Luke 6:30
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 6:30
30 Give to every man that asketh of thee; and of him that taketh away thy goods ask them not again.
Chapter Context
Luke 6 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of fellowship, faith, 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 21-49: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. 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 6:30
30 Give to every man that asketh of thee; and of him that taketh away thy goods ask them not again.
Analysis
Give to every man that asketh of thee (παντὶ αἰτοῦντί σε δίδου, panti aitounti se didou)—the present imperative demands continuous action: keep giving to everyone who keeps asking. Panti (παντί) means every/all without discrimination. This challenges selective generosity. And of him that taketh away thy goods ask them not again (μὴ ἀπαίτει, mē apaitei)—don't demand back what's taken. The verb apaitēo (ἀπαιτέω) means to ask back, demand return.
This teaching radicalizes stewardship—we hold possessions as trustees, not owners. Kingdom citizens give freely, knowing their true treasure is in heaven (Luke 12:33). This isn't naive enabling of exploitation but recognition that God owns everything; we're merely distributing his resources. Such generosity requires faith that God will provide for our needs as we meet others' needs.
Historical Context
Greco-Roman patronage systems operated on reciprocity—gifts created obligations for repayment or favors. Jesus overthrows this economy with kingdom generosity that gives without expecting return. First-century Galilee had great wealth disparity; beggars and poor were common. Jesus himself lived without permanent home or possessions (Luke 9:58). The early church took this teaching seriously, sharing possessions and caring for the poor (Acts 2:44-45, 4:32-35). This countercultural generosity demonstrated the gospel's transforming power.
Reflection
- How does Jesus' command to give to everyone who asks challenge your evaluation of 'deserving' versus 'undeserving' recipients?
- What possessions are you holding tightly that Jesus is calling you to steward loosely, ready to give when asked?
Cross-References
- Good: Luke 6:38
- Parallel theme: Luke 18:22, Psalms 41:1, Proverbs 19:17, 21:26, Matthew 6:12, Acts 20:35