Luke 7:18 (KJV)

What does Luke 7:18 mean?

Luke 7:18 means that the followers of John the Baptist went to John and told him about everything that had been happening, especially the miracles and teachings of Jesus. This verse shows that John's disciples were keeping him informed about Jesus' actions.

In this setting, John the Baptist is in prison, and his disciples are acting as messengers. They report to John about Jesus healing people and performing other remarkable deeds, which leads to John's next questions in the story. This verse connects John's ministry to Jesus' growing reputation and sets up the conversation that follows between John and Jesus.

The Greek behind Luke 7:18

• μαθηταί (mathētai, "disciples"): This word refers to students or followers, highlighting that John had his own group of committed followers who looked to him for guidance.
• ἀπήγγειλαν (apēngeilan, "shewed"): This Greek word means to report or announce, carrying the sense of giving a detailed account. It shows that John's disciples were not just sharing rumors but giving a careful report of specific events.
• πάντα (panta, "all"): The Greek word for "all" emphasizes that the disciples told John about everything, not just a few selected events, suggesting the full scope of Jesus' activity was important.

Why Luke 7:18 matters

• This verse makes clear that John the Baptist was not personally witnessing Jesus' ministry but was relying on reports from his disciples, which helps explain John's later questions about Jesus' identity.
• It highlights the connection and communication between the ministries of John and Jesus, showing that John's followers were paying close attention to Jesus' work.
• The verse sets the stage for the following passage, where John sends his disciples to ask Jesus a direct question, deepening the narrative about Jesus' identity and mission.