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Book of Luke - Chapter 6 - Verse 34

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.

Meaning

This verse from the Gospel of Luke reminds believers of the importance of selfless giving and generosity. In this passage, Jesus teaches that lending to those from whom one hopes to receive something in return does not demonstrate true kindness or compassion. It is easy to show kindness to those who can repay us, but Jesus challenges his followers to go beyond this mentality and to give freely without expecting anything in return. By doing so, they will be different from sinners who only lend to others in order to receive something back. This verse emphasizes the Christian values of love, generosity, and compassion, encouraging believers to give without expecting repayment and to show kindness to all, regardless of the possibility of receiving something in return. It serves as a reminder that true acts of kindness are selfless and should be carried out without any expectations of receiving something in return.

Theological Overview

When exploring the theological interpretation of this verse, it is essential to understand the context in which it was spoken. Jesus, in this passage from Luke 6:34-35, is addressing the principle of loving one's enemies and doing good without expecting anything in return. The focus here is on the motive behind lending money or doing acts of kindness. Jesus is challenging his followers to go beyond societal norms and expectations by lending without expecting repayment from those who they hope will lend to them in return. He emphasizes that even sinners are capable of lending to sinners for their own gain. The underlying message is clear - true generosity should be motivated by love and compassion, not self-interest or the expectation of personal gain. This verse encourages believers to mirror the selfless love and kindness that God shows to all, regardless of their deserving. By highlighting the difference between the love of sinners and the love of God, Jesus teaches a profound lesson on the transformative power of unconditional love and generosity.

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