Luke 11:3
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 11:3
3 Give us day by day our daily bread.
Chapter Context
Luke 11 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of love, discipleship, covenant. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christians needed to understand their place in the Roman world.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-54: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Luke and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Luke 11:3
3 Give us day by day our daily bread.
Analysis
Give us day by day our daily bread (τὸν ἄρτον ἡμῶν τὸν ἐπιούσιον δίδου ἡμῖν τὸ καθ' ἡμέραν, ton arton hēmōn ton epiousion didou hēmin to kath' hēmeran)—The petition for arton epiousion (daily bread) centers on present dependence, not hoarding for the future. The rare Greek adjective epiousion may mean 'necessary for existence' or 'for the coming day,' emphasizing trust in God's timely provision.
Luke's phrase day by day (τὸ καθ' ἡμέραν) intensifies the emphasis on daily dependence found in Matthew's 'this day.' This echoes Israel's manna in the wilderness (Exodus 16)—each day's provision sufficient, no storing permitted except Sabbath eve. The prayer trains believers to reject anxiety about tomorrow (Luke 12:22-34) and trust the Father's knowledge of our needs. Arton (bread) encompasses all physical necessities, not luxury.
Historical Context
Bread was the staple food of ancient Palestine, representing sustenance itself. The daily wage of a laborer (one denarius) typically purchased enough bread for a family's daily needs. Jesus's original audience, largely poor peasants and fishermen, understood precarious daily provision intimately.
Reflection
- In what areas of life are you hoarding resources rather than trusting God's daily provision?
- How does praying for 'daily bread' challenge consumer culture's emphasis on accumulation and security?
- What spiritual 'bread' (God's Word, communion with Christ) are you seeking daily alongside physical provision?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Proverbs 30:8, Isaiah 33:16, Matthew 6:11, 6:34