Luke 7:40

KJV

And Jesus answering said unto him, Simon, I have somewhat to say unto thee. And he saith, Master, say on.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} Jesus {G2424} answering {G611} said {G2036} unto {G4314} him {G846}, Simon {G4613}, I have {G2192} somewhat {G5100} to say {G2036} unto thee {G4671}. And {G1161} he saith {G5346}, Master {G1320}, say on {G2036}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Yeshua answered, "Shim`on, I have something to say to you." "Say it, Rabbi," he replied.

Berean Standard Bible

But Jesus answered him, “Simon, I have something to tell you.” “Tell me, Teacher,” he said.

American Standard Version

And Jesus answering said unto him, Simon, I have somewhat to say unto thee. And he saith, Teacher, say on.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Luke 7:40 marks a pivotal moment in the narrative, where Jesus, demonstrating His divine insight, directly addresses the unspoken judgmental thoughts of Simon, a Pharisee, regarding the "sinful woman" who anointed Jesus' feet. This verse initiates a profound dialogue that sets the stage for Jesus' Parable of the Two Debtors, revealing His authority to discern hearts and His intention to teach a fundamental truth about the relationship between forgiveness, love, and humility.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Luke 7:40 is the immediate bridge between the poignant actions of the "sinful woman" and Jesus' subsequent teaching. Prior to this verse, a woman, identified as a sinner, enters Simon's house during a dinner, weeping and anointing Jesus' feet with costly perfume ([Luke 7:37-38](/luke/7-37-38 "Luke 7:37-38 - The Sinful Woman Anoints Jesus' Feet")). Simon, the host and a Pharisee, silently observes this, concluding that if Jesus were truly a prophet, He would know the woman's sinful character and thus avoid her touch ([Luke 7:39](/luke/7-39 "Luke 7:39 - Simon's Internal Judgment")). Jesus, perceiving Simon's inner thoughts, then turns to him, initiating the direct address in Luke 7:40, which immediately precedes the Parable of the Two Debtors ([Luke 7:41-43](/luke/7-41-43 "Luke 7:41-43 - The Parable of the Two Debtors")) and its application regarding love and forgiveness. This verse highlights Jesus' supernatural knowledge and His method of gracious confrontation, leading into a core teaching on the nature of salvation.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting is a dinner in the home of Simon, a Pharisee. In first-century Jewish society, Pharisees were a prominent religious sect known for their strict adherence to the Mosaic Law and oral traditions. Their homes were often open to guests, and meals were significant social and religious events. The presence of a "sinner," especially a woman of ill repute, was considered defiling to a Pharisee, and any contact with such a person would render one ritually unclean. The act of anointing feet was a gesture of hospitality, but the woman's extravagant display, using her tears and hair, went far beyond customary practice, signifying profound devotion and repentance. Simon's unspoken judgment reflects the rigid social and religious boundaries of the time, where purity laws often overshadowed compassion and genuine spiritual understanding. Jesus' actions and words challenged these deeply ingrained cultural norms, demonstrating a radical approach to sin and grace.

* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes to several overarching themes in Luke's Gospel. Firstly, it underscores Jesus' **divine discernment** and **omniscience**, as He perceives Simon's unspoken thoughts, a characteristic often attributed to God alone ([Mark 2:8](/mark/2-8 "Mark 2:8 - Jesus Knew Their Thoughts")). Secondly, it highlights Jesus' **gracious confrontation**, choosing to engage Simon in dialogue rather than shaming him publicly, modeling a redemptive approach to human error. Thirdly, it sets up the theme of **forgiveness and love**, which is central to the subsequent parable and its application. Simon's judgmental attitude contrasts sharply with the woman's humble repentance and lavish love, foreshadowing Jesus' teaching that "to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little" ([Luke 7:47](/luke/7-47 "Luke 7:47 - To Whom Little Is Forgiven")). This encounter also emphasizes the **radical nature of the Kingdom of God**, where social outcasts find favor and self-righteous religious leaders are challenged.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **answering (Greek, _apokrínomai'_):** From G611, meaning "to conclude for oneself, i.e. (by implication) to respond; by Hebraism (compare עָנָה) to begin to speak (where an address is expected)." This word choice is significant because Jesus is not merely replying to an audible question but is "answering" Simon's unspoken thoughts and internal judgment. It highlights Jesus' supernatural perception and His initiative in addressing the hidden attitudes of the heart, setting the stage for a revelatory teaching.
* **have (Greek, _échō'_):** From G2192, meaning "to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or condition)." In the phrase "I have somewhat to say," _echō_ denotes possession or holding something to impart. It conveys Jesus' deliberate intention and authority to communicate a specific truth to Simon, indicating that His words are not spontaneous but purposeful and significant.
* **Master (Greek, _didáskalos'_):** From G1320, meaning "an instructor (genitive case or specially):--doctor, master, teacher." Simon's address to Jesus as "Master" (or Teacher/Rabbi) acknowledges Jesus' recognized authority as a religious instructor. While Simon's heart is filled with doubt and judgment, his verbal response still grants Jesus the respect due to a teacher, creating an opening for Jesus to impart His lesson. This title is often used by those who recognize Jesus' wisdom but may not yet fully grasp His divine identity.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Jesus answering said unto him,"**: This opening clause immediately establishes Jesus' divine omniscience. He "answers" not a spoken question, but Simon's silent, judgmental thoughts, demonstrating His ability to penetrate the human heart and mind. This sets the tone for a confrontation rooted in truth, not accusation, as Jesus takes the initiative to address the spiritual blindness He perceives.
* **"Simon, I have somewhat to say unto thee."**: Jesus' direct address to Simon by name is both personal and authoritative. The phrase "I have somewhat to say unto thee" (Ἔχω τι σοι εἰπεῖν) is a polite yet firm opening that signals a significant teaching or correction is imminent. It invites Simon's attention and participation, giving him the opportunity to listen and engage rather than being immediately rebuked. This gracious approach is characteristic of Jesus' pedagogical method.
* **"And he saith, Master, say on."**: Simon's response, "Master, say on," indicates his acknowledgment of Jesus' authority as a teacher (Didaskalos). Despite his internal skepticism and judgment, he outwardly grants Jesus permission to speak. This moment is crucial, as Simon's agreement to listen creates the necessary opening for Jesus to deliver the Parable of the Two Debtors and its profound lesson on forgiveness and love, directly challenging Simon's self-righteous perspective.

#### Literary Devices
Luke 7:40 employs several literary devices that enrich its meaning. **Irony** is prominent, as Simon, a religious leader, silently judges Jesus' prophetic credentials, yet Jesus demonstrates true prophetic insight by knowing Simon's unspoken thoughts. Simon calls Jesus "Master," acknowledging His teaching authority, yet fails to recognize His divine nature. The verse also serves as a powerful instance of **foreshadowing**, as Jesus' statement "I have somewhat to say unto thee" clearly signals the impending parable and its profound theological implications regarding the nature of sin, forgiveness, and love. Furthermore, the use of **direct address** ("Simon") and **dialogue** ("Master, say on") immediately draws the reader into the unfolding drama, highlighting the personal nature of Jesus' engagement with individuals and His method of teaching through direct interaction.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Luke 7:40 is a profound demonstration of Jesus' divine nature, particularly His omniscience and authority over the human heart. It underscores the theological truth that God sees beyond outward appearances and religious observances, penetrating the deepest thoughts and intentions of individuals ([1 Samuel 16:7](/1_samuel/16-7 "1 Samuel 16:7 - God Looks at the Heart")). Jesus' gracious approach to Simon, inviting dialogue rather than immediate condemnation, reflects God's patient and redemptive character, always seeking to draw people to truth and repentance. The verse also highlights the stark contrast between self-righteousness, exemplified by Simon's internal judgment, and the humble, repentant heart, which Jesus will later commend through the woman's actions. It sets the stage for the radical nature of God's forgiveness, which is freely given to those who recognize their great need, leading to abundant love.

* [Hebrews 4:13](/hebrews/4-13 "Hebrews 4:13 - All Things Are Naked Before God")
* [Psalm 139:2](/psalms/139-2 "Psalm 139:2 - God Knows Our Thoughts")
* [Proverbs 18:13](/proverbs/18-13 "Proverbs 18:13 - Listening Before Answering")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Luke 7:40 offers a powerful mirror for self-reflection, challenging us to examine the hidden corners of our own hearts. Like Simon, we often harbor unspoken judgments, biases, or critical thoughts about others, especially those we deem "sinners" or different from ourselves. Jesus' ability to perceive Simon's internal monologue serves as a sobering reminder that our thoughts and attitudes, even if unexpressed, are fully known to God. This calls us to cultivate a heart of humility, compassion, and self-awareness, recognizing our own need for grace before we cast judgment on others. Furthermore, Jesus' method of engagement—a gracious invitation to dialogue rather than immediate rebuke—provides a profound model for how we should approach difficult conversations or perceived wrongs in others. It encourages us to seek understanding and offer truth in love, creating space for genuine transformation rather than condemnation. Finally, Simon's willingness to say "Master, say on" reminds us of the importance of an open and teachable spirit. Are we truly willing to listen when God, through His Word, His Spirit, or even through the challenging circumstances of life, has "somewhat to say unto us"? An open heart is crucial for receiving divine truth and experiencing the transformative power of God's grace.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life do I tend to harbor unspoken judgments or critical thoughts about others, and how might Jesus' omniscience challenge me in these areas?**
* **How can I emulate Jesus' gracious and invitational approach when I need to address difficult truths or perceived wrongs with others?**
* **Am I truly open to receiving correction or new insights from God's Word, even when they challenge my preconceived notions or comfortable beliefs?**

