Luke 7:45
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 7:45
45 Thou gavest me no kiss: but this woman since the time I came in hath not ceased to kiss my feet.
Chapter Context
Luke 7 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of love, holiness, sacrifice. 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 addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. 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 7:45
45 Thou gavest me no kiss: but this woman since the time I came in hath not ceased to kiss my feet.
Analysis
Second contrast: 'Thou gavest me no kiss: but this woman since the time I came in hath not ceased to kiss my feet' (Greek 'philēma moi ouk edōkas: hautē de aph' hēs eisēlthon ou dielipen kataphilousa mou tous podas'). Greeting kiss was customary among friends—typically cheek-to-cheek. Simon's omission showed coldness. The woman's continuous kissing (present participle—kept kissing) of Jesus's feet (far more humble than cheek kiss) demonstrated passionate devotion. The verb 'kataphilousa' intensifies simple 'phileo'—fervently kissing. Her love manifested in sustained, humble, self-forgetting worship. Reformed theology sees here that genuine conversion produces observable transformation—from self-centered living to Christ-centered devotion.
Historical Context
Ancient Mediterranean greeting kiss signified friendship and respect. Men kissed male friends; family kissed family. The absence of greeting kiss from Simon suggested cool reception. Judas's betrayal kiss (Luke 22:48) perverted this custom. The woman's foot-kissing exceeded normal practice, demonstrating extravagant humility. Early Christians greeted with 'holy kiss' (Romans 16:16, 1 Corinthians 16:20), maintaining the custom with sacred significance. The contrast between Simon's absent kiss and the woman's continuous kisses illustrated different love levels.
Reflection
- How do cultural expressions of honor and affection translate into worship practices?
- What does sustained, continuous worship (not just momentary emotion) reveal about love's depth?
- How might we neglect 'greeting' Jesus appropriately through prayer, worship, or obedience?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: 2 Samuel 15:5, 19:39, Romans 16:16