Understanding Luke 5:14

Bible Verse: “And he charged him to tell no man: but go, and shew thyself to the priest, and offer for thy cleansing, according as Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them.”

Summary of Luke 5:14

This verse recounts a significant moment in which Jesus instructs a healed leper to refrain from publicizing the miracle of his healing. Instead, Jesus directs him to present himself to the priest in accordance with Mosaic Law, emphasizing adherence to the established religious practices of the time.

Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

• Matthew Henry's Commentary:

  Henry highlights the importance of obedience to the Mosaic Law in this directive. The healed man is commanded to offer a sacrifice as prescribed by Moses, symbolizing the necessity of ritual purity and the acknowledgment of God's healing power.

• Albert Barnes' Notes:

  Barnes points out that Jesus' instructions reflect His respect for the Law and the priestly system. By directing the man to the priest, Jesus provides a means for the individual to be formally declared clean, thus integrating him back into society and worship.

• Adam Clarke's Commentary:

  Clarke remarks on the idea that Jesus often sought to discourage sensationalism about His miracles, teaching the importance of humility and faith over public acclaim. This not only reflects Jesus' mission but also serves to emphasize the genuine nature of His miracles.

Bible Cross References for Luke 5:14

• Leviticus 14:2-32 - Details the ceremonial cleansing of a leper.
• Matthew 8:4 - Jesus instructs the leper similarly, emphasizing the importance of the Mosaic Law.
• Mark 1:44 - Another account of Jesus healing a leper and advising him about the priest.
• Luke 17:14 - Jesus heals ten lepers and instructs them to show themselves to the priests.
• Matthew 9:6-8 - Discusses Jesus’ authority to forgive sins and how miracles serve as a testament to His divine power.
• Hebrews 13:8 - Affirms that Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever, emphasizing His unchanging nature in performing miracles.
• John 9:7 - Jesus heals a blind man and instructs him to wash in the pool of Siloam, showing a pattern of obedience to divine commandments.

Thematic Connections

Luke 5:14 serves as an essential verse that interconnects various themes in the Bible, including:

• The law and its fulfilment through Jesus’ ministry.
• The significance of rituals and ceremonies in the Old Testament.
• The compassionate nature of Jesus towards marginalized individuals, such as lepers.

Conclusion

In understanding Luke 5:14, one realizes the depth of Jesus' respect for the Law, the process of restoration for the healed, and the lessons of humility and obedience to divine direction. Connecting this verse with others enriches the overall understanding of Biblical themes and the person of Christ.