Luke 6:8

KJV

But he knew their thoughts, and said to the man which had the withered hand, Rise up, and stand forth in the midst. And he arose and stood forth.

KJV (with Strong's)

But {G1161} he {G846} knew {G1492} their {G846} thoughts {G1261}, and {G2532} said {G2036} to the man {G444} which {G3588} had {G2192} the withered {G3584} hand {G5495}, Rise up {G1453}, and {G2532} stand forth {G2476} in {G1519} the midst {G3319}. And {G1161} he arose {G450} and stood forth {G2476}.

Complete Jewish Bible

But he knew what they were thinking and said to the man with the shriveled hand, "Come up and stand where we can see you!" He got up and stood there.

Berean Standard Bible

But Jesus knew their thoughts and said to the man with the withered hand, “Get up and stand among us.” So he got up and stood there.

American Standard Version

But he knew their thoughts; and he said to the man that had his hand withered, Rise up, and stand forth in the midst. And he arose and stood forth.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Luke 6:8 captures a pivotal moment in Jesus' ministry, revealing His divine omniscience as He perceives the hostile intentions of the religious leaders. Despite their malicious thoughts, Jesus, with sovereign authority and compassion, commands a man with a withered hand to step forward publicly. The man's immediate and courageous obedience sets the stage for a miraculous healing, powerfully demonstrating Jesus' power over infirmity and His deliberate challenge to the rigid legalism surrounding Sabbath observance.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within a series of Sabbath controversies in Luke's Gospel, particularly in [Luke 6](/luke/6 "Luke 6 - Jesus and the Sabbath"). It immediately follows [Luke 6:7](/luke/6-7 "Luke 6:7 - The Pharisees Watch Jesus"), which explicitly states that the scribes and Pharisees were intently watching Jesus, seeking an accusation against Him for healing on the Sabbath. Jesus' direct command to the man, knowing their thoughts, is a deliberate and public confrontation, setting up His subsequent rhetorical question in [Luke 6:9](/luke/6-9 "Luke 6:9 - Jesus' Question about the Sabbath") regarding the lawfulness of doing good or evil on the Sabbath. This narrative segment highlights Jesus' authority and His reinterpretation of the Law, prioritizing human need and divine compassion over rigid legalistic interpretations.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Sabbath was a foundational pillar of Jewish life, a day of rest commanded by God in the Torah ([Exodus 20:8-11](/exodus/20-8-11 "Exodus 20:8-11 - The Fourth Commandment")). Over centuries, rabbinic traditions had developed intricate rules (Halakha) defining what constituted "work" on the Sabbath, often extending far beyond the biblical intent. Healing, unless life-threatening, was generally prohibited. The synagogue was the central place of community worship and instruction, making Jesus' actions here a public challenge to the religious establishment. The "withered hand" (Greek: _xērós_ G3584) likely refers to a chronic condition of atrophy or paralysis, a visible and undeniable physical ailment that would make the healing particularly remarkable and impossible to dismiss.
* **Key Themes:** Luke 6:8 contributes significantly to several key themes within Luke's Gospel and the broader New Testament. Foremost is the theme of **Divine Omniscience and Authority**, as Jesus' ability to "know their thoughts" underscores His unique divine insight and authority over human hearts and intentions. This passage also highlights **Jesus' Compassion vs. Legalism**, presenting a stark contrast between Jesus' concern for human suffering and the Pharisees' rigid adherence to man-made traditions. The immediate and public nature of the healing emphasizes Jesus' **Sovereignty over Disease and the Law**, demonstrating that His authority transcends both physical limitations and human interpretations of divine commands. Furthermore, the man's prompt response introduces the theme of **Obedient Faith**, showcasing the transformative power of trusting and acting upon Jesus' word, even in challenging circumstances, a theme echoed in other healing narratives in [Luke 5:20-25](/luke/5-20-25 "Luke 5:20-25 - Healing the Paralytic") and [Luke 7:1-10](/luke/7-1-10 "Luke 7:1-10 - The Centurion's Faith").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **knew (Greek, _eídō'_ G1492):** This verb, often translated as "to see," implies a profound, intuitive understanding or perception, rather than merely intellectual knowledge. In the perfect tense, as used here, it carries the sense of "to have seen, and therefore to know." It signifies Jesus' immediate and complete comprehension of the Pharisees' hidden motives and internal deliberations, demonstrating His divine insight into the human heart.
* **thoughts (Greek, _dialogismós'_ G1261):** Derived from a verb meaning "to reason thoroughly," this noun refers to inward reasonings, deliberations, or reflections. In this context, it carries a negative connotation, implying hostile intentions, malicious schemes, or contentious disputations. Jesus knew not just their surface-level observations but the deep-seated, critical, and accusatory "thoughts" they harbored against Him.
* **Rise up (Greek, _egeírō'_ G1453):** This verb means "to waken," "to rouse," or "to raise up." It can be used literally (from sleep, sitting, or lying) or figuratively (from disease, obscurity, or even death). Here, it is a powerful command for the man to change his physical posture, but it also carries the spiritual implication of being roused from a state of inactivity or brokenness into a position of visibility and readiness for transformation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But he knew their thoughts,"**: This opening clause immediately establishes Jesus' divine omniscience. The conjunction "But" (G1161 _dé_) introduces a contrast between the Pharisees' hidden, hostile intentions and Jesus' complete awareness of them. Jesus does not need to be told; He intrinsically knows their inner reasonings and malicious designs, highlighting His supernatural nature and authority over the human heart.
* **"and said to the man which had the withered hand,"**: Despite knowing the Pharisees' intent to accuse Him, Jesus turns His attention to the suffering individual. This demonstrates His unwavering compassion and His prioritization of human need over the legalistic scrutiny of His adversaries. The phrase "the man which had the withered hand" emphasizes the visible and chronic nature of the man's affliction, making the subsequent healing undeniably miraculous.
* **"Rise up, and stand forth in the midst."**: Jesus' command is direct, authoritative, and public. "Rise up" (_egeírō_) implies a change from a seated or passive position, while "stand forth in the midst" (_hístēmi_ G2476, _eis_ G1519 _mésos_ G3319) specifically instructs the man to move to the center of the synagogue, making him and the impending miracle the focal point for everyone, including the watchful Pharisees. This public display is a deliberate challenge to their accusations.
* **"And he arose and stood forth."**: The man's immediate and unqualified obedience is crucial. He does not hesitate or question, but promptly responds to Jesus' command. This act of faith and obedience, even in a potentially confrontational public setting, sets the stage for his miraculous healing and underscores the power of responding to Christ's call.

