6:23 6:23

Luke 6:24

6:25 6:25

Bible Versions

But woe unto you that are rich! for ye have received your consolation.
But {G4133} woe {G3759} unto you {G5213} that are rich {G4145}! for {G3754} ye have received {G568} your {G5216} consolation {G3874}.
"But woe to you who are rich, for you have already had all the comfort you will get!
But woe to you who are rich, for you have already received your comfort.
But woe unto you that are rich! for ye have received your consolation.

Commentary on Luke 6:24

Luke 6:24 is part of Jesus' "Sermon on the Plain," a significant discourse where He outlines the values and principles of His Kingdom. This verse introduces one of the "Woes," which serve as a stark contrast to the preceding "Beatitudes" (Luke 6:20-23). While the Beatitudes pronounce blessings upon the poor, hungry, weeping, and persecuted, the Woes issue warnings to those who are rich, full, laughing, and popular. This passage underscores a profound spiritual reversal of fortunes.

Key Themes

  • The Peril of Earthly Riches: This verse does not condemn wealth itself but rather highlights the spiritual danger of relying on it or finding ultimate satisfaction in it. For many, material possessions become their source of security and comfort, diverting their hearts from God. Jesus consistently warned about the challenges wealth poses to spiritual devotion, as seen in the parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus.
  • Misplaced Consolation: The phrase "ye have received your consolation" implies that the rich have already obtained their comfort, reward, and satisfaction in this earthly life. Unlike those who suffer now but will be comforted in God's kingdom, the rich who cling to their temporal wealth have exhausted their spiritual account. This is a profound warning that earthly comfort can be a barrier to eternal blessing.
  • Divine Reversal: A central theme in Luke's Gospel is the reversal of human expectations and societal norms in God's economy. Those esteemed by the world (the rich, full, laughing) are often spiritually impoverished, while those overlooked or suffering (the poor, hungry, weeping) are blessed by God. This challenges listeners to prioritize eternal values over fleeting worldly gains.

Linguistic Insights

The term "woe" (Greek: οὐαί - ouai) is a powerful exclamation of lament, sorrow, or warning. It is not necessarily a curse, but a solemn declaration of a regrettable state or impending misfortune. It conveys deep sadness over the spiritual condition and ultimate fate of those addressed. The word "consolation" (Greek: παράκλησις - paraklesis) refers here to comfort, solace, or recompense. The implication is that the rich have received their full measure of comfort and reward in this life, leaving them spiritually bankrupt for the life to come.

Practical Application

Luke 6:24 calls every believer to a profound self-examination of their priorities. In a world that often equates success with material wealth, this verse challenges us to consider where our true security and comfort lie. Are we finding our ultimate satisfaction in earthly possessions, status, or fleeting pleasures, or in our relationship with God? This passage encourages a detached attitude toward wealth, reminding us that we should not lay up treasures on earth. Instead, it prompts us to use our resources for God's glory and the benefit of others, recognizing that true and lasting consolation comes from Him alone.

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.

  • Psalms 49:6

    ¶ They that trust in their wealth, and boast themselves in the multitude of their riches;

  • Psalms 49:7

    None [of them] can by any means redeem his brother, nor give to God a ransom for him:

  • Matthew 6:2

    Therefore when thou doest [thine] alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.

  • 1 Timothy 6:17

    Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy;

  • James 5:1

    ¶ Go to now, [ye] rich men, weep and howl for your miseries that shall come upon [you].

  • James 5:6

    Ye have condemned [and] killed the just; [and] he doth not resist you.

  • James 2:6

    But ye have despised the poor. Do not rich men oppress you, and draw you before the judgment seats?
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