New Testament

Luke 7:39

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, a Pharisee, who is a religious leader, is observing Jesus as he interacts with a woman known to be a sinner.

Author
Luke the physician
Written
Around AD 60-62
Genre
Gospel and history
Original Audience
Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
CBTClear Bible Translation

When the Pharisee who had invited Jesus saw this, he thought to himself, "If this man were really a prophet, he'd know what kind of woman is touching him. She's a sinner."

KJVKing James Version

Now when the Pharisee which had bidden him saw it, he spake within himself, saying, This man, if he were a prophet, would have known who and what manner of woman this is that toucheth him: for she is a sinner.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, a Pharisee, who is a religious leader, is observing Jesus as he interacts with a woman known to be a sinner. The Pharisee internally questions Jesus' prophetic status, believing that if Jesus were truly a prophet, he would recognize the woman's sinful nature and avoid her touch. This moment highlights the Pharisee's judgmental attitude and lack of understanding of Jesus' mission. Jesus often associated with those marginalized by society, showing compassion rather than condemnation. The Pharisee's thoughts reveal a common misconception about holiness and sin, suggesting that true prophets should shun sinners rather than engage with them. This interaction sets the stage for Jesus to teach about forgiveness and love, emphasizing that everyone, regardless of their past, can receive grace and redemption. The verse invites readers to reflect on their own judgments of others and to consider the importance of compassion and understanding in their relationships.

How to apply Luke 7:39 to your life

This verse encourages us to examine our own judgments of others. Instead of condemning those we see as sinners, we should strive to show compassion and understanding. Remember that everyone has a story and the potential for redemption, just as we do.

Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Luke 7:39 mean?

Luke 7:39 shows a Pharisee questioning Jesus' prophetic identity because he believes Jesus should avoid a sinful woman. This highlights the Pharisee's judgmental attitude and misunderstanding of Jesus' mission to offer grace and forgiveness.

What is the significance of the Pharisee's thoughts in Luke 7:39?

The Pharisee's thoughts reveal a common belief that holiness requires distancing from sinners. This moment sets the stage for Jesus to demonstrate that compassion and acceptance are central to his message.

What does the term 'sinner' refer to in Luke 7:39?

In Luke 7:39, 'sinner' refers to someone considered morally or socially unacceptable by religious standards. The woman's label as a sinner emphasizes the societal judgment she faces and contrasts with Jesus' inclusive approach.

How does Luke 7:39 relate to the themes of compassion and forgiveness?

Luke 7:39 illustrates the tension between judgment and compassion. The Pharisee's disdain for the woman contrasts with Jesus' willingness to engage with her, highlighting the importance of forgiveness and understanding in relationships.

The Book of Luke
Book Summary

The Book of Luke

Luke 1: The Births of John the Baptist and Jesus Foretold

In the days of Herod, king of Judaea, a priest named Zacharias serves in the temple. He and his wife Elisabeth are both righteous but have no children because Elisabeth is barren, and they are both old. While Zacharias burns incense, the angel Gabriel appears to him and says Elisabeth will bear a son who is to be named John. The child will be great before the Lord, will drink no wine or strong drink, and will be filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother's womb. He will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. Zacharias asks how he can know this, since he and his wife are old. Gabriel says Zacharias will be unable to speak until these things come to pass because he did not believe.

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