MPV Commentary
Read the modernized Jamieson-Fausset-Brown commentary, aligned with each Bible book and chapter, in clear, updated English.
Currently viewing commentary for Luke 6
Read the modernized Jamieson-Fausset-Brown commentary, aligned with each Bible book and chapter, in clear, updated English.
Currently viewing commentary for Luke 6
Withered Hand Healed.
The Pharisees were watching Jesus closely to see if he would heal on the Sabbath (see Matthew 12:9-15 and Mark 3:1-7).
They asked him a seemingly innocent question: "Is it lawful to do good or to do evil, to save life or to destroy it?" However, this was actually a trap set by Jesus' opponents. He responded as if they had spoken from their hearts, revealing the true state of their intentions.
By framing his response in this way, Jesus taught an important principle: neglecting opportunities to do good is equivalent to doing evil. This principle governed his own actions and spirit (see Mark 3:4).
The Pharisees were filled with a senseless rage at being outmaneuvered by Jesus' words and deeds. Their question was not about getting rid of him, but rather how to eliminate the threat he posed.