Luke 6:34 - If you lend to those from whom you hope to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, to receive back as much.
Select Bible Verse
Filter Categories
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
R
S
T
U
V
W
What does "Luke 6:34" mean?
This verse from Luke 6:34 is part of Jesus' teachings on loving your enemies. It's about going beyond normal human expectations of reciprocity. Let's break it down:
"If you lend to those from whom you hope to receive, what credit is that to you?" This means if you only help people expecting something in return (like a favor, repayment, or good reputation), it's not particularly virtuous. It's a self-serving act.
"Even sinners lend to sinners, to receive back as much." Here, Jesus points out that even people who are generally considered morally flawed (the "sinners" of the time) understand the basic principle of lending. They'll lend to someone who they know can and will repay them. This is a common practice motivated by self-interest.
The Overall Meaning
The verse highlights the inadequacy of only doing good deeds when there's a personal benefit involved. Jesus is challenging his listeners (and readers) to a higher standard of compassion and generosity. He is urging them to practice selfless giving and love, even towards those who are difficult or unlikely to reciprocate. The point is to be kind and generous, not for personal gain, but out of genuine love and empathy.
In essence, Jesus is advocating for a type of love and generosity that transcends typical human transactional behavior. This goes hand in hand with His exhortation to love your enemies and do good to those who hate you, as seen in the verses preceding and following Luke 6:34. He calls for a love that mirrors God's love, which is unconditional and extended even to the undeserving.
Luke 6:34 - If you lend to those from whom you hope to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, to receive back as much.
What does "Luke 6:34" mean?
This verse from Luke 6:34 is part of Jesus' teachings on loving your enemies. It's about going beyond normal human expectations of reciprocity. Let's break it down:
"If you lend to those from whom you hope to receive, what credit is that to you?" This means if you only help people expecting something in return (like a favor, repayment, or good reputation), it's not particularly virtuous. It's a self-serving act.
"Even sinners lend to sinners, to receive back as much." Here, Jesus points out that even people who are generally considered morally flawed (the "sinners" of the time) understand the basic principle of lending. They'll lend to someone who they know can and will repay them. This is a common practice motivated by self-interest.
The Overall Meaning
The verse highlights the inadequacy of only doing good deeds when there's a personal benefit involved. Jesus is challenging his listeners (and readers) to a higher standard of compassion and generosity. He is urging them to practice selfless giving and love, even towards those who are difficult or unlikely to reciprocate. The point is to be kind and generous, not for personal gain, but out of genuine love and empathy.
In essence, Jesus is advocating for a type of love and generosity that transcends typical human transactional behavior. This goes hand in hand with His exhortation to love your enemies and do good to those who hate you, as seen in the verses preceding and following Luke 6:34. He calls for a love that mirrors God's love, which is unconditional and extended even to the undeserving.