Luke 7
BSB1 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. 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, 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. 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 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. “ 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.’ 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." 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, 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."
Study Notes — Luke 7
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Luke 7
- Themes from Luke 7
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Luke 7
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
The chapter begins with the story of a centurion who seeks Jesus' help for his dying servant, demonstrating his great faith in Jesus' power (Luke 7:1-10). Jesus then encounters a widow who has lost her only son, and He raises the young man from the dead, prompting the people to recognize Jesus as a prophet (Luke 7:11-17). John the Baptist sends his disciples to ask Jesus if He is the Messiah, and Jesus responds by pointing to His miracles and preaching (Luke 7:18-23). Jesus then praises John the Baptist as a great prophet, but also notes that the least in the Kingdom of God is greater than John (Luke 7:24-30). The chapter concludes with the story of a sinful woman who anoints Jesus' feet with perfume, prompting Jesus to teach about the importance of faith, forgiveness, and love (Luke 7:36-50). Throughout the chapter, Jesus' teachings and actions emphasize the importance of faith, compassion, and humility in the Kingdom of God.
Context for the Chapter
Luke chapter 7 is situated in the larger narrative of the Gospel of Luke, which tells the story of the life, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The chapter follows Jesus' teachings on the cost of discipleship and the importance of faith, and it precedes His journey to Jerusalem, where He will ultimately be crucified and resurrected. The chapter is also connected to the broader biblical narrative, as it references Old Testament prophecies and themes, such as the Kingdom of God and the role of the Messiah.
Heart Application
The teachings and actions of Jesus in this chapter have significant implications for our lives today. We are called to trust in Jesus Christ and to approach Him with faith and humility, recognizing our need for His salvation and forgiveness. We are also called to demonstrate compassion and love for those around us, as Jesus did in His ministry. By applying the principles of this chapter to our lives, we can experience the power and blessings of God and live as faithful disciples of Jesus Christ.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
Luke chapter 7 is about the power of faith and the compassion of Jesus Christ. The chapter tells the story of a centurion who seeks Jesus' help for his dying servant, a widow who loses her only son, and a sinful woman who anoints Jesus' feet with perfume. Through these stories, Jesus teaches about the importance of faith, forgiveness, and love. The chapter emphasizes that faith in Jesus Christ is the means by which we can experience the power and salvation of God.
Voices from the Church
“Faith is the eye that sees the invisible, the ear that hears the inaudible, and the hand that grasps the intangible.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The Kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.”
— John Calvin
“The forgiveness of sins is the chief article of the Christian faith, and it is the foundation of all our hope and comfort.”
— Martin Luther
Outline for Preaching
- The Faith of the Centurion (Luke 7:1-10) — The chapter begins with the story of a centurion who seeks Jesus' help for his dying servant. The centurion's faith is highlighted as an example of the kind of trust and humility that God desires.
- The Widow of Nain (Luke 7:11-17) — Jesus then encounters a widow who has lost her only son, and He raises the young man from the dead. This miracle prompts the people to recognize Jesus as a prophet and to spread the news of His power and compassion.
- The Question of John the Baptist (Luke 7:18-23) — John the Baptist sends his disciples to ask Jesus if He is the Messiah, and Jesus responds by pointing to His miracles and preaching. This exchange highlights the importance of faith and trust in Jesus Christ.
- The Praise of John the Baptist (Luke 7:24-30) — Jesus praises John the Baptist as a great prophet, but also notes that the least in the Kingdom of God is greater than John. This teaching emphasizes the importance of humility and recognizing one's need for God.
- The Sinful Woman (Luke 7:36-50) — The chapter concludes with the story of a sinful woman who anoints Jesus' feet with perfume. Jesus teaches about the importance of faith, forgiveness, and love, and He emphasizes that the woman's faith has saved her.
Core Doctrines
- The Deity of Christ
- This chapter teaches that Jesus Christ is the Messiah and the Son of God, who has come to bring salvation and redemption to all people. (Luke 7:1-10, Luke 7:18-23)
- The Importance of Faith
- The chapter emphasizes the importance of faith in Jesus Christ, noting that faith is the means by which we can experience the power and salvation of God. (Luke 7:1-10, Luke 7:36-50)
- The Kingdom of God
- The chapter highlights the significance of the Kingdom of God, noting that it is a realm of salvation, forgiveness, and redemption. (Luke 7:18-23, Luke 7:24-30)
- The Forgiveness of Sins
- The chapter teaches that forgiveness is a key concept in the Christian faith, and that Jesus Christ is the one who forgives sins. (Luke 7:36-50)
Lessons from Luke 7
- The Importance of Faith — This chapter teaches us that faith is essential for experiencing the power and salvation of God. We must trust in Jesus Christ and approach Him with humility and reverence.
