Then certain of the scribes answering said, Master, thou hast well said.

LUKE 20:39KJV
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Luke 20:39 (KJV)

What does Luke 20:39 mean?

Luke 20:39 describes how some of the scribes responded to Jesus by saying, “Master, thou hast well said.” This shows that certain religious experts publicly agreed with Jesus’ answer in the discussion that had just taken place.

In this scene, Jesus had been debating with various religious groups in the temple, including the Sadducees, who questioned him about the resurrection. After Jesus gave a wise and convincing reply, some scribes—who were teachers of the Jewish law—spoke up to commend his answer. Their words signal approval and perhaps relief, as the Sadducees’ challenge had been skillfully addressed.

The Greek behind Luke 20:39

  • “Master” (διδάσκαλε, didaskale): This word means “teacher.” The scribes are addressing Jesus respectfully, recognizing his authority in interpreting the law.
  • “Well” (καλῶς, kalōs): This word means “rightly” or “well.” The scribes are not just being polite—they are affirming that Jesus’ answer was correct and skillful, which is significant given the public setting and the rivalry between religious groups.

Why Luke 20:39 matters

  • Luke 20:39 highlights that not all religious leaders opposed Jesus; some recognized the wisdom in his teaching, at least in this moment.
  • This verse shows a rare moment of agreement between Jesus and some scribes, especially after a tense debate with the Sadducees, underlining the impact of Jesus’ answer.
  • The verse helps set the tone for the following events, showing that Jesus’ authority and insight were acknowledged even by those who were often his critics.

Where else these words appear

“well” Greek G2573 · used in 36 verses

  • Matthew 5:44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
  • John 4:17 The woman answered and said, I have no husband. Jesus said unto her, Thou hast well said, I have no husband:
  • Galatians 5:7 Ye did run well; who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth?

“Master” Greek G1320 · used in 57 verses

  • Matthew 8:19 And a certain scribe came, and said unto him, Master, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest.
  • Mark 12:14 And when they were come, they say unto him, Master, we know that thou art true, and carest for no man: for thou regardest not the person of men, but teachest the way of God in truth: Is it lawful to give tribute to Caesar, or not?
  • Luke 22:11 And ye shall say unto the goodman of the house, The Master saith unto thee, Where is the guestchamber, where I shall eat the passover with my disciples?

“scribes” Greek G1122 · used in 67 verses

  • Matthew 2:4 And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born.
  • Matthew 26:57 And they that had laid hold on Jesus led him away to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders were assembled.
  • Mark 15:1 And straightway in the morning the chief priests held a consultation with the elders and scribes and the whole council, and bound Jesus, and carried him away, and delivered him to Pilate.