Luke 6:40

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

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}.

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

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

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

Commentary

Luke 6:40 KJV presents a foundational principle of discipleship, emphasizing the profound influence of a teacher on a student and the ultimate goal of spiritual maturity. This verse encapsulates Jesus' expectation for those who follow Him: to become like Him.

Context

This verse is part of Jesus' extensive teachings known as the "Sermon on the Plain" in Luke's Gospel, which parallels the "Sermon on the Mount" in Matthew. It follows immediately after Jesus' instructions on not judging others and the parable of the speck and the plank in the eye (Luke 6:37-42). The broader context of Luke 6:40 is about the internal transformation required for true discipleship, stressing that one's inner character dictates outward behavior and the quality of one's spiritual fruit.

Key Themes

  • Discipleship and Imitation: The core message is that a student (disciple) learns from and ultimately reflects the character and teachings of their master. For followers of Jesus, this means the goal is to become increasingly Christ-like in thought, word, and deed.
  • Spiritual Maturity and Transformation: The phrase "every one that is perfect shall be as his master" points to the process of spiritual growth. It implies that through diligent learning and application of the master's teachings, a disciple reaches a state of completion or full training.
  • Humility in Learning: The initial statement, "The disciple is not above his master," serves as a reminder of humility. Disciples should not presume to be superior to their teacher, especially when the teacher is Jesus Christ. This echoes a similar teaching found in Matthew 10:24-25.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV word "perfect" in Luke 6:40 translates the Greek term katērtismenos (κατηρτισμένος), which carries a rich meaning. It does not imply sinless perfection, but rather being "fully trained," "equipped," "completed," "restored," or "made fit." It speaks to the idea of being brought to a state of readiness and competence. In the context of discipleship, it signifies a disciple who has fully absorbed and embodied the master's teaching, thereby reflecting the master's character and abilities.

Significance and Application

Luke 6:40 holds profound significance for believers today. It sets the standard for Christian living: to emulate Jesus Christ. The ultimate aim of our spiritual journey is not merely to gain knowledge, but to be transformed into His likeness. This involves:

  • Following Christ's Example: We are called to live as Jesus lived, demonstrating His love, humility, and obedience (1 John 2:6).
  • Pursuing Spiritual Maturity: The verse encourages believers to diligently pursue spiritual growth, striving to be "fully trained" and equipped for God's purposes, just as Paul speaks of reaching the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ in Ephesians 4:13.
  • The Role of Mentorship: It highlights the importance of good spiritual leadership and the responsibility of those being discipled to learn and grow. When we are fully trained in the ways of our Master, we too can become effective mentors for others.

Ultimately, this verse challenges us to consider who our master truly is and to commit ourselves wholeheartedly to becoming like Him, reflecting His character and values in a world that desperately needs to see Christ.

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Cross-References

  • John 13:16 (15 votes)

    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 (9 votes)

    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 (8 votes)

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

  • Matthew 10:25 (8 votes)

    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 (5 votes)

    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.