Luke 7:35
But wisdom is justified of all her children.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
But
G2532
καὶ
But
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 9
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ἐδικαιώθη
is justified
G1344
ἐδικαιώθη
is justified
Strong's:
G1344
Word #:
2 of 9
to render (i.e., show or regard as) just or innocent
ἡ
G3588
ἡ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 9
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἀπὸ
of
G575
ἀπὸ
of
Strong's:
G575
Word #:
5 of 9
"off," i.e., away (from something near), in various senses (of place, time, or relation; literal or figurative)
τῶν
G3588
τῶν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
6 of 9
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
Matthew 11:19The Son of man came eating and drinking, and they say, Behold a man gluttonous, and a winebibber, a friend of publicans and sinners. But wisdom is justified of her children.Hosea 14:9Who is wise, and he shall understand these things? prudent, and he shall know them? for the ways of the LORD are right, and the just shall walk in them: but the transgressors shall fall therein.Proverbs 17:16Wherefore is there a price in the hand of a fool to get wisdom, seeing he hath no heart to it?
Historical Context
Pharisaic dinner invitations tested guests through careful observation of ritual washing, prayers, food selection. The coming narrative shows the Pharisee judging Jesus for allowing a sinful woman's touch. Ancient Near Eastern meals involved reclining on couches, feet extended away from table, making the woman's approach possible. Dinner conversations were semi-public—neighbors and students might observe. For Luke's readers, Jesus's willingness to dine with critics while maintaining truth demonstrated appropriate engagement strategy.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Jesus's acceptance of the Pharisee's invitation model engagement with critics?
- When should Christians accept invitations from hostile audiences, and when decline?
- How can dinner table hospitality create opportunities for gospel witness?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
A Pharisee invites Jesus to dinner: 'And one of the Pharisees desired him that he would eat with him' (Greek 'ērota auton hina phagē met' autou'). Despite earlier opposition, this Pharisee extends hospitality. Motivations unclear—genuine curiosity, social obligation, or trap. Jesus accepts, demonstrating accessibility even to critics. His presence provides opportunity for teaching and witness. The subsequent account (Luke 7:36-50) shows Jesus using dinner setting for profound lesson about forgiveness and love. Reformed theology affirms that Christians should engage even hostile audiences when opportunity for witness exists. Paul's Mars Hill address (Acts 17:22-31) exemplifies this—respecting audience while proclaiming truth.