Luke·Chapter 7

How to Apply

This week, think about ways you can show love and kindness to someone who might feel overlooked or judged. Maybe it’s reaching out to a friend you haven’t spoken to in a while, or it could be volunteering to help someone in need. Just as this woman took a brave step to honor Jesus, you can take a small step to show love in your community. It doesn’t have to be grand; even a simple act of kindness can make a huge difference!

Chapter Context

Now let’s zoom out a bit. This verse is nestled in a powerful story where Jesus is at a Pharisee's home, and he’s been invited to dinner. The tension is palpable because the Pharisees are often critical of Jesus. They don’t quite understand his message of grace and love. Suddenly, this woman bursts onto the scene, completely disrupting the gathering. Her act of pouring the ointment on Jesus' feet becomes a pivotal moment that challenges the Pharisee’s perception of sin, forgiveness, and acceptance. By including this moment here, it sets the stage for a deep conversation about mercy and the radical love that Jesus embodies, transforming the chapter's entire narrative.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• and - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• behold - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• woman - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• of - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• city - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• who - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• was - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• sinner - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• learned - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• that - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

What does the act of the woman pouring the ointment on Jesus' feet teach you about vulnerability and showing love to others?

Related Verses

• Matthew 11:28 - Jesus invites everyone who feels burdened to come to him for rest, just like the woman seeking forgiveness.
• Mark 2:17 - Jesus says he came to help those who know they need help, echoing the woman's realization of her need for love.
• Isaiah 61:1 - Written about 700 years before this moment, it talks about bringing good news to the brokenhearted, showing how Jesus fulfills this promise.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in Luke 7:37. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Main Themes

Faith and Humility, Compassion of Jesus, Authority of Jesus, Life and Resurrection, Doubt and Assurance, Universal Salvation, God's Presence

Key Verses

Luke 7:9, Luke 7:13, Luke 7:15, Luke 7:19, Luke 7:22

Historical Context

Luke, written between 60-80 AD, aims to provide an orderly and comprehensive account of Jesus’ life, particularly emphasizing His ministry to Gentiles. In this chapter, Luke juxtaposes the faith of a Roman centurion against the backdrop of Israel's leaders, highlighting a recurring theme in his Gospel: the inclusion of all people in the kingdom of God. The healing of the centurion’s servant and the raising of the widow’s son serve to illustrate Jesus’ authority over sickness and death, while also portraying His deep compassion. Additionally, the episode involving John the Baptist contextualizes the struggle of faith amidst adversity, inviting readers to reflect on their own beliefs and expectations of Jesus.