Luke 18:28 (KJV)

What does Luke 18:28 mean?

Luke 18:28 records Peter saying to Jesus, "Lo, we have left all, and followed thee," expressing that he and the other disciples have given up everything to become Jesus’ followers. Peter’s words highlight the cost and commitment involved in following Jesus, as he reminds Jesus of the sacrifices they have made.

In this moment, Peter is speaking directly to Jesus after hearing Jesus’ teaching about how difficult it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God. The context is a conversation where Jesus has just challenged a wealthy ruler to give up his possessions, and Peter is pointing out that the disciples have already done what Jesus asked of the ruler. This verse shows the disciples' awareness of their own sacrifices and their desire for reassurance or recognition from Jesus.

The Greek behind Luke 18:28

• ἀφέντες (afentes, "left"): This word means to leave behind or abandon. The Greek here emphasizes a decisive action—the disciples have truly let go of their previous lives and possessions, not just in part but entirely.
• ἠκολουθήσαμέν (ēkolouthēsamen, "followed"): This word carries the sense of ongoing, committed following. It is not just a one-time act but a continual way of life, suggesting the disciples’ long-term dedication to Jesus.

Why Luke 18:28 matters

• Luke 18:28 clarifies that the disciples’ commitment was not just verbal or partial; they actually left everything, which sets the stage for Jesus’ response about the rewards for such sacrifice.
• This verse connects directly to the story of the rich ruler, showing a contrast between someone who could not give up his wealth and those who did, highlighting the real-life example of the disciples.
• It helps readers see that questions about sacrifice and reward in following Jesus are not new; even his closest followers wrestled with these concerns and asked Jesus about them directly.