The Gift of Understanding

He opened their minds to understand.

Luke 24:45

The Gospel of Luke recounts an interesting scene after Jesus’ resurrection. He appeared to the disciples and reminded them of the Old Testament prophesies of the coming of the Messiah. Luke inserts an insightful phrase. He added, “He opened their minds to understand” (Luke 24:45).

The Greek word for understanding means to “join together in the mind*.” This type of understanding is “true understanding of the Scriptures so that one understands how all of redemptive history fits together**.”

I call such moments “aha” moments—when biblical truths begin to connect with one another revealing the overarching plan of God from creation to His return. Such moments arrive as a gentle wave of delight as I embrace such glorious truths.

Because of my personal response, I can imagine the reactions of the disciples as their own understanding begins to wash through their minds and their hearts. Their solemn demeanor transforms to joy. Their slumped shoulders straighten. Their despair morphs to joyful anticipation as “He opened their minds to understand.”

Father, thank You for providing Your Holy Spirit as well as spiritually gifted teachers to explain the beauty of Your eternal plan for mankind and for me. Continue to open my mind to understand and receive such wonders. In the name of the ultimate teacher, Jesus Christ, I pray, amen.

Linda Lesniewski

*Blue Letter Bible App

**ESV (English Standard Version) Study Bible