What does Luke 4:38 mean?

And he arose out of the synagogue, and entered into Simon’s house. And Simon’s wife’s mother was taken with a great fever; and they besought him for her. Luke 4:38

Explanation

Luke 4:38 describes an event immediately following Jesus’ teachings in the synagogue of Capernaum. Jesus leaves the synagogue and enters the home of Simon Peter, where Peter’s mother-in-law is suffering from a high fever. The fact that Simon’s wife’s mother is specifically mentioned underscores the personal nature of Jesus’ miracles; they were not only public but also extended to individual households. The verse emphasizes the faith of those in the house, as they actively seek Jesus’ help for her. The immediate response from Jesus is significant, showing his compassion and readiness to heal and assist those in need. The verse carries the deeper meaning of Jesus’ power over illness and his willingness to restore individuals to health, enabling them to resume their roles within their communities.

Historical Context

At the time Luke wrote his gospel, it was common for extended families to live under one roof. The event took place in Capernaum, a fishing village on the Sea of Galilee and a center of Jesus’ ministry. During that period, medical knowledge was limited and illness could be debilitating and even fatal. Fevers were particularly concerning and often mentioned in biblical texts. The passage shows the historical practice of involving religious figures in the healing process, reflecting the holistic view of health, encompassing spiritual and physical well-being.

Theological Insights

This verse has been interpreted from various theological perspectives. In a traditional Christian view, Jesus’ healing of Simon’s mother-in-law demonstrates his divine authority and compassion. It serves as a testament to his messianic role and power over sickness. From a Christological standpoint, this miracle foreshadows the ultimate healing that Jesus offers through salvation. Liberation theologians may highlight the social aspect, emphasizing Jesus’ attention to the marginalized, including women who were often of lower status in ancient Jewish society.

Practical Applications

The teachings from Luke 4:38 can be applied in daily life in several ways. Firstly, it encourages individuals to have faith in times of distress and seek spiritual support for healing. It also illustrates the importance of compassionate action and attending to the needs of those within one’s community. For believers, the verse is a reminder of the power of prayer and intercession for the wellbeing of others, particularly the sick and vulnerable.

Cross-References

• Matthew 8:14-15: “And when Jesus was come into Peter’s house, he saw his wife’s mother laid, and sick of a fever.”
• Mark 1:29-31: “And forthwith, when they were come out of the synagogue, they entered into the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. But Simon’s wife’s mother lay sick of a fever, and anon they tell him of her.”
• Luke 4:39: “And he stood over her, and rebuked the fever; and it left her: and immediately she arose and ministered unto them.”

Language Study

The key words in the original Greek text include:

• “ἀναστὰς” (anastas) means “he arose,” signifying Jesus’ action.
• “πυρετῷ μεγάλῳ” (pyretoi megalō) translates as “a great fever,” suggesting a severe illness.
• “παρεκάλουν” (parekaloun) is translated as “they besought him,” indicating a request or plea for help.

Understanding these Greek terms provides insight into the severity of the illness and the earnestness of the request made to Jesus for healing.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In ancient cultures, miracles and divine healings were not uncommon in religious narratives. Greek and Roman myths, as well as Egyptian and Mesopotamian traditions, contain stories of gods and demigods performing miraculous healings. The healing of Simon’s mother-in-law by Jesus, however, stands out within the Christian tradition as a demonstration of divine authority merged with compassion, rather than a display of power for its own sake.

Scientific Perspectives

From a modern scientific perspective, fevers are a symptom of underlying medical conditions, often infections. Today, high fevers are treated with antipyretics and antibiotics, if bacterial infections are involved. While the scientific community recognizes the placebo effect and the influence of mental well-being on physical health, miraculous healings like those described in this verse are not explained or accounted for by science.

Commentaries

Different biblical scholars and theologians offer varied interpretations and insights on this verse. For instance, the Pulpit Commentary focuses on the immediacy of the healing as a demonstration of Jesus’ power. Matthew Henry’s Commentary draws attention to the fact that Jesus healed her without any pomp or ceremony, emphasizing humility and the service-oriented nature of his miracles. Others, like the Expositor’s Bible Commentary, may note the personal touch of Jesus entering a disciple’s home and ministering to the sick, highlighting his personal care and attention to those who followed him.