Luke 20:39

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

Then {G1161} certain {G5100} of the scribes {G1122} answering {G611} said {G2036}, Master {G1320}, thou hast well {G2573} said {G2036}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Some of the Torah-teachers answered, “Well spoken, Rabbi.”

Berean Standard Bible

Some of the scribes answered, “Teacher, You have spoken well!”

American Standard Version

And certain of the scribes answering said, Teacher, thou hast well said.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Luke 20:39 captures a pivotal moment where, immediately following Jesus' masterful refutation of the Sadducees' challenge regarding the resurrection, certain scribes commend Him, declaring, "Master, thou hast well said." This verse not only highlights Jesus' unparalleled wisdom and authority as a teacher but also underscores the significant theological divisions among the Jewish religious leaders of the time, particularly between the Sadducees and the scribes (who were often allied with the Pharisees and believed in the resurrection). Their unexpected praise serves as an implicit affirmation of the truth Jesus proclaimed and a testament to the undeniable power of His divine wisdom.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows a series of confrontational questions posed to Jesus by various Jewish religious factions in [Luke 20](/luke/20 "Luke 20 - Jesus' Authority Challenged"). Prior to this, Jesus had already silenced the chief priests and elders (Luke 20:1-8) and confounded the Pharisees and Herodians with His answer about paying taxes to Caesar (Luke 20:19-26). The Sadducees, a sect known for denying the resurrection, angels, and spirits, then attempted to trap Jesus with a hypothetical scenario about a woman married to seven brothers, all of whom died without issue (Luke 20:27-33). Jesus' response was profound and biblically grounded, not only affirming the resurrection but demonstrating it from the very Torah, which was the only part of the Old Testament the Sadducees fully accepted (Luke 20:34-38). He declared that God is "not a God of the dead, but of the living," referencing God's self-identification to Moses as the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The scribes' commendation in [Luke 20:39](/luke/20-39 "Luke 20:39 - Scribes Commend Jesus") thus serves as a powerful endorsement of Jesus' teaching, marking the culmination of this series of challenges where Jesus consistently demonstrated superior wisdom and divine authority, leaving His adversaries speechless.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Jewish society in Jesus' time was characterized by diverse religious and political factions. The **Sadducees** were primarily aristocratic priests, politically aligned with the Roman authorities, and religiously conservative in the sense that they only accepted the Pentateuch (the first five books of Moses) as authoritative Scripture. Crucially, they rejected the oral law, the concept of a bodily resurrection, the existence of angels, and the immortality of the soul, which set them apart from other Jewish groups. The **scribes** (Greek: *grammateis*) were experts in the Mosaic Law, responsible for interpreting and teaching it. They were often associated with the **Pharisees**, who, unlike the Sadducees, believed in the resurrection, the existence of angels, and the authority of the entire Old Testament canon, along with their extensive oral traditions. The Sanhedrin, the supreme Jewish governing council, comprised members from both Sadduceean and Pharisaic (scribal) backgrounds. The scribes' affirmation of Jesus' teaching on the resurrection, therefore, highlights the deep theological chasm between the Sadducees and the Pharisees/scribes. It demonstrates that while many religious leaders opposed Jesus, some were willing to acknowledge the truth of His arguments, especially when they aligned with their own theological convictions, even if they disagreed on other aspects of His ministry or identity.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes in Luke's Gospel and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully underscores **Jesus' unparalleled wisdom and divine authority** as a teacher. His ability to silence even the most learned and antagonistic religious leaders, using Scripture itself, demonstrates that His teaching is not merely human but divinely inspired. This aligns with the theme of Jesus' unique authority found throughout His ministry, as seen in [Matthew 7:28-29](/matthew/7-28-29 "Matthew 7:28-29 - Jesus Teaches with Authority"). Secondly, the scribes' commendation implicitly affirms the crucial **doctrine of the resurrection**. Jesus' defense of this truth against the Sadducees' skepticism is a foundational theological point, essential to Christian faith, as later expounded by Paul in [1 Corinthians 15](/1_corinthians/15 "1 Corinthians 15 - The Resurrection of Christ"). Thirdly, the incident reveals the **internal theological and political divisions within Jewish leadership**. Not all Jewish leaders were monolithic in their opposition to Jesus; some, like these scribes, found common ground with His teachings on certain points, exposing the complex dynamics and differing beliefs within the Sanhedrin and broader religious establishment. This internal conflict often worked to Jesus' advantage in these debates, as one group's defeat might be applauded by another.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Scribes (Greek, _grammateús_):** From γράμμα. A writer, i.e. (professionally) scribe or secretary. In the New Testament, these were primarily experts in the Mosaic Law, responsible for copying, interpreting, and teaching it. They were often associated with the Pharisees and, unlike the Sadducees, believed in the resurrection. Their commendation here is significant as it comes from a group generally knowledgeable in the Scriptures and often critical of Jesus.
* **Master (Greek, _didáskalos_):** From διδάσκω. An instructor, teacher. This title, frequently used for Jesus, acknowledges His role as a respected religious teacher. The scribes, themselves teachers of the Law, recognize Jesus' profound insight and skill in argument, elevating Him to a position of esteemed instruction.
* **Well (Greek, _kalōs_):** Adverb from καλός. Well (usually morally), rightly, excellently. This word signifies not just that Jesus' statement was good, but that it was entirely correct, appropriate, skillfully articulated, and morally sound. It conveys strong approval and recognition of the irrefutable logic and truth in Jesus' argument.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then certain of the scribes answering said,"**: This clause introduces the reaction of a specific group within the Jewish leadership. "Certain of the scribes" indicates that not all scribes were present or of the same mind, but a contingent of them, likely those aligned with Pharisaic beliefs, were impressed. Their "answering" implies a response to the preceding exchange, recognizing the decisive victory Jesus had achieved over the Sadducees.
* **"Master,"**: This address, using the Greek term *didáskalos*, signifies respect and acknowledgment of Jesus' authority as a teacher. It is a formal and deferential title, especially coming from scribes who were themselves considered masters of the Law.
* **"thou hast well said."**: This is the core of their commendation. The phrase "well said" (Greek: *kalōs eipas*) is a strong affirmation, indicating that Jesus' argument was not only correct but also eloquently and powerfully delivered. It implies that Jesus' reasoning was sound, irrefutable, and perfectly aligned with their own understanding of the Law regarding the resurrection.

