Luke 4:43

KJV

And he said unto them, I must preach the kingdom of God to other cities also: for therefore am I sent.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G1161} he said {G2036} unto {G4314} them {G846},{G3754} I {G3165} must {G1163} preach {G2097} the kingdom {G932} of God {G2316} to other {G2087} cities {G4172} also {G2532}: for {G3754} therefore {G1519}{G5124} am I sent {G649}.

Complete Jewish Bible

But he said to them, "I must announce the Good News of the Kingdom of God to the other towns too -- this is why I was sent."

Berean Standard Bible

But Jesus told them, “I must preach the good news of the kingdom of God to the other towns as well, because that is why I was sent.”

American Standard Version

But he said unto them, I must preach the good tidings of the kingdom of God to the other cities also: for therefore was I sent.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Luke 4:43 encapsulates Jesus' profound self-awareness of His divine mission, revealing His unwavering commitment to proclaiming the Kingdom of God beyond the confines of a single city. Despite the enthusiastic desire of the Capernaum crowds to retain Him, Jesus clearly articulates that His ministry is not bound by local popularity or human expectation, but is an expansive, divinely ordained commission to announce God's sovereign rule to all who would hear.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows a period of intense and highly successful ministry in Capernaum. In [Luke 4:31-32](/luke/4-31-32 "Jesus Teaches with Authority in Capernaum"), Jesus taught in the synagogue with unparalleled authority, astonishing the people. He then demonstrated this authority by [casting out a demon](/luke/4-33-37 "Jesus Casts Out a Demon in Capernaum") from a man in the synagogue, followed by a series of miraculous healings, including [Simon's mother-in-law](/luke/4-38-39 "Jesus Heals Simon's Mother-in-Law") and many others who were brought to Him at sunset ([Luke 4:40-41](/luke/4-40-41 "Jesus Heals Many at Sunset")). The cumulative effect of these powerful acts led the crowds to seek Him out early in the morning, attempting to [detain Him](/luke/4-42 "Crowds Seek to Detain Jesus") and prevent His departure. Jesus' response in [Luke 4:43](/luke/4-43 "Jesus Explains His Mission") serves as a pivotal moment, shifting the narrative from local acclaim to the broader scope of His calling, explaining why He must move on.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Jesus' ministry unfolded in Galilee, a region known for its diverse population and a mix of Jewish and Gentile influences. Capernaum, a bustling fishing village on the Sea of Galilee, served as a de facto base for much of His early Galilean ministry. The Jewish people of this era lived under Roman occupation, and there was a widespread expectation of a Messiah who would deliver them, often envisioned in political or military terms. Jesus, however, consistently redefined the Messiah's role and the nature of His kingdom, emphasizing a spiritual reign rather than an earthly one. His itinerant ministry, moving from town to town, was characteristic of many ancient teachers and prophets, but His message and authority set Him apart. The synagogue was the central place for teaching and worship, making His powerful teaching there particularly significant.

