Luke 6:38

KJV

Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.

KJV (with Strong's)

Give {G1325}, and {G2532} it shall be given {G1325} unto you {G5213}; good {G2570} measure {G3358}, pressed down {G4085}, and {G2532} shaken together {G4531}, and {G2532} running over {G5240}, shall men give {G1325} into {G1519} your {G5216} bosom {G2859}. For {G1063} with the same {G846} measure {G3358} that {G3739} ye mete withal {G3354} it shall be measured {G488} to you {G5213} again {G488}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Give, and you will receive gifts -- the full measure, compacted, shaken together and overflowing, will be put right in your lap. For the measure with which you measure out will be used to measure back to you!"

Berean Standard Bible

Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.”

American Standard Version

give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, shall they give into your bosom. For with what measure ye mete it shall be measured to you again.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Luke 6:38 encapsulates a profound Kingdom principle articulated by Jesus, urging His followers to practice radical generosity. It promises that the measure of giving one extends to others will be reciprocated, not merely in equal measure, but in an overflowing, abundant fashion. This teaching underscores a divine economy where selfless giving leads to bountiful receiving, emphasizing both the character of God and the standard by which His children are called to live and interact with the world.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Luke 6:38 is nestled within Jesus' "Sermon on the Plain" ([Luke 6:17-49](/luke/6-17-49 "Luke 6:17-49 - The Sermon on the Plain")), a discourse that parallels much of Matthew's Sermon on the Mount. Specifically, this verse follows a series of challenging commands related to loving enemies, doing good to those who hate you, and turning the other cheek ([Luke 6:27-36](/luke/6-27-36 "Luke 6:27-36 - Love Your Enemies")). It directly builds upon the preceding verse, [Luke 6:37](/luke/6-37 "Luke 6:37 - Do Not Judge"), which warns against judging and condemning, and instead encourages forgiving, promising that one will be forgiven in return. Thus, [Luke 6:38](/luke/6-38 "Luke 6:38 - The Principle of Giving and Receiving") extends this principle of reciprocal action from judgment and forgiveness to the broader act of giving, making it a comprehensive call to a generous and gracious way of life that reflects God's own character. The subsequent verses continue to elaborate on the importance of hearing and obeying Jesus' words, culminating in the parable of the wise and foolish builders ([Luke 6:46-49](/luke/6-46-49 "Luke 6:46-49 - The Two Foundations")).

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The vivid imagery employed in [Luke 6:38](/luke/6-38 "Luke 6:38 - The Principle of Giving and Receiving")—"good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over"—draws directly from the common marketplace practices of Jesus' time. When purchasing dry goods such as grain, flour, or produce, merchants would often measure out the commodity into a customer's container. A truly generous or honest merchant would not simply fill the container to the brim but would go to extra lengths: pressing the contents down to remove air pockets, shaking the container to settle the goods, and then adding more until it overflowed. The phrase "into your bosom" refers to a common practice where the outer garment (often a cloak or robe) was gathered and folded at the chest to form a large pouch or pocket, used for carrying goods. This visual would have immediately resonated with Jesus' audience, painting a clear picture of abundant, overflowing generosity that went beyond mere obligation, illustrating a standard of giving that was both practical and culturally understood as exceptionally liberal.

