Luke 9:38 (KJV)

What does Luke 9:38 mean?

Luke 9:38 describes a man from the crowd urgently calling out to Jesus, begging Him to pay attention to his son, who is his only child. The verse highlights the father's desperation and the unique importance of his son to him.

In this scene, the man is speaking directly to Jesus, addressing Him as "Master" and pleading for help. The setting is public, with a crowd present, and the man's cry interrupts what is happening. The detail that the son is his "only child" adds emotional weight, showing the depth of the father's concern and the seriousness of his request.

The Greek behind Luke 9:38

• διδάσκαλε (didaskale, "Master"): This word means "teacher" or "master," showing the man's respect for Jesus' authority and ability to help.
• ἐπιβλέψαι (epiblepsai, "look upon"): This verb means more than just "look at"—it carries the sense of "pay attention to" or "show concern for," emphasizing the father's plea for Jesus' compassionate attention.
• μονογενής (monogenēs, "only child"): This word means "only one of its kind" or "unique." The use here stresses that the son is irreplaceable to the father, deepening the sense of urgency and loss.

Why Luke 9:38 matters

• The verse clears up that the father's plea is not just for any child, but for his only son, which would have been especially significant in that culture for inheritance and family legacy.
• Luke 9:38 sets the emotional tone for the miracle that follows, highlighting the desperation and faith that often bring people to Jesus.
• The verse connects to a broader theme in Luke's Gospel, where Jesus responds to those who come to Him with sincere need, regardless of their social status or situation.