New Testament
Luke 7:45
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You didn't greet me with a kiss, but from the moment I walked in, she hasn't stopped kissing my feet.
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Thou gavest me no kiss: but this woman since the time I came in hath not ceased to kiss my feet.
What Luke 7:45 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus contrasts the behavior of a woman who shows deep love and humility with that of a host who fails to offer basic hospitality. The woman, often identified as a sinner, expresses her repentance and devotion by kissing Jesus' feet, a sign of respect and worship. In contrast, the host did not greet Jesus with a kiss, which was a customary sign of welcome and honor in that culture. This highlights the theme of true worship and love for Jesus, which is not about outward appearances or social norms but about genuine heart response. The woman's actions demonstrate that true love for God is shown through humility and service, while the host's neglect reveals a lack of understanding of Jesus' significance. This moment emphasizes that those who recognize their need for forgiveness and grace often respond with greater love and devotion than those who feel self-righteous or entitled.
How to apply Luke 7:45 to your life
This verse encourages us to examine our own expressions of love and devotion to God. Are we offering Him our hearts and worship sincerely, or are we merely going through the motions? Genuine love for God is shown through our actions and attitudes towards Him and others.
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: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
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Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
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Keep studying Luke 7:45
Related Bible verses
Related topics
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 7:45 mean?
Luke 7:45 highlights the contrast between the woman's deep love for Jesus and the host's lack of basic hospitality. The woman expresses her repentance and devotion by kissing Jesus' feet, while the host fails to greet Him with a customary kiss, illustrating the difference between genuine worship and mere social norms.
What is the significance of kissing in Luke 7:45?
In Luke 7:45, kissing symbolizes respect and honor in the cultural context of the time. The woman's act of kissing Jesus' feet demonstrates her humility and love, contrasting with the host's neglect, which shows a lack of understanding of Jesus' importance.
How does Luke 7:45 relate to humility?
Luke 7:45 illustrates humility through the woman's actions, as she humbly kisses Jesus' feet, recognizing her need for forgiveness. This contrasts with the host's prideful neglect, showing that true humility involves acknowledging one's shortcomings and responding with love.
What themes are present in Luke 7:45?
Key themes in Luke 7:45 include humility, love, forgiveness, and worship. The verse highlights how genuine expressions of love for God often come from a place of repentance and understanding of one's need for grace.
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