38 Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.
Setting the Scene for Luke 6:38
In Luke chapter 6, we find Jesus teaching a large crowd on a level place, likely a plain or a plateau. The scene is set in the countryside, with the sun shining down on the people gathered around Jesus. Among the crowd are Jesus’ disciples, who have been following Him and learning from His teachings. The disciples are a diverse group, including fishermen, a tax collector, and others who have left their professions to follow Jesus.
As Jesus speaks to the crowd, He imparts wisdom about generosity and giving. The atmosphere is one of anticipation and reverence as the people listen intently to His words. The crowd is made up of men, women, and children from various walks of life, all drawn to Jesus’ message of love and compassion. The disciples are close to Jesus, eager to understand the deeper meanings behind His teachings and to grow in their faith and understanding. The setting is peaceful and serene, providing a perfect backdrop for the profound lessons being shared by Jesus.
What is Luke 6:38 about?
This verse from the Bible, found in the book of Luke, holds a powerful message about the act of giving. It emphasizes the principle of reciprocity – the idea that what we give will come back to us in abundance. It assures us that by encouraging us to give freely and generously, we will receive manifold the goodness we sow. Imagine the act of giving as filling a cup – when we give with a full heart, the cup overflows not just back to us, but to others as well.
Reflect on the imagery used in this verse – a good measure pressed down, shaken together, and running over. Picture a container being filled to the brim with blessings, love, and kindness. This verse challenges us to examine the intentions behind our giving – are we doing so with a pure heart and a spirit of abundance? It prompts us to consider the impact of our generosity not only on ourselves but on those around us. We give with joy and gratitude, knowing that our acts of kindness will ripple outwards, touching the lives of many.
Understanding what Luke 6:38 really means
Structure for Commentary:
1. Introduction to the Verse
2. Explanation of Key Phrases
3. Biblical Context and Cross-References
4. Relevance to Modern Life
5. Personal Anecdote
6. Call to Action and Reflection
**1. Jesus teaches a powerful lesson about generosity and reciprocity in Luke 6:38. This verse is part of the larger discourse known as the Sermon on the Plain, where Jesus teaches about love, mercy, and judgment. The core message is simple yet profound: the measure we give is the measure we will receive.
2. Explanation of Key Phrases
The verse contains several impactful phrases:
– “Give, and it will be given to you”: This highlights the principle of generosity. When we give freely, blessings come back to us.
– “A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over”: This imagery suggests abundance. God’s blessings are not just sufficient; they overflow.
– “For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you”: This speaks to the fairness and justice of God. Our actions set the standard for how we will be treated.
3. Biblical Context and Cross-References
This teaching is echoed in other parts of the Bible. Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 9:6, “Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.”” Proverbs 11:25 also states, “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” These verses reinforce the principle that our generosity is directly linked to the blessings we receive.
**4. This teaching remains incredibly relevant in today’s world. We live in a society that often promotes self-interest and accumulation of wealth. However, Jesus calls us to a counter-cultural way of living. We foster a community built on mutual care and support by giving generously—whether it be our time, resources, or love. This principle can transform not only our personal lives but also our communities.
5. Personal Anecdote
I recall a time when a member of our congregation faced financial hardship. Despite her own struggles, she continued to volunteer and give what little she had to others in need. Miraculously, she received unexpected help from various sources, allowing her to overcome her difficulties. Her story is a living testament to the truth of this verse: giving opens the door to receiving in ways we might never anticipate.
**6. We are invited to examine our own lives as we reflect on this verse. Are we giving generously? Are we trusting that God will provide for us as we provide for others? Let’s challenge ourselves to step out in faith, to give without reservation, and to watch how God’s blessings overflow in our lives. Take a moment to consider: How can you be more generous today? What resources or talents can you share to enrich the lives of those around you? We not only align ourselves with God’s will but also become conduits of His grace and love in the world by embracing this teaching.
How can we give and receive freely?
We can give and receive freely by understanding the principle behind Luke 6:38, which centers around the concept of reciprocity. When we give generously, whether it be our time, resources, or kindness, we are creating a cycle of abundance that flows back to us. This verse teaches us that by giving freely and without hesitation, we will receive in return, often in ways that we may not expect. We are encouraged to let go of any feelings of attachment or expectation to the outcome of our giving in practicing this principle. Instead, we should focus on the joy and fulfillment that comes from giving selflessly. We actively participate in the circulation of goodness, compassion, and blessings in the world around us by embodying a spirit of generosity and open-handedness. Giving and receiving freely ultimately demonstrate trust and faith in the interconnectedness of all beings. We create a ripple effect of positivity that enriches our own lives and uplifts those around us as we extend kindness and generosity to others without reservation. Through this practice, we cultivate a mindset of abundance and gratitude, paving the way for a more harmonious and compassionate world.
Application
Think about your life at work and home. Do you keep your best ideas to yourself, or do you share and uplift your team? Just as a family thrives when every member gives their all, so do we in our communities. Be the change and open your heart—what you give will come back to you tenfold. Are you ready to transform your world through generosity today?
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.