Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you." Give, and it will be given to you.This phrase emphasizes the principle of generosity and reciprocity. In the cultural context of the time, giving was not only a religious duty but also a social expectation. The act of giving is seen as a reflection of one's faith and trust in God's provision. This principle is echoed in other scriptures, such as Proverbs 11:25, which states, "A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed." The idea is that God rewards those who are generous with their resources, whether material or spiritual. 2Co 9:6 Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap… A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over This imagery comes from the marketplace practices of the time, where grains or other commodities were measured. A "good measure" refers to a full and honest measure, while "pressed down, shaken together, and running over" describes the process of ensuring the container is filled to its maximum capacity. This phrase suggests abundance and overflowing blessings, indicating that God's rewards for generosity are not just adequate but abundant. It reflects the nature of God's grace, which is lavish and overflowing. Psa 23:5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.… will be poured into your lap. In ancient times, people wore long robes with a fold or pouch in the front, which could be used to carry items. The image of something being poured into one's lap signifies receiving an abundance that is more than one can hold. This phrase underscores the personal and direct nature of God's blessings, suggesting that they will be evident and tangible in one's life. Rut 3:15 And he told her, “Bring the shawl you are wearing… For with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.” This statement reinforces the principle of reciprocity and fairness. It implies that the standard one uses in giving will be the standard used in receiving. This concept is consistent with the biblical theme of sowing and reaping, as seen in Galatians 6:7, "Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows." It serves as a reminder of the moral and spiritual law that governs generosity and the consequences of one's actions. Mat 7:2 For with the same judgment you pronounce,… Persons / Places / Events 1. Jesus ChristThe speaker of this verse, delivering a sermon that includes teachings on love, mercy, and judgment. 2. Disciples and Followers The primary audience of Jesus' teachings, including this verse, which is part of the Sermon on the Plain. 3. The Sermon on the Plain A significant teaching moment in the Gospel of Luke where Jesus addresses a large crowd, offering guidance on living a life that reflects God's kingdom values. Teaching Points Principle of GenerosityJesus teaches that giving is not just a command but a principle that brings blessings. The imagery of "pressed down, shaken together, and running over" illustrates abundance and overflow. Reciprocity in God's Kingdom The measure we use in giving—whether in resources, time, or love—will be the measure returned to us. This principle encourages self-reflection on how we treat others. Heart Attitude in Giving The original Greek word for "measure" (metron) suggests a standard or rule. Our standard of giving should reflect God's generosity, not human limitations. Practical Generosity This teaching encourages believers to practice generosity in everyday life, trusting that God will provide and bless abundantly. Spiritual and Material Blessings While the verse speaks to material giving, it also applies to spiritual generosity—sharing love, forgiveness, and grace with others. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the principle of "measure for measure" challenge your current approach to giving and generosity?2. In what ways can you apply the concept of "pressed down, shaken together, and running over" in your relationships and community involvement? 3. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's abundant return on your generosity. How did it impact your faith? 4. How do the additional scriptures (Matthew 7:2, Proverbs 11:25, 2 Corinthians 9:6, Galatians 6:7) deepen your understanding of Luke 6:38? 5. What practical steps can you take this week to embody the generosity Jesus describes in this verse? Connections to Other Scriptures Matthew 7:2This verse parallels Luke 6:38, emphasizing the principle of reciprocity in judgment and generosity. Proverbs 11:25 Highlights the blessing of generosity, stating that a generous person will prosper and be refreshed. 2 Corinthians 9:6 Paul echoes the principle of sowing and reaping, encouraging believers to give generously. Galatians 6:7 Reinforces the idea that a person reaps what they sow, applicable to both actions and attitudes.
People Alphaeus, Andrew, Bartholomew, David, James, Jesus, John, Judas, Matthew, Peter, Philip, Simon, Thomas, ZelotesPlaces Galilee, Jerusalem, Judea, Sidon, TyreTopics Bestowed, Bosom, Crushed, Full, Gifts, Lap, Laps, Measure, Measured, Measure-pressed, Mete, Pour, Poured, Pressed, Return, Running, Shaken, Standard, WithalDictionary of Bible Themes Luke 6:38 1330 God, the provider 6126 condemnation, human 2042 Christ, justice of Library Laws of the Kingdom'And He lifted up His eyes on His disciples, and said, Blessed be ye poor: for yours is the kingdom of God, 21. Blessed are ye that hunger now: for ye shall be filled. Blessed are ye that weep now: for ye shall laugh. 22. Blessed are ye, when men shall hate you, and when they shall separate you from their company, and shall reproach you, and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of man's sake. 23. Rejoice ye in that day, and leap for joy; for, behold, your reward is great in heaven: for in the … Alexander Maclaren—Expositions Of Holy Scripture Three Condensed Parables Our Deserts Sermon for the Fourth Sunday after Trinity The Blessing of Mercy, Rash Decisions. The Reward of Obedience. "Be Doers of the Word. " The Golden Rule of Life. That all Hope and Trust is to be Fixed in God Alone Judged by Fruit The Christian Assisted in Examining into his Growth in Grace. We Shall not be Curious in the Ranking of the Duties in which Christian Love... Whether Poverty of Spirit is the Beatitude which Corresponds to the Gift of Fear Whether the Beatitudes Differ from the virtues and Gifts? Epistle xxxii. To Anastasius, Presbyter . Of Christian Liberty. How the Joyful and the Sad are to be Admonished. The Present Life as Related to the Future. In the Name of Christ "For as Many as are Led by the Spirit of God, they are the Sons of God. For Ye have not Received the Spirit of Bondage In the Bitter Cold of Winter the Trees Stand Bare of Leaves... Links Luke 6:38 NIVLuke 6:38 NLT Luke 6:38 ESV Luke 6:38 NASB Luke 6:38 KJV Luke 6:38 Commentaries Bible Hub |
    |