* **Key Themes:** [Luke 4:43](/luke/4-43 "Jesus' Mission to Preach the Kingdom of God") powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Luke's Gospel. Firstly, the **Centrality of the Kingdom of God** is paramount; Jesus' entire ministry is framed by His announcement and inauguration of God's active reign. This theme is introduced early in [Luke 4:43](/luke/4-43 "Jesus' Mission to Preach the Kingdom of God") and continues throughout the Gospel, defining the purpose of His miracles, parables, and teachings. Secondly, the **Divine Purpose and Commission** of Jesus is emphasized. His declaration, "for therefore am I sent," underscores that His actions are not arbitrary but are part of a preordained, divine plan from the Father, a theme echoed in other Gospels, such as [John 3:17](/john/3-17 "God Sent His Son"). Thirdly, the **Expansive Nature of the Gospel** is highlighted by Jesus' commitment to "other cities also," foreshadowing the universal reach of the good news that would eventually extend to all nations, as commissioned in [Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "The Great Commission to the Ends of the Earth"). Finally, Jesus' decision to move on despite local popularity illustrates the theme of **Prioritizing God's Will Over Human Acclaim**, a consistent pattern in His life and ministry.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **must (Greek, _deî'_):** This word signifies a divine necessity or obligation. It indicates that Jesus' mission was not a matter of personal preference or human choice, but a binding imperative from God. It conveys a sense of divine compulsion and destiny, highlighting that His actions were in perfect alignment with the Father's will and eternal plan.
* **preach (Greek, _euangelízō'_):** Derived from "good" (eu) and "message" (angelos), this verb literally means "to announce good news" or "to evangelize." It emphasizes that the core of Jesus' message was not a set of rules or a philosophy, but a declaration of joyful, salvific tidings—the arrival of God's redemptive reign. It points to the inherently positive and transformative nature of His proclamation.
* **sent (Greek, _apostéllō'_):** This term means "to send out, especially on a mission or with authority." It underscores Jesus' role as the Father's authoritative messenger and representative. The word is closely related to "apostle" (apostolos), meaning "one who is sent." Jesus is the ultimate "sent one," embodying the Father's purpose and power in His mission to establish the Kingdom.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he said unto them,"**: This introductory phrase sets the scene for Jesus' authoritative declaration. It signifies a direct communication from Jesus to the crowds who were attempting to detain Him, providing a clear explanation for His actions and intentions.
* **"I must preach the kingdom of God"**: This is the core of Jesus' self-definition and mission statement. The "must" (deî) reveals divine compulsion, not human desire. "The kingdom of God" is the central theme of Jesus' ministry, referring to God's active, sovereign rule breaking into human history through Jesus' person and work, bringing salvation, healing, and restoration. It is the good news (euangelízō) that He is commissioned to proclaim.
* **"to other cities also:"**: This phrase highlights the expansive and universal nature of Jesus' mission. His ministry was not to be confined to one locality, no matter how successful or popular, but was intended to extend widely. It foreshadows the global reach of the Gospel message.
* **"for therefore am I sent."**: This concluding clause provides the ultimate divine rationale for His mission. It reiterates His identity as the Father's appointed messenger, emphasizing that His entire purpose and presence on earth are rooted in this divine commission. His being "sent" (apostéllō) implies authority, purpose, and a specific task to fulfill.

#### Literary Devices
Luke 4:43 prominently features **Direct Speech**, as Jesus' words are quoted verbatim, lending immediate authority and clarity to His declaration of purpose. The verse also employs **Emphasis** through the use of "must" (deî), underscoring the divine necessity and non-negotiable nature of His mission. Furthermore, there is **Thematic Repetition** of the "kingdom of God" throughout Luke's Gospel, making this verse a foundational statement of Jesus' central message. The phrase "for therefore am I sent" serves as a powerful **Statement of Purpose** and **Divine Mandate**, framing Jesus' entire ministry as a fulfillment of God's will.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Luke 4:43 stands as a foundational theological statement, articulating the very essence of Jesus' earthly ministry: the inauguration and proclamation of the Kingdom of God. This concept is not merely a future hope but a present reality breaking into the world through Jesus' person, teachings, and miracles. His declaration of being "sent" underscores His unique relationship with the Father and His divine authority, positioning Him as the ultimate messenger of God's redemptive plan. The expansive nature of His mission, extending "to other cities also," reveals God's universal love and desire for all people to hear and respond to the good news of His reign. This verse firmly establishes that Jesus' primary allegiance was to the Father's will, not to human expectations or localized success, setting a precedent for all who follow Him.

* [Matthew 4:17](/matthew/4-17 "Jesus Begins Preaching the Kingdom of Heaven")
* [Mark 1:38](/mark/1-38 "Jesus Explains His Mission to Preach")
* [John 20:21](/john/20-21 "Jesus Sends His Disciples")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Luke 4:43 offers profound insights for contemporary believers, challenging us to align our lives with God's ultimate purpose rather than being swayed by external pressures or personal comfort. Just as Jesus recognized His divine mandate to proclaim the Kingdom of God broadly, we too are called to discern and pursue God's unique mission for our lives, understanding that our purpose extends beyond our immediate circles. This verse reminds us that the message of God's active reign and redemptive work is not confined to one place or group but is meant to be shared expansively, compelling us to participate in the ongoing mission of sharing the Gospel to "other cities also," whether literally or figuratively, by expanding our reach and influence. Ultimately, Jesus' unwavering focus on the Father's will, even when it meant moving on from places of success, serves as a powerful model for prioritizing divine assignment above all else, fostering a spirit of obedience and selfless dedication in our walk of faith.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life am I being swayed by human expectations or personal comfort, rather than prioritizing God's divine purpose for me?**
* **How can I actively participate in "preaching the kingdom of God" in my daily life, extending its reach beyond my current sphere of influence?**
* **What "other cities" (people groups, communities, or contexts) might God be calling me to reach with the good news of His Kingdom?**
* **How does Jesus' declaration, "for therefore am I sent," inform my understanding of my own calling and identity as a follower of Christ?**

