Luke 6:4

“How he went into the house of God, and did take and eat the shewbread, and gave also to them that were with him; which it is not lawful to eat but for the priests alone?”

Context:Luke 6:4 is part of a passage where Jesus and His disciples were walking through a field of grain on the Sabbath. The Pharisees questioned Jesus’ actions, accusing Him and His disciples of doing what was unlawful on the Sabbath. In response, Jesus referred to an incident involving David when he and his companions ate the showbread, which was designated only for the priests.

Key Points:

• The House of God:The verse begins by mentioning how David went into the house of God. This refers to the Tabernacle or the Temple, where the presence of God was believed to reside. It emphasizes the significance of the location where the events took place.
• Showbread:The showbread, also known as the bread of the presence, was a consecrated offering placed on a table in the Tabernacle or Temple. It consisted of twelve loaves symbolizing the twelve tribes of Israel and was replaced weekly. According to Leviticus 24:9, only the priests were allowed to eat the old loaves, and it was considered holy.
• David’s Example:Jesus refers to the incident when David and his companions, who were fleeing from Saul, came to the Tabernacle and ate the showbread. The story is recorded in 1 Samuel 21:1-6. Although it was not lawful for anyone except the priests to eat the showbread, David and his men were hungry and in need, so the priest gave them the consecrated bread.

• Breaking Traditions:Jesus uses David’s example to challenge the rigid interpretation of Sabbath laws by the Pharisees. He highlights the principle of compassion and the needs of the hungry taking precedence over strict adherence to ceremonial regulations. Jesus’ point is that human need and mercy supersede legalistic restrictions when it comes to acts of kindness.

Lessons and Applications:

• Prioritizing Compassion:Jesus’ emphasis on the incident involving David and the showbread highlights the importance of prioritizing compassion and human need over rigid legalism. While respecting God’s commandments is important, acts of mercy and kindness should not be neglected.
• Challenging Legalism:Jesus consistently challenged the religious leaders of His time regarding their excessive focus on rules and regulations. He sought to bring about a deeper understanding of God’s heart and the principles of love and mercy. We should also strive to avoid legalistic thinking and instead approach faith with a heart of compassion and grace.
• Understanding the Spirit of the Law:Jesus’ actions and teachings demonstrate the importance of understanding the underlying principles and purposes of God’s laws rather than adhering blindly to the letter of the law. The Sabbath was meant to be a day of rest and worship, but it should also include acts of mercy and love toward others.
• Divine Authority:Jesus’ reference to the incident involving David and the showbread implies His authority and position as the Son of God. He uses this example to challenge the Pharisees’ understanding and interpretation of the law, revealing His own authority to interpret and apply it correctly.

In conclusion, Luke 6:4 offers valuable insights into Jesus’ teachings and His approach to religious traditions and legalism. It highlights the importance of compassion, the need to understand the spirit of the law, and the authority of Jesus as the Son of God.