New Testament
Luke 22:27
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
For who is greater, the one who sits at the table or the one who serves? Is it not the one who sits at the table? But I am among you as one who serves.
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For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth.
What Luke 22:27 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus contrasts the roles of those who are served and those who serve. Typically, the person sitting at the table is seen as more important than the one serving. However, Jesus flips this expectation by identifying Himself as a servant among His followers. He emphasizes that true greatness is found in serving others rather than seeking status or recognition. This teaching challenges societal norms about power and authority, highlighting that humility and service are the true marks of greatness in God's kingdom. Jesus exemplifies this by His own actions, demonstrating that leadership is about serving others selflessly. His message encourages His followers to adopt a servant's heart, prioritizing the needs of others over their own desires for honor or prestige. This radical approach to leadership and community is foundational to the Christian faith, urging believers to live out their faith through acts of love and service.
How to apply Luke 22:27 to your life
To apply this teaching, look for opportunities to serve others in your daily life. Whether at home, work, or in your community, prioritize helping those around you. Embrace a mindset of humility, recognizing that true fulfillment comes from serving rather than being served.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Illustrated scene from Mary, Jesus' mother's story: An Angel Visits Mary (Luke 1:26–38)
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Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
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Keep studying Luke 22:27
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Key themes
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At a Glance — the Book of Luke
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 22:27 mean?
Luke 22:27 highlights the contrast between those who are served and those who serve. Jesus teaches that true greatness comes from serving others, as He exemplifies by being among His followers as a servant.
What is the meaning of servanthood in Luke 22:27?
In Luke 22:27, servanthood means prioritizing the needs of others over seeking status or recognition. Jesus redefines greatness by showing that serving others is the true mark of leadership.
How does Luke 22:27 apply to daily life?
Luke 22:27 encourages individuals to seek opportunities to serve others in their daily lives. By adopting a humble mindset and prioritizing service, one can find true fulfillment and embody Jesus' teachings.
What themes are present in Luke 22:27?
Key themes in Luke 22:27 include servanthood, humility, and selflessness. The verse emphasizes the importance of serving others and challenges conventional ideas of greatness and leadership.
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