Luke 9:61 – “Still another said, ‘I will follow you, Lord; but first let me go back and say goodbye to my family.'”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, another person approaches Jesus and expresses a desire to follow Him, but with one condition—he wants to first go home and say goodbye to his family. At first glance, the request seems reasonable. Saying goodbye to family before embarking on a new journey is normal and respectful. However, Jesus’ response (in the next verse) reveals that discipleship requires undivided loyalty and an immediate response. The man’s hesitation, even though subtle, shows that his heart is divided between family obligations and the call to follow Jesus.
This verse highlights the common struggle of wanting to follow Jesus but being held back by competing priorities. It’s not that family is unimportant; rather, Jesus is teaching that even good things can become obstacles if they take precedence over obedience to Him.
Historical Context
Family ties were extremely important in first-century Jewish culture. The family was the foundation of social, religious, and economic life, and honoring one’s parents was a core commandment (Exodus 20:12). Leaving family responsibilities or breaking ties with them could be seen as dishonorable or shameful. In this context, the man’s request to say goodbye to his family reflects a genuine concern to fulfill societal expectations.
However, Jesus’ ministry often challenged cultural norms. His call to follow Him transcended traditional obligations, emphasizing that the kingdom of God must take precedence over all other commitments. This was a radical teaching in a culture that placed great importance on family loyalty.
Theological Implications
- Undivided Commitment to Christ – Jesus calls for complete loyalty. While family and other responsibilities are important, they should never take priority over obedience to Christ.
- The Cost of Discipleship – Following Jesus often requires leaving behind comfort, familiarity, and even relationships that may hold us back from fully committing to His mission.
- God’s Kingdom Is Urgent – The man’s hesitation shows that delaying obedience can be a sign of divided priorities. Jesus emphasizes that the mission of proclaiming the kingdom is urgent and requires immediate action.
Literary Analysis
Luke’s Gospel frequently highlights the theme of the cost of discipleship, and this verse is part of a series of encounters where Jesus clarifies what it means to follow Him. The structure of the passage contrasts the man’s initial enthusiasm with the reality of what following Jesus requires. The phrase “but first let me” indicates a hesitation, suggesting that the man is not fully ready to prioritize Jesus over his other commitments.
This encounter echoes Old Testament stories where people were called to leave behind their previous lives to serve God. However, while some were allowed to take care of unfinished business (such as Elisha in 1 Kings 19:19-21), Jesus’ call is more urgent and absolute, reflecting the greater significance of His mission.
Biblical Cross-References
- 1 Kings 19:19-21 – When Elijah calls Elisha to follow him, Elisha asks to say goodbye to his family. Elijah allows it, but Jesus’ call is more demanding, showing the unique urgency of His mission.
- Luke 14:26 – Jesus says that anyone who wants to be His disciple must be willing to prioritize Him over family and personal attachments.
- Matthew 10:37 – “Anyone who loves their father or mother more than me is not worthy of me,” emphasizing the need to prioritize Jesus above family ties.
- Philippians 3:13-14 – Paul speaks of “forgetting what is behind” and pressing on toward the goal of knowing Christ, illustrating the forward focus of true discipleship.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse challenges believers to consider whether they have any competing priorities that prevent them from fully committing to Jesus. It’s easy to say, “I’ll follow you, Lord,” but harder to put that commitment into practice when other obligations or comforts get in the way. Jesus is calling His followers to examine their hearts and ensure that nothing—no relationship, ambition, or responsibility—comes before Him.
This doesn’t mean neglecting family or responsibilities. In fact, following Jesus often involves being a better family member by living out His love and grace. However, it does mean that when conflicts arise between obeying Christ and fulfilling worldly expectations, Christ must come first. The call to discipleship is not something to be delayed until a “better” time—it requires immediate and wholehearted obedience.
This verse also reminds believers that following Jesus may involve sacrifice. Just as the man had to leave behind the security of his family, Christians today may have to leave behind comforts, relationships, or personal ambitions in order to faithfully follow Christ.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is shown in His call to follow Him. By calling people to leave behind anything that holds them back, God is inviting them into a life of purpose, freedom, and eternal significance. His love is not about taking things away but about offering something far greater—an eternal relationship with Him and participation in His kingdom work.
God’s love is also reflected in His understanding of human struggles. He knows that leaving behind earthly attachments is difficult, but He promises to provide for His followers and to give them the strength they need to trust Him. His call to discipleship is an act of love because it leads to spiritual growth and eternal rewards.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse highlights Jesus’ authority to call people to radical commitment. His call to follow Him is not a suggestion—it’s a command that demands a response. Jesus exemplifies what He asks of His followers through His own life. He left the glory of heaven, set aside His comforts, and remained obedient to the Father, even to the point of death on the cross (Philippians 2:6-8).
Jesus’ call to the man in this verse also reflects His mission to establish God’s kingdom on earth. By calling people to follow Him, He is inviting them to participate in the most important mission of all—proclaiming the good news of salvation to the world.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Are there any priorities, relationships, or responsibilities in your life that are keeping you from fully following Jesus?
- How can you balance your responsibilities to family and work while still making Jesus your top priority?
- What does this verse teach you about the urgency of responding to Jesus’ call?
- Have you ever hesitated to follow Jesus because of fear or attachment to something familiar? How did you overcome that hesitation?
- How can Jesus’ example of sacrifice and obedience inspire you to trust Him and leave behind anything that holds you back from discipleship?