Focal Passage: Luke 6:17-23, 27-31
As we begin to unwrap Luke 6:17-23 we have to acknowledge the similitude between this passage, which scholars refer to as, “The Sermon on the Plain”, to Matthew 5, which is referred to as, “The Sermon on the Mount”.
There are many similarities, but there are many differences as well. One such difference is topographical references given in each. In Matthew 5:1, it says Jesus went up on a mountainside and sat down. In Luke 6:17, it says that Jesus went down and stood on a level place. Whether it is one account given from two different perspectives or two different accounts all together is still being debated among expositors.
However, in our first passage we find that the news about Jesus had spread rapidly from Galilee all the way down to Jerusalem and all of Judea and as far as the Phoenician Coast. People were traveling great distances to see, hear and experience this new phenomenon. Some out of curiosity, others out of desperation, but all seeking hope of some kind. Many had physical problems, others were troubled by “evil or unclean” spirits, still others were mentally discouraged and despondent. Regardless, all were spiritually sick because of sin. In their desperation the passage says, “the people all tried to touch Him, because power was coming from Him and healing them all.” And that was exactly what Jesus had come to do, heal us all.
Nimmo
Jesus then outlines what His ministry to us would provide. To the poor in spirit without hope, a kingdom. To the ones that spiritually hunger for the things of God, satisfaction and fulfilment. For those who mourn their sinfulness, forgiveness and mercy. For the ones who strive for righteousness, strength, honor and reward. All of us come looking for that kind of hope and it is found in the ministry of Jesus.
In the first passage, Jesus tells us what His ministry would be. As we then turn our attention to the second passage Luke 6:27-31, we find Jesus telling His followers that His ministry would be their ministry as well. But it would look very different from what they were used to. Until now, they had pretty much followed the eye-for-an-eye, tooth-for-a-tooth morality. Hate those who hate us, hate for Rome, Samaritans, tax collectors and the list goes on. It was very much the practiced norm.
But Jesus turns that on its head. Jesus says to those who accept His message and spiritual healing, they will have to go in a different direction by changing the way they think, act and respond to others — a way that was radically different than what they were used to doing.
Because Jesus loves us with a love that has no barrier, we are to do the same. He was telling them nothing should diminish our love for others, even if they make it extremely hard for us to do so. We are to love as He loves, unconditionally.
I think Jesus anticipated the question that was coming next. How do we do that? He gave them a very simple roadmap. Do to others as you would have them do to you. The understanding of His words was not hard, but the practice would be. Jesus wanted them to understand it would be difficult, but there would be great reward in doing so. B&R
