Luke 4:43

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

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}.

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."

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.”

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

Context of Luke 4:43

Luke 4:43 finds Jesus at a pivotal moment in His early ministry in Galilee. He had just concluded a period of significant activity in Capernaum, where He taught with authority in the synagogue (Luke 4:31-32), healed many, including Simon's mother-in-law, and cast out numerous demons (Luke 4:38-41). The people were naturally impressed and wanted Him to stay, even attempting to detain Him (Luke 4:42). However, Jesus' response in verse 43 reveals His clear understanding of His broader, divine commission, overriding any local popularity.

Key Themes and Messages

  • The Centrality of the Kingdom of God: Jesus explicitly states His primary mission: to "preach the kingdom of God." This theme is the bedrock of His entire ministry, encompassing God's sovereign rule, His redemptive plan for humanity, and the spiritual reality of His presence in the world. It is not merely a future hope but a present reality inaugurated through Jesus.
  • Divine Purpose and Commission: Jesus unequivocally declares, "for therefore am I sent." This highlights His profound awareness that His ministry is not self-initiated or driven by human desire, but is a direct mandate from God the Father. His actions are aligned with a preordained, divine plan. This echoes themes found elsewhere, such as John 3:17.
  • Expansive Evangelism: The phrase "to other cities also" underscores the universal and expansive nature of Jesus' mission. He was not meant to be confined to one town or region, but the good news of the Kingdom was to be proclaimed widely, reaching all who would hear. This sets a precedent for the global spread of the Gospel.
  • Prioritizing God's Will Over Popularity: Despite the crowds' desire for Him to remain in Capernaum, Jesus prioritizes His divine assignment. This demonstrates His unwavering focus on fulfilling the Father's will, even when it means moving on from places of comfort or success.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "kingdom of God" translates from the Greek basileia tou theou (βασιλεία τοῦ θεοῦ). This term signifies not just a geographical territory or a future realm, but primarily the active, sovereign reign or rule of God. When Jesus preached the Kingdom, He was announcing that God's reign was breaking into human history in a new and powerful way through His own person and work. The word "sent" (Greek: apostellō) carries the meaning of being dispatched with a specific purpose and authority, emphasizing Jesus' role as the Father's appointed messenger.

Practical Application

Luke 4:43 provides significant lessons for believers today:

  • Understanding Our Purpose: Like Jesus, we are called to discern and pursue God's unique purpose for our lives, rather than being swayed by external pressures or personal comfort.
  • Sharing the Gospel: The imperative to "preach the kingdom of God" remains. Believers are commissioned to share the transformative message of God's reign and salvation, not just in their immediate circles but to "other cities also" – expanding their reach and influence.
  • Prioritizing God's Will: Jesus' example encourages us to prioritize God's will above all else, even when it means making difficult choices or leaving familiar surroundings.
  • The Enduring Message: The message of the Kingdom of God—God's active rule in the world and in our hearts—is as relevant today as it was in Jesus' time. It reminds us that our ultimate allegiance is to Him, and our lives should reflect His reign. This aligns with the call to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.
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Cross-References

  • Mark 1:38 (12 votes)

    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 (12 votes)

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

  • 2 Timothy 4:2 (6 votes)

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

  • John 6:38 (5 votes)

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

  • John 6:40 (5 votes)

    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 (4 votes)

    ¶ 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 (4 votes)

    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.