And it came to pass, when the time was come that he should be received up, he stedfastly set his face to go to Jerusalem,

LUKE 9:51KJV
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Luke 9:51 (KJV)

What does Luke 9:51 mean?

Luke 9:51 describes a turning point where Jesus, knowing the time had come for him to be taken up (referring to his upcoming death, resurrection, and ascension), firmly decided to go to Jerusalem. This verse marks Jesus’ deliberate and determined choice to head toward the events that would fulfill his mission.

In this verse, Luke is narrating to his readers about Jesus’ conscious decision as he begins his final journey toward Jerusalem. The phrase “stedfastly set his face” shows Jesus’ resolve and unwavering commitment, even though he knows suffering awaits him there. This moment signals a shift in the Gospel, as Jesus moves from ministry in Galilee toward the climax of his mission in Jerusalem.

The Greek behind Luke 9:51

  • “Set” (ἑστήρισεν, hestērisen): This Greek word means to fix firmly or to make resolute. Here, it emphasizes Jesus’ strong determination and purpose in heading to Jerusalem, not just a casual decision.
  • “Face” (πρόσωπον, prosōpon): Literally “face,” this phrase “set his face” is a Hebrew-style expression meaning to decide firmly or to be resolute. It highlights Jesus’ intentional focus on his goal.
  • “Go” (πορεύεσθαι, poreuesthai): This verb means “to travel” or “to journey.” The use here underlines that Jesus is not just physically moving but is purposefully setting out on a significant journey toward Jerusalem.

Why Luke 9:51 matters

  • Luke 9:51 clarifies that Jesus’ journey to Jerusalem was not accidental or forced; it was a conscious, willing choice made with full awareness of what awaited him.
  • The verse marks a major transition in Luke’s Gospel, shifting the focus from Jesus’ ministry in the countryside to the events leading up to his crucifixion in Jerusalem.
  • The language of determination (“stedfastly set his face”) helps readers understand the depth of Jesus’ commitment and the courage involved in fulfilling his mission.

Where else these words appear

“come” Greek G4845 · used in 3 verses

  • Luke 8:23 But as they sailed he fell asleep: and there came down a storm of wind on the lake; and they were filled with water, and were in jeopardy.
  • Acts 2:1 And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place.

“set” Greek G4741 · used in 13 verses

  • Luke 16:26 And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence.
  • 1 Thessalonians 3:2 And sent Timotheus, our brother, and minister of God, and our fellowlabourer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you, and to comfort you concerning your faith:
  • James 5:8 Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh.

“face” Greek G4383 · used in 73 verses

  • Matthew 6:16 Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.
  • Luke 21:35 For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth.
  • 2 Corinthians 10:1 Now I Paul myself beseech you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ, who in presence am base among you, but being absent am bold toward you:

“Jerusalem” Greek G2419 · used in 80 verses

  • Matthew 23:37 O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not!
  • Luke 24:49 And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.
  • Acts 16:4 And as they went through the cities, they delivered them the decrees for to keep, that were ordained of the apostles and elders which were at Jerusalem.