### FAQ
**What is the "Kingdom of God" that Jesus preached?**

Answer: The "Kingdom of God" (or "Kingdom of Heaven" in Matthew) is the central theme of Jesus' ministry, referring not primarily to a geographical territory or a future political realm, but to the active, sovereign rule and reign of God. Jesus announced that this reign was breaking into human history in a new and powerful way through His own person, teachings, and miraculous works. It encompasses God's redemptive plan for humanity, His spiritual presence, and the ultimate triumph of His will. It is both a present reality that believers can experience now and a future hope that will be fully realized at Christ's return. Jesus' parables, such as those found in [Luke 8:4-15](/luke/8-4-15 "The Parable of the Sower"), often illustrate the nature and growth of this Kingdom.

**Why did Jesus insist on leaving Capernaum when the people wanted Him to stay?**

Answer: Jesus' decision to leave Capernaum, despite the crowds' desire to detain Him, demonstrates His unwavering commitment to His divine mission over local popularity or human comfort. As He states in [Luke 4:43](/luke/4-43 "Jesus Explains His Mission"), He "must preach the kingdom of God to other cities also: for therefore am I sent." His mission was not to settle in one place and become a local celebrity, but to widely proclaim the good news of God's reign across Galilee and beyond. This act underscores His obedience to the Father's will and the expansive, universal nature of the Gospel message, which was not meant to be confined but to spread.

**What does it mean that Jesus was "sent"?**

Answer: When Jesus says, "for therefore am I sent," He is declaring His divine commission and unique identity as the Father's authoritative messenger. The Greek word for "sent" (apostéllō) implies being dispatched with a specific purpose and authority. This highlights that Jesus' ministry was not self-initiated but was a direct mandate from God the Father. It emphasizes His role as the ultimate "apostle" (one who is sent), embodying God's will and power. This concept is central to understanding Jesus' person and work, as seen in passages like [John 5:30](/john/5-30 "Jesus Does the Father's Will") and [John 8:42](/john/8-42 "Jesus Came From God").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Luke 4:43, with Jesus' declaration, "I must preach the kingdom of God to other cities also: for therefore am I sent," finds its profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the entirety of His redemptive work. This verse encapsulates Jesus' divine self-awareness as the inaugurator and embodiment of God's sovereign rule. He is not merely a messenger but the very King of this Kingdom, whose arrival marks the decisive breaking in of God's reign. The "good news" He preaches is ultimately Himself—His life, death, and resurrection. His being "sent" culminates in His ultimate mission to lay down His life as the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), thereby establishing the Kingdom through His atoning sacrifice on the cross and His victorious resurrection. This act of being "sent" by the Father, obedient even to death, [redeems humanity from the power of sin and death](/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8 - God Demonstrates His Love"). Furthermore, His commitment to "other cities also" foreshadows the Great Commission, where He [sends His disciples into all the world](/matthew/28-19-20 "Matthew 28:19-20 - The Great Commission") to continue proclaiming the Kingdom, empowered by His Spirit. Thus, Luke 4:43 is not just a statement of intent but a prophetic utterance fulfilled in Jesus' complete work of salvation, making Him the very center and substance of the Kingdom He came to preach.

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

Mark 1:38

And he said unto them, Let us go into the next towns, that I may preach there also: for therefore came I forth.

Mark 1:39

And he preached in their synagogues throughout all Galilee, and cast out devils.

2 Timothy 4:2

Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.

John 6:38

For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me.

John 6:40

And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day.

Isaiah 61:1

¶ The Spirit of the Lord GOD [is] upon me; because the LORD hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to [them that are] bound;

Isaiah 61:3

To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he might be glorified.