Luke 18:38

And he cried, saying, Jesus, [thou] Son of David, have mercy on me.

And {G2532} he cried {G994}, saying {G3004}, Jesus {G2424}, thou Son {G5207} of David {G1138}, have mercy {G1653} on me {G3165}.

He called out, “Yeshua! Son of David! Have pity on me!”

So he called out, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!”

And he cried, saying, Jesus, thou son of David, have mercy on me.

Commentary

Luke 18:38 captures the fervent plea of a blind man near Jericho, who, upon hearing that Jesus was passing by, cried out for attention and healing. This verse is a pivotal moment in the narrative, highlighting the man's profound faith and recognition of Jesus' unique identity.

Context

This powerful cry occurs as Jesus is on His final journey towards Jerusalem, specifically as He approaches the city of Jericho (Luke 18:35). A blind beggar, sitting by the roadside, hears the commotion of a large crowd. When he learns that Jesus of Nazareth is the cause of the stir, he seizes the opportunity. Despite attempts by the crowd to silence him, he cries out even more vehemently, demonstrating remarkable persistence and desperation for Jesus' intervention.

Key Themes

  • Recognition of Jesus' Identity: The blind man's address, "Jesus, thou Son of David," is highly significant. This title, "Son of David," is a clear messianic claim, identifying Jesus as the long-awaited King and Messiah promised in the Old Testament lineage of King David (2 Samuel 7:12). This beggar, despite his physical blindness, possesses spiritual insight into who Jesus truly is.
  • Faith and Persistence: The act of crying out, especially louder after being rebuked, showcases the man's unwavering faith and determination. He believed Jesus had the power to help him and was not deterred by obstacles or societal pressure. This persistence is a hallmark of the faith that Jesus often commended (Luke 18:1).
  • Humble Plea for Mercy: The simple yet profound request, "have mercy on me," signifies a deep awareness of his need and a humble reliance on Jesus' compassion and power. It's not a demand, but a heartfelt appeal for divine intervention.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek phrase for "Son of David" is Huios David (Υἱὸς Δαυίδ). This title was widely understood among the Jewish people as referring to the Messiah, the promised deliverer who would restore Israel. By using it, the blind man publicly acknowledged Jesus' royal and messianic status. The word for "mercy" is eleēson (ἐλέησόν), which implies not just pity, but active compassion that leads to practical help, deliverance, or healing.

Practical Application

Luke 18:38 offers timeless lessons for believers today:

  • Call on Jesus' True Identity: Like the blind man, we are called to acknowledge Jesus not merely as a good teacher or prophet, but as the divine Son of God, the King of kings, and our merciful Lord.
  • Persistence in Prayer: This verse encourages us to be persistent in our prayers, not giving up even when faced with discouragement or silence from others. Our fervent cries can capture the Lord's attention (Luke 11:9-10).
  • Courage to Seek Help: The blind man's courage to cry out despite the crowd's disapproval reminds us to boldly approach Jesus with our needs, regardless of what others may think or say.
  • Expect Jesus' Compassion: Just as Jesus stopped and responded to the blind man's cry (Luke 18:40), we can trust in His readiness to show mercy and meet our deepest needs when we call on Him in faith.
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Cross-References

  • Matthew 9:27 (8 votes)

    ¶ And when Jesus departed thence, two blind men followed him, crying, and saying, [Thou] Son of David, have mercy on us.

  • Luke 18:39 (5 votes)

    And they which went before rebuked him, that he should hold his peace: but he cried so much the more, [Thou] Son of David, have mercy on me.

  • Matthew 15:22 (4 votes)

    And, behold, a woman of Canaan came out of the same coasts, and cried unto him, saying, Have mercy on me, O Lord, [thou] Son of David; my daughter is grievously vexed with a devil.

  • Isaiah 9:6 (3 votes)

    For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

  • Isaiah 9:7 (3 votes)

    Of the increase of [his] government and peace [there shall be] no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.

  • Romans 1:3 (3 votes)

    Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh;

  • Revelation 22:16 (2 votes)

    I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, [and] the bright and morning star.