Luke 6:40

KJV

The disciple is not above his master: but every one that is perfect shall be as his master.

KJV (with Strong's)

The disciple {G3101} is {G2076} not {G3756} above {G5228} his {G846} master {G1320}: but {G1161} every one {G3956} that is perfect {G2675} shall be {G2071} as {G5613} his {G846} master {G1320}.

Complete Jewish Bible

A talmid is not above his rabbi; but each one, when he is fully trained, will be like his rabbi.

Berean Standard Bible

A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone who is fully trained will be like his teacher.

American Standard Version

The disciple is not above his teacher: but every one when he is perfected shall be as his teacher.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Luke 6:40 articulates a foundational principle of discipleship, emphasizing that a student's ultimate aim is to fully embody the character and teachings of their master. This verse, situated within Jesus' broader discourse on authentic discipleship, underscores the transformative power of spiritual mentorship and the call for believers to attain a state of full training and maturity, reflecting the very nature of Christ Himself.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is an integral part of Jesus' "Sermon on the Plain" (Luke 6:20-49), which parallels Matthew's "Sermon on the Mount." Immediately preceding Luke 6:40, Jesus delivers profound teachings on love for enemies, turning the other cheek, giving generously, and, crucially, the imperative not to judge others (Luke 6:27-38). He then uses the parable of the blind leading the blind (Luke 6:39) to illustrate the necessity of a qualified teacher. Luke 6:40 naturally flows from this, asserting that a disciple cannot surpass their master, but rather, through proper training, will become like them. The subsequent verses (Luke 6:41-42) extend this theme with the vivid imagery of removing the "plank" from one's own eye before attempting to remove the "speck" from another's, reinforcing the idea that internal transformation is prerequisite for effective service and genuine discipleship.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Jewish world, the relationship between a rabbi (teacher) and his *talmidim* (disciples) was profoundly intimate and transformative. Disciples would not merely attend lectures; they would live with their master, observe his every action, and strive to emulate his lifestyle, character, and interpretation of the Torah. The goal was to become so thoroughly immersed in the master's way that one could "dust oneself with the dust of their rabbi's feet." This cultural paradigm provides a rich backdrop for Jesus' statement, highlighting that His disciples were expected to do more than just intellectually assent to His teachings; they were to become living embodiments of His character and mission. This deep commitment to imitation was a hallmark of rabbinic discipleship, which Jesus both affirmed and elevated to a new spiritual plane.
* **Key Themes:** Luke 6:40 contributes significantly to several overarching themes in Luke's Gospel and the broader New Testament. Foremost is the theme of **Discipleship and Imitation**, where the ideal disciple is one who not only learns from but also becomes like their master. This is not merely intellectual assimilation but a holistic transformation of character and conduct, mirroring the master's virtues. Another key theme is **Spiritual Maturity and Transformation**, as the verse speaks to the process of being "perfected" or "fully trained." This implies a journey of growth where believers are equipped and prepared to live out the teachings of Christ. The verse also subtly touches upon **Humility and Authority**, reminding disciples that they are not superior to their teacher, especially when that teacher is the Son of God. This echoes similar teachings found in [Matthew 10:24-25](/matthew/10-24-25 "Matthew 10:24-25 - Disciple Not Above Master"), emphasizing the unique authority of Jesus and the humble posture required of those who follow Him.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **disciple (Greek, _mathētḗs'_):** From the verb *manthanō* ("to learn"), a *mathētḗs* is primarily a learner or pupil. In the context of Jesus' ministry, a disciple was more than just a student; they were followers who committed to a way of life, embracing the teachings and lifestyle of their master. This term signifies an active, ongoing process of learning and adherence.
* **master (Greek, _didáskalos'_):** Derived from *didaskō* ("to teach"), a *didáskalos* is an instructor, teacher, or doctor (of the law). It denotes one who possesses authority and imparts knowledge and wisdom. In this verse, it refers to Jesus Himself, the ultimate teacher whose authority and example are to be emulated.
* **perfect (Greek, _katartízō'_):** This verb means "to complete thoroughly," "to repair," "to adjust," "to fit," "to frame," or "to restore." When used in its participial form (as in the KJV "perfect"), it conveys the sense of being "fully trained," "equipped," or "made fit." It does not imply sinless perfection but rather a state of being brought to completion, readiness, or full competence in the context of one's training under the master.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The disciple is not above his master":** This initial clause establishes a fundamental truth about the relationship between a student and a teacher. It asserts the inherent authority and superiority of the master over the disciple. In the context of Jesus' teaching, it serves as a humble reminder that no follower can ever surpass the wisdom, character, or authority of Christ. It sets the stage for the subsequent positive statement, grounding the expectation for transformation in a recognition of Jesus' preeminence.
* **"but every one that is perfect shall be as his master.":** This second clause presents the ultimate goal and outcome of true discipleship. The conjunction "but" (G1161, _dé_) introduces a contrasting yet complementary idea. The phrase "every one that is perfect" refers to a disciple who has undergone the full process of training and equipping (*katartízō*), reaching a state of maturity and readiness. The promise is that such a disciple "shall be as his master"—meaning they will resemble, embody, and reflect the character, teachings, and actions of their teacher. For Christian disciples, this signifies the profound aspiration to become increasingly Christ-like.

