Question 1

What does Luke 11:39 mean?

Accepted Answer

Luke 11:39 describes Jesus telling the Pharisees that, although they carefully clean the outside of their cups and dishes, their hearts are full of greed and evil. The verse points out the difference between outward appearances and inward reality, warning against focusing only on what others can see. In this scene, Jesus is speaking directly to a Pharisee who had invited him to eat. The Pharisees were a religious group known for strict observance of rituals and rules. Jesus uses the image of washing cups and plates to highlight how the Pharisees pay attention to external religious practices but ignore the corruption and selfishness inside themselves.

Question 2

The Greek behind Luke 11:39

Accepted Answer

The word for "ravening" is ἁρπαγή (harpagē), which means robbery or greed. This shows that Jesus is accusing the Pharisees not just of minor faults but of serious moral failings like taking advantage of others. The word for "wickedness" is πονηρία (ponēria), often understood as general evil or moral corruption. This emphasizes that the problem is deep within, not just a surface issue. The word for "outside" is ἔξωθεν (exōthen), meaning the external or visible part. This highlights the contrast Jesus is making between what people see and what is hidden inside.

Question 3

Why Luke 11:39 matters

Accepted Answer

Luke 11:39 clears up the common misunderstanding that religious rituals or outward actions are enough to make someone righteous; Jesus insists that inner character matters more. The verse emphasizes that God cares about the heart and motives, not just visible behavior or traditions. This verse connects to a larger theme in Luke where Jesus challenges hypocrisy and calls for genuine faith, not just a show of religion.

Luke 11:39 (KJV)