Luke 6:28

Commentary on Luke 6:28 (NKJV)

Luke 6:28 (NKJV): “Bless those who curse you, and pray for those who spitefully use you.”

Context and Theological Teaching

The passage of Luke 6:28 is part of Jesus’ Sermon on the Plain, which is a parallel to the Sermon on the Mount found in Matthew 5-7. In this sermon, Jesus presents radical teachings that challenge conventional human behaviour and ethics. Luke 6:28 specifically calls for a response of blessing and prayer towards those who curse and mistreat us. This teaching is a profound example of agape love, which is unconditional and selfless love that reflects God’s love for humanity.

Interpretation

Christianity places a strong emphasis on the sovereignty of God, the authority of Scripture, and the necessity of grace. In this context, Luke 6:28 is understood as a call to embody the grace and mercy that God has shown to us. The command to bless and pray for our enemies is seen as an extension of the grace we have received through Christ. It is a practical outworking of the transformative power of the Gospel in the believer’s life.

Application to Modern Christian Living

In modern Christian living, Luke 6:28 challenges believers to respond to hostility and persecution with love and prayer. This teaching is counter-cultural and goes against the natural human inclination to retaliate or seek revenge. Instead, it calls Christians to reflect the character of Christ, who prayed for His persecutors even as He was crucified (Luke 23:34).

The application of this verse involves a commitment to forgiveness, intercession, and a desire for the well-being of those who oppose us. It requires a reliance on the Holy Spirit to cultivate a heart of compassion and mercy. In practical terms, this might involve praying for those who have wronged us, seeking opportunities to do good to them, and maintaining a posture of humility and grace.

This commentary on Luke 6:28 highlights its theological significance and practical application. By embracing this teaching, believers are called to live out the radical love and grace of Christ in their daily interactions, even towards those who oppose them.

Source(s)

1. Bible Gateway passage: Luke 6:28 – New King James Version

2. Enduring Word Bible Commentary Luke Chapter 6

3. Luke 6:28 (KJV) – Forerunner Commentary – Bible Tools

4. Luke 6:27-38 – Sermon Writer

5. Luke 6:27-38 – Center for Excellence in Preaching

6. Monergism

7. What I Mean When I Call Myself a “Reformed Evangelical”

8. Lesson 25: How to Live Happily Ever After (Luke 6:20-26)

9. 9. A Grace-Filled Way of Life (Luke 6:27-28; Colossians 4:5 … – JesusWalk

10. Luke 6 | Reformed Standards

11. Christian Theology – St Andrews Encyclopaedia of Theology