What does Luke 10:5 mean?

Explanation

The verse Luke 10:5, "And into whatsoever house ye enter, first say, Peace be to this house," is part of a passage where Jesus sends out seventy-two of his followers to prepare the way for his visits to various towns and places.

The instruction to offer peace to a household reflects an element of cultural courtesy in the ancient Near East, but it also carries a deeper spiritual significance.

Within this context, the word "peace" not only denotes a traditional greeting but also the imparting of the blessings and well-being that come from God.

It implies that the emissaries of Jesus are carriers of divine peace, which should precede all other interactions and teachings that they bring into a home.

Historical Context

Luke 10:5 is set within the broader mission context of the Gospel where Jesus is extending his ministry through his disciples.

The practice of sending disciples ahead of a religious leader was not unique to Jesus and was seen in other Jewish and Greco-Roman contexts.

During those times, hospitality was a deeply ingrained cultural value, and visiting teachers or prophets would rely on local hospitality for lodging and sustenance.

In this cultural environment, offering a blessing of peace upon entering a house was a common courteous gesture that acknowledged and respected the host.

Theological Insights

Different theological perspectives may interpret this verse in unique ways.

For example:

• From a Christian standpoint, this verse may be seen as illustrative of the Christian mission to extend God's peace to others.
• Theologically, the verse could also be understood in the context of the 'Kingdom of God.' That is to say, the peace of God's kingdom is brought near through the presence of Jesus's followers.
• Some theologians could interpret the peace as a precursor to receiving the message of Christ; if the peace is accepted, the household is deemed ready to hear the Gospel.

Practical Applications

"Peace be to this house" can be practically applied in several ways:

• It encourages believers to bring a spirit of peace and goodwill to any place they enter.
• It suggests starting all interactions, be they personal or professional, with positive and peaceful intentions.
• In a modern context, it could inform how one hosts or is received as a guest, highlighting the importance of mutual respect and the offering of goodwill.

Cross-References

• Matthew 10:12-13: "And when ye come into an house, salute it.

And if the house be worthy, let your peace come upon it: but if it be not worthy, let your peace return to you."

• John 14:27: "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you.

Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid."

Language Study

The key word in this verse is "peace" (Greek: εἰρήνη, transliterated as eirene).

In the Greek, this word is laden with connotation, symbolizing not just an absence of conflict but also a state of well-being, health, and salvation.

The imperative "say" (Greek: λέγετε, transliterated as legete) indicates the action is not optional but a prescribed part of the disciples' entry into a home.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In many ancient cultures and religions, blessings upon entering a home are common.

For instance, in Judaism, the concept of shalom (peace) has deep significance not unlike the peace mentioned by Jesus.

In Islam, one might say "As-salamu alaykum" upon arrival, which translates to "Peace be upon you." The practice of pronouncing a greeting or blessing upon entering a space is thus not unique to Christianity but is a widespread religious and cultural phenomenon.

Scientific Perspectives

While there is no direct scientific perspective on the pronouncement of peace to a household, modern psychology does recognize the importance of beginning interactions positively to set the tone for the relationship.

Studies in social psychology suggest that first impressions are lasting and can influence the dynamics of subsequent encounters.

Thus, the pronouncement of peace could be seen as establishing a positive emotional environment, which is conducive to healthy interaction and communication.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and theologians have offered various interpretations of Luke 10:5:

• Some highlight the missional character of the verse, noting that Jesus's followers are called to be ambassadors of peace.
• Commentators like Matthew Henry have noted that this greeting is both a wish for the family's peace and a test of their fitness to receive the messengers of Christ.
• Modern commentaries might also emphasize the social dimensions of the practice, exploring how such a greeting would function in both establishing rapport and assessing the openness of the home's occupants to new ideas.