Luke 8:50
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 8:50
50 But when Jesus heard it, he answered him, saying, Fear not: believe only, and she shall be made whole.
Chapter Context
Luke 8 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of worship, discipleship, creation. 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 21-56: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. 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 8:50
50 But when Jesus heard it, he answered him, saying, Fear not: believe only, and she shall be made whole.
Analysis
Jesus encourages Jairus: 'Fear not: believe only, and she shall be made whole.' This command came after news arrived that Jairus' daughter had died (v. 49). The dual imperative—'fear not' and 'believe only'—addresses natural fear with supernatural faith. The Greek 'monon pisteue' (μόνον πίστευε, only believe) demands exclusive trust in Jesus despite impossible circumstances. The promise 'she shall be made whole' (Greek 'sōthēsetai,' σωθήσεται, will be saved/made whole) assures resurrection. Faith and fear cannot coexist—Jesus calls for faith that conquers fear even when facing death.
Historical Context
Jairus, a synagogue ruler, fell at Jesus' feet begging Him to heal his dying twelve-year-old daughter (v. 41-42). En route, Jesus stopped to address the hemorrhaging woman (v. 43-48), during which Jairus' daughter died. News of death would normally end hope—but Jesus commands continued faith. His resurrection of the girl (v. 54-55) validated this faith-call. The phrase 'fear not, believe only' became a foundational Christian principle—faith displaces fear, trust in Christ overcomes impossible circumstances. Jairus' faith despite his daughter's death illustrates trusting Jesus even when situations seem hopeless.
Reflection
- How does Jesus' command 'fear not: believe only' address the relationship between faith and fear in impossible circumstances?
- What does Jesus' raising Jairus' daughter after commanding faith teach about trusting Him even when situations appear hopeless?
Word Studies
- Believe: πιστεύω (Pisteuo) G4100 - To believe, trust, have faith
Cross-References
- Faith: Luke 8:48, Isaiah 50:10, Mark 5:36, 9:23, John 11:25, 11:40