#### Literary Devices
Luke 20:39 employs several literary devices to enhance its meaning. **Irony** is prominent, as the scribes, who often opposed Jesus or questioned His authority, now commend Him. This unexpected praise from a typically antagonistic group highlights the undeniable power and truth of Jesus' teaching. There is also a strong element of **Contrast**, specifically between the Sadducees, who are silenced and shamed, and the scribes, who openly approve of Jesus' argument. This contrast underscores the theological divide within Judaism and positions Jesus as the ultimate arbiter of truth. The scribes' statement functions as an **Affirmation** or **Endorsement**, providing external validation of Jesus' wisdom and divine insight, further solidifying His authority in the narrative. Finally, this moment could be seen as a subtle **Foreshadowing** of the complex and often shifting alliances and oppositions Jesus would face, demonstrating that truth can sometimes unite unlikely allies, even if temporarily.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The scribes' commendation in Luke 20:39 is more than a mere politeness; it is a profound theological statement. It validates Jesus' teaching on the resurrection, a doctrine central to God's redemptive plan and the hope of believers. By silencing the Sadducees and earning the approval of the scribes, Jesus demonstrates that His wisdom transcends human understanding and is rooted in divine truth. This affirms God's nature as a God of the living, not the dead, and underscores the continuity of His covenant promises across generations. It also reinforces the idea that true wisdom comes from God and is revealed through His Son, challenging all human-made doctrines that contradict divine revelation. The episode serves as a powerful reminder that God's truth will ultimately prevail against all forms of skepticism and error, even when championed by unexpected voices.

