Luke 6:34
And if ye lend to them of whom ye hope to receive, what thank have ye? for sinners also lend to sinners, to receive as much again.
Luke 6:34 (KJV)
Context
Luke 6:34 is part of Jesus’ teaching known as the Sermon on the Plain, where He addresses a large crowd of disciples and others who had gathered to hear Him. In this portion of His sermon, Jesus speaks about loving one’s enemies, showing kindness, and being merciful. The verse is one of three parallel statements in Luke 6:32-34, where Jesus contrasts the common practice of loving those who love you, doing good to those who do good to you, and lending to those from whom you expect to receive, with the higher standard He expects of His followers.
Meaning
Jesus challenges His disciples not to lend to others with the expectation of receiving something in return. He questions what good it is to lend to those from whom they hope to receive repayment, because even sinners lend to sinners with the same intention. The Greek word translated as “thank” in the KJV is charis, which can also mean “grace” or “credit.” This suggests that the kind of “thank” Jesus speaks of is not merely a polite acknowledgment but the favor or credit that comes from a reciprocal arrangement. By using the term “sinners,” Jesus describes those who operate on the principle of reciprocity, lending only to receive as much again. He encourages His followers to go beyond the norms of society and exhibit selfless generosity.
Biblical connections
The immediate context includes Luke 6:35, where Jesus commands, “But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest.” This verse reinforces the call to a higher standard, promising that those who lend without expecting anything in return will receive a great reward and be called children of God. Jesus often emphasized the need for His followers to demonstrate a higher standard of righteousness and love, exceeding the expectations of the world by giving without expecting anything back. This teaching goes against the prevailing mindset of reciprocity and self-interest.
Application
Luke 6:34 challenges us to examine our motives when we extend help or generosity to others. It prompts us to reflect on whether we give with the expectation of receiving something in return or if our acts of kindness are motivated by genuine love and compassion. Jesus teaches that true acts of love and generosity are not motivated by personal gain or self-interest. As His disciples, we are called to imitate God’s love, which is characterized by sacrificial giving. When we give without expecting anything in return, we mirror the unselfish love that God extends towards us. By urging His disciples not to lend with the hope of repayment, Jesus encourages them to trust in God’s provision. He teaches them to rely on God’s faithfulness and to recognize that He is the ultimate source of all blessings. When we give selflessly, we acknowledge our dependence on God rather than relying solely on human efforts for provision.
As you meditate on this verse, consider how you can apply its teachings in your own life. Seek opportunities to give selflessly, without expecting anything in return, and trust in God’s provision as you demonstrate His love to others.