#### Literary Devices
Luke 6:8 employs several potent literary devices. **Irony** is prominent, as the Pharisees, who believe they are observing Jesus to catch Him, are themselves exposed by Jesus' divine knowledge of their innermost "thoughts." Their hidden malice is laid bare by the very one they seek to condemn. **Contrast** is also central, juxtaposing the rigid, unfeeling legalism of the religious leaders with the compassionate, life-giving authority of Jesus. The withered hand itself functions as **Symbolism**, representing not only physical brokenness but also the spiritual paralysis and barrenness that can result from a legalistic adherence to rules without love. Jesus' command to "Rise up, and stand forth" is an act of **Dramatic Tension**, escalating the confrontation and drawing all eyes to the impending miracle, forcing the Pharisees to confront the undeniable power of God at work.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse powerfully affirms Jesus' divine nature and authority. His ability to "know their thoughts" is not merely an astute observation but a demonstration of divine omniscience, a characteristic belonging to God alone ([1 Chronicles 28:9](/1_chronicles/28-9 "1 Chronicles 28:9 - God Searches All Hearts")). This insight into the human heart underscores that Jesus sees beyond outward appearances and religious pretense, penetrating to the core of human motives and intentions. His subsequent command to the man with the withered hand, despite the hostile scrutiny, reveals His unwavering commitment to compassion and His sovereign authority over both physical infirmity and the misinterpretations of God's Law. Jesus' actions consistently challenge the prevailing legalism, asserting that the Sabbath was made for humanity's good, not humanity for the Sabbath's rigid observance, embodying the true spirit of the Law, which is love and mercy.

* [Mark 2:8](/mark/2-8 "Mark 2:8 - Jesus Knows Their Thoughts")
* [Matthew 12:9-14](/matthew/12-9-14 "Matthew 12:9-14 - Healing on the Sabbath")
* [Hebrews 4:13](/hebrews/4-13 "Hebrews 4:13 - God's Omniscience")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Luke 6:8 serves as a profound mirror for self-examination and a powerful call to action. Jesus' complete knowledge of the Pharisees' thoughts reminds us that nothing is hidden from Him; He sees our deepest intentions, our hidden motives, and the true condition of our hearts. This should prompt us to cultivate authenticity and integrity, aligning our inner thoughts with our outward actions, knowing that we stand before an all-knowing God. Furthermore, the contrast between Jesus' compassion and the Pharisees' legalism challenges us to critically examine our own spiritual practices. Are our religious observances driven by genuine love, mercy, and a desire to do good, or have they become rigid, rule-bound rituals that hinder compassion and neglect human need? The man's immediate obedience to Jesus' call to "rise up and stand forth" is a powerful example of faith in action. Even when stepping into the spotlight might invite scrutiny, discomfort, or opposition, our prompt and courageous obedience to Christ's commands can lead to profound personal transformation and become a powerful testimony to God's power for others. This verse encourages us to step out in faith, even when it feels vulnerable, trusting that Jesus will meet us in our obedience and demonstrate His power through us.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Jesus' knowledge of the Pharisees' thoughts challenge our own hidden motives and intentions in our spiritual walk?**
* **In what areas of our lives or our churches might we be prioritizing rigid rules or traditions over genuine compassion and human need, similar to the Pharisees?**
* **What "withered hands" (areas of brokenness, inactivity, or fear) might Jesus be calling us to "rise up" from today, and what might our prompt obedience reveal about His power?**

