New Testament
Luke 6:40
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
A student isn't above his teacher, but everyone who is fully trained will become like his teacher.
Compare translations
The disciple is not above his master: but every one that is perfect shall be as his master.
What Luke 6:40 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus teaches that a student cannot surpass their teacher in knowledge or skill. The relationship between a teacher and a student is one of guidance and learning. However, the verse also emphasizes that those who are fully trained or perfected in their learning will become like their teacher. This suggests that while students start below their teachers, through diligent study and practice, they can reach a level of understanding and ability similar to that of their instructors. This principle applies not only in spiritual matters but also in various fields of life, where mentorship and guidance play crucial roles in personal and professional development. It encourages humility in learning and the pursuit of excellence, reminding us that growth takes time and effort. Ultimately, it highlights the importance of good teaching and the transformative power of education.
How to apply Luke 6:40 to your life
As you learn from your teachers or mentors, remember that growth takes time. Embrace the process of becoming more like those you admire. Seek to apply their teachings in your life, and strive for excellence in your own journey of learning and personal development.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Paul's story: The Stoning of Stephen (Acts 7:57–8:2)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Paul
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.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Luke 6:40
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Luke 6:40
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 6:40 mean?
Luke 6:40 means that a student cannot exceed their teacher in knowledge or skill. However, those who are fully trained will become like their teacher, highlighting the importance of learning and growth through guidance.
What is the significance of being 'fully trained' in Luke 6:40?
Being 'fully trained' in Luke 6:40 signifies reaching a level of understanding and ability that mirrors that of the teacher. It emphasizes the process of learning and the goal of achieving excellence through diligent study.
How does Luke 6:40 relate to mentorship?
Luke 6:40 illustrates the mentor-mentee relationship, showing that while students start below their teachers, they can grow to become like them through dedicated learning and practice.
What themes are present in Luke 6:40?
The themes present in Luke 6:40 include discipleship, teaching, learning, growth, and mentorship, all of which highlight the importance of guidance in personal and spiritual development.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.