◄ Luke 7 ►
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The Faith of the Centurion (Matthew 8:5–13; John 4:43–54) 1When Jesus had concluded His discourse in the hearing of the people, He went to Capernaum. 2There a highly valued servant of a centurion was sick and about to die. 3When the centurion heard about Jesus, he sent some Jewish elders to ask Him to come and heal his servant. 4They came to Jesus and pleaded with Him earnestly, “This man is worthy to have You grant this, 5for he loves our nation and has built our synagogue.” 6So 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. 7That is why I did not consider myself worthy to come to You. But just say the word, and my servant will be healed. 8For 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.” 9When 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.” 10And when the messengers returned to the house, they found the servant in good health. Jesus Raises a Widow’s Son 11Soon afterward, Jesus went to a town called Nain. His disciples went with Him, accompanied by a large crowd. 12As 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. 13When the Lord saw her, He had compassion on her and said, “Do not weep.” 14Then He went up and touched the coffin,a and those carrying it stood still. “Young man,” He said, “I tell you, get up!” 15And the dead man sat up and began to speak! Then Jesus gave him back to his mother. 16A 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!” 17And the news about Jesus spread throughout Judea and all the surrounding region. John’s Inquiry (Matthew 11:1–6) 18Then John’s disciples informed him about all these things. 19So 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?” 20When 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?’” 21At that very hour Jesus healed many people of their diseases, afflictions, and evil spirits, and He gave sight to many who were blind. 22So He replied, “Go back and report to John what you have seen and heard: The blind receive sight, the lame walk, the lepersb are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is preached to the poor. 23Blessed 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) 24After 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? 25Otherwise, 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. 26What then did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. 27This 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 28I 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.” 29All the people who heard this, even the tax collectors, acknowledged God’s justice. For they had received the baptism of John. 30But 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? 32They 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.’ 33For John the Baptist came neither eating bread nor drinking wine, and you say, ‘He has a demon!’ 34The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and you say, ‘Look at this glutton and drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’ 35But wisdom is vindicated by all her children.” A Sinful Woman Anoints Jesus (Matthew 26:6–13; Mark 14:3–9; John 12:1–8) 36Then one of the Pharisees invited Jesus to eat with him, and He entered the Pharisee’s house and reclined at the table. 37When a sinful woman from that town learned that Jesus was dining there, she brought an alabaster jar of perfume. 38As 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. 39When 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!” 40But 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. 42When 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. 44And 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. 45You did not greet Me with a kiss, but she has not stopped kissing My feet since I arrived. 46You did not anoint My head with oil, but she has anointed My feet with perfume. 47Therefore I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven, for she has loved much. But he who has been forgiven little loves little.” 48Then Jesus said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” 49But those at the table began to say to themselves, “Who is this who even forgives sins?” 50And Jesus told the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.” Footnotes: 14 a Literally bier, probably a wooden plank or open coffin 22 b A leper was one afflicted with a skin disease. See Leviticus 13. 23 c Or who is not offended by Me 27 d Malachi 3:1 41 e A denarius was customarily a day’s wage for a laborer; see Matthew 20:2. