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. |