Book of Luke - Chapter 17 - Verse 13

When the ten lepers lifted up their voices and cried out to Jesus, calling him "Master" and pleading for his mercy, they were acknowledging Jesus as their teacher and leader. By addressing him as "Master," they were showing reverence and respect for his authority and power. In their plea for mercy, the lepers were expressing their desperate need for compassion and healing. Leprosy was a highly stigmatized and incurable disease at the time, and those affected were often shunned and isolated from society. The lepers' cry for mercy was a recognition of their own helplessness and a plea for divine intervention. Throughout the Bible, the theme of mercy is central to God's character and interactions with humanity. The lepers' humble request for mercy reflects a deep understanding of Jesus' ability to offer forgiveness, healing, and restoration to all who seek him.

In the theological interpretation of the verse "And they lifted up their voices, and said, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us," scholars often delve into the significance of the term "Master" used by the lepers in addressing Jesus. The Greek word used here is "epistates," which can be translated as "captain" or "commander," indicating a position of authority and power. By addressing Jesus as "Master," the lepers acknowledge His authority and lordship over their lives, demonstrating humility and recognition of His ability to heal them. The plea for mercy highlights their desperate situation and their belief in Jesus' compassion and ability to alleviate their suffering. This verse exemplifies the importance of recognizing Jesus as the ultimate authority and source of mercy in times of need, inviting readers to approach Him with faith and humility in seeking His healing touch.