Luke 6:1
And it came to pass on the second sabbath after the first, that he went through the corn fields; and his disciples plucked the ears of corn, and did eat, rubbing them in their hands.
Luke 6:1 (KJV)
Context
Luke 6:1 records an incident on a Sabbath when Jesus and His disciples walked through grainfields. The KJV phrase “second sabbath after the first” translates the Greek term “deuteropróton,” whose precise meaning is debated. Interpreters have suggested it may refer to a Sabbath within the feast of Unleavened Bread or Tabernacles, or to the Sabbath that fell on Pentecost, but no single explanation is certain.
The disciples plucked heads of grain, rubbed them in their hands, and ate them. According to Jewish law, travelers were permitted to pluck grain from a neighbor’s field (Deuteronomy 23:25), but the Pharisees considered the action to be harvesting and threshing, which were prohibited on the Sabbath. The Sabbath was a sacred day of rest and worship, established in the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:8-11) and a sign of the covenant between God and Israel (Exodus 31:13). The religious leaders had added many traditions that made the Sabbath a burden rather than a gift.
Meaning
The disciples’ action of plucking and eating grain on the Sabbath sparked criticism from the Pharisees, who saw it as a violation of Sabbath laws. In the following verses (Luke 6:3-5), Jesus responds by referring to an incident from the life of David (1 Samuel 21:1-6). David and his companions ate the showbread, which was meant only for the priests, yet they were not condemned. Jesus uses this example to show that human need and mercy take precedence over strict legalistic observance. He then declares His authority over the Sabbath, stating, “The Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath” (Luke 6:5, KJV). This assertion indicates His divine nature and His authority to define the true purpose of the Sabbath.
Biblical connections
The parallel accounts in Matthew 12:1-8 and Mark 2:23-28 describe the same event and include Jesus’ response to the Pharisees’ accusation. In these passages, Jesus emphasizes that the Sabbath was made for man’s benefit, not as a burden, and that He, as Lord of the Sabbath, defines its true purpose. The principle that mercy and human need are more important than ritual observance is consistent with Jesus’ teaching throughout the Gospels.
Application
This passage reminds us to focus on the heart of God’s commandments rather than getting caught up in legalistic interpretations. We should strive to demonstrate compassion, love, and mercy towards others, even if it means deviating from strict rules or traditions. Jesus has authority over all aspects of our lives, including our religious practices and observances. As Lord of the Sabbath, He calls us to rest in Him and to prioritize the well-being of people over rigid adherence to rules.
Reflection
Consider how you view the Lord’s Day and other religious practices. Are there ways you have allowed tradition to overshadow mercy and human need? Jesus, the Lord of the Sabbath, invites you to find rest in Him and to extend grace to others, just as He did.
