Luke 6:20

Looking up at His disciples, Jesus said: "Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God.

Study Bible

Looking up at His disciples
This phrase sets the scene for Jesus' teaching, indicating His direct engagement with His followers. The Greek word for "looking up" is "anablepō," which implies a deliberate and attentive gaze. This suggests that Jesus is about to impart something significant. The context here is crucial; Jesus is addressing His disciples, those who have chosen to follow Him closely. This moment is intimate and personal, emphasizing the importance of the message that follows. Historically, this setting is part of what is often referred to as the "Sermon on the Plain," paralleling the "Sermon on the Mount" in Matthew, highlighting the consistency and importance of Jesus' teachings across different settings.

He said
This simple phrase introduces the authoritative teaching of Jesus. The Greek verb "eipen" (He said) is in the aorist tense, indicating a definitive action. Jesus' words are not just casual remarks; they are declarations with authority. In the Jewish tradition, a rabbi's words carried weight, and here, Jesus speaks with even greater authority as the Son of God. This introduction prepares the listener for the profound truths that are about to be revealed.

Blessed are you who are poor
The word "blessed" comes from the Greek "makarios," which conveys a sense of divine favor and happiness. This blessing is not merely a superficial happiness but a deep, spiritual joy that comes from being in right relationship with God. The term "poor" in Greek is "ptōchos," which refers to those who are economically disadvantaged and dependent on others for support. However, in the biblical context, it also signifies spiritual poverty—a recognition of one's need for God. This statement is revolutionary, as it turns worldly values upside down, suggesting that true blessedness is found not in material wealth but in spiritual dependence on God.

for yours is the kingdom of God
The phrase "kingdom of God" is central to Jesus' teaching. In Greek, "basileia tou Theou" refers to God's sovereign rule and reign. This kingdom is both a present reality and a future hope. Jesus declares that those who are poor, in spirit or materially, are already part of this kingdom. This promise offers hope and assurance, affirming that God's kingdom is accessible to all, regardless of their earthly status. Historically, this would have been a radical message to Jesus' audience, who lived under Roman rule and societal structures that favored the wealthy and powerful. Jesus' words offer a vision of a new order where God's values prevail.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus
The central figure in this passage, delivering a sermon to His disciples and the gathered crowd. He is the authoritative teacher and the Son of God.

2. Disciples
The primary audience of Jesus' teaching. They are followers of Jesus, learning from His words and actions.

3. The Poor
The group specifically addressed in this verse. In the context of the passage, "poor" refers not only to those lacking material wealth but also to those who are humble and recognize their need for God.

4. The Kingdom of God
A central theme in Jesus' teachings, representing God's sovereign rule and the blessings of living under His reign.

5. The Sermon on the Plain
The broader context of this verse, where Jesus delivers a series of teachings similar to the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew.

Teaching Points

Understanding Poor in Context
The term "poor" (Greek: ptochos) in this verse can be understood both materially and spiritually. It signifies those who are humble and recognize their dependence on God.

The Kingdom of God as Present and Future
The promise of the kingdom of God is both a present reality and a future hope. Believers experience God's reign now and look forward to its full realization.

Humility and Dependence on God
Jesus' teaching encourages believers to adopt an attitude of humility and dependence on God, recognizing that true riches are found in Him.

Counter-Cultural Values
The world often values wealth and self-sufficiency, but Jesus teaches that true blessing comes from recognizing our spiritual poverty and need for God.

Living Out the Kingdom Values
As followers of Christ, we are called to live out the values of the kingdom, which include caring for the poor and embodying humility in our daily lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the original Greek word for "poor" enhance our comprehension of Jesus' message in Luke 6:20?

2. In what ways can we experience the kingdom of God in our lives today, according to this verse?

3. How does the promise of the kingdom of God to the poor challenge our cultural views on wealth and success?

4. What practical steps can we take to cultivate humility and dependence on God in our daily lives?

5. How can we, as a church community, better support and uplift those who are materially and spiritually poor, in light of Jesus' teaching?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 5:3
This verse parallels Luke 6:20, where Jesus also speaks of the poor in spirit being blessed. It highlights the spiritual aspect of poverty.

Isaiah 61:1
This Old Testament prophecy speaks of the Messiah bringing good news to the poor, which Jesus fulfills in His ministry.

James 2:5
James emphasizes that God has chosen the poor in the world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom, reinforcing the message of Luke 6:20.