Luke Chapter 7

The Centurion's Great Faith

(Matthew 8:5-13; John 4:43-54)

1Now when he had ended all his sayings in the audience of the people, he entered into Capernaum.

2And a certain centurion's servant, who was dear unto him, was sick, and ready to die. 3And when he heard of Jesus, he sent unto him the elders of the Jews, beseeching him that he would come and heal his servant. 4And when they came to Jesus, they besought him instantly, saying, That he was worthy for whom he should do this: 5For he loveth our nation, and he hath built us a synagogue. 6Then Jesus went with them. And when he was now not far from the house, the centurion sent friends to him, saying unto him, Lord, trouble not thyself: for I am not worthy that thou shouldest enter under my roof: 7Wherefore neither thought I myself worthy to come unto thee: but say in a word, and my servant shall be healed. 8For I also am a man set under authority, having under me soldiers, and I say unto one, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it. 9When Jesus heard these things, he marvelled at him, and turned him about, and said unto the people that followed him, I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel. 10And they that were sent, returning to the house, found the servant whole that had been sick.

Jesus Raises a Widow's Son

11And it came to pass the day after, that he went into a city called Nain; and many of his disciples went with him, and much people. 12Now when he came nigh to the gate of the city, behold, there was a dead man carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow: and much people of the city was with her. 13And when the Lord saw her, he had compassion on her, and said unto her, Weep not. 14And he came and touched the bier: and they that bare him stood still. And he said, Young man, I say unto thee, Arise. 15And he that was dead sat up, and began to speak. And he delivered him to his mother. 16And there came a fear on all: and they glorified God, saying, That a great prophet is risen up among us; and, That God hath visited his people. 17And this rumour of him went forth throughout all Judaea, and throughout all the region round about.

John's Inquiry

(Matthew 11:1-6)

18And the disciples of John shewed him of all these things. 19And John calling unto him two of his disciples sent them to Jesus, saying, Art thou he that should come? or look we for another? 20When the men were come unto him, they said, John Baptist hath sent us unto thee, saying, Art thou he that should come? or look we for another? 21And in that same hour he cured many of their infirmities and plagues, and of evil spirits; and unto many that were blind he gave sight. 22Then Jesus answering said unto them, Go your way, and tell John what things ye have seen and heard; how that the blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, to the poor the gospel is preached. 23And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in me.

Jesus Testifies about John

(Matthew 11:7-19; Luke 1:5-25; Luke 16:14-17)

24And when the messengers of John were departed, he began to speak unto the people concerning John, What went ye out into the wilderness for to see? A reed shaken with the wind? 25But what went ye out for to see? A man clothed in soft raiment? Behold, they which are gorgeously apparelled, and live delicately, are in kings' courts. 26But what went ye out for to see? A prophet? Yea, I say unto you, and much more than a prophet.

27This is he, of whom it is written, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee.

28For I say unto you, Among those that are born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist: but he that is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he. 29And all the people that heard him, and the publicans, justified God, being baptized with the baptism of John. 30But the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of God against themselves, being not baptized of him.

31And the Lord said, Whereunto then shall I liken the men of this generation? and to what are they like? 32They are like unto children sitting in the marketplace, and calling one to another, and saying, We have piped unto you, and ye have not danced; we have mourned to you, and ye have not wept. 33For John the Baptist came neither eating bread nor drinking wine; and ye say, He hath a devil. 34The Son of man is come eating and drinking; and ye say, Behold a gluttonous man, and a winebibber, a friend of publicans and sinners! 35But wisdom is justified of all her children.

A Sinful Woman Anoints Jesus

36And one of the Pharisees desired him that he would eat with him. And he went into the Pharisee's house, and sat down to meat. 37And, behold, a woman in the city, which was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at meat in the Pharisee's house, brought an alabaster box of ointment, 38And stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began to wash his feet with tears, and did wipe them with the hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the ointment. 39Now when the Pharisee which had bidden him saw it, he spake within himself, saying, This man, if he were a prophet, would have known who and what manner of woman this is that toucheth him: for she is a sinner.

The Parable of the Two Debtors

40And Jesus answering said unto him, Simon, I have somewhat to say unto thee. And he saith, Master, say on. 41There was a certain creditor which had two debtors: the one owed five hundred pence, and the other fifty. 42And when they had nothing to pay, he frankly forgave them both. Tell me therefore, which of them will love him most? 43Simon answered and said, I suppose that he, to whom he forgave most. And he said unto him, Thou hast rightly judged. 44And he turned to the woman, and said unto Simon, Seest thou this woman? I entered into thine house, thou gavest me no water for my feet: but she hath washed my feet with tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head. 45Thou gavest me no kiss: but this woman since the time I came in hath not ceased to kiss my feet. 46My head with oil thou didst not anoint: but this woman hath anointed my feet with ointment. 47Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little. 48And he said unto her, Thy sins are forgiven. 49And they that sat at meat with him began to say within themselves, Who is this that forgiveth sins also? 50And he said to the woman, Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace.

