Luke 6:34
And if ye lend to them of whom ye hope to receive, what thank have ye? for sinners also lend to sinners, to receive as much again.
Luke 6:34
This verse addresses lending and borrowing, challenging the assumption that we should lend only to those who will repay. If you hope to receive from someone, the motive is tainted. The broader theme is generosity without calculating return—a radical stance in a world where debt can entangle relationships and power dynamics. The teaching would have confronted typical social norms about credit, trust, and reciprocity.
God’s generosity is not transactional; his kindness toward the ungrateful and evil demonstrates the kind of mercy believers are to imitate. Lending without expectation of repayment becomes a living parable of grace, inviting trust in God’s provision and justice.
Practice generous lending and aid without scheming for repayment. If you lend, do so with no strings attached, and consider giving to those who can’t repay—tithes, community funds, or charitable groups. Refrain from keeping tabs on every favor.
Cross-References: Proverbs 19:17; 1 Thessalonians 2:9-12; Romans 12:13