Luke 11:41
But rather give alms of such things as ye have; and, behold, all things are clean unto you.
Luke 11:41 (KJV)
Context
Jesus speaks these words while dining at the house of a Pharisee, where He confronts the Pharisees and experts in the law about their hypocrisy. They carefully clean the outside of cups and dishes, yet their inward parts are full of greed and wickedness. Jesus calls them fools, reminding them that the God who made the outside also made the inside. Verse 41 is the positive command that follows this rebuke.
Meaning
The phrase “Give alms” refers to acts of charity, especially giving to the poor. Jesus urges His listeners to give from what they have to those in need.
The Greek phrase translated “of such things as ye have” literally means “the things that are within”—that is, what is inside the cup and platter. Jesus is not prescribing a specific amount or formula for giving. Instead, He points to giving according to one’s means, whether material possessions, time, talents, or resources. The command is to share the very food and drink one possesses, especially when it has been obtained by injustice or oppression.
The promise “all things are clean unto you” can be understood in two ways. First, in the context of Jewish customs, the Pharisees were concerned with ceremonial cleanliness and ritual purity. Jesus says that when they give alms, they fulfill a higher form of purity in God’s eyes. Second, it can be understood metaphorically: giving to those in need transforms and purifies the heart. Acts of charity and generosity reflect a heart aligned with God’s love and compassion. When our hearts are pure, all aspects of our lives become cleaner and more aligned with God’s will.
Biblical connections
This saying must be understood in context. The alms that cleanse are those done in judgment and charity—beginning with giving alms to one’s own soul by turning from sin. The parallel in Matthew 23:26 reinforces that inward cleansing is the priority. Luke 12:33 also shows the consistent call to use possessions for the poor. The Old Testament teaches that mercy to the poor is a mark of righteousness, though the New Testament clarifies that such works flow from faith, not earn it.
Application
Luke 11:41 challenges us to examine our hearts, attitudes, and actions toward the less fortunate. It encourages us to live with compassion, generosity, and purity before God. When we give from what we have, our hearts are aligned with God’s love, and all things become clean unto us.
Reflection
Consider what is inside your cup and plate today. Are you willing to share it with those in need? Let this verse prompt you to examine your heart and to practice mercy and charity as an expression of inner purity.
