And Jesus stood, and commanded him to be brought unto him: and when he was come near, he asked him,

LUKE 18:40KJV
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What does Luke 18:40 mean?

Luke 18:40 describes how Jesus stopped and told others to bring a certain man to Him, and when the man came close, Jesus asked him a question. This verse shows Jesus pausing His journey to give personal attention to someone seeking His help.

In the setting, Jesus is traveling with a crowd, and a blind man has been calling out to Him for mercy. Despite the noise and movement, Jesus (the speaker) stands still and makes sure the man is brought near. The verse highlights Jesus’ willingness to engage directly with individuals, even in the midst of busy circumstances.

The Greek behind Luke 18:40

  • The word for "stood" (ἑστὼς, histēmi) often means to stop or stand still, emphasizing that Jesus halted His progress specifically for this encounter.
  • The word "commanded" (ἐκέλευσεν, keleuō) carries the sense of giving a clear, authoritative order, showing Jesus’ intention and authority in making sure the man is brought to Him.
  • The word "asked" (ἐπηρώτησεν, eperōtaō) is often used for asking a question that expects a thoughtful response, suggesting that Jesus wanted to hear directly from the man rather than assuming his need.

Why Luke 18:40 matters

  • Luke 18:40 clears up the idea that Jesus was too busy or distant to notice individuals; instead, He stops and pays attention to someone others might ignore.
  • The verse emphasizes Jesus’ personal approach—He does not just heal from afar but invites the man to come near and interact with Him.
  • This moment connects to the wider passage by showing that persistent faith, like the blind man’s, is met with Jesus’ direct response and care.

Where else these words appear

“commanded” Greek G2753 · used in 27 verses

  • Matthew 8:18 Now when Jesus saw great multitudes about him, he gave commandment to depart unto the other side.
  • Acts 4:15 But when they had commanded them to go aside out of the council, they conferred among themselves,
  • Acts 23:3 Then said Paul unto him, God shall smite thee, thou whited wall: for sittest thou to judge me after the law, and commandest me to be smitten contrary to the law?

“near” Greek G1448 · used in 42 verses

  • Matthew 3:2 And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.
  • Luke 10:11 Even the very dust of your city, which cleaveth on us, we do wipe off against you: notwithstanding be ye sure of this, that the kingdom of God is come nigh unto you.
  • Luke 24:28 And they drew nigh unto the village, whither they went: and he made as though he would have gone further.

“asked” Greek G1905 · used in 58 verses

  • Matthew 12:10 And, behold, there was a man which had his hand withered. And they asked him, saying, Is it lawful to heal on the sabbath days? that they might accuse him.
  • Mark 9:33 And he came to Capernaum: and being in the house he asked them, What was it that ye disputed among yourselves by the way?
  • Luke 8:30 And Jesus asked him, saying, What is thy name? And he said, Legion: because many devils were entered into him.

“brought” Greek G71 · used in 71 verses

  • Matthew 10:18 And ye shall be brought before governors and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them and the Gentiles.
  • Luke 24:21 But we trusted that it had been he which should have redeemed Israel: and beside all this, to day is the third day since these things were done.
  • Acts 17:15 And they that conducted Paul brought him unto Athens: and receiving a commandment unto Silas and Timotheus for to come to him with all speed, they departed.