New Testament
Luke 5:29
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Then Levi threw a huge banquet for Jesus at his house. A large crowd of tax collectors and others were there eating with them.
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And Levi made him a great feast in his own house: and there was a great company of publicans and of others that sat down with them.
What Luke 5:29 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Levi, also known as Matthew, invites Jesus to a grand feast at his home. This event is significant because Levi was a tax collector, a profession often despised by the Jewish people for its association with corruption and collaboration with the Roman authorities. By hosting this banquet, Levi not only expresses his gratitude to Jesus for calling him to follow Him but also seeks to introduce his friends, who are also tax collectors and sinners, to Jesus. The gathering symbolizes the inclusive nature of Jesus' ministry, as He reaches out to those marginalized by society. The presence of a large crowd indicates that many were eager to meet Jesus, highlighting His growing popularity and the transformative impact He had on people's lives. This moment serves as a reminder that Jesus came to save all, regardless of their past or social status, and that He values relationships and community.
How to apply Luke 5:29 to your life
This verse encourages us to reach out to those who may feel excluded or marginalized. We can create spaces for connection and acceptance, just as Levi did, inviting others to experience the love and grace of Jesus in our lives and communities.
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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Jesus
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
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
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Keep studying Luke 5:29
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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 5:29 mean?
Luke 5:29 describes Levi, also known as Matthew, hosting a large feast for Jesus at his home. This event highlights Levi's gratitude for being called by Jesus and his desire to introduce his friends, who were also tax collectors and sinners, to Him.
What is the significance of Levi's banquet in Luke 5:29?
The banquet signifies the inclusive nature of Jesus' ministry, as He reaches out to those marginalized by society. It shows that Jesus welcomes everyone, regardless of their past or social status, emphasizing the importance of community and connection.
Who were the guests at Levi's feast in Luke 5:29?
The guests at Levi's feast included a large crowd of tax collectors and others considered sinners. This gathering illustrates Levi's intention to share Jesus with those who were often excluded from religious circles.
What themes are present in Luke 5:29?
Key themes in Luke 5:29 include inclusion, transformation, community, grace, and repentance. The verse reflects Jesus' mission to reach out to all people, especially those who feel marginalized.
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