What does Luke 6:38 mean?

Explanation

Luke 6:38 is often cited in discussions of generosity and reciprocity.

It reflects the notion that giving generously leads to receiving generously, not necessarily from the same people to whom one has given, but from others, and often in greater measure.

The literal imagery is agricultural, alluding to filling a measure with grain.

When grain is measured, it can be simply poured in (which might leave gaps and air pockets), or it can be pressed down, shaken together to remove air spaces, and then topped off until it overflows.

This latter method signifies abundance and thoroughness.

Beyond the literal interpretation, there's a deeper meaning which suggests a principle of divine justice and compassion.

The amount and manner in which one gives to others – not just materially, but also in kindness, forgiveness, and other virtues – will be the standard by which one receives.

The 'good measure' can be interpreted as the abundant and overflowing grace and blessings from God or from people responding to your acts of goodness.

Historical Context

This verse is part of the "Sermon on the Plain," which includes teachings by Jesus similar to those found in the "Sermon on the Mount" in Matthew's Gospel.

Luke 6:38 was addressed to a first-century Jewish audience under Roman occupation.

At the time, agriculture was central to life, which made the imagery of the verse easily relatable.

Additionally, the Jewish law encouraged charitable acts, and the act of giving alms was considered a necessary part of religious life.

The socio-economic context was one of significant disparity between the rich and the poor, and Jesus' teachings often highlighted the role of mercy and charity in spiritual life.

Theological Insights

Different theological perspectives offer varying insights into this verse.

From a prosperity gospel viewpoint, the verse might be cited to suggest that giving monetarily to a church or ministry will result in personal financial blessing.

However, mainline Christian theology typically interprets this verse more broadly, understanding the "giving" and "receiving" as encompassing a wide range of human interactions and divine grace.

Catholic social teaching might connect this verse with the principle of the universal destination of goods, where one is encouraged to share resources with those in need, trusting in God's providential care.

In reformed theology, the verse would highlight God's sovereignty and the idea that blessings are often not material but spiritual and relational.

Practical Applications

Luke 6:38 can guide individuals to be more generous in their daily interactions with others, acting selflessly with the understanding that such behavior is intrinsically valuable and often reciprocated in other ways.

It encourages people to trust that their needs will be taken care of when they prioritize the needs of others.

The verse can also serve as an impetus for community service, charitable giving, and creating a more equitable and compassionate society.

Cross-References

• Proverbs 19:17: "He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the LORD; and that which he hath given will he pay him again."
• 2 Corinthians 9:6: "But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully."

Language Study

The key words and phrases in this verse, analyzed in the original Koine Greek, include:

• "Give" (δίδοτε, didote): Present active imperative form of δίδωμι (didōmi), to give.

The imperative suggests a command or instruction rather than a suggestion.

• "Pressed down" (συνεσταλμένη, synestalmenē): A perfect passive participle meaning to press together, compact.

It conveys the idea of something being filled to its capacity.

• "Shaken together" (σεσαλευμένη, sesaleumenē): A perfect passive participle indicating shaking or stirring to make room for more.
• "Running over" (ὑπερεκχυννόμενον, huperekchynnomenon): A present passive participle meaning overflowing or pouring out beyond capacity, indicating abundance.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Similar principles of generosity and reciprocal blessings can be found in various other cultural and religious contexts.

In Hinduism, the concept of 'karma' suggests that every act influences future circumstances.

In Buddhism, 'dana' or generosity is a key practice toward cultivating virtue and purifying the mind.

Confucianism also emphasizes reciprocity and benevolent behavior towards others.

Scientific Perspectives

While "Give, and it shall be given unto you" is a spiritual principle, it resonates with several theories in social sciences like the reciprocity norm in social psychology, suggesting that people tend to reciprocate kind actions.

Moreover, evolutionary biologists discuss altruism in the context of kin selection and reciprocal altruism, where generosity and cooperation can be seen to have adaptive benefits for a species.

Commentaries

Various experts and biblical commentators have contributed interpretations of Luke 6:38.

Matthew Henry's commentary emphasizes the generous heart, giving not just out of duty but out of love and compassion.

John Calvin highlights the paradox of giving leading to abundance in the framework of Christian life and faith.

Contemporary commentaries often focus on a balanced understanding of the verse, warning against using it to promote a "prosperity gospel" and instead teaching it as a principle embedded in the broader context of Jesus' teachings on love, forgiveness, and mercy.