King James Bible

Text courtesy of BibleProtector.com.

The Faith of the Centurion
(Matthew 8:5–13; John 4:43–54)

1 After he had finished speaking in the hearing of the people, he entered into Capernaum.

2 A certain centurion’s servant, who was dear to him, was sick and at the point of death. 3 When he heard about Jesus, he sent to him elders of the Jews, asking him to come and save his servant. 4 When they came to Jesus, they begged him earnestly, saying, “He is worthy for you to do this for him, 5 for he loves our nation, and he built our synagogue for us.” 6 Jesus went with them. When he was now not far from the house, the centurion sent friends to him, saying to him, “Lord, don’t trouble yourself, for I am not worthy for you to come under my roof. 7 Therefore I didn’t even think myself worthy to come to you; but say the word, and my servant will be healed. 8 For I also am a man placed under authority, having under myself soldiers. I tell this one, ‘Go!’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come!’ and he comes; and to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” 9 When Jesus heard these things, he marveled at him, and turned and said to the multitude who followed him, “I tell you, I have not found such great faith, no, not in Israel.” 10 Those who were sent, returning to the house, found that the servant who had been sick was well.

Jesus Raises a Widow’s Son

11 It happened soon afterwards, that he went to a city called Nain. Many of his disciples, along with a great multitude, went with him. 12 Now when he drew near to the gate of the city, behold, one who was dead was carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow. Many people of the city were with her. 13 When the Lord saw her, he had compassion on her, and said to her, “Don’t cry.” 14 He came near and touched the coffin, and the bearers stood still. He said, “Young man, I tell you, arise!” 15 He who was dead sat up, and began to speak. And he gave him to his mother. 16 Fear took hold of all, and they glorified God, saying, “A great prophet has arisen among us!” and, “God has visited his people!” 17 This report went out concerning him in the whole of Judea, and in all the surrounding region.

John’s Inquiry
(Matthew 11:1–6)

18 The disciples of John told him about all these things. 19 John, calling to himself two of his disciples, sent them to Jesus, saying, “Are you the one who is coming, or should we look for another?” 20 When the men had come to him, they said, “John the Baptizer has sent us to you, saying, ‘Are you he who comes, or should we look for another?’” 21 In that hour he cured many of diseases and plagues and evil spirits; and to many who were blind he gave sight. 22 Jesus answered them, “Go and tell John the things which you have seen and heard: that the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, and the poor have good news preached to them. 23 Blessed is he who finds no occasion for stumbling in me.”

Jesus Testifies about John
(Malachi 3:1–5; Matthew 11:7–19)

24 When John’s messengers had departed, he began to tell the multitudes about John, “What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken by the wind? 25 But what did you go out to see? A man clothed in soft clothing? Behold, those who are gorgeously dressed, and live delicately, are in kings’ courts. 26 But what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and much more than a prophet.

27 This is he of whom it is written, ‘Behold, I send my messenger before your face, who will prepare your way before you.’

28 “For I tell you, among those who are born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptizer, yet he who is least in the Kingdom of God is greater than he.” 29 When all the people and the tax collectors heard this, they declared God to be just, having been baptized with John’s baptism. 30 But the Pharisees and the lawyers rejected the counsel of God, not being baptized by him themselves.

31 “To what then will I liken the people of this generation? What are they like? 32 They are like children who sit in the marketplace, and call one to another, saying, ‘We piped to you, and you didn’t dance. We mourned, and you didn’t weep.’ 33 For John the Baptizer came neither eating bread nor drinking wine, and you say, ‘He has a demon.’ 34 The Son of Man has come eating and drinking, and you say, ‘Behold, a gluttonous man, and a drunkard; a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’ 35 Wisdom is justified by all her children.”

A Sinful Woman Anoints Jesus
(Matthew 26:6–13; Mark 14:3–9; John 12:1–8)

36 One of the Pharisees invited him to eat with him. He entered into the Pharisee’s house, and sat at the table. 37 Behold, a woman in the city who was a sinner, when she knew that he was reclining in the Pharisee’s house, she brought an alabaster jar of ointment. 38 Standing behind at his feet weeping, she began to wet his feet with her tears, and she wiped them with the hair of her head, kissed his feet, and anointed them with the ointment. 39 Now when the Pharisee who had invited him saw it, he said to himself, “This man, if he were a prophet, would have perceived who and what kind of woman this is who touches him, that she is a sinner.”

40 Jesus answered him, “Simon, I have something to tell you.” He said, “Teacher, say on.” 41 “A certain lender had two debtors. The one owed five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. 42 When they couldn’t pay, he forgave them both. Which of them therefore will love him most?” 43 Simon answered, “He, I suppose, to whom he forgave the most.” He said to him, “You have judged correctly.” 44 Turning to the woman, he said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? I entered into your house, and you gave me no water for my feet, but she has wet my feet with her tears, and wiped them with the hair of her head. 45 You gave me no kiss, but she, since the time I came in, has not ceased to kiss my feet. 46 You didn’t anoint my head with oil, but she has anointed my feet with ointment. 47 Therefore I tell you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven, for she loved much. But to whom little is forgiven, the same loves little.” 48 He said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” 49 Those who sat at the table with him began to say to themselves, “Who is this who even forgives sins?” 50 He said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you. Go in peace.”

