Luke 19:10

KJV

For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.

KJV (with Strong's)

For {G1063} the Son {G5207} of man {G444} is come {G2064} to seek {G2212} and {G2532} to save {G4982} that which was lost {G622}.

Complete Jewish Bible

For the Son of Man came to seek and save what was lost.”

Berean Standard Bible

For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”

American Standard Version

For the Son of man came to seek and to save that which was lost.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Luke 19:10 stands as a foundational declaration of Jesus' redemptive mission, succinctly summarizing the divine purpose behind His incarnation and earthly ministry. It reveals that the Son of Man, a title emphasizing both His humanity and messianic authority, came with the explicit, active intent to seek out and deliver those who are spiritually estranged and perishing. This verse encapsulates the heart of God's initiative to reconcile humanity to Himself, providing the theological rationale for Jesus' controversial association with "sinners" like Zacchaeus and offering profound hope for all who recognize their lost condition.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Luke 19:10 serves as the climactic summary statement following Jesus' encounter with Zacchaeus, the chief tax collector in Jericho. The narrative immediately preceding (Luke 19:1-9) details Jesus' intentional approach to Zacchaeus, a man despised by Jewish society due to his exploitative profession. Jesus' declaration to stay at Zacchaeus's house (Luke 19:5) sparks murmuring among the crowd, who criticize His association with a "sinner" [Luke 19:7](/luke/19-7 "Luke 19:7 - Crowd's Reaction to Zacchaeus"). Zacchaeus's subsequent repentance and commitment to restitution (Luke 19:8) prompt Jesus' pronouncement of salvation having come to his house [Luke 19:9](/luke/19-9 "Luke 19:9 - Salvation Comes to Zacchaeus's House"). Verse 10 then transcends this individual interaction, articulating the universal principle and divine mandate behind Jesus' actions, framing the Zacchaeus episode as a concrete illustration of His broader salvific purpose. It acts as a theological capstone to the preceding narrative and a thematic bridge to the parables of the lost found in [Luke 15](/luke/15 "Luke 15 - Parables of the Lost").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** First-century Jewish society, particularly in Judea and Galilee, was deeply stratified and religiously observant. Tax collectors like Zacchaeus were reviled as traitors and extortionists, collaborating with the Roman occupiers and often enriching themselves at the expense of their own people. They were considered ritually unclean and morally reprehensible, often grouped with "sinners" and prostitutes. Social interaction with them was highly discouraged, and religious leaders would certainly avoid it. Jericho, a wealthy city due to its date palms and balsam production, was a significant center for tax collection, making Zacchaeus's position particularly prominent and his wealth indicative of significant exploitation. Jesus' willingness to enter Zacchaeus's home directly challenged these deeply ingrained social and religious norms, demonstrating a radical inclusiveness that prioritized divine restoration over human judgment and societal ostracism. This act highlighted Jesus' counter-cultural approach to ministry, focusing on the marginalized and outcast.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully encapsulates several key themes prevalent throughout Luke's Gospel and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores the **Sovereign Initiative of God in Salvation**, demonstrating that God actively pursues humanity rather than passively waiting for it to seek Him. This aligns with the repeated emphasis on God's compassion for the lost and marginalized, as seen in the parables of the lost sheep, lost coin, and prodigal son in [Luke 15](/luke/15 "Luke 15 - Parables of the Lost"). Secondly, it highlights the **Identity and Mission of Jesus as the Son of Man**, a multifaceted title that denotes both His true humanity and His divine, authoritative role as the eschatological figure who comes to establish God's kingdom, often echoing the vision in [Daniel 7:13-14](/daniel/7-13-14 "Daniel 7:13-14 - The Son of Man Vision"). Thirdly, the verse emphasizes **Salvation as Restoration**, not merely forgiveness, but a holistic making-whole that transforms lives and restores individuals to right relationship with God and community, as exemplified by Zacchaeus's dramatic change of heart and actions. Finally, it addresses the universal **Human Condition of Being Lost**, portraying humanity as spiritually separated from God and in desperate need of divine intervention, a theme echoed from the fall in [Genesis 3](/genesis/3 "Genesis 3 - The Fall of Humanity") to the need for redemption in [Romans 3:23](/romans/3-23 "Romans 3:23 - All Have Sinned").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **seek (Greek, _zētéō'_):** From G2212, this word implies an active, intentional, and often diligent search. It is not a passive waiting but an earnest pursuit, suggesting effort and determination. In the context of Jesus' mission, it signifies God's initiative in reaching out to humanity, actively pursuing those who are estranged from Him.
* **save (Greek, _sṓzō'_):** From G4982, this verb is rich in meaning, encompassing deliverance, preservation, healing, and making whole. While it can refer to physical healing or rescue from danger, in this theological context, it primarily denotes spiritual salvation from sin, its consequences, and eternal separation from God, leading to restoration and new life.
* **lost (Greek, _apóllymi'_):** From G622, used here as a perfect passive participle ("that which was lost," or "the one having been lost"). This term signifies a state of being ruined, destroyed, perishing, or utterly separated. It's not merely misplaced but implies a condition of being undone, without hope or means of recovery apart from external intervention. It describes humanity's spiritual state apart from God.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For the Son of man is come":** This opening clause establishes the divine origin and authority of Jesus' mission. "The Son of man" (G5207 _huiós_ and G444 _ánthrōpos_) is Jesus' preferred self-designation, highlighting both His true humanity and His unique, messianic role as foretold in Old Testament prophecy (e.g., [Daniel 7:13](/daniel/7-13 "Daniel 7:13 - Son of Man in Daniel")). The phrase "is come" (G2064 _érchomai_) emphasizes His active, purposeful arrival into the world, not by chance, but by divine appointment. This coming is for a specific, redemptive purpose.
* **"to seek":** This infinitive clause expresses the first part of Jesus' active mission. It signifies His proactive initiative, going out of His way to find those who are spiritually separated from God. This "seeking" is not a casual search but an earnest, determined pursuit, as demonstrated by His stopping for Zacchaeus and His parables of the lost.
* **"and to save":** This second infinitive clause states the ultimate goal of Jesus' seeking. The purpose of His active pursuit is to deliver, heal, and restore. This "saving" encompasses spiritual deliverance from the power and penalty of sin, leading to reconciliation with God and the experience of new life. It is the culmination of His mission.
* **"that which was lost":** This phrase identifies the object of Jesus' mission. It refers to humanity in its fallen, estranged, and perishing state, spiritually separated from God and unable to save itself. The passive voice ("was lost") underscores that this condition is not self-inflicted in the immediate sense of being "misplaced," but rather a state of ruin and spiritual death from which only divine intervention can rescue. This includes all who are alienated from God, regardless of their social standing or perceived righteousness.

