What is the meaning of Luke 7:45? You did not greet Me with a kiss • In first-century Jewish culture a kiss of greeting was a tangible sign of honor, friendship, and welcome (see Romans 16:16; 1 Peter 5:14). • By omitting that simple courtesy, Simon the Pharisee silently declared that Jesus was, at best, an ordinary guest—or worse, an unwelcome one. • The Lord’s words expose Simon’s heart: a lack of love always shows itself in withheld actions (compare 1 John 3:18). • Jesus’ statement is not a mere social critique; it is a moral indictment. Honor owed to the Messiah was withheld, revealing unbelief. but she has not stopped kissing My feet • The woman, widely known as a sinner, does what Simon refused to do, but with far greater intensity. Her kisses land not on Jesus’ cheek but on His feet, the place of deepest humility (echoed later in John 12:3 when Mary wipes His feet with her hair). • Her continual action (“has not stopped”) shows an overflowing, grateful love springing from forgiven sin (Luke 7:47). • This contrast teaches that true repentance produces visible fruit; love for Christ cannot stay hidden (see 2 Corinthians 5:14–15). • While Simon debates worthiness, the woman demonstrates it: honoring the Lord with affection, submission, and persistence. since I arrived • From the moment Jesus crossed Simon’s threshold, two responses formed side by side: cold formality versus warm devotion. • The timing underscores how quickly genuine faith acts. The woman seized the opportunity without delay—much like the healed leper who “returned, glorifying God with a loud voice” (Luke 17:15). • Jesus notices every neglected courtesy and every offered act of worship. Nothing escapes His gaze (Hebrews 4:13). • The phrase also hints at the coming judgment: there is a window to honor Christ, and it closes when He moves on. summary Luke 7:45 contrasts the icy indifference of a self-righteous host with the fervent affection of a forgiven sinner. The withheld kiss unmasks a heart untouched by grace; the unceasing kisses reveal a soul set free. Scripture invites us to stand with the woman—lavishing honor on Jesus now, without hesitation, because those who are forgiven much love much, and their love is never unnoticed by the Savior. |
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