And into whatsoever city ye enter, and they receive you, eat such things as are set before you:

LUKE 10:8KJV
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Luke 10:8 (KJV)

What does Luke 10:8 mean?

Luke 10:8 instructs Jesus’ followers that when they enter a city and are welcomed, they should eat whatever food is provided to them. The verse emphasizes accepting hospitality without complaint or hesitation, regardless of personal preferences or cultural differences.

In this scene, Jesus is speaking to seventy-two of his disciples as he sends them out in pairs to visit various towns ahead of him. He prepares them for travel and tells them how to respond to the hospitality they receive. The instruction to “eat such things as are set before you” points to a practical attitude of gratitude and adaptability, encouraging the disciples to focus on their mission rather than on their own comfort or dietary customs.

The Greek behind Luke 10:8

  • The word δέχομαι (dechomai, “receive”) is used here for “they receive you,” which often means to welcome or accept someone warmly. This highlights that the disciples are to stay where they are genuinely welcomed, not seeking better accommodations elsewhere.
  • The phrase παρατίθημι (paratithēmi, “set before you”) is translated as “set before you,” which carries the sense of whatever is offered or placed in front of them. This stresses that the disciples are to accept the hospitality as it comes, without being selective.
  • The Greek word ἐσθίω (esthiō, “eat”) is a simple command, but in this context, it underscores the importance of accepting what is provided, even if it is unfamiliar or not their preference.

Why Luke 10:8 matters

  • Luke 10:8 clarifies that Jesus’ followers are not to be picky or demanding about food or accommodations when on their mission, which would have been especially important given the cultural and dietary differences among Jewish and Gentile communities.
  • This verse connects to the broader passage where Jesus emphasizes humility, dependence on God, and respect for those who offer hospitality, rather than seeking comfort or better treatment.
  • It helps clear up any misunderstanding that disciples could pick and choose where to stay based on personal comfort, reinforcing the idea that their focus should be on their mission, not their own needs.

Where else these words appear

“before” Greek G3908 · used in 18 verses

  • Matthew 13:24 Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man which sowed good seed in his field:
  • Luke 9:16 Then he took the five loaves and the two fishes, and looking up to heaven, he blessed them, and brake, and gave to the disciples to set before the multitude.
  • Acts 17:3 Opening and alleging, that Christ must needs have suffered, and risen again from the dead; and that this Jesus, whom I preach unto you, is Christ.

“receive” Greek G1209 · used in 48 verses

  • Matthew 10:14 And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, when ye depart out of that house or city, shake off the dust of your feet.
  • Luke 16:4 I am resolved what to do, that, when I am put out of the stewardship, they may receive me into their houses.
  • 1 Corinthians 2:14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.

“things” Greek G2068 · used in 55 verses

  • Matthew 9:11 And when the Pharisees saw it, they said unto his disciples, Why eateth your Master with publicans and sinners?
  • Mark 14:18 And as they sat and did eat, Jesus said, Verily I say unto you, One of you which eateth with me shall betray me.
  • 1 Corinthians 8:7 Howbeit there is not in every man that knowledge: for some with conscience of the idol unto this hour eat it as a thing offered unto an idol; and their conscience being weak is defiled.