Luke 5:28 – “And Levi got up, left everything and followed him.”

Extended Explanation

This verse highlights Levi’s immediate and radical response to Jesus’ call. Without hesitation, Levi gets up from his tax booth, leaves everything behind, and follows Jesus. This simple yet powerful action demonstrates the depth of his commitment and trust in Jesus. For Levi, following Jesus meant abandoning his lucrative but morally corrupt profession and embracing a completely new life.

The phrase “left everything” is key. Levi’s wealth and position as a tax collector would have provided him with financial security, but he willingly gave it all up because he recognized that Jesus offered something far greater. His response illustrates that following Jesus often requires sacrifice, but it leads to a life of purpose and fulfillment.

Historical Context

Levi’s decision to leave his tax booth would have been shocking to those around him. Tax collectors were known for their wealth, often gained through dishonest means, and their social status came with both privilege and rejection. While they had financial security, they were despised by their fellow Jews for working with the Roman authorities and exploiting people.

By leaving everything behind, Levi was not only giving up his income but also severing ties with his old life of corruption. Unlike fishermen, who could easily return to their trade if things didn’t work out, Levi’s job as a tax collector was likely a permanent position. Once he left, there was no going back. His decision reflects the radical nature of Jesus’ call and the life-changing impact it had on those who responded.

Theological Implications

This verse reveals important truths about discipleship and what it means to follow Jesus:

1. True discipleship requires sacrifice. Levi didn’t just make a small change in his life—he left behind everything that defined his identity and security. Following Jesus often means giving up things we once valued, trusting that what He offers is better.
2. Jesus transforms lives. Levi’s willingness to leave his old life behind shows the power of Jesus’ call. When we encounter Jesus, we aren’t just making minor adjustments—we’re embracing a new identity and purpose.
3. Faith leads to action. Levi’s immediate response reflects genuine faith. He didn’t wait to figure out all the details or ask for guarantees—he trusted Jesus enough to act right away.

This verse challenges us to consider what we may be holding onto that could hinder our ability to follow Jesus fully.

Literary Analysis

Luke’s writing emphasizes the simplicity and immediacy of Levi’s response. The verbs “got up,” “left everything,” and “followed him” are all action-oriented, highlighting that discipleship is not just a matter of intellectual belief—it requires action. There’s no hesitation or negotiation—Levi responds immediately and completely.

The contrast between Levi’s past life and his new life as a disciple underscores the transformative nature of following Jesus. The act of physically leaving his tax booth symbolizes leaving behind his old ways and embracing the new life that Jesus offers.

Biblical Cross-References

• Matthew 19:21-22 – The rich young ruler is told to sell everything and follow Jesus but walks away sad, highlighting the cost of discipleship. Levi’s response is the opposite—he willingly leaves his wealth behind.
• Luke 14:33 – “In the same way, those of you who do not give up everything you have cannot be my disciples,” emphasizing the sacrificial nature of following Jesus.
• Philippians 3:7-8 – “But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ.” Paul’s words reflect the same attitude as Levi’s—leaving behind worldly things for the sake of knowing Jesus.
• 2 Corinthians 5:17 – “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” This speaks to the transformation that happens when we follow Jesus.

These references show that Levi’s response is part of a larger biblical theme: true discipleship involves leaving the old life behind to embrace the new life in Christ.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For Christians today, this verse is a reminder that following Jesus is a life-changing decision. It’s not just about adding Jesus to our lives—it’s about surrendering our old ways and trusting Him with everything. Like Levi, we are called to leave behind whatever hinders us from fully committing to Jesus. This could be a sinful habit, an unhealthy relationship, or even our reliance on material security.

This verse also encourages us to respond to Jesus’ call with urgency. Levi didn’t delay or ask for time to prepare—he got up and followed. We often feel the need to “get our lives in order” before following Jesus, but Levi’s story shows that Jesus meets us where we are and transforms us as we follow Him.

Additionally, this verse challenges us to trust that what Jesus offers is better than anything we leave behind. Levi walked away from financial security, but he gained something far greater—a relationship with Jesus and a role in God’s kingdom.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is shown in His willingness to call people, regardless of their past. Levi wasn’t called because he was righteous or deserving—he was called because of God’s grace. Jesus saw potential in Levi that others didn’t see, and His call transformed Levi’s life.

God’s love is also seen in the fact that He offers us something better than what we leave behind. Following Jesus may require sacrifice, but it’s motivated by His love and desire for us to experience true life. When God calls us, it’s not to deprive us—it’s to lead us into something greater.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

This verse reveals Jesus as the one who initiates transformation. Levi didn’t seek Jesus out—Jesus called him. This reflects the way Jesus pursues us and invites us into a relationship with Him. His call is powerful and life-changing, offering a new purpose and identity to those who respond.

Levi’s decision to leave everything behind also points to the cost of following Jesus, which is fully revealed through Jesus’ own sacrifice. Just as Levi gave up his old life, Jesus would give up His life on the cross to bring salvation to humanity. Levi’s story is a small picture of the larger sacrifice and transformation that Jesus makes possible.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. What does Levi’s willingness to leave everything behind teach you about the cost of following Jesus?
2. Are there any “tax booths” in your life that you need to leave behind to follow Jesus fully?
3. How can you respond to Jesus’ call with the same urgency and faith that Levi showed?
4. In what ways has following Jesus transformed your identity and purpose?
5. How does Levi’s story encourage you to trust that what Jesus offers is better than anything you leave behind?

This verse challenges us to examine our hearts and ask whether we are willing to leave behind anything that competes with our devotion to Jesus. Like Levi, we are called to respond with faith, trusting that following Jesus leads to a life of purpose, joy, and eternal significance. When we let go of the old, we make room for the new life that only Jesus can give.