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Luke 7 Summary Faith and Anointing Verses 1–10 – Faith of the Centurion When Jesus enters Capernaum, a Roman centurion seeks healing for a beloved servant. Respectfully, he sends Jewish elders and then friends, confessing he is unworthy for Jesus to enter his home. Recognizing authority, he trusts that a mere word is enough. Jesus marvels, declaring such faith unparalleled in Israel, and the servant is healed at that moment. Verses 11–17 – Compassion at Nain Approaching the gate of Nain, Jesus meets a funeral procession for the only son of a widowed mother. Moved with compassion, He tells her not to weep, touches the bier, and commands the young man to rise. Life returns, awe sweeps the crowd, and they proclaim that God has visited His people. Verses 18–35 – John’s Question and Jesus’ Witness John the Baptist, imprisoned, sends two disciples to ask if Jesus is the promised One. Jesus responds by performing miracles and pointing to Isaiah’s prophecies: the blind see, the lame walk, prisoners of death are freed, and the good news is preached to the poor. He honors John as more than a prophet, yet says the least in the kingdom is greater. He then exposes the fickleness of the generation that rejected both John’s austerity and Jesus’ fellowship with sinners. Verses 36–50 – Forgiveness for a Sinful Woman A Pharisee named Simon hosts Jesus. A woman known for her sin enters, weeps over Jesus’ feet, wipes them with her hair, kisses them, and anoints them with costly perfume. Simon judges her; Jesus answers with a parable of two debtors and highlights that love flows from forgiveness. He declares to the woman, “Your sins are forgiven… Your faith has saved you; go in peace,” stunning the dinner guests. Luke 7 paints vivid pictures of faith, compassion, doubt, and forgiveness, unfolding in powerful narratives of healing, resurrection, questioning, and anointing. As Jesus demonstrates His authority over illness, death, and sin, He also affirms the value of faith, humbling the self-righteous and uplifting the humble and repentant. Historical Setting and Key People • Capernaum sat on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee, a bustling fishing and trade center. Excavations show a 1st-century basalt foundation of a synagogue beneath the later white-limestone structure, matching the elders’ claim that the centurion “has built our synagogue” (v. 5). • Roman centurions typically commanded about 80 soldiers. Inscriptions reveal that many were non-commissioned officers promoted for character and reliability, shedding light on his respect for Jewish customs and generosity. • Nain lies on the northern slope of Mount Moreh, overlooking the Jezreel Valley. Tombs carved into the limestone hills illustrate why a funeral would exit the city gate toward the burial caves. • John the Baptist wrote no book, yet Josephus records his imprisonment at Machaerus east of the Dead Sea. From that fortress he sends the question that frames Jesus’ self-revelation. • Perfumed oil was imported from Arabia in alabaster jars. One jar could cost a year’s wages, underlining the woman’s sacrificial love. Cultural Customs Illuminated Foot washing, a kiss of greeting, and anointing the head with oil were baseline acts of hospitality (Genesis 18:4; Psalm 23:5). Simon’s omissions contrast sharply with the woman’s lavish care. Funeral processions were public events. Mourners led the way, flutes played dirges (Matthew 9:23), and the body was carried on an open wooden frame. Touching the bier risked ceremonial defilement (Numbers 19:11), yet Jesus’ holiness transforms impurity into life. Themes of Faith and Authority 1. Spoken Authority: “Just say the word” (v. 7) recalls Psalm 107:20, “He sent His word and healed them.” The centurion sees in Jesus the divine command that soldiers only imitate. 2. Compassionate Authority: Jesus feels the widow’s grief before she utters a request. His authority always carries mercy (Hebrews 4:15-16). 3. Questioning and Assurance: John’s doubt is met, not with rebuke, but evidence. Honest inquiry, when brought to Christ, receives clear witness (Isaiah 35:5-6; 61:1). 