Luke 11:4
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 11:4
4 And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil.
Chapter Context
Luke 11 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of creation, prayer, love. 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 illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. 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 11:4
4 And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil.
Analysis
Jesus teaches: 'And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us.' This petition acknowledges ongoing need for forgiveness—even believers sin daily, requiring daily forgiveness. The phrase 'for we also forgive' isn't earning forgiveness through forgiving others but demonstrating that forgiven people forgive. The Greek 'gar' (γάρ, for) indicates explanation, not condition—we forgive because we're forgiven. 'Every one that is indebted to us' (Greek 'panti opheilonti hēmin,' παντὶ ὀφείλοντι ἡμῖν) means everyone owing us anything—injuries, offenses, debts. Forgiveness received produces forgiveness given.
Historical Context
Debt and forgiveness language pervaded first-century economic and social relations. 'Sins' (Greek 'hamartias,' ἁμαρτίας) and 'debts' (Matthew 6:12) were used interchangeably—sin is debt owed to God, which we cannot pay. God's forgiveness cancels infinite debt. The connection between receiving and giving forgiveness appears throughout Jesus' teaching (Matthew 6:14-15, 18:21-35). Unforgiveness in believers reveals they haven't grasped how much they've been forgiven. The early church emphasized reconciliation and forgiveness as marks of authentic Christianity. Forgiving others demonstrates we've experienced God's forgiveness.
Reflection
- How does the connection between receiving and giving forgiveness reveal the nature of genuine Christian character?
- What does praying 'forgive us our sins' daily teach about ongoing need for grace even after conversion?
Word Studies
- Forgive: ἀφίημι (Aphiemi) G863 - To send away, forgive, release
Cross-References
- Sin: Psalms 25:18
- Evil: John 17:15
- Parallel theme: Luke 8:13, 22:46, Daniel 9:19, Matthew 18:35, 26:41, 1 Corinthians 10:13