Luke 7:6 Meaning and Explanation
“Then Jesus went with them. And when he was now not far from the house, the centurion sent friends to him, saying unto him, Lord, trouble not thyself: for I am not worthy that thou shouldest enter under my roof:”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →As Jesus nears the house, the centurion sends friends to say he is unworthy to receive Him under his roof.
What Does Luke 7:6 Mean?
Jesus goes without hesitation. But before He arrives, a second delegation comes — friends bearing the centurion's own words: do not trouble Yourself; I am not worthy for You to enter under my roof. A Gentile home would also have raised a question of defilement for a Jewish teacher; the centurion spares Jesus even that.
The closer Christ comes, the lower this man bows; those who see Him most clearly presume least. Yet his humility is not despair — it lives alongside bold confidence that Jesus can still heal. True lowliness never doubts the Lord's power; it only renounces its own claims on Him. His words have echoed for centuries in the prayers of those who feel unfit to host such a Guest, yet ask Him to come anyway.
Luke 7:6 in the Original Language
hikanos (ἱκανός), 'worthy' -- sufficient, fit, adequate to receive.
Frequently Asked Questions About Luke 7:6
What does Luke 7:6 mean?
As Jesus nears the house, the centurion sends friends to say he is unworthy to receive Him under his roof.