Luke 6:47 (KJV)

What does Luke 6:47 mean?

Luke 6:47 describes how Jesus compares those who come to him, listen to his teachings, and put them into practice to a particular kind of person. Jesus is about to illustrate what someone is like if they not only hear his words but also act on them.

In this verse, Jesus is speaking to a crowd during what is often called the "Sermon on the Plain." He is preparing his listeners for a comparison that will show the difference between merely hearing his words and actually living them out. The focus is on the importance of both listening to Jesus and following through with action, not just having knowledge.

The Greek behind Luke 6:47

• λέγω (logos, transliterated as "logos") — meaning "sayings" or "words." In this context, Jesus is referring to his own teachings, emphasizing that it is his message specifically that must be heard and acted upon.
• ποιέω (poieō, transliterated as "doeth" or "does") — meaning "to do" or "to make." The Greek carries the sense of actually carrying out or practicing what is heard, not just agreeing with it in theory.
• δείκνυμι (hupodeiknymi, transliterated as "shew" or "show") — meaning "to show" or "to demonstrate." Jesus is about to give a clear example, making the lesson practical and easy to picture.

Why Luke 6:47 matters

• Luke 6:47 sets up the well-known illustration of the wise and foolish builders, making it clear that Jesus is not just interested in people hearing his words, but in them living them out.
• The verse highlights that coming to Jesus and listening is not enough by itself; action is required for a solid foundation.
• This verse connects Jesus' teaching style to the wisdom tradition, where understanding is shown by how one lives, not just by what one knows or hears.