Luke 7:5

KJV

For he loveth our nation, and he hath built us a synagogue.

KJV (with Strong's)

For {G1063} he loveth {G25} our {G2257} nation {G1484}, and {G2532} he {G846} hath built {G3618} us {G2254} a synagogue {G4864}.

Complete Jewish Bible

for he loves our people -- in fact, he built the synagogue for us!"

Berean Standard Bible

for he loves our nation and has built our synagogue.”

American Standard Version

for he loveth our nation, and himself built us our synagogue.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Luke 7:5 presents the earnest advocacy of Jewish elders on behalf of a Roman Centurion, appealing to Jesus for the healing of his beloved servant. Their plea is grounded in the Centurion's remarkable benevolence towards the Jewish community, specifically highlighting his profound affection for their nation and his significant philanthropic act of funding and overseeing the construction of their local synagogue. This verse sets the stage for Jesus' encounter with a Gentile of extraordinary faith, demonstrating how acts of love and generosity can cultivate respect and open doors for divine intervention.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is an integral part of the narrative found in [Luke 7:1-10](/luke/7-1-10 "The Healing of the Centurion's Servant"). Immediately preceding it, we learn that a Centurion, whose servant was gravely ill and dear to him, sent Jewish elders to Jesus to plead for healing ([Luke 7:3](/luke/7-3 "Luke 7:3 - Centurion Sends Elders")). The elders, acting as intermediaries, then present their case to Jesus in [Luke 7:4](/luke/7-4 "Luke 7:4 - Elders' Plea to Jesus"), asserting the Centurion's worthiness. Luke 7:5 provides the specific reasons for their commendation. The narrative then progresses to Jesus' willingness to go, followed by the Centurion's profound display of humility and faith, declaring himself unworthy for Jesus to enter his home, and instead asking for a word of command ([Luke 7:6-8](/luke/7-6-8 "Luke 7:6-8 - Centurion's Humility and Faith")). This verse, therefore, serves as the Jewish community's endorsement, underscoring the Centurion's character and setting up the astonishing display of faith that follows.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In first-century Judea, Roman occupation was a sensitive issue, often marked by tension and resentment between the Jewish populace and their Roman overlords. Centurions, as commanders of 100 soldiers, represented the imperial power, and while some were brutal, others, like this Centurion, demonstrated a surprising level of respect and integration. For a Roman officer to "love" the Jewish nation and, more significantly, to fund and build a synagogue, was an act of extraordinary benevolence. Synagogues were not merely places of worship; they were the heart of Jewish community life, serving as schools, courts, and social centers. Such an act would have been seen as a profound gesture of goodwill, demonstrating a deep respect for Jewish religious and cultural identity, which explains why the Jewish elders were so willing to advocate for him before Jesus.

