victory.
Reflection
Do I accept the crosses in my life as part of following Christ? Jesus invites me to see trials not as obstacles but as pathways to deeper union with Him. He assures me that suffering is not the final word—resurrection awaits.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, help me to embrace Your cross with faith and trust. Strengthen me to follow You in love, even when the path is difficult, and fill my heart with hope in Your resurrection. Amen.