And if ye do good to them which do good to you, what thank have ye? for sinners also do even the same.
LUKE 6:33KJVWhat does Luke 6:33 mean?
Luke 6:33 says that doing good only to those who do good to you is nothing special, because even people considered "sinners" do that much. The verse challenges the reader to go beyond ordinary kindness, pointing out that simply returning favors does not set anyone apart.
Jesus is speaking to a crowd, teaching about love and mercy in what is often called the "Sermon on the Plain." He uses this example to show that true goodness is not just about reciprocity; it is about showing kindness even when there is no expectation of return. The verse fits into a larger section where Jesus calls his followers to a higher standard of love and generosity.
The Greek behind Luke 6:33
- χάρις (charis, "thank" or "credit"): This word often means "grace" or "favor." Here, it suggests the idea of receiving credit or recognition. Jesus is asking what real credit someone deserves for loving only those who love them back.
- ἁμαρτωλοί (hamartōloi, "sinners"): This word refers to people seen as outside the religious or moral community. By saying even "sinners" do the same, Jesus highlights that reciprocal kindness is a basic human behavior, not something uniquely virtuous.
Why Luke 6:33 matters
- Luke 6:33 clears up the idea that simply being nice to those who are nice to you is enough; Jesus sets a higher expectation for his followers.
- The verse emphasizes that genuine goodness is shown when kindness is extended without expecting anything in return, which is a key theme in Jesus’ teachings.
- This verse connects to the broader message of Luke 6, where Jesus calls for radical love, generosity, and mercy, challenging common social norms of his time.