Or what king, going to make war against another king, sitteth not down first, and consulteth whether he be able with ten thousand to meet him that cometh against him with twenty thousand?
LUKE 14:31KJVWhat does Luke 14:31 mean?
Luke 14:31 uses the example of a king considering war to illustrate the importance of careful planning and honest self-assessment before making a big decision. The verse describes a king who, before going to battle against another king with a larger army, sits down to decide if he can succeed with fewer troops.
In this scene, Jesus is speaking to a crowd, using a practical story to make a point about counting the cost of following him. The king’s careful consultation reflects the need to think seriously about commitments, especially when facing something difficult or costly. The story fits into a larger conversation where Jesus urges people to consider what it truly means to be his disciple.
The Greek behind Luke 14:31
- βουλεύεται (bouleuetai, “consulteth”): This word means to deliberate or take counsel, highlighting that the king does not act rashly but thoughtfully weighs his chances before acting.
- ἐν δέκα χιλιάσιν (en deka chiliasin, “with ten thousand”): The phrase emphasizes the king’s limited resources, making the challenge clear and the need for wise judgment more pressing.
- ὑπαντῆσαι (hupantēsai, “to meet”): This word carries the sense of going out to face or encounter, suggesting an active decision rather than passive waiting.
Why Luke 14:31 matters
- This verse helps clear up the idea that following Jesus is a casual or easy choice; it stresses that real commitment involves serious thought and readiness for sacrifice.
- It connects to the wider passage where Jesus talks about the cost of discipleship, showing that thoughtful preparation is wise and expected.
- Luke 14:31 reminds readers that even in spiritual matters, practical wisdom and honest self-examination are valuable and necessary.