Luke 10:7
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 10:7
7 And in the same house remain, eating and drinking such things as they give: for the labourer is worthy of his hire. Go not from house to house.
Chapter Context
Luke 10 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of holiness, hope, redemption. 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 offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. 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 10:7
7 And in the same house remain, eating and drinking such things as they give: for the labourer is worthy of his hire. Go not from house to house.
Analysis
And in the same house remain, eating and drinking such things as they give: for the labourer is worthy of his hire. The command en autē de tē oikia menete (ἐν αὐτῇ δὲ τῇ οἰκίᾳ μένετε, "in the same house remain") prohibits moving between houses seeking better accommodations. The present imperative menete (μένετε) indicates continuous action—settle in and stay put. This prevented appearing ungrateful or status-seeking.
The phrase eating and drinking such things as they give (esthiontes kai pinontes ta par' autōn, ἐσθίοντες καὶ πίνοντες τὰ παρ' αὐτῶν) commands acceptance of whatever hospitality is offered, without demanding special food or accommodations. This applies especially cross-culturally—later, Peter's vision in Acts 10 would expand this to include ceremonially unclean food when ministering to Gentiles.
The crucial theological principle follows: for the labourer is worthy of his hire (axios gar ho ergatēs tou misthou autou, ἄξιος γὰρ ὁ ἐργάτης τοῦ μισθοῦ αὐτοῦ). The word axios (ἄξιος) means "worthy" or "deserving"; misthos (μισθός) is wages or payment. Paul quotes this exact principle in 1 Timothy 5:18, establishing biblical support for compensating those in ministry. Gospel workers deserve support from those who benefit from their labor.
Historical Context
Ancient hospitality customs involved status competition—hosts vied to provide the best accommodations, and guests sometimes moved to better lodgings. Jesus prohibited this behavior to maintain humility and prevent offense. The principle of supporting teachers was established in Judaism (Numbers 18:31; Deuteronomy 25:4) and continued in Christianity. Paul defended his right to financial support (1 Corinthians 9:14) while sometimes waiving it to avoid burdening churches. The early church supported traveling ministers, prophets, and apostles through hospitality and gifts.
Reflection
- How does the command to 'remain in the same house' combat status-seeking and ingratitude in Christian ministry?
- What does 'eating and drinking such things as they give' teach about cultural flexibility and humility in cross-cultural ministry?
- How does the principle that 'the labourer is worthy of his hire' establish biblical grounds for compensating pastors and ministry workers?
Cross-References
- Kingdom: 1 Timothy 5:13
- Parallel theme: Luke 9:4, Deuteronomy 12:12, Mark 6:10, Acts 16:15, 16:34, Galatians 6:6