* [Matthew 7:28-29](/matthew/7-28-29 "Matthew 7:28-29 - Jesus Teaches with Authority")
* [1 Corinthians 15:12-20](/1_corinthians/15-12-20 "1 Corinthians 15:12-20 - The Importance of Resurrection")
* [Proverbs 1:7](/proverbs/1-7 "Proverbs 1:7 - The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Knowledge")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Luke 20:39 serves as a powerful reminder of the compelling nature of divine truth and the wisdom of Christ. In a world often characterized by skepticism, conflicting ideologies, and a reluctance to acknowledge truth, this passage encourages us to cultivate a spirit of discernment and humility. Like the scribes, we are called to recognize and affirm truth, regardless of its source, especially when it aligns with God's revealed Word. This means being willing to set aside preconceived notions, personal biases, or group loyalties in pursuit of what is genuinely right and true. Jesus' ability to answer complex theological questions with clarity and authority assures us that God's wisdom is sufficient for all of life's challenges and doubts, providing solid ground for our faith. Furthermore, the scribes' agreement on the resurrection highlights the enduring importance of foundational doctrines. For believers, this means standing firm on core biblical truths, understanding them deeply, and being prepared to articulate and defend them with both grace and conviction, trusting in the power of God's Word to silence opposition and illuminate hearts.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life or faith journey might you be resistant to acknowledging truth, perhaps due to personal biases or group affiliations?**
* **How does Jesus' masterful handling of the Sadducees' challenge encourage you to trust in God's wisdom for the complex questions you face?**
* **What core doctrines of your faith are most important to you, and how are you equipped to understand and articulate them?**
* **When have you witnessed truth being affirmed by unexpected sources, and what did that teach you about God's sovereignty?**

### FAQ

**Who were "certain of the scribes" and why did they commend Jesus?**

Answer: "Certain of the scribes" refers to a group of legal experts and teachers of the Jewish Law. They were often associated with the Pharisees, a religious sect that, unlike the Sadducees, believed in the resurrection of the dead, the existence of angels, and the immortality of the soul. They commended Jesus because His answer to the Sadducees' trick question about marriage in the resurrection ([Luke 20:27-38](/luke/20-27-38 "Luke 20:27-38 - The Sadducees' Question About the Resurrection")) perfectly aligned with their own theological convictions regarding the resurrection. Jesus' profound and biblically grounded refutation of the Sadducees' error earned their respect and approval, as it validated a truth they also upheld.

**Why is the scribes' commendation significant?**

Answer: The scribes' commendation is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it underscores Jesus' undeniable wisdom and authority as a teacher. Even those who were typically His adversaries or critics were compelled to acknowledge the brilliance and truth of His arguments. Secondly, it highlights the deep theological divisions within the Jewish leadership of the time, particularly between the Sadducees and the scribes/Pharisees. The scribes' praise of Jesus' refutation of the Sadducees demonstrates that not all religious leaders were united in their opposition to Him; some recognized the truth of His teachings, at least on certain points. This moment further validates Jesus' divine mission and the power of His words to expose error and affirm truth.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Luke 20:39, though a brief interjection, profoundly points to Christ's ultimate fulfillment as the embodiment of divine wisdom and the Victor over death. When the scribes declare, "Master, thou hast well said," they are unknowingly affirming the very Word of God made flesh. Jesus is not merely a wise teacher, but the source of all wisdom ([Colossians 2:3](/colossians/2-3 "Colossians 2:3 - In Christ are Hidden All Treasures of Wisdom")). His ability to silence the Sadducees, who denied the resurrection, foreshadows His own glorious triumph over death and the grave. He is the "firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep" ([1 Corinthians 15:20](/1_corinthians/15-20 "1 Corinthians 15:20 - Christ, the Firstfruits")), and His resurrection is the cornerstone of Christian hope. The scribes' partial recognition of His truth on one point hints at the broader call for all humanity to recognize Him as the Way, the Truth, and the Life ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life")). Ultimately, His "well said" words are not just intellectually sound, but are words of eternal life ([John 6:68](/john/6-68 "John 6:68 - Words of Eternal Life")), leading to salvation and the promise of resurrection for all who believe in Him ([John 11:25-26](/john/11-25-26 "John 11:25-26 - Jesus, the Resurrection and the Life")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Mark 12:28

¶ And one of the scribes came, and having heard them reasoning together, and perceiving that he had answered them well, asked him, Which is the first commandment of all?

Mark 12:34

And when Jesus saw that he answered discreetly, he said unto him, Thou art not far from the kingdom of God. And no man after that durst ask him [any question].

Matthew 22:34

¶ But when the Pharisees had heard that he had put the Sadducees to silence, they were gathered together.

Matthew 22:40

On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.

Acts 23:9

And there arose a great cry: and the scribes [that were] of the Pharisees' part arose, and strove, saying, We find no evil in this man: but if a spirit or an angel hath spoken to him, let us not fight against God.