4. Forgiving Authority: The guests ask, “Who is this who even forgives sins?” (v. 49), echoing Luke 5:21. Luke shows again that Jesus exercises a prerogative belonging to God alone (Psalm 103:3). Miracles and Prophetic Echoes • Centurion’s Servant – long-distance healing parallels 1 Kings 17:22 where Elijah cries out and the boy revives, yet Jesus heals by command alone. • Widow’s Son – Elijah raised a widow’s son at Zarephath (1 Kings 17:17-24); Elisha raised the Shunammite’s son (2 Kings 4:32-37). The location on Mount Moreh places Jesus geographically between those two earlier miracles, signaling a greater Prophet has arrived (v. 16). • “The blind receive sight…” – direct quotation of Isaiah 35:5-6 and 61:1 ties Jesus to the Servant-Messiah. • Forgiveness of the sinful woman mirrors Psalm 32:1, “Blessed is the one whose transgression is forgiven,” and anticipates the cross where the debt is fully paid (Colossians 2:14). Archaeological Notes • Limestone inscriptions from Capernaum mention a benefactor who dedicated a “Synagogue of the Nazarenes,” possibly linked to the centurion’s generosity toward the Jewish community. • Coins from Tiberius and Herod Antipas found in Nain’s vicinity date the economic context of Luke 7; the widow’s poverty would be exacerbated by imperial taxation. • Alabaster fragments coated with nard residues discovered at Magdala illustrate how perfume was stored and poured, confirming Luke’s detail. • Machaerus excavation identifies cells cut into the bedrock, aligning with John’s imprisonment. Connections to the Wider Biblical Story • Faith of outsiders: Like Rahab (Joshua 2) and Naaman (2 Kings 5), the Gentile centurion trusts in Israel’s God, foreshadowing Acts 10 where another centurion, Cornelius, receives the gospel. • Compassion for widows: God defends widows (Deuteronomy 10:18; Psalm 68:5). Jesus embodies that care at Nain and later entrusts His own mother to John (John 19:26-27). • The Coming One: Malachi 3:1 predicts a messenger preparing the way. Jesus quotes this to honor John (v. 27). The title “the One who was to come” echoes Psalm 118:26 and supports messianic expectation. • Children in the marketplace: The generation’s refusal mirrors Israel’s complaint in Exodus 17:2. Both joy (flute) and mourning (dirge) fail to move them, illustrating hardened hearts. • Great Debt forgiven: Parable aligns with Matthew 18:23-35 where a forgiven servant refuses mercy. Luke 7 shows the positive response—love springs from grace received (1 John 4:19). Practical Takeaways • Approach Jesus with the centurion’s humility; recognize His word is enough. • Compassion moves God’s heart. No predicament—death, doubt, or disgrace—is beyond His reach. • Doubt is answered by returning to what Jesus does and says. Evidence fuels faith. • True hospitality welcomes Christ not merely at the table but in the heart, expressed through acts of love. • Forgiven people love deeply. Remember your own canceled debt, and extend that mercy to others. Key Verse Highlights • “I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such great faith.” (v. 9) • “Young man, I tell you, get up!” (v. 14) • “Blessed is the one who does not fall away on account of Me.” (v. 23) • “Your sins are forgiven.” (v. 48) • “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.” (v. 50) Timeline Snapshot AD 28–29 1. Ministry in Galilee — Capernaum healing of centurion’s servant 2. Journey south-west to Nain — raising the widow’s son 3. Messages exchanged with imprisoned John at Machaerus 4. Banquet at Simon’s home — somewhere in Galilee Character Contrasts • Centurion vs. Pharisees: Outsider faith outshines insider skepticism. • Widow vs. Wealthy: Powerless yet prioritized by Jesus. • John’s disciples vs. the generation: Earnest seekers versus fickle complainers. • Sinful woman vs. Simon: Repentant worship against respectable coldness. Summary of Divine Attributes Displayed • Authority over sickness and death • Compassion that acts • Patience with honest doubt • Power to forgive sin Looking Forward in Luke The chapter anticipates broader inclusion of Gentiles (Luke 13:29), continued controversy over forgiveness (Luke 15), and the ultimate demonstration of mercy at the cross (Luke 23:34). One Sentence Conclusion Luke 7 paints a vivid portrait of Jesus whose spoken word conquers disease, whose touch conquers death, whose answers reassure the doubting, and whose grace opens the door of peace to anyone—outsider, mourner, or notorious sinner—who comes to Him in faith. Connections to Additional Scriptures Faith Hebrews 11:1 - Now faith is the assurance of what we hope for and the certainty of what we do not see. Compassion Colossians 3:12 - Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with hearts of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Forgiveness Ephesians 4:32 - Be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you. Authority of Jesus Matthew 28:18 - Then Jesus came to them and said, 'All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.' Teaching Points The Centurion's Faith Luke 