Luke 7:23
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 7:23
23 And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in me.
Chapter Context
Luke 7 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of creation, covenant, 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 21-50: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. 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 7:23
23 And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in me.
Analysis
Jesus concludes: 'And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in me.' The Greek 'skandalisthē' (σκανδαλισθῇ, offended) means to stumble, take offense, fall away. The 'blessing' (Greek 'makarios,' μακάριος) comes to those who don't stumble over Jesus—who accept Him despite offense to human expectations or preferences. Jesus often offends—His claims, His associates, His ethics, His cross. Blessing comes to those who embrace Him anyway. Faith perseveres through offense; unbelief stumbles and falls away. This beatitude separates genuine disciples from those seeking a convenient, comfortable Christ.
Historical Context
This followed Jesus' answer to John the Baptist's question 'Art thou he that should come?' (v. 19-22). John may have expected Jesus to establish political kingdom and free prisoners (including John). Instead, Jesus healed sick and preached to poor while John remained imprisoned. Jesus' ministry didn't match expectations, creating potential offense. The beatitude warned John against stumbling over unmet expectations. Many did stumble—Galilean crowds turned away (John 6:66), His hometown tried to kill Him (Luke 4:29), religious leaders crucified Him. Those who persevered through offense received blessing. Modern believers also face offense—Christ's exclusivity, biblical ethics, suffering servants—and must choose faith over offense.
Reflection
- What aspects of Jesus and His message commonly offend people, and how should believers respond to such offense?
- How does blessing come specifically to those who don't stumble over Jesus despite their unmet expectations or preferences?
Cross-References
- Blessing: Luke 2:34, Matthew 11:6
- Parallel theme: 1 Corinthians 2:14