#### Literary Devices
Luke 19:10 functions primarily as a **Purpose Statement** or **Thematic Summary**, encapsulating the essence of Jesus' entire ministry. The use of the title **"Son of Man"** is a significant Christological device, linking Jesus' earthly actions to His divine identity and eschatological role, thereby elevating the Zacchaeus encounter from a simple human interaction to a moment of cosmic significance. The verse also employs **Juxtaposition** or **Contrast** between the state of being "lost" and the act of being "saved," highlighting the transformative power of Jesus' mission. Furthermore, the active verbs "seek" and "save" emphasize the **Agency** and intentionality of Jesus, portraying Him not as a passive observer but as the divine initiator of salvation. The verse's concise nature gives it the quality of an **Aphorism**, making it a memorable and profound declaration of truth.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Luke 19:10 is a theological cornerstone, revealing the very heart of God's redemptive plan for humanity. It underscores the profound truth that God, in Christ, takes the initiative to bridge the chasm created by sin, actively pursuing those who are lost and offering them full restoration. This concept resonates deeply with the Old Testament theme of God's persistent love for His wayward people, His covenant faithfulness, and His desire for all to return to Him. It also prefigures the New Testament's emphasis on grace, where salvation is a gift received through faith, not earned by human merit. The verse asserts that no one is beyond the reach of God's saving grace, irrespective of their past sins or societal condemnation, as exemplified by Zacchaeus.

* [Matthew 18:11](/matthew/18-11 "Matthew 18:11 - The Son of Man Came to Save the Lost")
* [John 3:17](/john/3-17 "John 3:17 - God Sent His Son to Save the World")
* [1 Timothy 1:15](/1_timothy/1-15 "1 Timothy 1:15 - Christ Jesus Came to Save Sinners")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Luke 19:10 offers profound comfort and a clear call to action for believers today. It reminds us that our salvation is not a result of our own striving or worthiness, but a testament to God's relentless love and active pursuit. For those who feel lost, broken, or beyond hope, this verse is a beacon, affirming that Jesus came specifically for them, demonstrating that no one is too far gone for His grace to reach. It challenges us to embrace humility, recognizing our own need for salvation, and to extend the same radical compassion and non-judgmental outreach that Jesus modeled. As followers of Christ, we are called to embody His mission, actively seeking out the lost in our own spheres of influence, sharing the good news of His saving power, and demonstrating His love through tangible acts of service and reconciliation. This verse should fuel our evangelistic fervor and shape our ministry priorities, ensuring that our lives reflect the very heart of the One who came to seek and to save.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways have you experienced Jesus' active "seeking" in your own life, bringing you from a state of being lost to being found?**
* **How does Jesus' willingness to associate with "sinners" like Zacchaeus challenge your own preconceived notions or judgments about who is worthy of God's grace?**
* **What practical steps can you take this week to participate in Jesus' mission of "seeking and saving the lost" in your community or among your acquaintances?**
* **How does the truth that "no one is too lost" impact your hope for others and your approach to sharing the Gospel?**

