Luke 7:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 7:2
2 And a certain centurion's servant, who was dear unto him, was sick, and ready to die.
Chapter Context
Luke 7 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of judgment, love, 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 21-50: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. 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 7:2
2 And a certain centurion's servant, who was dear unto him, was sick, and ready to die.
Analysis
And a certain centurion's servant, who was dear unto him, was sick, and ready to die. The Greek entimos (ἔντιμος, precious/highly valued) describes the servant's status—not merely useful property but personally cherished, revealing the centurion's exceptional character. The term doulos (δοῦλος, slave) combined with 'dear' shows remarkable compassion crossing social barriers in a culture where slaves were often treated as tools.
The phrase ēmellen teleutān (ἤμελλεν τελευτᾶν, was about to die) indicates imminent death, emphasizing the desperate urgency. This Gentile's love for his servant foreshadows the gospel breaking ethnic and social boundaries—in Christ, there is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free (Galatians 3:28).
Historical Context
Roman law gave masters absolute power over slaves, including life and death. A centurion caring deeply for a slave's life was culturally extraordinary, reflecting exceptional humanity and possibly the influence of Jewish monotheism on this God-fearer.
Reflection
- How does the centurion's compassion for his servant challenge social hierarchies and prejudices in your own context?
- What does this verse teach about the dignity and value God places on every human life, regardless of social status?
- How should Christ's concern for the marginalized shape your priorities and relationships?