What Old Testament teachings align with Jesus' response to Simon in Luke 7? Setting the Scene in Luke 7:36-39 Simon the Pharisee watches a “sinful woman” wash and anoint Jesus’ feet. He thinks, “If this man were a prophet, He would know who is touching Him.” Jesus answers with a story of two forgiven debtors, then contrasts Simon’s cold courtesy with the woman’s lavish love (vv. 40-47). His response is steeped in earlier Scripture. God’s Heart for the Contrite • Psalm 51:16-17 – “You do not delight in sacrifice… The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit.” • Isaiah 57:15 – God dwells “with the contrite and humble in spirit.” • Psalm 34:18 – “The LORD is near to the brokenhearted.” The woman embodies the contrite heart these passages praise; Simon’s silent self-righteousness stands outside that blessing. Mercy over Sacrifice: Hosea’s Echo • Hosea 6:6 – “For I desire mercy, not sacrifice, and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.” Jesus later quotes this verse directly (Matthew 9:13; 12:7). His acceptance of the woman—and critique of Simon’s ritual courtesy—mirrors Hosea’s call to prioritize mercy. Debts Released, Hearts Freed • Deuteronomy 15:1-2 – the Year of Release cancels debts. • Psalm 130:3-4 – “If You, O LORD, kept a record of iniquities, who could stand? But with You there is forgiveness, that You may be feared.” The two-debtors parable echoes these laws of release: forgiven debt produces love and reverence, just as ancient Israel learned when literal debts were wiped away. Hospitality Expected, Hospitality Withheld • Genesis 18:1-8 – Abraham rushes to wash feet and provide a meal for his guests. • Judges 19:20-21 – basic Eastern hospitality includes washing feet. Simon omitted water, a kiss, and oil—acts expected since patriarchal times—while the woman fulfilled them all in extravagant form. Costly Anointing in the Old Testament • Exodus 30:22-33 – sacred anointing oil set apart priests for God. • 1 Samuel 16:13 – David anointed king; oil signified honor and divine choice. By pouring perfume on Jesus, the woman intuitively honors Him as the Anointed One (Messiah). Simon, versed in these Scriptures, should have recognized the significance. Love Flowing from Forgiveness • Deuteronomy 6:5 – “Love the LORD your God with all your heart.” • Psalm 116:1 – “I love the LORD, for He has heard my voice.” Experiencing God’s deliverance fuels love. The woman’s devotion fulfills these commands; her forgiven debt releases wholehearted affection. Lessons Simon Missed and We Must Grasp 1. External propriety never substitutes for a repentant heart. 2. God’s Word consistently elevates mercy, humility, and hospitality. 3. Forgiveness, once received, spills over into costly, grateful love. 4. Refusing to welcome repentant sinners opposes the very character of God revealed from Genesis through the Prophets. |
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