Luke 7:50

Luke 7:50

Luke 7:50 records Jesus’ response to the woman: “And he said to the woman, Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace.” The key phrase is faith—personal trust in Jesus—as the agent of salvation. The woman’s actions—humble, costly devotion—are evidence of a heart turned toward Jesus, but Jesus emphasizes trust as the saving force, not a mere act of love. “Go in peace” ties forgiveness to restoration: peace with God yields peace in life and relationships. The scene completes the arc from accusation to assurance: forgiveness is offered, faith receives it, and life is reshaped by that peace.

Cultural note: In Luke’s Gospel, peace (shalom) is not only a personal feeling but a holistic restoration—relationship with God, family, and community. The benediction “go in peace” invites a life of shalom.

Faith as the conduit of salvation foregrounds Paul’s later teaching: righteousness comes through faith in Christ. Luke foregrounds a present, experiential salvation—not merely a future hope. The text underscores assurance for the forgiven and commissioned life of mission and peace. It also reveals God’s mercy extended to marginal figures (the woman) and the transformative effect of grace on daily living.

How does faith look today? It’s trust in Jesus that changes your daily life. Practically, this could mean choosing reconciliation over bitterness, choosing honesty over hiding sin, and choosing peace over perpetual striving. If you’ve felt undeserving, remember Jesus’ words: faith saves. Your next step might be forgiving someone, seeking spiritual counsel, or choosing to live with “peace” in tense settings (work, family). Let the gospel’s peace guide your decisions, not fear or performance.

Cross-References: Luke 5:20; Romans 5:1; Galatians 2:16; Philippians 4:7-9; James 2:17