Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Luke 7:21

"In that hour he cured many of diseases and plagues and evil spirits; and on many that were blind he bestowed sight." — Luke 7:21 (ASV)

Jesus responds by listing the messianic works that he has accomplished. It was understood in those days that the true Messiah would not proclaim himself such but would first do appropriate messianic works that would lead to public acknowledgment of his identity. The works Jesus cites echo not only Isa 61, but other passages from Isaiah (e.g., 35:5–6; 62:7). Jesus pronounces a blessing (v.23) on the person who accepts his credentials rather than being trapped because of a false evaluation of Jesus.