Luke 6:35-36

Luke 6:35-36

[35] But  love ye  enemies,  and  do good,  and  lend,  for nothing  again;  and  reward  great,  and  the children  of the Highest:  for  he  kind  unto  the unthankful  and  to the evil.  [36] Be ye  merciful,  as  Father  also  merciful. 

What does Luke 6:35-36 Mean?

Contextual Meaning

"But" (Gr. plen) introduces another strong contrast (cf. Luke 6:23). Rather than loving, doing good, and lending, as other people do with a desire to receive in return, the disciple should do these things with no thought of receiving back. That is how God gives and it is therefore how His children should give. Jesus promised a great reward for disciples who do this. The children of God can demonstrate their relationship to "the Most High" by behaving as He behaves. The use of this name for God highlights the disciple"s exalted position. Mercy toward all people should mark disciples" attitudes and actions as it marks God"s. This emphasis accords with Luke"s concern for people in need (cf. Luke 10:25-37). Matthew"s interest, on the other hand, was in God"s perfect righteousness (cf. Matthew 5:48; Matthew 19:21).