Luke 5:31 (KJV)

What does Luke 5:31 mean?

Luke 5:31 records Jesus saying that people who are healthy do not need a doctor, but those who are sick do. Jesus uses this simple comparison to explain why he spends time with people considered "sinners" or outsiders.

In this scene, Jesus is responding to religious leaders who question why he eats with tax collectors and others seen as morally questionable. By comparing himself to a physician, Jesus highlights his mission to help those who recognize their need for spiritual healing, not those who believe they are already "whole" or righteous.

The Greek behind Luke 5:31

• "Whole" (ὑγιαίνοντες, hygiainontes) is often understood as "healthy" or "sound." Jesus is describing those who see themselves as spiritually well and not in need of help.
• "Physician" (ἰατρός, iatros) means a medical doctor. Jesus uses this word for himself, showing his role as someone who brings healing, not just physical but spiritual.
• "Sick" (κακῶς ἔχοντες, kakōs echontes) literally means "those who are badly off" or "those who are ill." This points to people who are aware of their brokenness or need.

Why Luke 5:31 matters

• Luke 5:31 clears up the idea that Jesus avoided "bad" people; instead, he intentionally reached out to those who knew they needed help.
• The verse emphasizes that self-righteousness can blind people to their need for what Jesus offers, while those who admit their need are open to his message.
• This statement sets the stage for the next verse, where Jesus explains his purpose even more directly: to call sinners, not the righteous, to repentance.