### FAQ
**What was the significance of the "withered hand" in this context?**

Answer: The "withered hand" (Greek: _xērós_ G3584, meaning "dry" or "shrunken") refers to a severe, chronic condition, likely atrophy or paralysis, where the limb had lost its function and vitality. Its significance is twofold: First, it was a visible and undeniable physical ailment, making any healing a clear and public miracle. Second, according to the rabbinic interpretations of the Sabbath law, healing such a non-life-threatening condition was considered "work" and therefore forbidden on the Sabbath. By choosing to heal this man, Jesus deliberately confronted the Pharisees' rigid legalism, highlighting their misplaced priorities and asserting His authority over their traditions.

**Why did Jesus command the man to "stand forth in the midst"?**

Answer: Jesus' command for the man to "stand forth in the midst" (Greek: _eis_ G1519 _mésos_ G3319) was a deliberate and strategic move. It served to make the impending miracle undeniably public, forcing all present—especially the watchful scribes and Pharisees—to witness God's power. It was a direct challenge to their hidden intentions and a clear demonstration that Jesus was not performing His works in secret but openly, asserting His authority. This public act also provided a clear context for Jesus' subsequent question in [Luke 6:9](/luke/6-9 "Luke 6:9 - Jesus' Question about the Sabbath") about the lawfulness of doing good on the Sabbath, putting the religious leaders on the spot and exposing their lack of compassion.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Luke 6:8, while a specific historical event, resonates deeply with the broader Christ-centered narrative of redemption. Jesus' divine omniscience, knowing the thoughts of His adversaries, points to His inherent deity as the Son of God, who alone possesses the power to search hearts and minds ([John 2:24-25](/john/2-24-25 "John 2:24-25 - Jesus Knew All People")). His compassionate command to the man with the withered hand foreshadows His ultimate work of spiritual healing. Just as He restored a physically paralyzed limb, Christ comes to restore humanity from the spiritual paralysis of sin, calling us to "rise up" from spiritual death and "stand forth" in newness of life ([Ephesians 2:1-5](/ephesians/2-1-5 "Ephesians 2:1-5 - Made Alive in Christ")). His confrontation with legalism on the Sabbath reveals His role as the fulfillment of the Law, embodying its true intent of love and mercy ([Matthew 5:17](/matthew/5-17 "Matthew 5:17 - Jesus Fulfills the Law")). He did not come to abolish the Law but to fulfill it by demonstrating that compassion and doing good are always lawful, even on the Sabbath ([Romans 13:10](/romans/13-10 "Romans 13:10 - Love Fulfills the Law")). The man's immediate obedience serves as a powerful model of faith in Christ, who invites us to step out of our brokenness and into His transformative power, becoming living testimonies to His grace and authority ([2 Corinthians 5:17](/2_corinthians/5-17 "2 Corinthians 5:17 - New Creation in Christ")). Ultimately, Jesus is the one who empowers us to "rise up" from our spiritual infirmities and "stand forth" as His redeemed people, living lives of purpose and obedience in His Kingdom ([Colossians 3:1-3](/colossians/3-1-3 "Colossians 3:1-3 - Set Your Minds on Things Above")).

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

Matthew 9:4

And Jesus knowing their thoughts said, Wherefore think ye evil in your hearts?

Revelation 2:23

And I will kill her children with death; and all the churches shall know that I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto every one of you according to your works.

John 21:17

He saith unto him the third time, Simon, [son] of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep.

Luke 5:22

But when Jesus perceived their thoughts, he answering said unto them, What reason ye in your hearts?

Acts 26:26

For the king knoweth of these things, before whom also I speak freely: for I am persuaded that none of these things are hidden from him; for this thing was not done in a corner.

Psalms 44:21

Shall not God search this out? for he knoweth the secrets of the heart.

John 9:4

I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.