Book of Luke - Chapter 6 - Verse 26

In this verse, Jesus is warning his followers about seeking the approval and praise of others. He cautions against yearning for universal popularity, as it often comes at the expense of compromising one's beliefs and values. The phrase "Woe unto you, when all men shall speak well of you" signifies that if everyone speaks well of you, it may indicate that you are conforming to societal norms rather than standing firm in your faith. Jesus references the false prophets of the past who were praised by the people for telling them what they wanted to hear rather than speaking the truth. By contrast, Jesus encourages his followers to prioritize righteousness over popularity, even if it means facing criticism or rejection. This verse serves as a reminder to remain faithful to God's truth, even when it goes against the opinions of the majority.

Jesus' warning to his disciples in this verse emphasizes the contrast between the standards of the world and those of the kingdom of God. The phrase "Woe unto you, when all men shall speak well of you!" highlights the danger of seeking approval and validation from others, rather than living according to God's truth. In the biblical context, being spoken well of by all could be a sign of compromise with worldly values or a lack of courage to stand up for what is right. This warning is reinforced by the reference to the false prophets of the past who were praised by the people of their time. By comparing his disciples to these false prophets, Jesus is urging them to embrace a counter-cultural stance that may lead to rejection and criticism from the world, but ultimately will bring them in line with God's will. The theological interpretation of this verse underscores the importance of prioritizing God's approval over the approval of others, even at the cost of facing opposition and persecution.