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set His face

Luke 9:51&52
"51 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,
52 And sent messengers before His face: and they went, and entered into a village of the Samaritans, to make ready for Him."

In our study Follow Me, we’re exploring key teachings Jesus shared with His followers. Last week, we learned about denying ourselves, taking up our cross daily, and following Him unashamedly, trusting in His sacrifice for our eternal life with God.

Today, in Luke 9, Jesus begins His journey to Jerusalem, where He will fulfill His mission through His death and resurrection. This shift moves from His Galilean ministry to preparing His disciples for His sacrifice and the church’s foundation.

The phrase “set His face” reflects resolute determination, rooted in Old Testament language, showing Jesus’ commitment to the Father’s will despite danger and suffering.

The Greek term analempseos (“taken up”) carries a dual meaning, pointing to both His crucifixion and His ascension, linking His sacrifice with His exaltation.

By sending messengers ahead, Jesus fulfills Malachi 3’s prophecy of a forerunner preparing His way. Their task likely involved arranging lodging or other preparations for His arrival, though specifics are not provided.

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