The Faith of the Centurion
(Matthew 8:5–13; John 4:43–54)

1 When Jesus had concluded His discourse in the hearing of the people, He went to Capernaum. 2 There a highly valued servant of a centurion was sick and about to die. 3 When the centurion heard about Jesus, he sent some Jewish elders to ask Him to come and heal his servant. 4 They came to Jesus and pleaded with Him earnestly, “This man is worthy to have You grant this, 5 for he loves our nation and has built our synagogue.”

6 So Jesus went with them. But when He was not far from the house, the centurion sent friends with the message: “Lord, do not trouble Yourself, for I am not worthy to have You come under my roof. 7 That is why I did not consider myself worthy to come to You. But just say the word, and my servant will be healed. 8 For I myself am a man under authority, with soldiers under me. I tell one to go, and he goes; and another to come, and he comes. I tell my servant to do something, and he does it.”

9 When Jesus heard this, He marveled at the centurion. Turning to the crowd following Him, He said, “I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such great faith.” 10 And when the messengers returned to the house, they found the servant in good health.

Jesus Raises a Widow’s Son

11 Soon afterward, Jesus went to a town called Nain. His disciples went with Him, accompanied by a large crowd. 12 As He approached the town gate, He saw a dead man being carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow. And a large crowd from the town was with her.

13 When the Lord saw her, He had compassion on her and said, “Do not weep.” 14 Then He went up and touched the coffin, a and those carrying it stood still. “Young man,” He said, “I tell you, get up!” 15 And the dead man sat up and began to speak! Then Jesus gave him back to his mother.

16 A sense of awe swept over all of them, and they glorified God. “A great prophet has appeared among us!” they said. “God has visited His people!” 17 And the news about Jesus spread throughout Judea and all the surrounding region.

John’s Inquiry
(Matthew 11:1–6)

18 Then John’s disciples informed him about all these things. 19 So John called two of his disciples and sent them to ask the Lord, “Are You the One who was to come, or should we look for someone else?”

20 When the men came to Jesus, they said, “John the Baptist sent us to ask, ‘Are You the One who was to come, or should we look for someone else?’ ”

21 At that very hour Jesus healed many people of their diseases, afflictions, and evil spirits, and He gave sight to many who were blind. 22 So He replied, “Go back and report to John what you have seen and heard: The blind receive sight, the lame walk, the lepers b are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is preached to the poor. 23 Blessed is the one who does not fall away on account of Me. c”

Jesus Testifies about John
(Malachi 3:1–5; Matthew 11:7–19)

24 After John’s messengers had left, Jesus began to speak to the crowds about John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed swaying in the wind? 25 Otherwise, what did you go out to see? A man dressed in fine clothes? Look, those who wear elegant clothing and live in luxury are found in palaces.

26 What then did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. 27 This is the one about whom it is written:

‘Behold, I will send My messenger ahead of You,

who will prepare Your way before You.’ d

28 I tell you, among those born of women there is no one greater than John, yet even the least in the kingdom of God is greater than he.”

29 All the people who heard this, even the tax collectors, acknowledged God’s justice. For they had received the baptism of John. 30 But the Pharisees and experts in the law rejected God’s purpose for themselves, because they had not been baptized by John.

31 “To what, then, can I compare the men of this generation? What are they like? 32 They are like children sitting in the marketplace and calling out to one another:

‘We played the flute for you,

and you did not dance;

we sang a dirge,

and you did not weep.’

33 For John the Baptist came neither eating bread nor drinking wine, and you say, ‘He has a demon!’ 34 The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and you say, ‘Look at this glutton and drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’ 35 But wisdom is vindicated by all her children.”

A Sinful Woman Anoints Jesus
(Matthew 26:6–13; Mark 14:3–9; John 12:1–8)

36 Then one of the Pharisees invited Jesus to eat with him, and He entered the Pharisee’s house and reclined at the table. 37 When a sinful woman from that town learned that Jesus was dining there, she brought an alabaster jar of perfume. 38 As she stood behind Him at His feet weeping, she began to wet His feet with her tears and wipe them with her hair. Then she kissed His feet and anointed them with the perfume.

39 When the Pharisee who had invited Jesus saw this, he said to himself, “If this man were a prophet, He would know who this is and what kind of woman is touching Him—for she is a sinner!”

40 But Jesus answered him, “Simon, I have something to tell you.”

“Tell me, Teacher,” he said.

41 “Two men were debtors to a certain moneylender. One owed him five hundred denarii, e and the other fifty. 42 When they were unable to repay him, he forgave both of them. Which one, then, will love him more?”

43 “I suppose the one who was forgiven more,” Simon replied.

“You have judged correctly,” Jesus said.

