Luke 6:4

He entered the house of God, took the consecrated bread and gave it to his companions, and ate what is lawful only for the priests to eat."

Study Bible

how he entered the house of God
This phrase refers to the account of David found in 1 Samuel 21:1-6, where David, fleeing from King Saul, enters the tabernacle at Nob. The "house of God" in this context is the tabernacle, the central place of worship for the Israelites before the construction of Solomon's Temple. The Greek word for "entered" (εἰσέρχομαι, eiserchomai) implies a deliberate action, suggesting David's purposeful seeking of refuge and sustenance in God's presence. Historically, this act underscores the sacredness of the tabernacle as a place of divine provision and mercy, even in times of dire need.

and took the consecrated bread
The "consecrated bread" refers to the showbread, also known as the Bread of the Presence, which was placed on a table in the Holy Place of the tabernacle. According to Levitical law (Leviticus 24:5-9), this bread was to be eaten only by the priests. The Greek term for "consecrated" (ἄρτος, artos) highlights its sanctified status, set apart for holy use. David's taking of this bread signifies a moment where human need intersects with divine law, illustrating the principle that God's mercy and provision can transcend ritualistic boundaries in times of necessity.

and ate what is lawful only for the priests to eat
This phrase emphasizes the legal restriction placed on the consumption of the showbread. The Greek word for "lawful" (ἔξεστιν, exestin) denotes what is permitted or allowed by law. In this context, it underscores the exclusivity of the priestly privilege. However, David's actions, which Jesus references, highlight a deeper theological truth: the spirit of the law prioritizes compassion and human need over rigid legalism. This serves as a precursor to Jesus' teaching on the Sabbath, where He emphasizes mercy over sacrifice.

and also gave some to his companions
David not only ate the bread himself but also shared it with those who were with him. This act of sharing underscores the communal aspect of God's provision. The Greek word for "companions" (οἱ μετ᾽ αὐτοῦ, hoi met' autou) indicates those who were in fellowship with David, likely his loyal followers. This sharing reflects the biblical principle of community and mutual support, where God's blessings are not hoarded but distributed among His people, reinforcing the idea that divine provision is meant to be inclusive and generous.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The future king of Israel, anointed by God, who was fleeing from King Saul. He is central to this event as he seeks sustenance for himself and his men.

2. House of God
Refers to the tabernacle, the sacred place where the consecrated bread, also known as the showbread, was kept.

3. Consecrated Bread
Also known as the showbread, it was placed in the tabernacle as an offering to God and was meant to be eaten only by the priests.

4. Priests
The Levitical priests were the only ones lawfully permitted to eat the consecrated bread according to the Mosaic Law.

5. Jesus
He references this event to illustrate a point about the spirit of the law versus the letter of the law, emphasizing mercy and human need.

Teaching Points

Understanding the Spirit of the Law
Jesus emphasizes that the law was made to serve humanity, not to burden it. The spirit of the law is mercy and compassion.

Prioritizing Human Need
In times of genuine need, human welfare can take precedence over ritualistic observance. This teaches us to prioritize compassion.

Jesus as Lord of the Sabbath
By referencing David, Jesus asserts His authority over religious traditions, indicating His divine understanding and interpretation of the law.

Mercy Over Sacrifice
The principle that God desires mercy, not sacrifice, is a recurring theme. This calls us to act with kindness and understanding in our daily lives.

Biblical Precedent for Exceptions
The Bible provides examples where exceptions to the law are made for the sake of mercy, teaching us to discern when rules should be flexibly applied.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the example of David eating the consecrated bread illustrate the principle of mercy over ritual? Can you think of a modern-day situation where this principle might apply?

2. In what ways does Jesus' reference to this event challenge the religious leaders' understanding of the law? How can this challenge our own understanding of religious practices?

3. How does understanding the original context of 1 Samuel 21:1-6 enhance our comprehension of Jesus' teaching in Luke 6:4?

4. What does Jesus' teaching in this passage reveal about His identity and authority? How does this influence your view of His teachings?

5. How can we apply the principle of prioritizing human need over ritual in our church community or personal life? Can you identify a specific action you can take this week?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 21:1-6
This passage provides the original account of David eating the consecrated bread, offering context to Jesus' reference.

Matthew 12:1-8
Jesus uses the same example of David to teach about the Sabbath, highlighting the principle of mercy over sacrifice.

Mark 2:23-28
Another account of Jesus discussing the Sabbath, reinforcing the idea that human need can take precedence over ceremonial law.

Hebrews 9:1-10
Discusses the regulations of worship in the earthly tabernacle, providing background on the significance of the consecrated bread.