Household and religion in Luke : Socio-rhetorical reading of Luke 4:38–41

Abstract

The household is a significant setting for Jesus’ ministry activities in the Gospel of Luke. Luke 4:38–41 demonstrates an ancient household where in-laws form part of the individuals in the household and the significance of religion to the health needs of the householders and others. The interpretations of Luke 4:38–41 have concentrated on the miracles of Jesus, discipleship, and Sabbath regulations. This study engages the socio-rhetorical interpretation propounded by Vernon K. Robbins to re-interpret Luke 4:38–41 to argue that households in the ancient Mediterranean society served both private and public spaces in the context of religion. The implied narrator of Luke 4:38–41 intends to persuade implied readers to emphasise religion in households by inviting Jesus to their homes to provide solutions to health needs.