Luke 10:3 (KJV)

What does Luke 10:3 mean?

Luke 10:3 records Jesus sending out his followers, warning them that their mission will be dangerous by comparing them to lambs among wolves. Jesus is telling them to expect vulnerability and possible hostility as they go out to share his message.

In this scene, Jesus is speaking to a group of seventy (or seventy-two) disciples he is sending ahead of him to towns he plans to visit. The image of "lambs among wolves" highlights that the disciples will face people who may oppose or even threaten them, and that their approach should be gentle and trusting, not forceful or aggressive.

The Greek behind Luke 10:3

• "send" (ἀποστέλλω, apostellō): This word means to send out with a purpose or mission. It is the root of the word "apostle," and it emphasizes that the disciples are being officially commissioned by Jesus, not just going on their own.
• "lambs" (ἀρνίον, arnion): The word for "lambs" refers to young, defenseless sheep. This sharpens the sense of innocence and vulnerability in the comparison, showing the contrast with "wolves."
• "wolves" (λύκος, lykos): Wolves were a common symbol for danger and those who prey on the vulnerable. The use of this word makes clear that the disciples should expect real opposition, not just indifference.

Why Luke 10:3 matters

• This verse clears up any idea that following Jesus would mean an easy or safe life; instead, it sets honest expectations about risk and difficulty.
• The contrast between "lambs" and "wolves" emphasizes the nonviolent, peaceful approach Jesus expects from his followers, even in the face of danger.
• Understanding this warning helps make sense of the instructions that follow in the chapter, where Jesus tells his disciples how to respond when they are received—or rejected—by different towns.