What does "do good" in Luke 6:33 imply about Christian behavior? Setting the Verse in Context Luke 6:33: “And if you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners do the same.” • Spoken within Jesus’ “Sermon on the Plain” (Luke 6:20-49), where He contrasts kingdom living with cultural norms. • Preceded by the charge to “love your enemies” (v. 27) and followed by commands to mercy and forgiveness (vv. 36-37). • Jesus raises the ethical bar from reciprocal kindness to radical, one-sided benevolence. Observing the Wording • “Do good” uses the Greek agathopoieō—active, continuous beneficence. • Present tense: a habitual lifestyle, not an occasional gesture. • Object is left open-ended—assumed to include enemies, strangers, and the ungrateful (vv. 35-36). Key Implications for Everyday Life • Good deeds are not measured by the recipient’s worthiness; they flow from obedience to Christ. • Christian morality eclipses natural reciprocity; believers behave unlike “even sinners.” • Practical righteousness validates inward faith (cf. James 2:17). Practical Expressions of “Do Good” • Tangible generosity: meeting material needs (Galatians 6:10). • Peacemaking actions: blessing, not retaliating (Romans 12:20-21). • Compassionate service: visiting the sick, helping the marginalized (Acts 10:38). • Speaking life-giving words: encouragement over criticism (Ephesians 4:29). • Secret kindness: anonymous aid that seeks no applause (Matthew 6:3-4). Motivations That Distinguish Believers • Reflecting the Father’s character: “He is kind to the ungrateful and wicked” (Luke 6:35). • Demonstrating gospel truth: Christ died for us “while we were still sinners” (Romans 5:8). • Storing heavenly reward: “your reward will be great” (Luke 6:35). Power Source Behind Doing Good • Indwelling Spirit produces goodness as fruit (Galatians 5:22). • Renewed mind set on obedience, not reciprocity (Romans 12:2). • Confidence in God’s justice frees believers to serve without fear (1 Peter 4:19). Takeaway “Do good” in Luke 6:33 calls Christians to a lifestyle of proactive, self-sacrificial kindness that mirrors God’s own grace, transcending normal social exchange and marking believers as distinct reflections of Christ’s love in the world. |
    |