Luke 6:47

Whosoever cometh to me, and heareth my sayings, and doeth them, I will shew you to whom he is like:

Luke 6:47 (KJV)

Context

Luke 6:47 comes from Jesus’ Sermon on the Plain, spoken to His disciples and a large crowd. The verse introduces the parable of the two builders, contrasting those who hear and do Jesus’ words with those who hear but do not. It begins with “Whosoever cometh to me,” indicating a willing, personal approach to Christ, seeking a relationship with Him and acknowledging His authority.

Meaning

The opening phrase “Whosoever cometh to me” implies a personal invitation to approach Christ voluntarily, with an open heart and a desire to know Him. It calls for a conscious decision to seek a relationship with Jesus and to acknowledge Him as Lord and Savior.

After coming to Christ, a believer must actively listen to His teachings. Jesus’ sayings are profound truths that must be understood and internalised, not just heard audibly. This requires attentiveness, reflection, and a readiness to learn, allowing the words to take root in the heart.

Jesus makes clear that hearing alone is insufficient. True discipleship is demonstrated by putting His teachings into practice. Obedience transforms attitudes and actions, aligning a believer’s life with the principles Jesus taught. Living out His words shows the reality of faith.

The verse concludes, “I will shew you to whom he is like.” Jesus promises that those who come, hear, and obey will be shown their true identity. By living according to His teachings, believers will exhibit the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control, as well as longsuffering, meekness, and temperance. These qualities reveal the character of Christ in their lives.

Biblical connections

The parallel passage in Matthew 7:24 uses similar language, directly connecting the Sermon on the Mount’s conclusion to this parable and reinforcing the same principle of hearing and doing. This obedience is the foundation for the parable’s illustration of a wise builder who builds on rock, contrasting with the foolish builder who builds on sand (Luke 6:48-49).

Application

Luke 6:47 calls believers to a holistic response: to come to Jesus, to hear His words attentively, and to obey them faithfully. Through this integrated response, individuals discover their true identity and reflect the character of Jesus Christ in both word and deed.

Reflection

Consider your own approach to Christ. Are you merely hearing His words, or are you putting them into practice? The promise of revelation is for those who do—who build their lives on the solid foundation of His teachings.