### FAQ
**What does "Son of Man" mean in this context?**

Answer: The title "Son of Man" (Greek: _ho huios tou anthrōpou_) is Jesus' most frequent self-designation in the Gospels. In [Luke 19:10](/luke/19-10 "Luke 19:10 - The Son of Man Came to Seek and Save the Lost"), it carries a dual significance: it emphasizes Jesus' true humanity, affirming His solidarity with mankind, while simultaneously alluding to His divine, messianic authority and eschatological role as prophesied in [Daniel 7:13-14](/daniel/7-13-14 "Daniel 7:13-14 - The Son of Man Coming with Clouds"). It signifies that His mission to seek and save the lost is not merely a human endeavor but a divinely ordained, authoritative act of God entering human history.

**How does Zacchaeus's story illustrate Jesus' mission to "seek and to save that which was lost"?**

Answer: Zacchaeus's story perfectly illustrates [Luke 19:10](/luke/19-10 "Luke 19:10 - The Son of Man Came to Seek and Save the Lost"). Zacchaeus, as a chief tax collector, was considered "lost" by society—a social outcast and a sinner. Jesus, rather than waiting for Zacchaeus to come to Him, actively initiated the encounter by calling him down from the tree and declaring His intention to stay at his house [Luke 19:5](/luke/19-5 "Luke 19:5 - Jesus Calls Zacchaeus Down"). This proactive step demonstrates Jesus' "seeking." Zacchaeus's subsequent repentance and commitment to restitution [Luke 19:8](/luke/19-8 "Luke 19:8 - Zacchaeus's Repentance") led to Jesus' declaration, "This day is salvation come to this house" [Luke 19:9](/luke/19-9 "Luke 19:9 - Salvation Comes to Zacchaeus's House"), which exemplifies the "saving" aspect. Thus, Zacchaeus's transformation from a despised sinner to a recipient of salvation vividly embodies the very mission Jesus states in this verse.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Luke 19:10 stands as a profound Christ-centered declaration, articulating the very essence of Jesus' redemptive purpose. The "Son of Man" who "is come" is none other than the incarnate God, the second person of the Trinity, who willingly stepped into human history to accomplish salvation. This verse finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus' life, death, and resurrection. His active "seeking" culminated in His journey to the cross, where He became the ultimate sacrifice for sin, demonstrating the depth of God's love for a lost world [John 3:16](/john/3-16 "John 3:16 - God So Loved the World"). His "saving" work was completed through His atoning death, which paid the penalty for humanity's sin, and His victorious resurrection, which conquered death and opened the way for eternal life for all who believe [Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8 - God Demonstrates His Love"). The "lost" are those alienated from God by sin, but through Christ's work, they are reconciled to the Father, made new creations, and adopted into God's family [2 Corinthians 5:17-19](/2_corinthians/5-17-19 "2 Corinthians 5:17-19 - Reconciliation Through Christ"). Thus, [Luke 19:10](/luke/19-10 "Luke 19:10 - The Son of Man Came to Seek and Save the Lost") is not merely a statement about Jesus' earthly ministry, but a timeless truth about His eternal identity and the cosmic scope of His redemptive mission, which continues to draw "the lost" into His glorious light until His return [Revelation 22:20](/revelation/22-20 "Revelation 22:20 - Come, Lord Jesus!").

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Ezekiel 34:16

I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away, and will bind up [that which was] broken, and will strengthen that which was sick: but I will destroy the fat and the strong; I will feed them with judgment.

Matthew 1:21

And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.

Luke 5:31

And Jesus answering said unto them, They that are whole need not a physician; but they that are sick.

Luke 5:32

I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.

1 Timothy 1:13

Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did [it] ignorantly in unbelief.

1 Timothy 1:16

Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting.

Luke 15:4

What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it?