What does it mean to "lend, expecting nothing in return" in Luke 6:35? Setting the Context • Luke 6 records Jesus’ sermon on the plain, where He calls His followers to live in a way that mirrors the Father’s mercy. • Verse 35 sits between commands to love enemies and be merciful, underscoring a lifestyle that is counter-cultural to selfish, self-protective norms. • “But love your enemies, do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return. Then your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High; for He is kind to the ungrateful and wicked.” (Luke 6:35) Looking Closely at the Words • “Lend” (Greek: δανίζω) – give the use of money or goods to another. • “Expecting nothing in return” (Greek: μηδὲν ἀπελπίζοντες) – literally “not despairing for repayment,” i.e., releasing the borrower from any pressure to repay. • The instruction is not figurative; Jesus speaks of real material help offered with open hands. How Scripture Frames Lending • Old Testament precedent: – “If there is a poor man among your brothers… you shall open your hand to him and freely lend him whatever he needs.” (Deuteronomy 15:7-8) – Interest-free lending to needy Israelites was commanded (Exodus 22:25). • Wisdom literature: – “The wicked borrows and does not repay, but the righteous is gracious and gives.” (Psalm 37:21) – “Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the LORD.” (Proverbs 19:17) • Jesus deepens the command: lend even to enemies, and relinquish claims to repayment. • Early church practice: Acts 2:44-45 shows believers selling goods to meet needs; possessions were a tool for blessing, not leverage. • Paul echoes the principle: “Each one should give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” (2 Corinthians 9:7) Why God Calls Us to This Radical Generosity • It reflects His character: “He is kind to the ungrateful and wicked.” (Luke 6:35) • It distinguishes believers as “sons of the Most High,” displaying family likeness. • It loosens our grip on earthly treasures and anchors hope in God’s provision (Matthew 6:19-21). • It cultivates trust that God will settle accounts far better than interest ever could. Practical Outworking Today • Personal loans: – Give only what you can release without resentment. – Treat the amount as a gift in your heart, even if a repayment schedule exists. • Material goods: – Loan tools, vehicles, or household items with no strings attached. – If damaged or lost, choose grace over grievance. • Time and skills: – Offer expertise without invoicing friends or foes alike. • Community initiatives: – Church benevolence funds and interest-free microloans embody Luke 6:35. – Support missions that aid those who can never repay you. The Promise Attached • “Then your reward will be great” – God Himself guarantees recompense (Hebrews 6:10). • The reward is both present (inner freedom, joy, witness) and future (eternal commendation). Heart Check: Motives and Trust Ask: • Am I motivated by love, not leverage? • Do I see myself as a steward, not an owner? • Do I trust God to replenish what I release? Living Luke 6:35 turns every act of lending into an act of worship, mirroring the lavish kindness of our Father. |
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