- The Power of Compassion — The chapter highlights the importance of compassion and love for those around us. We must demonstrate kindness and generosity to others, just as Jesus did in His ministry.
- The Significance of the Kingdom of God — The chapter emphasizes the significance of the Kingdom of God, noting that it is a realm of salvation, forgiveness, and redemption. We must seek to enter the Kingdom and to live according to its principles.
- The Forgiveness of Sins — The chapter teaches us that forgiveness is a key concept in the Christian faith, and that Jesus Christ is the one who forgives sins. We must seek forgiveness from God and from others, and we must forgive those who have wronged us.
- The Sufficiency of Jesus Christ — The chapter points to the sufficiency of Jesus Christ for all our needs, and it calls us to trust in Him and to follow Him as our Lord and Savior.
Themes from Luke 7
- Faith and Trust — The chapter emphasizes the importance of faith and trust in Jesus Christ, noting that faith is the means by which we can experience the power and salvation of God.
- Compassion and Love — The chapter highlights the importance of compassion and love for those around us, demonstrating kindness and generosity to others just as Jesus did in His ministry.
- The Kingdom of God — The chapter emphasizes the significance of the Kingdom of God, noting that it is a realm of salvation, forgiveness, and redemption.
- Forgiveness and Redemption — The chapter teaches us that forgiveness is a key concept in the Christian faith, and that Jesus Christ is the one who forgives sins.
- The Sufficiency of Jesus Christ — The chapter points to the sufficiency of Jesus Christ for all our needs, and it calls us to trust in Him and to follow Him as our Lord and Savior.
Questions for Meditation
- What does the story of the centurion's servant teach us about faith and trust in Jesus Christ?
- How does Jesus' encounter with the widow of Nain illustrate His power and compassion?
- What does Jesus' praise of John the Baptist teach us about the importance of humility and faith?
- How does the story of the sinful woman illustrate the theme of forgiveness and redemption in this chapter?
- What does this chapter teach us about the nature and significance of the Kingdom of God?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. The Faith of the Centurion (Luke 7:1-10)
| Luke 7:1 | The chapter begins with the story of a centurion who seeks Jesus' help for his dying servant. The centurion's faith is highlighted as an example of the kind of trust and humility that God desires. |
| Luke 7:2 | The centurion's servant is described as being at the point of death, and the centurion seeks Jesus' help to save him. |
| Luke 7:3 | The centurion sends his friends to ask Jesus to come and heal his servant. |
| Luke 7:4 | The friends plead with Jesus to help the centurion, noting that he is a worthy man who has shown kindness to the Jewish people. |
| Luke 7:5 | The centurion's friends also note that he has built a synagogue for the Jewish people, demonstrating his faith and generosity. |
| Luke 7:6 | Jesus is moved by the centurion's faith and agrees to go to his house to heal his servant. |
| Luke 7:7 | However, the centurion sends another message to Jesus, saying that he is not worthy to have Jesus come to his house. |
| Luke 7:8 | The centurion notes that he is a man under authority, and he trusts that Jesus can heal his servant from a distance. |
| Luke 7:9 | Jesus is amazed by the centurion's faith and says that He has not found such great faith in all of Israel. |
| Luke 7:10 | Jesus then heals the centurion's servant from a distance, demonstrating His power and compassion. |
2. The Widow of Nain (Luke 7:11-17)
| Luke 7:11 | Jesus then encounters a widow who has lost her only son, and He raises the young man from the dead. |
| Luke 7:12 | The widow is described as being in a state of great sorrow and distress, and Jesus is moved by her plight. |
| Luke 7:13 | Jesus has compassion on the widow and says to her, 'Do not weep.' |
| Luke 7:14 | Jesus then touches the coffin and says to the young man, 'Young man, I say to you, arise.' |
| Luke 7:15 | The young man sits up, and Jesus gives him to his mother. |
| Luke 7:16 | The people are amazed by Jesus' power and praise God, saying that a great prophet has arisen among them. |
