Luke 4:40 (KJV)

What does Luke 4:40 mean?

Luke 4:40 describes how, as the sun was setting, people brought all those who were sick with various diseases to Jesus, and he personally laid his hands on each one and healed them. This verse shows Jesus responding to a large crowd with individual attention and compassion, healing every person brought to him.

The setting is in the early part of Jesus’ ministry, in the town of Capernaum. After the Sabbath, when people were free to travel, many came to Jesus seeking help for their sick loved ones. Luke emphasizes that Jesus did not just heal a few, but laid hands on every single person, showing both his power and his willingness to care for each individual.

The Greek behind Luke 4:40

• "ἥλιος" (hēlios, "sun") and "δύνω" (dynō, "setting"): The mention of the sun setting signals the end of the Sabbath, when people could finally bring the sick to Jesus. This detail explains the timing and the sudden rush of people.
• "ποικίλαις" (poikilais, "divers" or "various"): This word means "many kinds" or "all sorts," highlighting that people came with all kinds of illnesses, not just one type.
• "ἐπέθηκεν" (epethēken, "laid [his hands]"): This verb shows Jesus’ personal involvement. He did not heal from a distance but touched each person, which was significant in a culture where many sick people were considered untouchable.
• "ἰᾶτο" (iato, "healed"): This word means to make whole or restore, emphasizing not just physical recovery but a complete act of care.

Why Luke 4:40 matters

• Luke 4:40 clears up any idea that Jesus’ healing was selective or limited; he healed every person brought to him, regardless of their illness.
• The verse highlights Jesus’ compassion and personal touch, showing that he did not treat people as a crowd but cared for each individual.
• This scene connects to the wider passage by showing the immediate, powerful impact of Jesus’ ministry in Galilee and sets the stage for the growing crowds and attention he would receive.