Luke 9:38
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 9:38
38 And, behold, a man of the company cried out, saying, Master, I beseech thee, look upon my son: for he is mine only child.
Chapter Context
Luke 9 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of grace, salvation, discipleship. 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 21-62: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. 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 9:38
38 And, behold, a man of the company cried out, saying, Master, I beseech thee, look upon my son: for he is mine only child.
Analysis
And, behold, a man of the company cried out, saying, Master, I beseech thee, look upon my son: for he is mine only child. The word idou (ἰδού, "behold") draws attention to the urgent scene. A man from the crowd eboēsen (ἐβόησεν, "cried out")—an anguished shout for help. He addresses Jesus as Didaskale (Διδάσκαλε, "Teacher" or "Master") and uses deomai (δέομαι, "I beg" or "beseech"), expressing desperate pleading. The request look upon my son (epiblepsai epi ton huion mou, ἐπιβλέψαι ἐπὶ τὸν υἱόν μου) means "turn your attention to" or "regard with compassion."
The phrase for he is mine only child (hoti monogenēs moi estin, ὅτι μονογενής μοί ἐστιν) uses monogenēs (only-begotten or unique)—the same term describing Jesus as God's only Son (John 3:16). This father's anguish over his only son suffering demonic torment mirrors the Father's anguish at giving His only Son to suffer for sinners. The detail intensifies the tragedy and highlights Jesus' compassion—He knows a father's love for an only son and responds with delivering power.
Historical Context
In ancient Mediterranean culture, sons provided economic security, family continuity, and care for aging parents. An only son's affliction threatened the entire family's future. Demonic possession was widely recognized in the ancient world but poorly understood—often confused with epilepsy, mental illness, or divine judgment. Jewish exorcism practices involved elaborate rituals and incantations. Jesus' exorcisms were immediate, authoritative, and complete—demonstrating kingdom power over Satan's realm. This father's public desperation before a large crowd shows the intensity of his suffering and faith that Jesus could help where disciples failed.
Reflection
- How does the father's anguish over his only son's suffering reflect God the Father's love in giving His only Son for our deliverance?
- What does the detail that this was an 'only child' add to our understanding of the father's desperation and Jesus' compassion?
- In what ways does this father's public cry for help model the kind of desperate, humble faith that moves Jesus to act?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: John 4:47