Luke 18:28
And Peter said, “See, we have left our homes and followed you.”
English Standard Version (ESV)
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Luke 18:28
And Peter said, “See, we have left our homes and followed you.”
English Standard Version (ESV)
This page isn't yet indexed by search engines.
Peter's bold statement, "We have left our own," highlights not just what they gave up, but the identity they shed as they chose to follow Jesus. This emphasizes that their sacrifice wasn't just about possessions, but a fundamental reorientation of their whole lives and who they understood themselves to be.
Just before this, Jesus tells a parable about a persistent widow and a judge, illustrating the importance of constant prayer. He then follows up with the story of the rich young ruler who, despite his moral uprightness, walks away sadly because he can't bear to give up his possessions. In response to this example of worldly attachment, Peter speaks up, reminding Jesus that he and the other disciples have given up everything to follow Him.
Peter boldly declares, 'We have left all!' But what does that truly mean in the context of their lives? Was it a complete emptying of everything?
When Peter says, "we have left our own [possessions],"
A Different Kind of Richness
It wasn't just about giving up jobs or homes. The disciples were fishermen, tax collectors, and likely others who left behind their livelihood, their social standing, and the comfort of the familiar. They traded tangible security for an intangible calling.
Not a Final Farewell
The original Greek suggests they left 'their own,' or 'their own things.' This wasn't necessarily a permanent, absolute renunciation of all earthly ties forever. Instead, it was a decisive turning point – a declaration that Jesus and His kingdom now took precedence over everything else they owned or were.
The Ultimate Trade
They exchanged their worldly possessions and professions for a relationship with Jesus and the promise of an eternal inheritance. It was a radical act of faith, trusting that what they gained in Him far surpassed what they left behind.
Was Peter just bragging? Or was there something deeper, perhaps even a touch of anxiety, driving his declaration to Jesus?
Peter's question, "See, we have left our homes and followed you," is more than a simple statement of fact. It reveals a complex mix of emotions and motivations:
A Natural Human Question
After witnessing the rich young ruler walk away sorrowfully because he couldn't meet Jesus' terms, the disciples were understandably concerned. They had made huge sacrifices. It’s natural to wonder, "What's next? What's our reward?"
Peter's statement reflects the moment he and the other disciples were called away from their familiar lives, highlighting the significant personal sacrifice made in response to Jesus' invitation.
c. AD 27— this verse
Jesus calls disciples
Jesus calls fishermen like Peter, James, and John from their livelihoods to follow Him, a radical act that required leaving their businesses and families behind.
c. AD 27-30
Jesus' public ministry
During Jesus' public ministry, Peter and the other disciples left their homes and occupations to travel with Him, learning His teachings and witnessing His miracles.
c. AD 30
Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection
After Jesus' death and resurrection, the disciples experienced a profound shift, solidifying their commitment and understanding of His sacrifice and mission.
c. AD 30-33
Early Church formation
Following Jesus' ascension, Peter became a key leader in the early Church, boldly proclaiming the Gospel and guiding the burgeoning community of believers.
Peter's statement echoes his question in Matthew, where the disciples ask what they will receive since they gave up everything to follow Jesus, highlighting their expectation of reward for their sacrifice.
Mark 10:28Similar to Luke, Peter's question in Mark emphasizes their act of leaving their possessions and families, presenting it as a significant commitment made for Jesus.
Luke 5:11This passage describes the specific moment when Peter and his companions left their fishing businesses and nets to follow Jesus, providing the concrete event that Peter is likely referring to in Luke 18:28.
1 Corinthians 9:23Paul speaks of doing everything for the sake of the gospel so that he might share in its blessings, resonating with the disciples' desire to receive blessings in return for their sacrifices.
clarkeLuke 18:28: "Then Peter said, Lo, we have left all, and followed thee."
We have left all - Our trades, our houses, and families. The reader is desired to consult the notes on Matthew 4:20 (note); Matthew 19:27 (note), etc.
pulpitLuke 18:28: "Then Peter said, Lo, we have left all, and followed thee."
Verse 28. - Then Peter said, Lo, we hays left all, and followed thee. Again the question of Peter, evidently acting as spokesman of the twelve, is repeated by the first three evangelists. Strangely faithful in their accounts of their own dealings with their adored Master, they never veil or hide any human weakness or error of their own which led to an important bit of teaching from their Lord. Now, in this place, they, in…
Peter's bold statement, "We have left our own," highlights not just what they gave up, but the identity they shed as they chose to follow Jesus. This emphasizes that their sacrifice wasn't just about possessions, but a fundamental reorientation of their whole lives and who they understood themselves to be.
Just before this, Jesus tells a parable about a persistent widow and a judge, illustrating the importance of constant prayer. He then follows up with the story of the rich young ruler who, despite his moral uprightness, walks away sadly because he can't bear to give up his possessions. In response to this example of worldly attachment, Peter speaks up, reminding Jesus that he and the other disciples have given up everything to follow Him.
Just before this, Jesus tells a parable about a persistent widow and a judge, illustrating the importance of constant prayer. He then follows up with the story of the rich young ruler who, despite his moral uprightness, walks away sadly because he can't bear to give up his possessions. In response to this example of worldly attachment, Peter speaks up, reminding Jesus that he and the other disciples given up everything to follow Him.
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More Than Just Self-Congratulation
While there might be a slight human tendency to highlight their own faithfulness, it’s not presented as pure arrogance. It’s more of a plea or a query rooted in their commitment. They were asking, in essence, 'We’ve done our part, now what?'
Seeking Assurance
They needed reassurance that their sacrifices weren’t in vain. Their question is a way of seeking confirmation that following Jesus, even at great personal cost, truly leads to the eternal life He offers.
"And Peter said, “See, we have left our homes and followed you.”" — Peter's bold statement, "We have left our own," highlights not just what they gave up, but the identity they shed as they chose to follow Jesus. This emphasizes that their sacrifice wasn't just abo…