Luke Chapter 6 · Verse 40
The disciple is not above his master: but every one that is perfect shall be as his master.
Original Language Analysis
ὑπὲρ
above
G5228
ὑπὲρ
above
Strong's:
G5228
Word #:
4 of 15
"over", i.e., (with the genitive case) of place, above, beyond, across, or causal, for the sake of, instead, regarding; with the accusative case super
τὸν
G3588
τὸν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 15
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
αὐτοῦ·
his
G846
αὐτοῦ·
his
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
7 of 15
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
κατηρτισμένος
that is perfect
G2675
κατηρτισμένος
that is perfect
Strong's:
G2675
Word #:
8 of 15
to complete thoroughly, i.e., repair (literally or figuratively) or adjust
ὡς
as
G5613
ὡς
as
Strong's:
G5613
Word #:
12 of 15
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
13 of 15
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
John 13:16Verily, verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord; neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him.John 15:20Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep your's also.Matthew 23:15Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye compass sea and land to make one proselyte, and when he is made, ye make him twofold more the child of hell than yourselves.
Historical Context
Rabbinic model disciple sat at feet of rabbi learned teaching and life. Christian discipleship similar learn from mature believers. Paul said imitate me as I imitate Christ (1 Cor 11:1). Discipleship is imitation. Choose mentors wisely their character becomes yours. Jesus warned false teachers deceive lead astray. Early church emphasized apostolic teaching guarded against heresy. Medieval church sometimes elevated unworthy leaders. Reformation emphasized teaching office qualified pastors. Modern church mentor relationships recovering. Need intentional discipleship older teaching younger.
Questions for Reflection
- What does disciple becoming like master teach about importance of choosing mentors wisely?
- How should churches intentionally structure discipleship relationships for spiritual maturity?
Analysis & Commentary
Disciple is not above his master but everyone perfect shall be as his master. Disciple mathētēs learner. Not above hyper beyond. Master didaskalon teacher. Everyone pas each. Perfect katērtismenos fully trained. Shall be estai will become. As hōs like. Master. Students do not surpass teachers. Fully trained disciple becomes like teacher. Application do not presume to judge (vv. 37-42) when you are learning. Also disciples will reflect teacher character. Choose teachers wisely. Reformed theology emphasizes importance of sound teaching discipleship. Congregations often reflect pastors strengths weaknesses.