Luke 10:5
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 10:5
5 And into whatsoever house ye enter, first say, Peace be to this house.
Chapter Context
Luke 10 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of faith, discipleship, truth. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christians needed to understand their place in the Roman world.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-42: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Luke and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Luke 10:5
5 And into whatsoever house ye enter, first say, Peace be to this house.
Analysis
And into whatsoever house ye enter, first say, Peace be to this house. The Greek imperative legete (λέγετε, "say") makes this blessing mandatory, not optional. The phrase Eirēnē tō oikō toutō (Εἰρήνη τῷ οἴκῳ τούτῳ, "Peace to this house") employs eirēnē (εἰρήνη), the Greek equivalent of Hebrew shalom (שָׁלוֹם)—comprehensive wellbeing, wholeness, and right relationship with God.
This wasn't mere politeness but prophetic pronouncement. The disciples offered God's peace, which would either rest upon the house (v. 6) or return to the disciples if rejected. Jesus' messengers carried His authority to bestow blessing or warning. The word prōton (πρῶτον, "first") emphasizes priority—before requesting hospitality or proclaiming the kingdom, pronounce peace. This models the gospel's nature: grace precedes demand, blessing precedes obligation.
The early church continued this practice. Paul's letters characteristically begin with "Grace and peace" (charis kai eirēnē, χάρις καὶ εἰρήνη). Christian witness offers reconciliation with God—true shalom—not merely moral instruction or religious ritual.
Historical Context
The Hebrew greeting 'Shalom aleichem' (peace be upon you) was standard in Jewish culture. However, Jesus transforms conventional greeting into prophetic blessing with spiritual efficacy. In first-century Palestine, hospitality was sacred duty; travelers depended on household generosity. The disciples' blessing would identify receptive households open to the gospel message. Homes that welcomed Jesus' messengers welcomed Jesus Himself (v. 16).
Reflection
- What is the full biblical meaning of 'peace' (shalom/eirēnē), and how does it differ from modern notions of peace?
- How does pronouncing peace 'first' before any other interaction model the priority of grace in Christian witness?
- What does it mean that this peace can either 'rest upon' a house or 'return' to the disciples, and what does this reveal about the nature of blessing?
Cross-References
- Peace: 1 Samuel 25:6, Isaiah 57:19, Ephesians 2:17
- Parallel theme: Luke 19:9