* **Key Themes:** [Luke 6:38](/luke/6-38 "Luke 6:38 - The Principle of Giving and Receiving") is central to several key themes within the Sermon on the Plain and the broader Lukan narrative. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Kingdom Ethics**, challenging believers to live by a standard that transcends conventional human reciprocity. Instead of "an eye for an eye," Jesus calls for a radical, proactive generosity that mirrors God's own character. Secondly, the verse emphasizes **Divine Reciprocity and Reward**, not as a transactional exchange, but as a natural consequence within God's economy. Those who give generously will receive generously, reflecting the principle of sowing and reaping. This is not limited to material blessings but extends to mercy, forgiveness, and grace, as seen in [Luke 6:37](/luke/6-37 "Luke 6:37 - Do Not Judge"). Thirdly, it speaks to the **Nature of God** as a benevolent and overflowing giver, inviting His followers to participate in and reflect this divine attribute. Finally, it reinforces the theme of **Radical Discipleship**, where the call to "give" is part of a larger invitation to surrender self-interest and embrace a life of sacrificial love and trust in God's abundant provision, as contrasted with the self-serving attitudes Jesus critiques elsewhere in [Luke 6](/luke/6 "Luke 6 - The Sermon on the Plain").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Give (Greek, _dídōmi'_):** This verb, G1325, is a primary verb meaning "to give" in a very wide application. It can signify giving properly or by implication, literally or figuratively. Its usage here is a direct command, indicating an active, intentional act of imparting something to another. The breadth of its meaning suggests that "giving" in this context is not limited to material possessions but encompasses all forms of generosity—time, talent, forgiveness, mercy, and love. The command is not merely a suggestion but a foundational ethical imperative for those who follow Jesus.
* **Measure (Greek, _métron'_):** This noun, G3358, denotes a "measure" or "metre," referring to a fixed standard of size. Figuratively, it implies a limited portion or degree. In [Luke 6:38](/luke/6-38 "Luke 6:38 - The Principle of Giving and Receiving"), "measure" serves as a metaphor for the standard or quantity of generosity one extends. It's the criterion by which one's actions are gauged, and critically, it's the very standard that will be applied back to the giver. The concept of a "good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over" vividly illustrates a generous, abundant standard, contrasting with a stingy or minimal one.
* **Measured again (Greek, _antimetréō'_):** This verb, G488, is a compound word formed from `antí` (against, in return) and `metréō` (to measure). It specifically means "to mete in return" or "to measure back." This word highlights the reciprocal nature of the principle Jesus is teaching. It's not just that giving will result in receiving, but that the *quality* and *quantity* of what is received will correspond directly to the *quality* and *quantity* of what was given. This emphasizes divine justice and the inherent spiritual law of sowing and reaping, where one's actions set the standard for their own experience of God's grace and others' responses.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Give, and it shall be given unto you;"**: This opening clause establishes the core command and its immediate promise. "Give" (G1325, _dídōmi_) is an imperative, a direct call to action, indicating that the initiative lies with the believer. The passive voice "it shall be given" implies a divine agency or a natural consequence set in motion by God's design, ensuring the promised return. This is not a transactional formula but a declaration of a spiritual law: generosity begets reception.
* **"good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom."**: This clause elaborates on the *nature* of the promised return. The "good measure" (G2570 _kalós_ G3358 _métron_) indicates a generous and excellent quantity. The participles "pressed down" (G4085 _piézō_), "shaken together" (G4531 _saleúō_), and "running over" (G5240 _hyperekchýnō_) are vivid agricultural and marketplace images. They describe the meticulous effort of a generous vendor ensuring maximum volume, far exceeding a mere level fill. The phrase "shall men give into your bosom" indicates that the return often comes through human agents, but ultimately orchestrated by divine providence, flowing into the folds of one's garment, symbolizing a full and abundant reception.
* **"For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again."**: This concluding clause provides the rationale ("For," G1063 _gár_) and reinforces the underlying principle. It explicitly states that the standard ("measure," G3358 _métron_) one uses to "mete withal" (G3354 _metréō_, to measure or allot) for others will be the exact standard by which they themselves are "measured again" (G488 _antimetréō_). This highlights the profound connection between our actions and their consequences, emphasizing that our generosity (or lack thereof) sets the precedent for what we will experience. It's a divine echo, where the quality of our giving determines the quality of our receiving, not just materially, but in all aspects of life, including judgment, forgiveness, and grace.

#### Literary Devices
Luke 6:38 is rich with **Imagery**, drawing a powerful picture from the ancient marketplace. The description of "good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over" vividly portrays the act of filling a container with dry goods, making the abstract concept of generosity tangible and relatable. This imagery functions as a **Metaphor**, where the physical act of measuring goods serves as a standard for one's spiritual and relational generosity. The phrase "running over" also employs **Hyperbole**, an exaggeration used for emphasis, suggesting a return that far exceeds the initial investment, underscoring the boundless nature of divine reciprocity. Furthermore, the verse exhibits **Parallelism** and a form of **Chiasmus** in its structure, particularly in the repetition of the "measure" concept: "Give... good measure... with the same measure that ye mete... it shall be measured to you again." This rhetorical device emphasizes the direct correlation between one's giving and receiving, reinforcing the core teaching through structural symmetry. The use of these devices makes Jesus' teaching memorable, impactful, and easily understood by His audience.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Luke 6:38 profoundly illuminates the nature of God's Kingdom and the ethics that govern it. It reveals God not as a meticulous accountant, but as an overflowing giver whose generosity is the pattern for His children. The principle of "good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over" reflects the very character of God, who gives abundantly and beyond human expectation, as seen in creation, redemption, and daily provision. This verse challenges believers to move beyond a transactional worldview to embrace a relational one, where giving is an act of faith and love, trusting in God's ultimate provision and the inherent spiritual law that generosity unlocks greater blessing. It teaches that our capacity to receive is often directly tied to our willingness to give, not out of a desire for reward, but out of a heart transformed by God's own magnanimous spirit. This divine economy operates on principles contrary to worldly scarcity, promoting an ethic of super-abundance where giving leads to more, not less.