* **Key Themes:** Luke 7:5 contributes significantly to several key themes within the Gospel of Luke and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights **Unusual Benevolence**, showing a Gentile Roman officer acting with extraordinary kindness and respect for the Jewish nation, a stark contrast to typical occupier-occupied dynamics. Secondly, it underscores **Community Support and Intercession**, as the Jewish elders' willingness to intercede for him before Jesus speaks volumes about the positive relationships the Centurion had cultivated and the power of advocating for others based on their good deeds. Thirdly, it subtly introduces the theme of **Faith and Works**, illustrating how the Centurion's good works and love for the community prepared the way for his encounter with Jesus and demonstrated a heart open to God, even before his explicit declaration of faith in [Luke 7:9](/luke/7-9 "Luke 7:9 - Jesus Commends the Centurion's Faith"). This verse foreshadows the breaking down of barriers between Jew and Gentile, a theme central to the New Testament's message of salvation.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **loveth (Greek, _agapáō'_):** This verb signifies a deep, unconditional affection, a high regard, or a profound and active care. While often used to describe divine love (e.g., God's love for humanity), here it emphasizes the Centurion's profound and active care for the Jewish people, which translated into tangible acts of service and generosity. It's not merely a passive liking but an active commitment to their well-being.
* **nation (Greek, _éthnos'_):** This term refers to a race or tribe, and specifically, in the New Testament, often denotes a foreign, non-Jewish people or "Gentiles." However, in this context, it refers to "our nation," meaning the Jewish people. The Centurion, a Gentile, demonstrates love for the Jewish "nation," highlighting a remarkable cross-cultural and cross-religious respect.
* **synagogue (Greek, _synagōgḗ'_):** Derived from a word meaning "an assemblage of persons," this term refers to a Jewish "synagogue," which was the central gathering place for Jewish community life. It served not only as a place of worship but also as a school, a court, and a social hub. Building one was a substantial and highly esteemed contribution, signifying immense respect for Jewish traditions, faith, and communal life.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For he loveth our nation,"**: This clause establishes the primary reason for the Jewish elders' advocacy. It highlights the Centurion's unusual and remarkable affection for the Jewish people, a sentiment that would have been rare and highly appreciated from a Roman occupying officer. This "love" (agapáō) implies a deep respect and active concern for their welfare, going beyond mere tolerance.
* **"and he hath built us a synagogue."**: This second clause provides concrete evidence of the Centurion's "love" for the nation. The act of building a synagogue was a significant and costly undertaking, demonstrating not only his financial generosity but also his profound respect for Jewish religious practice, culture, and community life. This tangible act of benevolence solidified his standing within the Jewish community and justified their intercession on his behalf.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. **Ethos** is strongly at play, as the Jewish elders appeal to Jesus' sense of justice and compassion by establishing the Centurion's good character and worthiness through his actions. The statement itself serves as a powerful **Testimony** or **Witness** from the community, validating the Centurion's standing. There is also an element of **Irony**, given that a Roman Centurion, a symbol of foreign oppression, is depicted as a benefactor of the very people he occupies, highlighting a surprising reversal of expectations. Furthermore, the act of building a synagogue can be seen as **Symbolism**, representing not just a physical structure but the Centurion's investment in the spiritual and communal well-being of the Jewish people, and perhaps even foreshadowing the future inclusion of Gentiles into God's broader redemptive plan.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Luke 7:5 powerfully illustrates the biblical principle that God notices and responds to acts of genuine love, generosity, and respect, especially when extended across cultural or religious divides. The Centurion's actions, born out of a heart of compassion and esteem for God's chosen people, created a context where divine intervention was sought and received. This verse underscores the value of practical, tangible expressions of love for one's neighbor, demonstrating that such deeds can open doors for spiritual encounter and blessing, even for those outside the immediate covenant community. It suggests that a life characterized by benevolence and respect for God's people can pave the way for a deeper revelation of God's power and grace.

* [Proverbs 19:17](/proverbs/19-17 "Proverbs 19:17 - Lending to the Lord")
* [Matthew 25:34-40](/matthew/25-34-40 "Matthew 25:34-40 - The Sheep and the Goats")
* [Acts 10:1-4](/acts/10-1-4 "Acts 10:1-4 - Cornelius's Piety and Generosity")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The Centurion's example in Luke 7:5 offers profound lessons for believers today, challenging us to move beyond passive sentiment to active, sacrificial love. His love for the Jewish nation was not merely a feeling but manifested in a significant, practical action—building a synagogue. This calls us to consider how our love for God and neighbor translates into tangible service and generosity within our communities, especially towards those in need or those from different backgrounds. Despite the inherent cultural and religious divides, the Centurion's actions fostered goodwill and respect, reminding us of our calling to be bridge-builders in a fragmented world, extending kindness and support regardless of differences. His generosity and respect for God's people were recognized and became a basis for his appeal to Jesus, encouraging us to be generous with our resources, time, and talents, trusting that God sees and honors our efforts to bless others and advance His kingdom.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does my "love" for my community or specific groups manifest in tangible, sacrificial actions, similar to the Centurion building a synagogue?**
* **In what ways can I actively build bridges of understanding and respect with those who are culturally or religiously different from me?**
* **What resources (time, talent, treasure) might God be calling me to invest in a way that blesses others and honors Him, trusting in His recognition and reward?**
* **How can I become a more effective intercessor for others, advocating for their needs based on their character or circumstances?**

### FAQ

**Why were Jewish elders advocating for a Roman Centurion?**

Answer: The Jewish elders advocated for the Roman Centurion because he had demonstrated extraordinary benevolence and respect towards their nation and community. As [Luke 7:5](/luke/7-5 "Luke 7:5 - Centurion's Love and Generosity") states, "For he loveth our nation, and he hath built us a synagogue." This was a highly unusual and commendable act from an occupying Roman officer. His actions had clearly earned him the deep respect and gratitude of the local Jewish leadership, prompting them to intercede on his behalf with Jesus, even though he was a Gentile.