### FAQ

**Why did Jesus choose to address Simon's unspoken thoughts rather than directly confronting him about his judgmental attitude?**

Answer: Jesus' approach in Luke 7:40 is a masterful example of divine pedagogy and grace. Rather than publicly shaming Simon or immediately rebuking his judgmental thoughts, Jesus chooses a more invitational and redemptive path. By stating, "Simon, I have somewhat to say unto thee," Jesus acknowledges His awareness of Simon's internal state without explicitly exposing it. This method preserves Simon's dignity and creates an opening for him to willingly engage in the impending lesson. It allows Simon to participate in his own conviction and learning, rather than being a passive recipient of a harsh judgment. This approach models how truth can be delivered with both authority and compassion, fostering an environment for genuine reflection and change, as seen in Jesus' interactions throughout [the Gospels](/matthew "The Gospel of Matthew").

**What is the significance of Simon calling Jesus "Master" (Didaskalos) in this context?**

Answer: Simon's use of "Master" (Greek: _Didaskalos_) is significant because it acknowledges Jesus' recognized authority as a teacher or rabbi, even though Simon's heart is filled with skepticism and judgment. While Simon might not yet grasp Jesus' full divine identity or messianic claims, he respects Jesus enough to grant Him the platform to speak. This title is often used by those who recognize Jesus' wisdom and ability to teach profound truths, but who may not yet have committed to Him as Lord or Savior. Simon's "Master, say on" thus represents a fragile but crucial opening for Jesus to impart a lesson that will challenge Simon's self-righteousness and reveal the true nature of God's forgiveness and love, as unfolded in the [Parable of the Two Debtors](/luke/7-41-43 "Luke 7:41-43 - The Parable of the Two Debtors").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Luke 7:40, where Jesus perceives Simon's unspoken thoughts and initiates a dialogue, profoundly points to Christ as the ultimate revealer of hearts and the source of true forgiveness. Jesus' divine insight into Simon's internal judgment ([John 2:24-25](/john/2-24-25 "John 2:24-25 - Jesus Knew All People")) foreshadows His role as the one who knows all things, even the deepest recesses of the human soul. He is not merely a prophet who discerns, but God incarnate who judges righteously and offers salvation. His gracious invitation, "Simon, I have somewhat to say unto thee," mirrors His universal call to all humanity to come to Him, acknowledge their sin, and receive His boundless grace. The ensuing parable, born from this exchange, illustrates the depth of forgiveness offered through Christ's atoning sacrifice, where the "great debtor" (representing humanity's vast sin debt) finds complete cancellation through faith in Him ([Colossians 2:13-14](/colossians/2-13-14 "Colossians 2:13-14 - Forgiveness of Sins Through Christ")). Thus, Luke 7:40 is not just a historical account but a timeless invitation from the Christ who sees our hidden judgments and offers us a path to humility, repentance, and the overflowing love that flows from being greatly forgiven ([Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8 - God Demonstrates His Love")).

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

John 16:19

Now Jesus knew that they were desirous to ask him, and said unto them, Do ye enquire among yourselves of that I said, A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me?

Luke 20:20

¶ And they watched [him], and sent forth spies, which should feign themselves just men, that they might take hold of his words, that so they might deliver him unto the power and authority of the governor.

Luke 20:21

And they asked him, saying, Master, we know that thou sayest and teachest rightly, neither acceptest thou the person [of any], but teachest the way of God truly:

Luke 5:22

But when Jesus perceived their thoughts, he answering said unto them, What reason ye in your hearts?

Luke 5:31

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

John 16:30

Now are we sure that thou knowest all things, and needest not that any man should ask thee: by this we believe that thou camest forth from God.

Luke 6:8

But he knew their thoughts, and said to the man which had the withered hand, Rise up, and stand forth in the midst. And he arose and stood forth.