Abstract:
The conjoined themes of mission, migration, and nationalism are central issues in the Gospel of
Luke. These essential motifs were amalgamated in a rhetorical composition to persuade implied
readers to be mission-focused but accommodate the views of transiting communities or
consular decisions and national pride. Luke 9:51–56 has been variedly interpreted on
discipleship, media communication, Christological, and Elijah’s spirit tenets. Emphasising
individual themes in the interpretation of Luke 9:51–56 is legitimate, but it leaves out a holistic
understanding of the text as the opening narrative of Luke’s travel narratives, which concerns
multiple issues. This study engages the socio-rhetorical criticism propounded by Vernon K.
Robbins to reinterpret Luke 9:51–56. The objective is to respond to the questions: (1) what is the
relationship between mission, migration, and nationalism in Luke 9:51–56? and (2) what is the
relevance of mission, migration, and nationalism in Luke 9:51–56 for African migrants in the
diaspora?
CONTRIBUTION: There is a proximity between mission, migration, and nationalism in Luke
9:51–56. It prioritises mission over migration and nationalism. Mission is the key determinant
for migration and nationalism. Migrant Africans emphasise migration for economic fortunes
over mission and nationalism. This may be due to personal aspirations.
