Luke 6:46
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 6:46
46 And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?
Chapter Context
Luke 6 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of faith, prayer, truth. 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 guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. 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 6:46
46 And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?
Analysis
Jesus challenges superficial discipleship: 'Why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?' The repeated 'Lord, Lord' (Greek 'kyrie kyrie,' κύριε κύριε) indicates verbal acknowledgment of Jesus' authority without corresponding obedience. True lordship requires submission and obedience, not merely verbal recognition. Calling Jesus 'Lord' while disobeying contradicts itself—genuine faith produces obedience. This warning exposes the danger of orthodoxy without orthopraxy, profession without practice, lip service without life transformation.
Historical Context
Jewish use of 'lord' (adon) ranged from polite address to acknowledging divine authority. Calling Jesus 'Lord' could be merely respectful or could acknowledge His messianic authority. Jesus insists that genuine recognition of His lordship produces obedience. This theme appears throughout Scripture—true faith works (James 2:14-26), genuine love obeys (John 14:15), real disciples bear fruit (John 15:8). Jesus' later parable of two builders (Luke 6:47-49) illustrates this principle—hearing without doing produces catastrophic collapse when storms come.
Reflection
- How does calling Jesus 'Lord' without obeying Him expose the difference between verbal profession and genuine faith?
- What does Jesus' question teach about the necessity of obedience as evidence of authentic discipleship?
Word Studies
- Lord: Κύριος (Kurios) G2962 - Lord, Master
Cross-References
- References Lord: Malachi 1:6, Matthew 25:11, 25:24, 25:44
- Parallel theme: Galatians 6:7