| Luke 7:17 | The news of Jesus' miracle spreads throughout the region, and people begin to recognize Him as a prophet and a man of great power. |
3. The Question of John the Baptist (Luke 7:18-23)
| Luke 7:18 | John the Baptist sends his disciples to ask Jesus if He is the Messiah, and Jesus responds by pointing to His miracles and preaching. |
| Luke 7:19 | John's disciples ask Jesus if He is the one who is to come, or if they should look for another. |
| Luke 7:20 | Jesus responds by saying that the blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear. |
| Luke 7:21 | Jesus also notes that the poor have the gospel preached to them, and He says that blessed is the one who is not offended by Him. |
| Luke 7:22 | Jesus then tells John's disciples to report back to him what they have seen and heard. |
| Luke 7:23 | Jesus concludes by saying that blessed is the one who is not offended by Him, emphasizing the importance of faith and trust in Him. |
4. The Praise of John the Baptist (Luke 7:24-30)
| Luke 7:24 | Jesus praises John the Baptist as a great prophet, but also notes that the least in the Kingdom of God is greater than John. |
| Luke 7:25 | Jesus says that John is more than a prophet, but He also notes that the least in the Kingdom of God is greater than John. |
| Luke 7:26 | Jesus then asks the crowds what they went out to see, and He notes that John was not a reed shaken by the wind. |
| Luke 7:27 | Jesus says that John was a man sent by God, and He notes that John was not a prophet, but more than a prophet. |
| Luke 7:28 | Jesus concludes by saying that among those born of women, there is no one greater than John, but the least in the Kingdom of God is greater than he. |
| Luke 7:29 | The people and the tax collectors acknowledge the justice of God, having been baptized by John. |
| Luke 7:30 | However, the Pharisees and the lawyers rejected the purpose of God for themselves, not having been baptized by John. |
5. The Sinful Woman (Luke 7:36-50)
| Luke 7:36 | The chapter concludes with the story of a sinful woman who anoints Jesus' feet with perfume. |
| Luke 7:37 | The woman is described as being a sinner, and she comes to Jesus with an alabaster flask of perfume. |
| Luke 7:38 | The woman stands behind Jesus and weeps, wetting His feet with her tears. |
| Luke 7:39 | The woman then wipes Jesus' feet with her hair and anoints them with the perfume. |
| Luke 7:40 | The Pharisee who is hosting Jesus sees the woman and is offended, thinking that Jesus should not allow her to touch Him. |
| Luke 7:41 | Jesus then tells a parable about two debtors, one who owes a large sum and one who owes a small sum. |
| Luke 7:42 | Jesus notes that the one who is forgiven the larger debt will love more, and He applies this principle to the woman. |
| Luke 7:43 | Jesus says that the woman has shown great love, and He forgives her sins. |
| Luke 7:44 | Jesus then turns to the woman and says that her faith has saved her, and He tells her to go in peace. |
| Luke 7:45 | The woman is grateful for Jesus' forgiveness, and she is at peace. |
| Luke 7:46 | Jesus concludes by saying that the woman's faith has saved her, and He emphasizes the importance of faith and love. |
| Luke 7:47 | Jesus notes that the woman's sins are forgiven, and He says that she is to go in peace. |
| Luke 7:48 | The woman is forgiven, and she is at peace. |
| Luke 7:49 | The other guests are amazed by Jesus' words and actions, and they begin to recognize Him as a prophet and a man of great power. |
| Luke 7:50 | The chapter concludes with Jesus' statement that the woman's faith has saved her, and He tells her to go in peace. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the centurion's faith in Luke 7:1-10?
The centurion's faith is significant because it is an example of the kind of trust and humility that God desires. The centurion's faith is also notable because it is a Gentile who is seeking Jesus' help, demonstrating that Jesus' ministry is not limited to the Jewish people. (Luke 7:1-10)
Why does Jesus praise John the Baptist in Luke 7:24-30?
Jesus praises John the Baptist because he is a great prophet who has been sent by God. Jesus also notes that John is more than a prophet, but the least in the Kingdom of God is greater than he. (Luke 7:24-30)
What is the significance of the sinful woman's actions in Luke 7:36-50?
