Meaning of "Lord, Lord" in Luke 6:46?
What does "Lord, Lord" signify about our relationship with Christ in Luke 6:46?

Setting the Scene

Luke 6:46: “Why do you call Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ but not do what I say?”


What the Double Title Conveys

• Recognition of Supreme Authority

– “Lord” (Greek: kyrios) is the common Septuagint title for Yahweh, stressing Jesus’ deity and right to rule (cf. Philippians 2:10–11).

– Doubling a name in Scripture signals intensity and urgency (e.g., “Moses, Moses,” Exodus 3:4; “Saul, Saul,” Acts 9:4). Saying “Lord” twice underscores how seriously the speaker claims to revere Jesus.

• Assumed Intimacy

– Repetition can mark personal address and closeness, as between friends or family. Those saying “Lord, Lord” imply they have a personal relationship with Him.

• Public Confession

– According to Romans 10:9, confessing “Jesus is Lord” is part of saving faith. The speakers in Luke 6:46 are publicly acknowledging Christ’s lordship.


Why Words Alone Fall Short

• Jesus Highlights Inconsistency

– Verbal honor without obedient action exposes hypocrisy (James 1:22).

• Spiritual Self-Deception

Matthew 7:21-23 shows many will repeat “Lord, Lord” yet remain unknown to Him because they disregarded His will.

• True Faith Produces Obedience

John 14:15: “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.”

1 John 2:4: “The one who says, ‘I know Him,’ but does not keep His commandments is a liar.”


What ‘Lord, Lord’ Demands of Us

1. Submission

– Accept His absolute right to direct every part of life—beliefs, ethics, priorities.

2. Single-Minded Loyalty

– No divided allegiance; He is not merely adviser but Master (Luke 14:26-27).

3. Continual Obedience

– Daily choices should align with His teaching; obedience is ongoing, not occasional.

4. Heart-Level Relationship

– More than rule-keeping; genuine love fuels obedience (1 Corinthians 13:3).

5. Fruitful Living

– The context of Luke 6 speaks of good trees bearing good fruit (vv. 43-45). Calling Him “Lord” means producing observable righteousness.


Practical Checks for Today

• Examine your motives: Is confessing Jesus’ lordship a cultural habit or a heartfelt conviction?

• Compare your plans with His commands: Do your career, family, finances, and media choices submit to His Word?

• Respond immediately to Scripture: When the Spirit highlights an area, act without delay (Psalm 119:60).

• Measure by fruit: Are the qualities of Galatians 5:22-23 increasingly visible?

• Keep short accounts: Repent quickly when obedience lags (1 John 1:9).


Key Takeaways

• Saying “Lord, Lord” recognizes Christ’s deity, authority, and desired intimacy.

• Jesus refuses lip service; true relationship is verified by obedience.

• Continuous, loving submission distinguishes genuine disciples from the self-deceived.

How can we ensure we truly follow Jesus' teachings in Luke 6:46?
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