**What was the significance of a Roman Centurion building a synagogue?**

Answer: The act of a Roman Centurion building a synagogue was profoundly significant. First, it demonstrated remarkable **interfaith respect and generosity**. Roman officers were often seen as oppressors, but this Centurion actively supported Jewish religious and communal life. Second, it was a **substantial financial and logistical undertaking**, indicating deep commitment. Synagogues were not just places of worship but served as the central hub for Jewish education, legal matters, and social gatherings. His investment in such a vital institution showed a genuine appreciation for Jewish culture and faith. This act would have fostered immense goodwill and trust within the Jewish community, making his appeal to Jesus through the elders highly credible.

**Does "he loveth our nation" imply the Centurion had converted to Judaism?**

Answer: While the Centurion's actions clearly indicate a deep respect for and affinity with the Jewish people and their faith, the text does not explicitly state he had converted to Judaism. He is often identified as a "God-fearer," a Gentile who revered the God of Israel, observed some Jewish customs, and attended synagogue, but did not undergo full conversion (circumcision for men, full adherence to all Mosaic laws). His willingness to build a synagogue and the Jewish elders' commendation strongly suggest he was a Gentile who held a high regard for Judaism, rather than a full convert. This aligns with the broader New Testament theme of Gentiles being drawn to the God of Israel, often without full conversion to Judaism, as seen with figures like Cornelius in [Acts 10](/acts/10 "Acts 10 - Peter and Cornelius").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Luke 7:5, though focusing on the Centurion's character and actions, profoundly points to Christ's universal mission and the breaking down of barriers. The Centurion, a Gentile, demonstrates a love and generosity towards God's chosen people that foreshadows the inclusion of all nations into God's redemptive plan through Christ. Jesus' willingness to respond to the Centurion's plea, and His subsequent commendation of his faith as greater than any He had found in Israel ([Luke 7:9](/luke/7-9 "Luke 7:9 - Jesus' Commendation of the Centurion")), highlights that salvation is not limited by ethnicity or social standing, but is accessible through faith in Him. This narrative anticipates the New Covenant reality where, in Christ, there is "neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus" ([Galatians 3:28](/galatians/3-28 "Galatians 3:28 - Unity in Christ")). The Centurion's proactive love and bridge-building actions, even as a Gentile, serve as a type of pre-conversion "good ground" that Jesus, the ultimate bridge-builder, is ready to meet with His saving power and grace, extending His kingdom beyond the confines of Israel to embrace all who believe, regardless of their background, as prophesied in passages like [Isaiah 49:6](/isaiah/49-6 "Isaiah 49:6 - Light to the Gentiles").

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

2 Chronicles 2:11

¶ Then Huram the king of Tyre answered in writing, which he sent to Solomon, Because the LORD hath loved his people, he hath made thee king over them.

2 Chronicles 2:12

Huram said moreover, Blessed [be] the LORD God of Israel, that made heaven and earth, who hath given to David the king a wise son, endued with prudence and understanding, that might build an house for the LORD, and an house for his kingdom.

1 John 3:14

¶ We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not [his] brother abideth in death.

1 Kings 5:1

¶ And Hiram king of Tyre sent his servants unto Solomon; for he had heard that they had anointed him king in the room of his father: for Hiram was ever a lover of David.

1 John 5:1

¶ Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God: and every one that loveth him that begat loveth him also that is begotten of him.

1 John 5:3

For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous.

1 Chronicles 29:3

Moreover, because I have set my affection to the house of my God, I have of mine own proper good, of gold and silver, [which] I have given to the house of my God, over and above all that I have prepared for the holy house,