Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him,

LUKE 14:29KJV
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Luke 14:29 (KJV)

What does Luke 14:29 mean?

Luke 14:29 warns that if someone starts a project, like building a tower, but cannot finish it, others will notice and mock him for not completing what he began. The verse uses this image to highlight the importance of considering the cost before starting something significant.

In this scene, Jesus is speaking to a crowd, using the example of a builder to teach about commitment and foresight. He is encouraging people to think carefully before deciding to follow him, making sure they understand what it will require. The verse fits into a larger teaching where Jesus urges his listeners to count the cost of discipleship before making a commitment.

The Greek behind Luke 14:29

  • θεμέλιον (themelion) — "foundation": This Greek word refers to the base or groundwork of a building. The verse emphasizes that starting with a foundation is not enough; finishing the project is what matters.
  • ἐμπαίζειν (empaizein) — "mock": The Greek here means to ridicule or make fun of someone. The verse points out that public failure can bring shame or embarrassment, making the warning more vivid.
  • θεωροῦντες (theōrountes) — "behold": This word suggests careful observation, not just a passing glance. It underscores that others are watching and will notice whether the task is completed.

Why Luke 14:29 matters

  • Luke 14:29 clarifies that Jesus is not calling for impulsive decisions but for thoughtful, honest self-assessment before making a serious commitment.
  • The verse connects to the wider passage by illustrating the real-world consequences of failing to follow through, making Jesus’ teaching practical and relatable.
  • This warning helps clear up the misunderstanding that starting out with good intentions is enough; Jesus stresses the importance of perseverance and finishing what one begins.

Where else these words appear

“finish” Greek G1615 · used in 2 verses

  • Luke 14:30 Saying, This man began to build, and was not able to finish.

“mock” Greek G1702 · used in 13 verses

  • Matthew 2:16 Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked of the wise men, was exceeding wroth, and sent forth, and slew all the children that were in Bethlehem, and in all the coasts thereof, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had diligently enquired of the wise men.
  • Matthew 27:41 Likewise also the chief priests mocking him, with the scribes and elders, said,
  • Luke 18:32 For he shall be delivered unto the Gentiles, and shall be mocked, and spitefully entreated, and spitted on:

“foundation” Greek G2310 · used in 15 verses

  • Luke 6:48 He is like a man which built an house, and digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock: and when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently upon that house, and could not shake it: for it was founded upon a rock.
  • 1 Corinthians 3:10 According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon.
  • 2 Timothy 2:19 Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.

“haply” Greek G3379 · used in 25 verses

  • Matthew 4:6 And saith unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone.
  • Mark 4:12 That seeing they may see, and not perceive; and hearing they may hear, and not understand; lest at any time they should be converted, and their sins should be forgiven them.
  • John 7:26 But, lo, he speaketh boldly, and they say nothing unto him. Do the rulers know indeed that this is the very Christ?