7:9 - When Jesus heard this, He marveled at him. Turning to the crowd following Him, He said, 'I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such great faith.' The centurion's understanding of authority and his humble approach to Jesus exemplify a faith that recognizes Christ's divine power. Compassion of Jesus Luke 7:13 - When the Lord saw her, He had compassion on her and said, 'Do not weep.' Jesus' compassion for the widow of Nain demonstrates His deep empathy and willingness to intervene in our suffering. Forgiveness and Love Luke 7:47 - Therefore I tell you, because her many sins have been forgiven, she has loved much. But he who has been forgiven little loves little. The account of the sinful woman highlights the transformative power of forgiveness and the profound love it engenders. Authority of Jesus' Word Throughout the chapter, Jesus' word brings healing and life, underscoring His divine authority and the power of His spoken word. Practical Applications Cultivate Faith Like the centurion, we should strive to have a faith that trusts in Jesus' authority and power, even when we cannot see the outcome. Show Compassion Follow Jesus' example by showing compassion to those who are suffering, offering comfort and support in their time of need. Embrace Forgiveness Recognize the depth of Christ's forgiveness in our lives and let it inspire us to love others deeply and sincerely. Trust in Jesus' Word Rely on the promises and teachings of Jesus, knowing that His word is powerful and life-giving. People 1. Jesus Central figure in the chapter, performing miracles and teaching. He is recognized as the Messiah and the Son of God. In Greek, His name is Ἰησοῦς (Iēsous). 2. Centurion A Roman officer whose servant is healed by Jesus. He demonstrates great faith, acknowledging Jesus' authority. The Greek term for centurion is ἑκατοντάρχης (hekatontarchēs). 3. Centurion's Servant The servant who is sick and near death, whom Jesus heals from a distance at the centurion's request. 4. John the Baptist A prophet who sends his disciples to inquire if Jesus is the expected Messiah. In Greek, his name is Ἰωάννης (Iōannēs). 5. John's Disciples Followers of John the Baptist who are sent to Jesus to ask if He is the one to come. 6. Widow of Nain A grieving mother whose only son has died. Jesus raises her son from the dead, showing compassion. The term for widow in Greek is χήρα (chēra). 7. Widow's Son The young man who is resurrected by Jesus, demonstrating His power over death. 8. Pharisees Religious leaders who are often skeptical of Jesus. They are mentioned in the context of rejecting God's purpose for themselves. 9. Simon the Pharisee A Pharisee who invites Jesus to dine with him. During the meal, a sinful woman anoints Jesus' feet. 10. Sinful Woman A woman known for her sinful life who anoints Jesus' feet with perfume and tears, showing repentance and love. The Greek term for sinner is ἁμαρτωλός (hamartōlos). 11. People of Nain The crowd that witnesses the miracle of the widow's son being raised from the dead. 12. Crowds Following Jesus The general populace that follows Jesus, witnessing His teachings and miracles. Places 1. Capernaum Capernaum is mentioned in Luke 7:1. It is a town on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee and served as a central hub for Jesus' ministry in Galilee. The name "Capernaum" comes from the Hebrew "Kfar Nahum," meaning "village of Nahum." In this chapter, Jesus enters Capernaum after delivering the Sermon on the Plain. 2. Nain Nain is referenced in Luke 7:11. It is a small village located near Mount Tabor in Galilee. The name "Nain" is derived from the Hebrew word "נָעִים" (na'im), meaning "pleasant" or "lovely." In this passage, Jesus raises a widow's son from the dead as He approaches the town gate, demonstrating His compassion and authority over life and death. Events 1. Healing of the Centurion’s Servant (Luke 7:1-10) After Jesus finished His teachings, He entered Capernaum. A centurion's servant, whom he valued highly, was sick and near death. The centurion sent Jewish elders to ask Jesus to heal his servant. The elders pleaded earnestly, saying the centurion was worthy because he loved their nation and built their synagogue. Jesus went with them, but before He arrived, the centurion sent friends to say he was not worthy to have Jesus come under his roof. He expressed faith that Jesus could heal with just a word. Jesus marveled at his faith and healed the servant from a distance. 