New Testament
Luke 6:3
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Jesus answered them, "Haven't you even read what David did when he and his companions were hungry?
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And Jesus answering them said, Have ye not read so much as this, what David did, when himself was an hungred, and they which were with him;
What Luke 6:3 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus is responding to critics who question his disciples for picking grain on the Sabbath. He refers to an incident from the life of David, who, when he was hungry, ate the consecrated bread that was only lawful for priests to eat. This reference highlights that human need can take precedence over strict religious rules. Jesus uses this example to illustrate that mercy and compassion are more important than rigid adherence to the law. By invoking David's actions, Jesus emphasizes that the spirit of the law is about meeting human needs rather than merely following rules. This teaching challenges the religious leaders' understanding of the Sabbath and invites them to reconsider their priorities in light of God's intention for humanity.
How to apply Luke 6:3 to your life
This verse encourages us to prioritize compassion and human needs over strict adherence to rules. In our daily lives, we should be mindful of how we can show kindness and understanding, especially when others are in need, rather than being overly focused on regulations or traditions.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Keep studying Luke 6:3
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Key themes
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At a Glance — the Book of Luke
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 6:3 teach about the Sabbath?
Luke 6:3 illustrates that Jesus emphasizes the importance of compassion over strict Sabbath observance. By referencing David's actions when he was hungry, Jesus highlights that human needs should take precedence over rigid adherence to religious laws. This teaching encourages a more humane understanding of the Sabbath, suggesting that mercy and kindness are central to God's intentions.
How does Jesus use David's example in Luke 6:3?
In Luke 6:3, Jesus refers to an incident from David's life to illustrate that even revered figures in scripture acted out of necessity when faced with hunger. David and his companions ate consecrated bread, which was typically reserved for priests. By invoking this example, Jesus argues that meeting human needs is more important than following rules strictly, challenging the religious leaders' interpretations of the law.
What is the significance of mercy in Luke 6:3?
The significance of mercy in Luke 6:3 lies in Jesus' assertion that compassion should guide our actions, especially in matters of faith and practice. By highlighting David's need over the law's restrictions, Jesus teaches that mercy is a core value in God's kingdom. This challenges believers to prioritize love and kindness in their interactions, particularly when faced with situations that require understanding and support.
How can we apply Luke 6:3 in our lives today?
Applying Luke 6:3 in our lives today means prioritizing compassion and understanding over strict adherence to rules. In situations where we encounter those in need, we should be willing to extend kindness and support, even if it means bending traditional norms or expectations. This verse encourages us to reflect on our priorities and consider how we can embody mercy in our daily interactions.
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