Luke 7:5
For he loveth our nation, and he hath built us a synagogue.
Original Language Analysis
γὰρ
For
G1063
γὰρ
For
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
2 of 11
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 11
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἔθνος
nation
G1484
ἔθνος
nation
Strong's:
G1484
Word #:
4 of 11
a race (as of the same habit), i.e., a tribe; specially, a foreign (non-jewish) one (usually, by implication, pagan)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
6 of 11
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
τὴν
G3588
τὴν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
7 of 11
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
συναγωγὴν
a synagogue
G4864
συναγωγὴν
a synagogue
Strong's:
G4864
Word #:
8 of 11
an assemblage of persons; specially, a jewish "synagogue" (the meeting or the place); by analogy, a christian church
αὐτὸς
he
G846
αὐτὸς
he
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
9 of 11
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
Historical Context
Archaeological excavations at Capernaum uncovered a fourth-century limestone synagogue built atop earlier black basalt foundations dated to the first century—likely the very synagogue the centurion built. God-fearers were Gentiles who worshiped Israel's God without full conversion (circumcision).
Questions for Reflection
- How does genuine love for God's people manifest in tangible, costly acts of service and generosity?
- What does the centurion's building of a synagogue teach about supporting the worship and mission of God's people?
- How can you demonstrate love for God's church through concrete action rather than mere sentiment?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
For he loveth our nation, and he hath built us a synagogue. The Greek agapa (ἀγαπᾷ, loves) is the verb form of agapē—selfless, sacrificial love. This Gentile Roman officer loved 'our nation' (the Jews), demonstrated through concrete action: autōs ōkodomēsen (αὐτὸς ᾠκοδόμησεν, he himself built). The reflexive pronoun emphasizes personal involvement and expense—he didn't merely fund but actively participated in building the synagōgēn (συναγωγήν).
Here is a Gentile God-fearer supporting Jewish worship of the true God, foreshadowing the Gentile inclusion in God's covenant. Yet the elders still miss the point—they cite his works while Jesus marvels at his faith. True religion combines both: faith expressing itself through love (Galatians 5:6), but salvation rests on faith alone.