Luke 24:21 (KJV)

What does Luke 24:21 mean?

Luke 24:21 expresses the disappointment of two followers of Jesus who had hoped He was the one to redeem Israel, but now feel let down because He was crucified, and it is now the third day since these events happened. They are speaking honestly about their dashed expectations and confusion after Jesus’ death.

The verse is part of a conversation between two disciples on the road to Emmaus, talking to the risen Jesus (though they do not recognize Him). They are reflecting on recent events in Jerusalem, sharing their hope that Jesus would free Israel, and noting that three days have passed since His crucifixion—hinting at both their sorrow and lingering uncertainty about what comes next.

The Greek behind Luke 24:21

• ἐλπίζω (elpizō, “trusted”): This word means to hope or expect. The Greek here carries the sense of a deep, confident expectation, not just a wishful thought. The disciples’ hope was strong and now feels deeply shaken.
• λυτρόω (lytroō, “redeemed”): This word means to set free by paying a price, often used for freeing slaves. The disciples expected a dramatic rescue or deliverance for Israel, likely political or national in nature.
• τρίτος (tritos, “third”): The mention of “the third day” is significant, as it echoes Jesus’ own predictions about rising on the third day, though the disciples do not seem to connect this yet.

Why Luke 24:21 matters

• Luke 24:21 shows the real, human disappointment and confusion of Jesus’ followers, making their later recognition of Him more meaningful.
• The verse highlights how the disciples’ expectations for the Messiah were shaped by hopes for national deliverance, not realizing the deeper spiritual redemption Jesus brought.
• The mention of “the third day” hints at resurrection hope, setting up the moment when Jesus will reveal Himself and explain how the Scriptures pointed to these events.