* [Matthew 7:2](/matthew/7-2 "Matthew 7:2 - The Measure of Judgment")
* [2 Corinthians 9:6-7](/2_corinthians/9-6-7 "2 Corinthians 9:6-7 - Sowing Generously")
* [Proverbs 11:24-25](/proverbs/11-24-25 "Proverbs 11:24-25 - Generosity and Prosperity")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Luke 6:38 serves as a powerful call to radical generosity, urging us to re-evaluate our approach to giving in all its forms. It challenges us to consider the "measure" we employ not only with our finances but also with our time, talents, forgiveness, mercy, and grace. Are we giving sparingly, or are we pouring out "good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over" in our interactions with others? This verse encourages a mindset of abundance rather than scarcity, fostering trust that as we generously sow into the lives of others, God will ensure our own needs are met, often in ways that far exceed our expectations. It calls us to embody the very generosity of God, understanding that the standard we apply to others will ultimately be applied to us. This principle moves beyond mere reciprocity; it's an invitation to participate in a divine flow where giving becomes a channel for receiving, transforming both the giver and the recipient, and ultimately reflecting the overflowing love of Christ in the world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life (beyond finances) might I be holding back, and how can I begin to give "good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over"?**
* **How does my current "measure" of giving reflect my trust in God's provision and His character as an abundant giver?**
* **What practical steps can I take this week to intentionally practice radical generosity towards someone, expecting nothing in return?**
* **How might adopting the principle of Luke 6:38 transform my relationships and my overall outlook on life?**

### FAQ

**Does this verse guarantee material wealth for generous givers?**

Answer: While [Luke 6:38](/luke/6-38 "Luke 6:38 - The Principle of Giving and Receiving") certainly implies a return, interpreting it solely as a promise of material wealth oversimplifies its profound spiritual and relational depth. The "measure" applies to all forms of giving—mercy, forgiveness, kindness, time, and resources. While material blessings may be part of the return, the primary emphasis is on the principle of divine reciprocity in a broader sense. God often repays generosity through unexpected opportunities, strengthened relationships, inner peace, and a deeper sense of purpose, not necessarily a direct financial windfall. The focus is on aligning with God's generous character, trusting that He will provide for those who prioritize His Kingdom.

**How does the "measure" apply beyond financial giving?**

Answer: The "measure" in [Luke 6:38](/luke/6-38 "Luke 6:38 - The Principle of Giving and Receiving") is a comprehensive metaphor for the standard of our conduct. If we are generous with our forgiveness, we will receive forgiveness. If we are merciful, we will receive mercy. If we are patient and understanding, these qualities will often be extended back to us. Jesus explicitly links this principle to non-judgment in [Luke 6:37](/luke/6-37 "Luke 6:37 - Do Not Judge"), stating, "Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven." This demonstrates that the principle of the "measure" extends to all aspects of our interactions, shaping our spiritual, emotional, and relational experiences.

**Is this a transactional promise, or something deeper?**

Answer: This is not a transactional promise in the sense of a quid pro quo where one gives to get. Instead, it's a declaration of a spiritual law inherent in God's Kingdom, much like the law of sowing and reaping ([Galatians 6:7](/galatians/6-7 "Galatians 6:7 - Sowing and Reaping")). Jesus is inviting His followers to participate in a divine economy rooted in His own overflowing generosity. The motivation for giving should be love and obedience, not a calculated expectation of return. The promise of "good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over" is a testament to God's abundant nature and His faithfulness to those who reflect His character, assuring them that their needs will be met as they prioritize Kingdom values.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Luke 6:38 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the preeminent Giver, embodying the very essence of "good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over." His entire life was an act of selfless giving, culminating in His sacrificial death on the cross. God "gave his only begotten Son" ([John 3:16](/john/3-16 "John 3:16 - God's Love and Giving")) to redeem humanity, a gift of immeasurable grace that truly runs over. Christ's giving was not merely sufficient but super-abundant, exceeding all human need and expectation. Furthermore, Jesus Himself lived by the "measure" He preached. He extended boundless mercy, forgiveness, and love to all, even His enemies. In return, He received a measure of glory and honor from the Father that is beyond human comprehension ([Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9-11 "Philippians 2:9-11 - Christ's Exaltation")). His resurrection and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit ([Acts 2:33](/acts/2-33 "Acts 2:33 - The Outpouring of the Spirit")) are expressions of this overflowing return. As believers, we are called to imitate Christ's generosity ([Ephesians 5:2](/ephesians/5-2 "Ephesians 5:2 - Christ's Sacrificial Love")), knowing that as we give ourselves away in love and service, we participate in His life and receive His abundant grace, which is always "more than enough" ([2 Corinthians 9:8](/2_corinthians/9-8 "2 Corinthians 9:8 - God's Abundant Grace")).

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

2 Corinthians 9:6

¶ But this [I say], He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully.

2 Corinthians 9:8

And God [is] able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all [things], may abound to every good work:

Deuteronomy 15:10

Thou shalt surely give him, and thine heart shall not be grieved when thou givest unto him: because that for this thing the LORD thy God shall bless thee in all thy works, and in all that thou puttest thine hand unto.

Mark 4:24

And he said unto them, Take heed what ye hear: with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you: and unto you that hear shall more be given.

Matthew 7:2

For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.

Proverbs 3:9

Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase:

Proverbs 3:10

So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine.