Luke 5:31
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 5:31
31 And Jesus answering said unto them, They that are whole need not a physician; but they that are sick.
Chapter Context
Luke 5 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of worship, judgment, love. 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 21-39: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. 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 5:31
31 And Jesus answering said unto them, They that are whole need not a physician; but they that are sick.
Analysis
Jesus responds to Pharisees' criticism: 'They that are whole need not a physician; but they that are sick.' This proverb illustrates spiritual reality—those who recognize their spiritual sickness seek the Physician (Jesus), while those who consider themselves spiritually healthy see no need for Him. The Pharisees' self-righteousness blinded them to their desperate need. Jesus doesn't claim some people are actually spiritually healthy but that those who think they are won't seek healing. Recognizing our sickness is the first step toward receiving the cure.
Historical Context
Physicians in the ancient world treated those acknowledging illness, not those claiming health. Jesus applies this obvious truth spiritually—He came for sinners who recognize their condition, not for self-righteous people who deny their need. The Pharisees' objection to Jesus eating with tax collectors and sinners (v. 30) revealed their assumption of moral superiority. Jesus exposes their spiritual blindness—they need the Physician as much as obvious sinners but refuse to acknowledge it. This principle explains why Jesus received prostitutes and tax collectors but opposed Pharisees—not because the former were better but because they admitted their need.
Reflection
- How does the physician metaphor illustrate why self-righteousness is the greatest barrier to receiving salvation?
- What does Jesus' statement teach about the prerequisite for receiving grace—acknowledging our spiritual sickness rather than claiming health?
Cross-References
- References Jesus: Mark 2:17
- Parallel theme: Jeremiah 8:22