44 And turning toward the woman, He said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? When I entered your house, you did not give Me water for My feet, but she wet My feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. 45 You did not greet Me with a kiss, but she has not stopped kissing My feet since I arrived. 46 You did not anoint My head with oil, but she has anointed My feet with perfume. 47 Therefore I tell you, because her many sins have been forgiven, she has loved much. But he who has been forgiven little loves little.”

48 Then Jesus said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.”

49 But those at the table began to say to themselves, “Who is this who even forgives sins?”

50 And Jesus told the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”

The Centurion's Great Faith

(Matthew 8:5-13; John 4:43-54)

1And when he completed all his sayings in the ears of the people, he went into Capernaum;

2and a certain centurion's servant being ill, was about to die, who was much valued by him, 3and having heard about Jesus, he sent unto him elders of the Jews, beseeching him, that having come he might thoroughly save his servant. 4And they, having come near unto Jesus, were calling upon him earnestly, saying -- 'He is worthy to whom thou shalt do this, 5for he doth love our nation, and the synagogue he did build to us.' 6And Jesus was going on with them, and now when he is not far distant from the house the centurion sent unto him friends, saying to him, 'Sir, be not troubled, for I am not worthy that under my roof thou mayest enter; 7wherefore not even myself thought I worthy to come unto thee, but say in a word, and my lad shall be healed; 8for I also am a man placed under authority, having under myself soldiers, and I say to this one, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Be coming, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doth it.' 9And having heard these things Jesus wondered at him, and having turned to the multitude following him, he said, 'I say to you, not even in Israel so much faith did I find;' 10and those sent, having turned back to the house, found the ailing servant in health.

Jesus Raises a Widow's Son

11And it came to pass, on the morrow, he was going on to a city called Nain, and there were going with him many of his disciples, and a great multitude, 12and as he came nigh to the gate of the city, then, lo, one dead was being carried forth, an only son of his mother, and she a widow, and a great multitude of the city was with her. 13And the Lord having seen her, was moved with compassion towards her, and said to her, 'Be not weeping;' 14and having come near, he touched the bier, and those bearing it stood still, and he said, 'Young man, to thee I say, Arise;' 15and the dead sat up, and began to speak, and he gave him to his mother; 16and fear took hold of all, and they were glorifying God, saying -- 'A great prophet hath risen among us,' and -- 'God did look upon His people.' 17And the account of this went forth in all Judea about him, and in all the region around.

John's Inquiry

(Matthew 11:1-6)

18And the disciples of John told him about all these things, 19and John having called near a certain two of his disciples, sent unto Jesus, saying, 'Art thou he who is coming, or for another do we look?' 20And having come near to him, the men said, 'John the Baptist sent us unto thee, saying, Art thou he who is coming, or for another do we look?' 21And in that hour he cured many from sicknesses, and plagues, and evil spirits, and to many blind he granted sight. 22And Jesus answering said to them, 'Having gone on, report to John what ye saw and heard, that blind men do see again, lame do walk, lepers are cleansed, deaf do hear, dead are raised, poor have good news proclaimed; 23and happy is he whoever may not be stumbled in me.'

Jesus Testifies about John

(Matthew 11:7-19; Luke 1:5-25; Luke 16:14-17)

24And the messengers of John having gone away, he began to say unto the multitudes concerning John: 'What have ye gone forth to the wilderness to look on? a reed by the wind shaken? 25but what have ye gone forth to see? a man in soft garments clothed? lo, they in splendid apparellings, and living in luxury, are in the houses of kings! 26'But what have ye gone forth to see? a prophet? Yes, I say to you, and much more than a prophet:

27this is he concerning whom it hath been written, Lo, I send my messenger before thy face, who shall prepare thy way before thee;

28for I say to you, a greater prophet, among those born of women, than John the Baptist there is not; but the least in the reign of God is greater than he.' 29And all the people having heard, and the tax-gatherers, declared God righteous, having been baptized with the baptism of John, 30but the Pharisees, and the lawyers, the counsel of God did put away for themselves, not having been baptized by him.

31And the Lord said, 'To what, then, shall I liken the men of this generation? and to what are they like? 32they are like to children, to those sitting in a market-place, and calling one to another, and saying, We piped to you, and ye did not dance, we mourned to you, and ye did not weep! 33'For John the Baptist came neither eating bread nor drinking wine, and ye say, He hath a demon; 34the Son of Man came eating and drinking, and ye say, Lo, a man, a glutton, and a wine drinker, a friend of tax-gatherers and sinners; 35and the wisdom was justified from all her children.'

A Sinful Woman Anoints Jesus

36And a certain one of the Pharisees was asking him that he might eat with him, and having gone into the house of the Pharisee he reclined (at meat), 37and lo, a woman in the city, who was a sinner, having known that he reclineth (at meat) in the house of the Pharisee, having provided an alabaster box of ointment, 38and having stood behind, beside his feet, weeping, she began to wet his feet with the tears, and with the hairs of her head she was wiping, and was kissing his feet, and was anointing with the ointment. 39And the Pharisee who did call him, having seen, spake within himself, saying, 'This one, if he were a prophet, would have known who and of what kind is the woman who doth touch him, that she is a sinner.'

