Luke 24:6 (KJV)

What does Luke 24:6 mean?

Luke 24:6 announces that Jesus is not in the tomb because he has risen from the dead, just as he had previously told his followers while he was still with them in Galilee. The verse calls the listeners to remember Jesus’ own words about his resurrection, highlighting that these events are a fulfillment of what he had promised.

In this scene, angels are speaking to the women who have come to Jesus’ tomb and found it empty. The angels remind them that Jesus had spoken about his death and resurrection earlier in Galilee. This moment is meant to jog the memory of the women and reassure them that the resurrection was not unexpected, but part of what Jesus had already revealed.

The Greek behind Luke 24:6

• ἐγήγερται (egēgertai, “risen”): This word means “has been raised” or “has risen.” It emphasizes that Jesus’ resurrection is an accomplished fact, not just a future hope or a spiritual idea.
• μνημονεύετε (mnēmoneuete, “remember”): This word is a command to actively recall or keep in mind. The angels are urging the women not just to recall information, but to connect what they see (the empty tomb) with what Jesus had already told them.
• ὄντα ἔτι (onta eti, “was yet”): This phrase means “while he was still” in Galilee, pointing back to a specific time when Jesus had spoken these things. It grounds the resurrection in Jesus’ earlier teaching and presence with his followers.

Why Luke 24:6 matters

• Luke 24:6 clarifies that the resurrection was not a surprise twist, but something Jesus had openly predicted, which helps the reader see the continuity between Jesus’ words and the events.
• The verse highlights the importance of remembering and trusting Jesus’ teachings, especially in moments of confusion or fear.
• By pointing back to Galilee, Luke connects the resurrection to the whole story of Jesus’ ministry, showing that his death and resurrection were always part of his mission.