#### Literary Devices
Luke 6:40 employs several literary devices to convey its profound message. **Contrast** is evident in the two clauses: the disciple is *not above* the master, *but* the "perfected" disciple *shall be as* the master. This antithetical parallelism highlights both the disciple's initial position of subordination and their ultimate potential for imitation. The verse also functions as a **Proverbial Statement**, offering a concise, memorable truth about the nature of learning and mentorship that applies broadly but is specifically tailored to spiritual discipleship. Furthermore, the entire statement serves as a **Metaphor** for spiritual growth, using the familiar educational relationship between a student and teacher to illustrate the transformative journey of becoming like Christ. The disciple's progress is measured not by surpassing the master, but by achieving a deep, internal resemblance.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Luke 6:40 is deeply theological, asserting that the ultimate purpose of Christian discipleship is conformity to the image of Christ. It underscores the active role of the disciple in learning and growing, while simultaneously highlighting the transformative power of the Master's teaching and example. This verse moves beyond mere intellectual assent to Jesus' teachings, calling for a holistic assimilation of His character, values, and mission. It implies that true spiritual maturity is not an independent achievement but a reflection of the Master's likeness, preparing the disciple to live out God's purposes in the world.

* [Matthew 10:24](/matthew/10-24 "Matthew 10:24 - Disciple Not Above Master")
* [Romans 8:29](/romans/8-29 "Romans 8:29 - Conformed to the Image of His Son")
* [Ephesians 4:13](/ephesians/4-13 "Ephesians 4:13 - Attaining Unity and Maturity in Christ")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Luke 6:40 offers a profound challenge and encouragement for every believer. It calls us to examine the quality of our discipleship: are we truly striving to become like our Master, Jesus Christ? This isn't about achieving a flawless, sinless state, but about a continuous process of growth, learning, and transformation. It means allowing His teachings to penetrate our hearts, His character to shape our attitudes, and His mission to define our actions. To be "perfect" in this context is to be fully equipped and thoroughly trained by Christ, ready to reflect His light in the world. This requires humility, a willingness to be taught, and a commitment to applying His truth in our daily lives. As we grow in Christ-likeness, we not only fulfill God's purpose for our lives but also become more effective witnesses to His transforming power.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific ways do I currently reflect the character and teachings of Jesus, my Master?**
* **What areas of my life need further "training" or "equipping" to become more like Christ?**
* **How does my pursuit of spiritual maturity impact my relationships and my witness to others?**
* **Who are the "masters" or influences in my life, and how do they shape my character?**

### FAQ
**What does Jesus mean by "perfect" in this verse?**

Answer: The Greek word translated "perfect" (G2675, *katartízō*) does not imply sinless perfection in the absolute sense. Instead, it means to be "fully trained," "equipped," "completed," "restored," or "made fit." In the context of discipleship, it refers to a student who has thoroughly absorbed and embodied the master's teachings, reaching a state of readiness and competence. The goal is to be brought to completion in one's training, thereby reflecting the master's character and abilities, rather than achieving moral infallibility. This idea of being "made fit" or "equipped" is crucial for understanding the journey of spiritual growth.

**How does this verse relate to Jesus' teaching on not judging others (Luke 6:37-38)?**

Answer: Luke 6:40 is strategically placed after Jesus' instructions on judging. The connection is profound: before one can effectively guide or correct another, one must first be "fully trained" and transformed by the Master. The parable of the blind leading the blind (Luke 6:39) immediately precedes this verse, illustrating the danger of unqualified leadership. A disciple who has not yet been "perfected" or fully trained in the ways of their Master, Jesus, is not yet truly equipped to guide others. This emphasizes that internal transformation and Christ-likeness are prerequisites for discerning judgment and effective ministry, reinforcing the need to remove the "plank" from one's own eye before addressing the "speck" in another's, as taught in [Luke 6:41-42](/luke/6-41-42 "Luke 6:41-42 - The Plank and the Speck").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Luke 6:40 finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who is the perfect Master, and in the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in making believers like Him. Jesus Himself perfectly embodied the will and character of His Father, stating, "I do nothing on my own authority, but speak just as the Father taught me" ([John 8:28](/john/8-28 "John 8:28 - Jesus Speaks What the Father Taught Him")). He is the archetypal Master, setting the standard for all who would follow. The "perfected" disciple, then, is one who is being conformed to the image of this perfect Master. This process is not achieved through human effort alone but through the indwelling Holy Spirit, who empowers believers to walk as Christ walked ([1 John 2:6](/1_john/2-6 "1 John 2:6 - Walking as Jesus Walked")) and transforms them "from one degree of glory to another" into the Lord's likeness ([2 Corinthians 3:18](/2_corinthians/3-18 "2 Corinthians 3:18 - Transformed into His Image")). The goal of Christian discipleship, as envisioned in this verse, is to reach the "stature of the fullness of Christ" ([Ephesians 4:13](/ephesians/4-13 "Ephesians 4:13 - Attaining Maturity in Christ")), becoming living reflections of the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")).

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

John 13:16

Verily, verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord; neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him.

John 15:20

Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also.

Matthew 10:24

The disciple is not above [his] master, nor the servant above his lord.

Matthew 10:25

It is enough for the disciple that he be as his master, and the servant as his lord. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebub, how much more [shall they call] them of his household?

Matthew 23:15

Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye compass sea and land to make one proselyte, and when he is made, ye make him twofold more the child of hell than yourselves.