The Parable of the Two Debtors

40And Jesus answering said unto him, 'Simon, I have something to say to thee;' and he saith, 'Teacher, say on.' 41'Two debtors were to a certain creditor; the one was owing five hundred denaries, and the other fifty; 42and they not having wherewith to give back, he forgave both; which then of them, say thou, will love him more?' 43And Simon answering said, 'I suppose that to whom he forgave the more;' and he said to him, 'Rightly thou didst judge.' 44And having turned unto the woman, he said to Simon, 'Seest thou this woman? I entered into thy house; water for my feet thou didst not give, but this woman with tears did wet my feet, and with the hairs of her head did wipe; 45a kiss to me thou didst not give, but this woman, from what time I came in, did not cease kissing my feet; 46with oil my head thou didst not anoint, but this woman with ointment did anoint my feet; 47therefore I say to thee, her many sins have been forgiven, because she did love much; but to whom little is forgiven, little he doth love.' 48And he said to her, 'Thy sins have been forgiven;' 49and those reclining with him (at meat) began to say within themselves, 'Who is this, who also doth forgive sins?' 50and he said unto the woman, 'Thy faith have saved thee, be going on to peace.'

The Faith of the Centurion

¹ When Jesus had finished sharing these revelatory teachings with the people, He entered Capernaum, a bustling fishing town on the Sea of Galilee. ² There, a Roman centurion's highly valued servant lay critically ill, hovering near death. ³ When the centurion heard about Jesus, he sent respected Jewish elders to plead with Him to come and heal his servant.

⁴ The elders earnestly appealed to Jesus: "This Roman officer truly deserves Your help. ⁵ He loves our nation and even built our synagogue with his own funds. Despite being a Gentile, he has shown extraordinary respect for our faith and people." ⁶ Jesus went with them, but just before He reached the house, the centurion sent friends with a message that revealed the level of his faith and humility:

"Lord, don't trouble Yourself to come. I'm not worthy to have You enter my home. ⁷ I didn't even consider myself worthy to come meet You in person. But, just speak the word, and my servant will be healed. ⁸ Because I understand authority structures - I live under it and exercise it. I tell one soldier 'Go!' and he goes; another 'Come!' and he comes. I command my servant 'Do this!' and he does it. I know You have even greater power over sickness and health."

⁹ Jesus, amazed at this remarkable level of faith, turned to the crowd following Him and declared: "I tell you, I have not found such great faith, even in Israel!" ¹⁰ And when the messengers returned to the centurion's house, they found the servant completely restored to health.

Jesus Raises a Widow’s Son

¹¹ Soon afterward, Jesus traveled to a town called Nain, accompanied by His disciples and a large crowd eager to see what He would do next. ¹² As He approached the town gate, He encountered a funeral procession. The dead person was a young man, the only son of a widow. Without husband or son, her future seemed hopeless, and a large crowd from the town was supporting her in her grief.

¹³ When the Lord saw her, His heart overflowed with compassion, as He gently said to her, "Don't cry." ¹⁴ Then He approached and touched the wooden funeral couch, and the bearers stood still, sensing something was about to happen. And then Jesus commanded, "Young man, I say to you, get up!" ¹⁵ Immediately, the dead man sat up and began to speak! Jesus presented him to his mother. ¹⁶ And the righteous fear of God seized the entire crowd, as they began glorifying Him, exclaiming, "A great prophet has risen among us! God has visited His people today with power!" ¹⁷ News of this miraculous event spread throughout Judea and all the surrounding regions.

Jesus and John the Baptist

¹⁸ John the Baptist's disciples reported all these events to their teacher, who was imprisoned by Herod. ¹⁹ And John sent two of his disciples to ask Jesus: "Are You the One we've been expecting, or should we look for someone else?" ²⁰ When the men reached Jesus, they conveyed John's question: "John the Baptist sent us to ask: Are You the Promised One, or should we keep waiting for another?"

²¹ At that very moment, Jesus was healing many people of diseases, afflictions, and evil spirits, and giving sight to the blind – demonstrating His messianic identity was more than just words. ²² So Jesus responded, "Go back and tell John what you have witnessed: The blind see, the lame walk, those with leprosy are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the Good News is proclaimed to the poor. ²³ Blessed is anyone who doesn't stumble on account of Me." His response pointed to prophecies John would clearly recognize.

²⁴ After John's messengers left, Jesus spoke to the crowd about John: "What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed swayed by every wind of opinion? ²⁵ If not that, what did you go to see? A man dressed in fine clothes and living in luxury? No, those who wear expensive clothes and enjoy luxurious lifestyles are found in palaces. ²⁶ But what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, and I tell you, he is far more than just a prophet. ²⁷ John is the one about whom Scripture says:

'I will send My messenger ahead of You,
Who will prepare Your way before You.'

