Definition: And will not rather say unto him, Make ready wherewith I may sup, and gird thyself, and serve me, till I have eaten and drunken; and afterward thou shalt eat and drink?
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Luke 17:8. It's a really important one that touches on hospitality and true friendship. Here’s the explanation in simple terms: The Core Idea: Jesus is saying, “Don’t be overly eager to help someone who’s offering you food and drink.” He’s highlighting that genuine kindness and friendship are about more than just a quick favor. Let's unpack it: “And will not rather say unto him…” – Jesus is gently reminding someone who’s hosting a party or offering hospitality. “…make ready wherewith I may sup, and gird thyself, and serve me…” - This is the ideal behavior. It means to prepare food and drinks for them, to be prepared to work for them, and to completely dedicate themselves to serving them. It’s about being fully present and focused on helping them. “…until I have eaten and drunken; and afterward thou shalt eat and drink?” – This is the crucial part. Jesus is saying that after you've been offering your help, you should be doing the same thing. You should also be eager to share with them, to enjoy their company, and to be fully engaged in their lives. What it’s really about: Jesus isn’t saying we shouldn’t be hospitable. He’s saying that true hospitality should come from a place of genuine care and desire to connect with someone. It's not enough to just offer help; you need to engage with them as a friend. In essence, it’s about prioritizing friendship over immediate convenience. Why is this important? This verse speaks to the importance of character – how we treat others. It encourages us to be kind, generous, and thoughtful in our interactions. It reminds us that genuine connection goes beyond just a transaction or a quick favor. Do you want me to explain any of these parts further, perhaps with an example? Or would you like me to focus on a specific aspect of the verse (like its meaning in relation to hospitality)?