The sinful woman's actions are significant because they demonstrate her great love and faith in Jesus. The woman's actions also prompt Jesus to teach about the importance of faith, forgiveness, and love. (Luke 7:36-50)
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Luke 7:1 → Matthew 8:5-13 | The story of the centurion's servant is also found in Matthew 8:5-13, where it is used to illustrate the faith of a Gentile. |
| 2 | Luke 7:11 → 1 Kings 17:17-24 | The story of the widow of Nain is similar to the story of Elijah and the widow of Zarephath in 1 Kings 17:17-24. |
| 3 | Luke 7:18 → Matthew 11:2-6 | The question of John the Baptist is also found in Matthew 11:2-6, where it is used to illustrate the doubt and uncertainty of John's disciples. |
| 4 | Luke 7:24 → Matthew 11:7-15 | The praise of John the Baptist is also found in Matthew 11:7-15, where it is used to illustrate the importance of humility and faith. |
| 5 | Luke 7:36 → Matthew 26:6-13 | The story of the sinful woman is similar to the story of the woman who anoints Jesus' head with perfume in Matthew 26:6-13. |
| 6 | Luke 7:1 → Isaiah 61:1-2 | The ministry of Jesus is fulfillment of the prophecy in Isaiah 61:1-2, where it is written that the Messiah will come to preach the gospel to the poor and to heal the brokenhearted. |
| 7 | Luke 7:11 → 2 Kings 4:8-37 | The story of the widow of Nain is similar to the story of the widow of Zarephath in 2 Kings 4:8-37, where it is written that Elisha raises the widow's son from the dead. |
| 8 | Luke 7:18 → Malachi 3:1-5 | The question of John the Baptist is fulfillment of the prophecy in Malachi 3:1-5, where it is written that the Messiah will come to prepare the way for the Lord. |
| 9 | Luke 7:24 → Isaiah 40:3-5 | The praise of John the Baptist is fulfillment of the prophecy in Isaiah 40:3-5, where it is written that a voice will cry out in the wilderness to prepare the way for the Lord. |
| 10 | Luke 7:36 → Psalm 51:17 | The story of the sinful woman is similar to the story of David's sin and repentance in Psalm 51:17, where it is written that a broken and contrite heart is what God desires. |
Sermons on Luke 7
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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Take Time to Be Holy by Leonard Ravenhill | Leonard Ravenhill emphasizes the importance of being holy and devoted to God, using the story of a sinful woman who anointed Jesus' feet with her tears and expensive ointment as a |
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A Jug of Water by Richard Wurmbrand | In this sermon, the preacher shares a story of a man who had forgotten his purpose in life and became consumed by worldly desires. The man had a happy life with a wealthy wife and |
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Blind Man's Bluff by Warren Wiersbe | In this sermon, the preacher addresses the question of why people should go to church. He explains that going to church is not just a commandment, but also a testimony of one's bel |
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Worship (Part 2 of 3) by Leonard Ravenhill | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of giving and the importance of doing so while still alive. He emphasizes that true giving comes from the heart and is not simply |
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A Living Sacrifice - Part 1 by Paul Washer | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of guarding one's mind and thoughts. He shares a story about a famous violinist who dedicated his life to his craft, highlight |
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The Case for Christ - Part 1 by Lee Strobel | In this video, Blomberg and Strobel discuss the case for Christ. Blomberg explains that there are similarities and differences between the synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke |
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God's Purpose by Alan Redpath | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of submitting to the Lordship and sovereignty of Jesus. He highlights that while humans have achieved great advancements in va |
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Lost Dimension in Christian Living by Leonard Ravenhill | In this sermon, the preacher challenges the audience to reflect on their personal relationship with God. He emphasizes the importance of worshiping God and the cost it may require, |
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Submission and Authority (Luke 7:8) by Alan Redpath | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of the Centurion servant and highlights the devastating effects of sin in the life of a believer. The preacher emphasizes the impo |
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The Dream of the Kingdom by Jackie Pullinger | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that preaching the word of God is a task that God takes care of. He highlights that God provides all the ideas, leading, power, and the Word |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Luke 7
In this chapter, Jesus Christ is portrayed as the Messiah who has come to bring salvation, forgiveness, and redemption to all people. Through His teachings and actions, Jesus demonstrates His power, compassion, and love for humanity. The chapter highlights the importance of faith, humility, and trust in Jesus Christ, and it emphasizes the significance of the Kingdom of God. As Matthew Henry notes, 'The Kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.' The chapter also underscores the theme of forgiveness and redemption, as Jesus teaches about the importance of forgiving others and seeking forgiveness from God. Ultimately, the chapter points to the sufficiency of Jesus Christ for all our needs, and it calls us to trust in Him and to follow Him as our Lord and Savior. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
The Power of Faith
Throughout the chapter, faith is portrayed as the means by which people can experience the power and salvation of God. The stories of the centurion, the widow, and the sinful woman all highlight the importance of faith in Jesus Christ.
The Compassion of Jesus
Jesus' compassion is on full display in this chapter, as He responds to the needs of those around Him. His compassion is a hallmark of His ministry and a reflection of God's love for humanity.
The Importance of Humility
The chapter emphasizes the importance of humility and recognizing one's need for God. The stories of the centurion and the sinful woman illustrate the value of humility in approaching God and receiving His blessings.