Luke 5:28 (KJV)

What does Luke 5:28 mean?

Luke 5:28 describes how Levi (also known as Matthew), upon hearing Jesus’ call, immediately left everything behind, got up, and began to follow Jesus. This verse highlights Levi’s total and immediate response to Jesus, showing a complete change in direction for his life.

In the story, Jesus has just invited Levi, a tax collector, to follow him. Tax collectors were often disliked and seen as outsiders in Jewish society. The verse captures the moment Levi makes a decisive break from his old life, leaving his work and possessions to become one of Jesus’ disciples.

The Greek behind Luke 5:28

• ἀφείς (apheis, "left"): This word means to leave behind or abandon. The Greek here suggests a complete forsaking, not just a temporary pause, emphasizing the totality of Levi’s decision.
• πάντα (panta, "all"): This word means "all" or "everything." The text stresses that Levi did not hold anything back—he left everything, not just part of his life.
• ἀκολουθέω (akoloutheō, "followed"): This word means to follow as a disciple or companion. In this context, it carries the sense of joining someone’s way of life, not just physically walking after them.

Why Luke 5:28 matters

• Luke 5:28 clears up any idea that following Jesus was a casual or partial decision for Levi; the verse shows it was immediate and complete.
• The verse highlights the radical nature of Jesus’ call and the kind of response it drew from people who were often on the margins of society.
• This moment sets the stage for the following events, where Levi hosts a meal for Jesus and other tax collectors, showing the ripple effect of his decision to follow Jesus.