2. Raising of the Widow’s Son at Nain (Luke 7:11-17) Jesus traveled to a town called Nain, accompanied by His disciples and a large crowd. As He approached the town gate, a dead man was being carried out, the only son of a widow. Moved with compassion, Jesus told her not to weep. He touched the bier and said, "Young man, I say to you, get up!" The dead man sat up and began to speak, and Jesus gave him back to his mother. The people were filled with awe and praised God, saying, "A great prophet has appeared among us," and "God has visited His people." 3. John the Baptist’s Inquiry (Luke 7:18-23) John the Baptist, in prison, sent two of his disciples to ask Jesus if He was the one to come or if they should expect someone else. Jesus responded by pointing to His works: the blind receive sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is preached to the poor. He concluded with, "Blessed is the one who does not fall away on account of Me." 4. Jesus’ Testimony about John (Luke 7:24-30) After John's messengers left, Jesus spoke to the crowd about John. He asked what they went out to see in the wilderness—a reed swayed by the wind? A man dressed in fine clothes? No, they went to see a prophet, and more than a prophet. Jesus declared that John was the messenger prophesied in Malachi 3:1, and among those born of women, none is greater than John. Yet, the least in the kingdom of God is greater than he. The people and tax collectors acknowledged God's justice, having been baptized by John, but the Pharisees and experts in the law rejected God's purpose for themselves. 5. Jesus’ Rebuke of the Unbelieving Generation (Luke 7:31-35) Jesus compared the people of His generation to children in the marketplace, dissatisfied with both John the Baptist and Himself. John came neither eating bread nor drinking wine, and they said he had a demon. The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they called Him a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners. Jesus concluded, "But wisdom is vindicated by all her children." 6. Anointing by a Sinful Woman (Luke 7:36-50) A Pharisee named Simon invited Jesus to dine with him. A woman known as a sinner learned Jesus was there and brought an alabaster jar of perfume. She stood behind Jesus at His feet, weeping, and began to wet His feet with her tears, wiping them with her hair, kissing them, and anointing them with the perfume. Simon questioned Jesus' prophetic insight, but Jesus told him a parable of two debtors, illustrating that those forgiven much love much. Jesus forgave the woman's sins, and the guests questioned who He was to forgive sins. Jesus told the woman, "Your faith has saved you; go in peace." Lessons from Luke 7 1. Faith That Amazes Jesus In Luke 7, we encounter the story of the centurion whose faith astonished Jesus. The centurion believed that Jesus could heal his servant with just a word, demonstrating profound trust in Christ's authority. Jesus responded, "I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such great faith" (Luke 7:9). This teaches us that faith isn't about proximity or status but about recognizing and trusting in the power of Jesus. 2. Compassion for the Marginalized Jesus' encounter with the widow of Nain highlights His deep compassion. As He approached the town, He saw a funeral procession for the widow's only son. Moved by her plight, Jesus said, "Do not weep" (Luke 7:13), and then He raised her son from the dead. This act reminds us that Jesus cares deeply for those who are suffering and marginalized, and we are called to reflect His compassion in our own lives. 3. The Power of a Word When Jesus raised the widow's son, He simply said, "Young man, I say to you, get up!" (Luke 7:14). This demonstrates the incredible power of Jesus' word. In our lives, we can trust that His words hold the same power and authority, capable of bringing life and transformation to any situation. 4. Recognizing Jesus' Identity John the Baptist sent messengers to ask Jesus if He was the one to come. Jesus responded by pointing to His works: "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" (Luke 7:22). This passage encourages us to recognize Jesus not just by His words but by His actions, which fulfill the prophecies and reveal His divine identity. 5. The Importance of Repentance Jesus contrasts the responses of the people to John the Baptist and Himself, highlighting the importance of repentance. He says, "But wisdom is vindicated by all her children" (Luke 7:35). This teaches us that true wisdom is shown through a life transformed by repentance and faith, leading to actions that reflect God's kingdom. 