What does Luke 6:35 mean?

Explanation

Luke 6:35 is a part of the teachings of Jesus that focuses on the love for enemies, the practice of goodness, and the virtue of generosity without the expectation of return.

Jesus is calling for a radical form of love that is not limited to friends and those who love us back but extends to even those who may consider themselves our enemies.

He urges his audience to do good and lend freely, hoping for nothing in return, including gratitude or repayment.

The deeper meaning revolves around the idea that such selfless behavior reflects the nature of God Himself, who is kind to all, regardless of whether they are ungrateful or wicked.

The promise associated with this behavior is a great reward, and the adoption of such individuals as "children of the Highest" , an expression signifying a close relationship with God.

Historical Context

The Gospel of Luke is one of the four canonical gospels in the New Testament, which scholars typically date to around 80-110 AD.

Luke's audience is believed to have been largely Gentile Christians.

At the time, there were various social tensions between different groups, including Jews and Gentiles, as well as between the early Christians and the broader society.

The radical teachings of loving one's enemies would have been countercultural and challenged the existing norms of reciprocity and vengeance that were prevalent in the society of the time.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse emphasizes the concept of agape love, which is selfless, sacrificial, unconditional love.

It contrasts with the natural human inclination to love conditionally and reciprocate only when one is loved in return.

This teaching of Jesus aligns with the broader theme of the New Testament regarding God's universal love and grace extended to all humanity.

Different theological viewpoints might highlight aspects of this verse in varying ways; for instance, liberation theologians might emphasize the social implications of this radical love, while evangelical theologians might underscore the personal transformation required to love in this manner.

Practical Applications

In daily life, application of this verse calls for a forgiveness and kindness that transcends personal grievances or cultural expectations of retribution.

It can challenge individuals to examine their own attitudes towards those they might consider adversaries and encourage benevolence and generosity without seeking personal gain or acknowledgment.

It might further inspire communal actions of social justice, where a society seeks to care for even those who have not shown gratitude or who have acted in opposition to societal good.

Cross-References

• Matthew 5:44 - "But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;"
• Romans 12:20 - "Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head."
• Proverbs 25:21 - "If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink:"

Language Study

The original Greek language for key words in Luke 6:35 provides further understanding:

• Love (ἀγαπάτε - agapate): This is the imperative form of agape, which signifies a selfless, sacrificial kind of love.
• Do good (καλῶς ποιεῖτε - kalos poieite): More than just "good," the Greek term suggests an intrinsic, noble goodness or virtue.
• Lend (δανίζετε - danizete): This term doesn't merely imply a financial transaction but is understood in the context of giving to others with the expectation of nothing in return.
• Nothing again (μηθὲν ἀπελπίζοντες - meden apelpizontes): Literally translates as "hoping for nothing in return." It denotes the absence of anticipation for reciprocity.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The exhortation to love one's enemies and to act generously without expectation of return is somewhat unique to Christian teachings when compared to other ancient religions and myths that often valorized reciprocal relationships and justice through retribution.

For example, the Code of Hammurabi and many ancient myths underscore a more transactional nature of interpersonal interactions.

In contrast, some Eastern religions such as Buddhism also emphasize compassion and kindness to all living beings regardless of reciprocation, although the motivations and interpretations differ from Christian doctrine.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern psychological studies can intersect with the teachings of this verse by exploring the benefits of forgiveness and altruism to individual well-being.

Research has shown that acts of kindness and forgiveness can lead to psychological benefits such as reduced stress, increased happiness, and better mental health.

However, the concept of acting without expecting anything in return does challenge the evolutionary perspective of reciprocal altruism, where organisms behave altruistically expecting future benefits.

commentaries

Various Bible commentators have provided insights into Luke 6:35:

• Matthew Henry emphasizes the distinctive nature of Christian charity, which loves even enemies and does good expecting nothing in return.
• William Barclay notes the distinctive characteristic of God implied in this verse: His indiscriminate kindness to both the unthankful and evil, urging Christians to imitate this attribute.
• John Gill discusses the Hebrew cultural context, explaining that it was a common maxim among the Jews not to do any act of beneficence with a view to gain; elucidating that Jesus was advocating for a higher standard of goodness and benevolence.