Luke 22:27 (KJV)

What does Luke 22:27 mean?

Luke 22:27 shows Jesus telling his disciples that, although most people see the one sitting at the table as more important than the one serving, he himself is among them as one who serves. Jesus is highlighting that true greatness comes from serving others, not from being served.

In this scene, Jesus is speaking to his closest followers during the Last Supper. The disciples had been arguing about who among them was the greatest. Jesus uses the common picture of a meal, where the guest at the table is usually honored above the servant, to turn their thinking upside down. By saying he is "as he that serveth," Jesus points to his own example of humble service, even though he is their teacher and Lord.

The Greek behind Luke 22:27

• "Serveth" (διακονεῖ, diakonei): This Greek word means "to serve" or "to wait on." Jesus uses it to describe his own role, making clear that he identifies with the servant, not the honored guest.
• "Greater" (μείζων, meizōn): This word means "more important" or "higher in status." Jesus questions their assumptions about what makes someone truly great.
• "Sitteth at meat" (ἀνακείμενος, anakeimenos): This phrase refers to reclining at the table, the position of a guest being served. Jesus contrasts this with the role of the one doing the serving.

Why Luke 22:27 matters

• Luke 22:27 challenges the common idea that status and honor come from being served, showing that Jesus values humble service above social rank.
• This verse helps explain why Jesus washes his disciples' feet in John’s Gospel, giving a living example of the principle he teaches here.
• The verse connects to the wider theme in Luke of Jesus redefining greatness and leadership, urging his followers to imitate his example of self-giving service.