Luke 7:47
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 7:47
47 Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little.
Chapter Context
Luke 7 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of wisdom, love, faith. 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 7:47
47 Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little.
Analysis
This verse presents the profound paradox that forgiveness produces love, not vice versa. The Greek perfect tense 'aphēōntai' (are forgiven) indicates a completed action with ongoing results, showing that the woman's love flowed from her realization of forgiveness already received. Jesus corrects Simon the Pharisee's assumption that love earns forgiveness, instead teaching that awareness of one's great sin and great forgiveness produces great love. This demonstrates the Reformed doctrine that justification (forgiveness) precedes sanctification (love), and that those who think they need little forgiveness will produce little love.
Historical Context
Set in a Pharisee's house during Jesus' Galilean ministry, this account features a woman 'who was a sinner'—likely a euphemism for a prostitute. Her extravagant act of anointing Jesus' feet with expensive ointment and her tears scandalized the Pharisees but revealed her profound gratitude for forgiveness.
Reflection
- How does your awareness of your own sin and need for forgiveness affect the depth of your love for Christ?
- In what ways might you be like Simon the Pharisee, minimizing your need for forgiveness and thereby limiting your love?
Word Studies
- Sin: ἁμαρτία (Hamartia) G266 - Sin, missing the mark
Cross-References
- Love: Galatians 5:6, Ephesians 6:24, 1 Timothy 1:14, 1 John 3:18, 4:19, 5:3
- Sin: Isaiah 1:18, Acts 5:31, Romans 5:20
- Parallel theme: Isaiah 55:7