Luke 6:47
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 6:47
47 Whosoever cometh to me, and heareth my sayings, and doeth them, I will shew you to whom he is like:
Chapter Context
Luke 6 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of salvation, love, judgment. 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 6:47
47 Whosoever cometh to me, and heareth my sayings, and doeth them, I will shew you to whom he is like:
Analysis
Whosoever cometh to me, and heareth my sayings, and doeth them (ὁ ἐρχόμενος πρός με καὶ ἀκούων μου τῶν λόγων καὶ ποιῶν αὐτούς)—Jesus establishes three progressive conditions for true discipleship: coming (erchomai, approaching in relationship), hearing (akouō, attentive listening), and doing (poieō, active obedience). Luke's account emphasizes that genuine faith must manifest in obedience, not mere intellectual assent or emotional experience.
The phrase I will shew you to whom he is like introduces a parable about foundations—a common rabbinic teaching method. Jesus positions himself as the authoritative interpreter of what constitutes wise living, claiming divine prerogative to judge the validity of one's spiritual foundation. This echoes the Shema's call to not only hear but to obey (Deuteronomy 6:4-9).
Historical Context
Luke places this teaching at the conclusion of the Sermon on the Plain (6:17-49), Jesus's programmatic discourse delivered to both disciples and crowds in Galilee. First-century Palestinian construction required deep foundations due to seasonal flooding from winter rains—builders who cut corners faced catastrophic losses. The imagery would resonate powerfully with Jesus's agrarian audience.
Reflection
- Which of the three conditions (coming, hearing, doing) represents your weakest area of discipleship currently?
- How does Jesus's emphasis on obedience challenge contemporary 'grace alone' perspectives that minimize behavioral transformation?
- What 'floods' (trials, temptations, cultural pressures) are currently testing whether your faith is built on rock or sand?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Luke 11:28, 14:26, Matthew 12:50, John 13:17, 14:15, Hebrews 5:9