²⁸ I tell you, among those born of women, no one is greater than John. Yet even the least person in God's Kingdom is greater than he." ²⁹ All the people who heard Jesus' words, even the tax collectors, acknowledged God's justice, having been baptized by John. ³⁰ But the Pharisees and religious experts rejected God's purpose for themselves by refusing John's baptism.

³¹ Jesus continued, "How can I describe the people of this generation? What are they like? ³² They're like children sitting in the marketplace calling to one another:

'We played wedding music,
But you wouldn't dance!
We sang funeral songs,
But you wouldn't cry!'

³³ For John the Baptist came fasting and avoiding wine, and you said, 'He's possessed by a demon!' ³⁴ The Son of Man came enjoying food and wine, and you say, 'Look at Him! A glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!' ³⁵ But divine wisdom is justified by all her children."

Jesus Anointed by a Sinful Woman

³⁶ One of the Pharisees invited Jesus to share a meal at his home. Jesus accepted and reclined at the table, demonstrating His willingness to engage with all people. ³⁷ When a woman known throughout the city as a 'sinner' learned Jesus was dining there, she brought an expensive alabaster jar of perfume. ³⁸ Standing behind Him at His feet, she began to weep. Her tears fell on His feet, and she wiped them with her hair, kissed them, and anointed them with the perfume.

³⁹ The Pharisee who had invited Jesus thought to himself, "If this man were really a prophet, He would know what kind of woman is touching Him – she's a sinner!" ⁴⁰ Jesus, knowing his thoughts, said, "Simon, I have something to tell you." "Yes, Teacher." he replied. ⁴¹ "Two people owed money to a certain lender. One owed five hundred days' wages, and the other fifty. ⁴² Neither could pay him back, so he forgave both debts. Now, which of them will love him more?" ⁴³ Simon answered, "I suppose the one who had the bigger debt forgiven." "You have judged correctly," Jesus said.

⁴⁴ Then turning towards the woman, whilst addressing Simon, He said, "Do you see this woman? I entered your house and you provided no water for My feet, but she has wet them with her tears and wiped them with her hair. ⁴⁵ You gave Me no greeting kiss, but from the time I arrived, she hasn't stopped kissing My feet. ⁴⁶ You didn't anoint My head even with olive oil, but she has anointed My feet with the most expensive of perfumed oils.

⁴⁷ Therefore, I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven – as evidenced by her great love. But whoever thinks they have been forgiven little, loves little." ⁴⁸ Then Jesus said to her, "Your sins are forgiven." ⁴⁹ The other guests reclining at the table began talking amongst themselves, saying, "Who is this person who even forgives sins?" ⁵⁰ And Jesus said to the woman, "Your faith has saved you. Go in peace."

Footnotes:

Verse 14 (a) Literally a bier, probably a wooden plank or open coffin
Verse 22 (b) A leper  was one afflicted with a skin disease. See Leviticus 13.
Verse 23 (c) Or who is not offended by Me
Verse 27 (d) Malachi 3:1
Verse 41 (e) A denarius was customarily a day’s wage for a laborer; see Matthew 20:2.

Special thanks to the BSB Translation for the above footnotes.

The F.O.G Commentary:

1What is the meaning of Luke 7?

2Context of Luke 7

3Ancient Key Word Study

4Luke 7 Unique Insights

5Question the Text:

6Luke 7 Connections to Yeshua

7Luke 7 Scriptural Echoes

8Luke 7 Devotional

9Did You Know

What is the meaning of Luke 7?

Have you ever felt like an outsider—like you weren’t good enough, or that your past defined you? Maybe you’ve wrestled with doubt, wondering if God truly sees you. If so, you’re not alone. Luke 7 is filled with real people facing real struggles—just like you.

It’s a chapter that shatters expectations, showing Yeshua’s power not only over sickness and death but also over judgment, shame, and human limitations. From a Roman centurion’s unexpected faith to a grieving widow’s miracle, from John the Baptist’s doubts to a broken woman’s redemption, Luke 7 isn’t just old stories—it’s an invitation to encounter the Messiah’s compassion and authority in a deeply personal way for yourself.

Context of Luke 7

Within the broader narrative of Luke’s Gospel, chapter 7 follows Yeshua’s sermon on the plain and His teachings about true discipleship in chapter 6. This strategic placement is significant as it demonstrates how Yeshua’s actions perfectly align with His teachings. The healings and the resurrection in this chapter validate His authority to teach with such boldness in the previous chapter.

In the larger context of Scripture, Luke 7 serves as a pivotal chapter that bridges the gap between the Old Testament prophetic expectations and their New Testament fulfillment in Yeshua. The chapter’s events echo Isaiah 35:5-6, where the Messianic age is characterized by the healing of the sick and the proclamation of good news to the poor. Moreover, the raising of the widow’s son deliberately recalls the miracles of Elijah and Elisha, suggesting that someone greater than these prophets has now arrived.

Ancient Key Word Study

Worthy (ἄξιος/axios) – This term, appearing in verse 4, carries deep cultural significance beyond mere merit. In ancient Greek, it conveyed the idea of “having equal weight or value.” The Jewish elders’ use of this word regarding the Roman centurion reveals a remarkable breach of cultural barriers, as Jews rarely considered Gentiles “worthy” of such recognition.
Compassion (ἐσπλαγχνίσθη/esplagchnisthē) – Used in verse 13 regarding the widow of Nain, this visceral term literally means “to be moved in one’s bowels.” In ancient near-eastern thought, the bowels were considered the seat of emotions. This word choice emphasizes Yeshua’s deep, gut-level emotional response to human suffering.
Prophet (προφήτης/prophētēs) – The term used in verses 16 and 39 carries specific messianic expectations in first-century Judaism. Unlike modern understanding, a prophet wasn’t merely a forecaster but a divine representative who could perform miraculous signs like Moses and Elijah.
Sinful (ἁμαρτωλός/hamartōlos) – The word used to describe the woman in verse 37 implies someone who has missed the mark or deviated from the path. In first-century Jewish society, this term often referred to those who deliberately lived outside Torah observance.
Alabaster (ἀλάβαστρον/alabastron) – This specific term in verse 37 refers to a high-quality stone vessel, typically sealed until use. Breaking such a vessel represented both tremendous financial sacrifice and complete commitment to the act of worship.
Debtor (χρεοφειλέτης/chreopheiletēs) – Used in Yeshua’s parable (verse 41), this term carried significant weight in ancient society where debtors could be imprisoned or sold into slavery. The choice of this word emphasizes the gravity of our spiritual debt to God.
Love (ἀγαπάω/agapaō) – The word used in verse 47 is the highest form of love in Greek, indicating a deliberate choice to value and serve another regardless of cost or circumstance. This differs from φιλέω (friendship love) or ἔρως (romantic love).
Peace (εἰρήνη/eirēnē) – In verse 50, this word translates the Hebrew “shalom,” meaning not just absence of conflict but complete wholeness and well-being in every aspect of life.

Luke 7 Unique Insights

The chapter contains several fascinating elements that often go unnoticed in casual reading. The raising of the widow’s son at Nain carries profound significance in Jewish thought. According to Rabbinic tradition, this location was associated with the tribe of Issachar, known for their wisdom and understanding of times (1 Chronicles 12:32). The timing of this miracle, following the healing of the centurion’s servant, creates a powerful statement about the universal scope of Yeshua’s ministry – from Gentile military officer to Jewish widow.

The early church father Tertullian noted that the two resurrection accounts in this chapter and the next (the widow’s son and Jairus’s daughter) represented the restoration of both Israel (the widow’s son) and the Gentiles (the centurion’s servant). This interpretation gained widespread acceptance in patristic literature and influenced medieval biblical interpretation.

The account of the sinful woman anointing Yeshua contains elements that would have shocked ancient readers. The woman’s act of letting down her hair in public was considered scandalous in first-century Jewish society, equivalent to modern partial nudity. Yet, Yeshua not only permits this act but praises it, demonstrating His radical redefining of honor and shame.

Can a Bible Come to Life over a Coffee?

This biblical entry has a unique origin story. Find out how it came to be—and why your visit today is about so much more than words. Get your coffee ready—God’s about to visit. But will you open the door for Him?

I’m ready

The chapter also contains a subtle literary device known as “ring composition” or chiastic structure, where the first and last stories mirror each other thematically: both involve unlikely candidates for God’s favor (a Gentile centurion and a Jewish “sinner”), both demonstrate extraordinary faith, and both receive commendation from Yeshua.

Question the Text:

As you read Luke 7, take a moment to question the text. What stands out as puzzling or unexpected? Where do the characters act in surprising ways? What cultural or theological assumptions are being challenged? Instead of rushing to find definitive answers, let these questions guide you into deeper reflection about human nature, divine interaction, and the unspoken details within the passage.

Why does a Roman centurion, an outsider to Israel, demonstrate such remarkable faith when many of יהוה (Yahweh)’s own people struggle with belief? Luke 7:2-9
Why does the centurion insist that he is unworthy for Yeshua to enter his house, despite his apparent status and influence? What does this say about humility and authority? Luke 7:6-7
What might it have meant for Yeshua to publicly declare that a Gentile had greater faith than anyone in Israel? How would this have challenged Jewish expectations of the Messiah’s mission? Luke 7:9
The widow of Nain never asks Yeshua for help. Why does He intervene anyway? What does this reveal about His compassion? Luke 7:12-15
What might people have thought when they saw Yeshua touch a dead body, something considered unclean by Jewish law? Luke 7:14
Why does John the Baptist, who previously proclaimed Yeshua as the Messiah, now send messengers asking if He is the One to come? What does this reveal about doubt and expectation? Luke 7:18-20
Why does Yeshua respond to John’s question with a list of miracles rather than a direct “Yes”? How do these miracles fulfill Messianic prophecy? Luke 7:22
Yeshua praises John the Baptist as the greatest among those born of women, yet says the least in the Kingdom of God is greater than him. What does this paradox mean? Luke 7:28
Why do the Pharisees and Torah scholars reject יהוה (Yahweh)’s purpose for them by refusing John’s baptism? What does this reveal about human resistance to repentance? Luke 7:30
Yeshua compares the people of His generation to children playing games, never satisfied. How does this critique religious leaders and their rejection of both John and Yeshua? Luke 7:31-35
Why does a Pharisee invite Yeshua to his house, yet fail to show Him basic hospitality? What does this contrast between outward piety and true honor reveal? Luke 7:36-39
The sinful woman anoints Yeshua with expensive perfume and tears, breaking social norms. What does this act say about repentance, love, and worship? Luke 7:37-38
Why does Yeshua say that the woman’s love is greater because her sins are many? What does this teach about grace and gratitude? Luke 7:47

These questions invite you to wrestle with the text, seeing both its challenges and insights. As you reflect, how do these themes resonate with your own faith journey? Leave a comment with your thoughts and questions below.

Luke 7 Connections to Yeshua

This chapter powerfully demonstrates Yeshua’s divine authority while simultaneously revealing His profound compassion. His ability to heal at a distance (the centurion’s servant) and raise the dead (the widow’s son) are clear demonstrations of His divine nature, fulfilling prophecies about the Messiah’s authority over life and death (Deuteronomy 32:39).

The interaction with John the Baptist’s disciples provides a crucial link between the Old and New Covenants. Yeshua’s response, quoting from Isaiah, demonstrates how He fulfills and exceeds the messianic expectations of the prophets. This passage serves as a bridge between the ministry of John (representing the culmination of the Old Testament prophetic tradition) and Yeshua’s new covenant ministry.

Luke 7 Scriptural Echoes

The raising of the widow’s son deliberately echoes Elijah’s miracle at Zarephath (1 Kings 17:17-24) and Elisha’s raising of the Shunammite’s son (2 Kings 4:32-37). However, while these prophets needed prolonged physical contact and prayer, Yeshua simply speaks a word, demonstrating His superior authority.

The chapter’s emphasis on faith connecting to healing recalls numerous Old Testament passages, particularly Numbers 21:8-9, where looking at the bronze serpent brought healing. This theme of faith leading to healing becomes a central motif in the Gospels.

The forgiveness of the sinful woman connects with Psalm 51 and other penitential psalms, showing how true repentance leads to restoration. Her actions fulfill the prophetic promise of Joel 2:12-13 about returning to God with all one’s heart.

Luke 7 Devotional

This chapter challenges us to examine our own faith and responses to Yeshua’s authority. The centurion’s remarkable faith, demonstrated through his understanding of authority and trust in Yeshua’s word alone, sets a powerful example for us. How often do we complicate our faith with unnecessary requirements when simple trust in His word would suffice?

The account of the sinful woman reminds us that our response to forgiveness should be extravagant gratitude and love. Her actions weren’t calculated or measured but flowed from a heart overwhelmed by grace. In our own walk with God, do we maintain this sense of wonder and gratitude for His forgiveness? Or do we think we were never that ‘bad’ so take His grace lightly? We must never forget, that compared to the glory of God even our most righteous deeds are like filthy rags, but He still loved us so much to send His Son to save us from eternal separation.

The chapter also challenges our assumptions about who is “worthy” of God’s attention and blessing. Through the centurion, the widow, and the sinful woman, we see God’s heart for those whom society might overlook or reject. This should shape how we view and treat others in our own faith communities.

Did You Know

The city of Nain, where Yeshua raised the widow’s son, is located about 25 miles from Capernaum, meaning Yeshua and His disciples would have walked several hours to reach it. This detail emphasizes His intentionality in seeking out those in need.
The alabaster jar mentioned in the chapter would have been worth approximately a year’s wages for a common laborer. Breaking such a valuable container was an irrevocable act of devotion.
The term “prophet” used by the crowd after the raising of the widow’s son specifically echoes the description of Moses in Deuteronomy 18:15, suggesting they saw Yeshua as the promised prophet like Moses.
The centurion’s understanding of authority likely came from his experience in the Roman military, where chain of command was absolute. His application of this principle to spiritual authority was revolutionary.
The practice of washing guests’ feet was a common courtesy in first-century homes, making Simon’s failure to provide water particularly noteworthy.
The woman’s act of wiping Yeshua’s feet with her hair would have been considered shocking in Jewish society, where married women never uncovered their hair in public.
The amount of debt mentioned in Yeshua’s parable (500 denarii) would have been equivalent to nearly two years’ wages for a typical laborer.
The phrase “Young man, I say to you, arise” uses the same Greek construction (σοὶ λέγω) as God’s creative commands in Genesis 1 (LXX), suggesting divine authority.
John the Baptist’s question about Yeshua being “the One who is to come” references a specific messianic title from Psalm 118:26.
The description of the sinful woman as being “in the city” suggests she was well-known locally, making her act of public repentance even more courageous.

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Bible Themes

Jean Paul Joseph

After a dramatic early morning encounter with King Jesus, I just couldn’t put my Bible down. The F.O.G took a hold of me and this website was born. What is the F.O.G?

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