Luke 20:39

Then certain of the scribes answering said, Master, thou hast well said.

Luke 20:39 (KJV)

Context

Certain scribes, experts in the Jewish law, respond here after Jesus answers the Sadducees’ question about the resurrection. The Sadducees, who denied the resurrection, had presented a hypothetical case of a woman married to seven brothers. Jesus replied that the resurrected state differs from earthly existence and that marriage no longer applies. His answer silenced their challenge.

The scribes who spoke were likely pleased because they themselves believed in the resurrection, unlike the Sadducees. Their words, “Master, thou hast well said,” were more than polite praise; they acknowledged that Jesus had reasoned finely and set the matter in a clear light. The immediate context continues in Luke 20:40, where no one dared to ask Him any more questions.

Meaning

The scribes’ commendation is striking because these religious leaders often opposed Jesus. Here, they openly affirmed the quality of His teaching. Their response highlights Jesus’ wisdom and authority, even among those who were experts in Scripture. It also shows that truth can be recognized by unexpected people, especially when it is spoken with clarity and grace.

This verse reminds us that Jesus’ teaching consistently confounded His opponents while drawing admiration from those who were willing to listen. The scribes’ acknowledgment was not a full confession of faith, but it was a step toward recognizing who Jesus is.

Biblical connections

The scribes’ approval aligns with the Old Testament hope of resurrection (Daniel 12:2), which the Sadducees rejected. Their praise underscores that Jesus’ answer was not only clever but biblically faithful.

Application

Luke 20:39 encourages us to seek truth and recognize wisdom wherever it appears. The scribes, despite their frequent disputes with Jesus, could still acknowledge a good answer. We too should be willing to affirm what is true, even when it comes from an unexpected source or challenges our assumptions.

It also invites us to approach Scripture with humility and openness, ready to learn from Jesus’ teachings. His wisdom is not merely intellectual; it is divine and life-giving. As we study His words, we can grow in our own understanding and in our ability to respond to difficult questions with grace and truth.

Reflection

How often do we recognize and honor wisdom when it is spoken, even by those we might consider opponents? The scribes’ brief praise models a posture of intellectual honesty. May we, like them, be quick to acknowledge what is well said, and may we always seek the deeper wisdom that comes from Christ alone.