What is the meaning of Luke 9:61?

Still another said

- Luke records three encounters in a row (Luke 9:57–62). The first two men respond to Jesus’ initiative; this third volunteer steps forward on his own.

- His eagerness seems commendable, echoing earlier examples of would-be disciples (Matthew 8:19).

- Yet the narrative sets up a contrast: earlier, Jesus “set His face toward Jerusalem” (Luke 9:51); while He moves resolutely forward, this man will reveal a divided heart.

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I will follow You, Lord

- Calling Jesus “Lord” acknowledges His divine authority (Romans 10:9).

- True discipleship demands more than respectful titles (Luke 6:46: “Why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say?”).

- The statement echoes Peter’s later confession, “Lord, to whom would we go?” (John 6:68). Genuine faith anchors itself completely in Christ’s leadership.

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but first

- The two-word hesitation exposes the issue. Anything placed “first” before Christ becomes a rival master (Matthew 6:33; Colossians 1:18).

- Scripture repeatedly warns against delayed obedience: “Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts” (Hebrews 3:15).

- A qualified commitment is no commitment at all. Jesus later says, “Remember Lot’s wife” (Luke 17:32), a sober reminder of looking back.

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let me bid farewell to my family

- Saying goodbye is not inherently sinful; Elisha did so when Elijah called him (1 Kings 19:20). Yet Jesus is greater than Elijah, and His call carries absolute priority (Luke 14:26).

- Family ties, while cherished, must not supersede allegiance to Christ (Matthew 10:37).

- Jesus’ immediate response in verse 62—“No one who puts his hand to the plow and then looks back is fit for the kingdom of God”—clarifies the point: looking back signifies a heart still anchored to the old life.

- Those who leave family for His sake receive spiritual family and eternal reward (Mark 10:29-30).

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summary

Luke 9:61 exposes the subtle danger of conditional discipleship. The man’s polite request reveals a heart that wants Christ plus personal priorities. Jesus demands undivided loyalty; anything placed ahead of Him, even good gifts like family, disqualifies the would-be follower. True disciples surrender the right to set terms, respond immediately, and keep their eyes fixed on the path Christ marks out.