Luke 6:36
Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
This parallels Matthew 5:48's 'Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.' Luke emphasizes mercy, Matthew emphasizes perfection, but both call believers to reflect God's character. Jewish law commanded neighbor-love but often limited mercy to fellow Jews. Jesus expands mercy to include enemies (v. 27-36). Early Christian mercy toward opponents and care for society's outcasts amazed pagans and fueled church growth. Mercy distinguishes Christian ethics from mere moralism—we show mercy because we've received mercy, we forgive because we're forgiven.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the command to be merciful 'as your Father is merciful' connect our treatment of others to God's treatment of us?
- What does showing mercy even to enemies reveal about the nature of Christian character and ethics?
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Analysis & Commentary
Jesus commands: 'Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.' The word 'merciful' (Greek 'oiktirmones,' οἰκτίρμονες) means compassionate, showing pity. The standard is divine—'as your Father is merciful.' We're to mirror God's character, showing the same kind of compassion He shows. This isn't advice but command—'be ye'—and the motivation is family identity—'as your Father.' Children resemble parents; God's children should reflect His merciful character. Mercy flows from experiencing mercy—those forgiven much show much compassion.