6. Love and Forgiveness The story of the sinful woman who anointed Jesus' feet with perfume is a powerful lesson in love and forgiveness. Jesus tells Simon the Pharisee, "Her many sins have been forgiven, as her great love has shown" (Luke 7:47). This reminds us that those who have been forgiven much, love much, and it challenges us to extend forgiveness and love to others as we have received from Christ. 7. The Danger of Self-Righteousness Simon's reaction to the sinful woman reveals the danger of self-righteousness. Jesus uses this moment to teach that those who recognize their need for forgiveness are closer to the kingdom than those who rely on their own righteousness. We are reminded to approach God with humility, acknowledging our need for His grace. 8. The Role of Faith in Forgiveness Jesus tells the woman, "Your faith has saved you; go in peace" (Luke 7:50). This underscores the role of faith in receiving forgiveness and salvation. It is not our works but our faith in Jesus that brings us peace with God, encouraging us to trust Him fully for our salvation. 9. The Joy of Salvation The joy of the woman who was forgiven is palpable. Her actions of love and gratitude are a response to the joy of salvation. This teaches us that salvation is not just a future hope but a present joy that transforms our lives and compels us to live in gratitude and service to God. 10. The Inclusivity of the Gospel Throughout Luke 7, we see Jesus interacting with a diverse group of people: a Roman centurion, a grieving widow, a sinful woman, and religious leaders. This diversity highlights the inclusivity of the Gospel. Jesus came for all, regardless of background or status, inviting everyone to experience His love and salvation. This challenges us to share the Gospel with all people, reflecting the heart of Christ. Topics 1. The Faith of the Centurion (Luke 7:1-10) This passage describes a Roman centurion in Capernaum who demonstrates great faith in Jesus' authority. The centurion sends Jewish elders to ask Jesus to heal his servant, expressing his belief that Jesus can heal from a distance. Jesus commends the centurion's faith, saying, "I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such great faith" (Luke 7:9). The Greek word for "faith" here is "πίστις" (pistis), emphasizing trust and belief. 2. Jesus Raises the Widow’s Son (Luke 7:11-17) Jesus travels to the town of Nain, where He encounters a funeral procession for the only son of a widow. Moved with compassion, Jesus tells the widow, "Do not weep" (Luke 7:13), and then raises her son from the dead. This miracle leads to fear and glorification of God among the people, who declare, "A great prophet has appeared among us" (Luke 7:16). 3. John the Baptist’s Inquiry (Luke 7:18-23) John the Baptist, imprisoned, sends his disciples to ask Jesus if He is the expected Messiah. Jesus responds by pointing to His miraculous works and fulfillment of prophecy, saying, "Blessed is the one who does not fall away on account of Me" (Luke 7:23). The Greek term "σκανδαλίζω" (skandalizō) is used here, meaning to cause to stumble or take offense. 4. Jesus’ Testimony about John (Luke 7:24-30) After John's disciples leave, Jesus speaks to the crowd about John the Baptist, affirming his role as a prophet and the fulfillment of Malachi's prophecy. Jesus states, "Among those born of women there is no one greater than John" (Luke 7:28), yet highlights the greatness of the kingdom of God. 5. The Parable of the Children in the Marketplace (Luke 7:31-35) Jesus compares the current generation to children in a marketplace, illustrating their fickle and critical nature. He contrasts the responses to John the Baptist and Himself, noting that "wisdom is vindicated by all her children" (Luke 7:35), emphasizing the outcomes of their ministries. 6. A Sinful Woman Anoints Jesus (Luke 7:36-50) In the house of Simon the Pharisee, a sinful woman anoints Jesus' feet with perfume and tears. Jesus uses this act to teach about forgiveness and love, telling Simon, "Her many sins have been forgiven, as her great love has shown" (Luke 7:47). The Greek word "ἀφίημι" (aphiēmi) is used for "forgiven," indicating the release or dismissal of sins. Themes 1. Faith and Authority In Luke 7:1-10, the centurion's faith is highlighted. He recognizes Jesus' authority, saying, "But just say the word, and my servant will be healed" (Luke 7:7). The Greek word for "authority" (ἐξουσία, exousia) underscores the centurion's understanding of Jesus' divine power. 