Luke 6:34
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 6:34
34 And if ye lend to them of whom ye hope to receive, what thank have ye? for sinners also lend to sinners, to receive as much again.
Chapter Context
Luke 6 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of truth, fellowship, discipleship. 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 provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. 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 6:34
34 And if ye lend to them of whom ye hope to receive, what thank have ye? for sinners also lend to sinners, to receive as much again.
Analysis
If ye lend to them of whom ye hope to receive what thank have ye for sinners also lend to sinners to receive as much again. Lend danisēte give loan. Hope to receive elpizete apolabein expect repayment. No special credit. Sinners do this self-interest lending. Expecting return. Christian lending should be generous without expecting return. Generosity exceeds enlightened self-interest. Grace-based economics. Reformed theology applies gospel to economics lending should reflect grace. Not exploitation but generosity. Not naive but gracious.
Historical Context
Ancient world usury was common charging interest sometimes exorbitant. Old Testament prohibited interest to fellow Israelites (Ex 22:25). Jesus calls for generous lending without expecting return. Not that loans must never be repaid but attitude is generous not calculating. Parable unforgiving servant (Matt 18:23-35) contrasts those forgiven much who forgive little. Believers forgiven infinite debt should forgive others. Medieval church sometimes prohibited interest legalism. Reformation allowed interest but warned against exploitation. Modern capitalism self-interest lending. Christian alternative gracious generous lending reflecting God grace.
Reflection
- How should Christian lending differ from secular self-interested lending?
- What does lending without expecting return teach about grace-based economics?
Word Studies
- Grace: χάρις (Charis) G5485 - Grace, favor
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Luke 6:35, Matthew 5:42