Luke 4:38

After Jesus had left the synagogue, He went to the home of Simon, whose mother-in-law was suffering from a high fever. So they appealed to Jesus on her behalf,

Study Bible

Jesus left the synagogue
This phrase marks a transition in the narrative, indicating that Jesus is moving from a public place of worship to a more private setting. The synagogue was central to Jewish religious life, serving as a place for teaching, prayer, and community gathering. The Greek word for synagogue, "συναγωγή" (synagōgē), means "assembly" or "gathering." This setting underscores Jesus' role as a teacher and His authority in interpreting the Scriptures, as He often taught in synagogues. Historically, synagogues were established during the Babylonian exile when the Jewish people were separated from the Temple, highlighting the adaptability and resilience of Jewish worship practices.

and went to the home of Simon
This phrase introduces Simon Peter, one of Jesus' closest disciples, and indicates a shift from public ministry to personal interaction. The Greek word for "home" is "οἶκος" (oikos), which can mean house or household, suggesting not just a physical structure but also the family and community within. Simon's home becomes a place of intimate fellowship and miraculous healing, reflecting the early Christian emphasis on house churches as centers of worship and community. Archaeological findings in Capernaum suggest that Simon Peter's house was a significant site for early Christians, possibly serving as a meeting place for the first believers.

Simon's mother-in-law was sick with a high fever
This phrase highlights the personal and compassionate nature of Jesus' ministry. The mention of Simon's mother-in-law indicates that Simon was married, providing insight into the personal lives of the disciples. The Greek term for "high fever" is "πυρετῷ μεγάλῳ" (pyretō megalō), emphasizing the severity of her condition. In the ancient world, fevers were often life-threatening, and medical knowledge was limited. This context underscores the miraculous nature of Jesus' healing power and His concern for individual suffering, demonstrating His authority over physical ailments.

and they appealed to Jesus on her behalf
This phrase illustrates the faith and intercession of those around Simon's mother-in-law. The Greek word for "appealed" is "ἠρώτησαν" (ērōtēsan), which can also mean "asked" or "begged," indicating a sense of urgency and desperation. This act of intercession reflects the communal nature of faith in the early Christian community, where believers supported one another in prayer and sought Jesus' intervention in times of need. It also highlights the importance of bringing our concerns to Jesus, trusting in His compassion and power to heal and restore.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus
The central figure of the New Testament, the Son of God, who performs miracles and teaches with authority.

2. Simon (Peter)
One of Jesus' first disciples, later known as Peter, who becomes a foundational leader in the early church.

3. Simon's Mother-in-law
A woman suffering from a high fever, representing those in need of Jesus' healing power.

4. The Synagogue
A place of Jewish worship and teaching, where Jesus often taught and performed miracles.

5. Simon's Home
A private setting where Jesus performs a personal miracle, demonstrating His compassion and power.

Teaching Points

The Compassion of Christ
Jesus' willingness to heal Simon's mother-in-law shows His compassion and readiness to respond to human suffering.

The Power of Intercession
The disciples' appeal to Jesus on behalf of Simon's mother-in-law highlights the importance and effectiveness of intercessory prayer.

Faith in Action
The immediate healing of Simon's mother-in-law demonstrates the power of faith and the authority of Jesus over sickness.

Hospitality and Service
After being healed, Simon's mother-in-law immediately begins to serve, illustrating the response of gratitude and service to God's work in our lives.

The Role of the Home in Ministry
Jesus' miracle in a private home setting underscores the importance of inviting Jesus into our personal lives and spaces.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jesus' healing of Simon's mother-in-law demonstrate His authority and compassion?

2. In what ways can we practice intercessory prayer in our own lives, following the example of the disciples?

3. How does the immediate response of service by Simon's mother-in-law after her healing challenge us in our response to God's work in our lives?

4. What can we learn from Jesus performing miracles in private homes about the role of our personal spaces in ministry?

5. How can we apply the principle of casting our anxieties on God, as seen in the disciples' appeal to Jesus, in our daily challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 8:14-15 and Mark 1:29-31
These passages parallel the account in Luke, providing additional details about the healing of Simon's mother-in-law.

James 5:14-15
This passage discusses the power of prayer and faith in healing, similar to how the disciples appealed to Jesus for healing.

1 Peter 5:7
Encourages believers to cast their anxieties on God, reflecting the disciples' appeal to Jesus for help.