2. Compassion and Miracles Jesus' compassion is evident in the raising of the widow's son at Nain (Luke 7:11-17). The text states, "When the Lord saw her, He had compassion on her" (Luke 7:13). The Greek word for compassion (σπλαγχνίζομαι, splagchnizomai) conveys a deep, visceral empathy. 3. Recognition of Jesus as the Messiah John the Baptist's inquiry about Jesus' identity (Luke 7:18-23) leads to Jesus affirming His messianic role through His works. Jesus says, "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" (Luke 7:22). 4. The Greatness of John the Baptist Jesus speaks of John the Baptist's role and greatness, stating, "Among those born of women there is no one greater than John" (Luke 7:28). This highlights John's prophetic role and the transition from the Old Covenant to the New. 5. Rejection and Acceptance of God's Plan The response to John and Jesus' ministries is contrasted (Luke 7:29-35). The text notes, "But the Pharisees and experts in the law rejected God’s purpose for themselves" (Luke 7:30). The Greek word for "rejected" (ἀθετέω, atheteo) implies a deliberate refusal. 6. Forgiveness and Love The account of the sinful woman anointing Jesus' feet (Luke 7:36-50) illustrates the theme of forgiveness. Jesus tells her, "Your sins are forgiven" (Luke 7:48). The Greek word for "forgiven" (ἀφίημι, aphiemi) means to release or let go, emphasizing the completeness of divine forgiveness. Prayer Points Pray for a faith that amazes Jesus, asking for the strength to trust in His authority and power. Ask God to fill your heart with compassion for others, that you may be a source of comfort and support. Seek forgiveness for your sins and pray for the ability to forgive others as Christ has forgiven you. Thank God for the power and authority of Jesus' word, and pray for the wisdom to apply His teachings in your life. Answering Tough Questions 1. Luke 7:1–10 – How could the centurion’s servant be healed instantly without Jesus ever seeing him, defying natural explanation? 2. Luke 7:11–15 – Is there any historical or archaeological evidence to support the claim of raising a dead person back to life at Nain? 3. Luke 7:19–23 – Why would John the Baptist doubt Jesus if he had already proclaimed him as the Messiah, and how does this align with other gospel accounts? 4. Luke 7:29–30 – Does the mention of people rejecting John’s baptism but being open to Jesus contradict or undermine John’s prophetic role elsewhere in Scripture? 5. Luke 7:36–50 – How does the anointing of Jesus by a sinful woman align, or conflict, with other anointing accounts in the Gospels regarding location, timing, and participants? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the faith of the centurion challenge our understanding and expression of faith? 2. What can we learn from Jesus' act of raising the widow's son about His compassion and power? 3. How do we reconcile John the Baptist's doubts about Jesus being the Messiah with his role as the forerunner? 4. What lessons can we learn from the act of the sinful woman who anointed Jesus? 5. How does Jesus' reaction to the woman who anointed Him challenge the societal norms of His time and ours? 6. How can we apply the lesson of those who are forgiven much, love much, in our personal and communal life? 7. How does Jesus' affirmation of John the Baptist's role inform our understanding of His mission? 8. How does the healing of the centurion's servant challenge the ethnic and cultural barriers of the time and in our current world? 9. How can we cultivate a faith like the centurion's in our daily lives? 10. How do we understand the concept of faith and healing as presented in this chapter? 11. How does Jesus' interaction with the Pharisees challenge our attitudes towards self-righteousness? 12. How do we respond when our expectations of God, like John's, are not met? 13. In what ways do we experience Jesus' compassion in our lives today? 14. How can we emulate the sinful woman's gratitude and love for Jesus in our lives? 15. How can we apply Jesus' approach to the Pharisees and the sinful woman in our interaction with others? 16. How does the resurrection of the widow's son affirm Jesus' power over death, and how does it relate to His resurrection? 17. In what ways do we see Jesus challenging societal and religious norms in this chapter? 18. How can we embrace and extend forgiveness as shown in the anointing story? 19. How does the notion of great love resulting from great forgiveness impact our relationships? 20. How do we maintain faith in the face of doubts, as shown in the case of John the Baptist? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions