New Testament
Luke 5:27
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After this, Jesus went out and saw a tax collector named Levi sitting at his tax booth. He said to him, "Follow me."
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And after these things he went forth, and saw a publican, named Levi, sitting at the receipt of custom: and he said unto him, Follow me.
What Luke 5:27 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus is depicted as actively seeking out individuals who are often marginalized or looked down upon by society. Levi, a tax collector, was considered a sinner and a traitor by his fellow Jews because he collected taxes for the Roman Empire. Jesus' call to Levi, "Follow me," signifies an invitation to a new life and purpose. This moment illustrates Jesus' mission to reach out to those who are lost and in need of redemption. By choosing Levi, Jesus demonstrates that no one is beyond the reach of God's grace. Levi's response to Jesus' call would lead to a transformative journey, not just for him but also for those around him. This encounter emphasizes the importance of following Jesus, leaving behind old ways, and embracing a new identity in Him.
How to apply Luke 5:27 to your life
This verse encourages us to be open to Jesus' call in our own lives, regardless of our past or current circumstances. It reminds us that following Jesus can lead to significant personal transformation and that we should be willing to leave behind what holds us back to embrace a new purpose.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Calling Matthew (Luke 5:27–32)
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Bethlehem
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Keep studying Luke 5:27
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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 5:27 teach about Jesus' mission?
Luke 5:27 illustrates Jesus' mission to reach out to those marginalized by society. By calling Levi, a tax collector viewed as a sinner, Jesus demonstrates that His grace is available to everyone, regardless of their past. This act signifies His desire to transform lives and invite individuals into a new purpose, highlighting the inclusivity of His message.
Why was Levi considered a sinner in biblical times?
Levi, as a tax collector, was seen as a traitor by his fellow Jews because he collected taxes for the Roman Empire, which oppressed them. Tax collectors often extorted money, leading to their reputation as sinners and outcasts. Jesus' choice to call Levi emphasizes that no one is beyond redemption and that God's grace can reach even the most despised.
What can we learn from Levi's response to Jesus?
Levi's immediate response to Jesus' call to 'Follow me' serves as a powerful example of faith and obedience. It teaches us the importance of being receptive to God's call in our lives, regardless of our past. His willingness to leave his tax booth symbolizes the need to abandon old ways and embrace a new identity in Christ, which can lead to profound personal transformation.
How does Luke 5:27 relate to the theme of discipleship?
Luke 5:27 is a pivotal moment in the theme of discipleship, as it shows Jesus actively inviting individuals to follow Him. Discipleship involves leaving behind former lives and embracing a new path with Christ. Levi's call to follow Jesus highlights that discipleship is open to all, emphasizing the transformative journey that comes from accepting Jesus' invitation.
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