Luke 6:7

Looking for a reason to accuse Jesus, the scribes and Pharisees were watching Him closely to see if He would heal on the Sabbath.

Study Bible

Looking for a reason to accuse Jesus
The phrase "looking for a reason" indicates a premeditated intent by the scribes and Pharisees. The Greek word used here, "παρατηρέω" (paratēreō), suggests a careful and insidious observation. Historically, the scribes and Pharisees were religious leaders who felt threatened by Jesus' growing influence and His challenge to their authority. Their intent was not to seek truth but to find fault, reflecting a hardened heart resistant to the transformative message of Christ.

the scribes and Pharisees
The "scribes" were experts in the Law of Moses, responsible for teaching and interpreting the Scriptures. The "Pharisees" were a religious sect known for their strict adherence to the Law and traditions. Together, they represented the religious establishment of the time. Their opposition to Jesus highlights the tension between the old covenant, based on law and tradition, and the new covenant, centered on grace and truth through Jesus Christ.

were watching Him closely
The phrase "watching Him closely" comes from the Greek "παρατηρέω" (paratēreō), which implies a scrutinizing and critical observation. This was not a passive act but an active surveillance with malicious intent. The religious leaders were not interested in the miraculous works of Jesus as signs of divine authority but rather as potential violations of their legalistic interpretations of the Law.

to see if He would heal on the Sabbath
The Sabbath was a day of rest, instituted by God in the Ten Commandments. However, by the time of Jesus, the Pharisees had added numerous restrictions, turning the Sabbath into a burden rather than a blessing. The act of healing, a demonstration of God's compassion and power, was seen by the Pharisees as work, thus violating their interpretation of the Sabbath law. This highlights the contrast between Jesus' mission to bring life and healing and the Pharisees' focus on legalism and control.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus
Central figure in the New Testament, the Son of God, who is being observed by the religious leaders.

2. Scribes
Jewish legal experts and scholars of the Law of Moses, often seen as opponents of Jesus in the Gospels.

3. Pharisees
A religious sect known for strict adherence to the Law and traditions, often in conflict with Jesus over interpretations of the Law.

4. Sabbath
The seventh day of the week, a day of rest and worship in Jewish tradition, central to the conflict in this passage.

5. Healing
The act of Jesus performing miracles, which often led to confrontations with religious leaders over the appropriateness of such acts on the Sabbath.

Teaching Points

Understanding the Sabbath
The Sabbath was intended as a day of rest and worship, not a burden. Jesus demonstrates that doing good and showing mercy align with the Sabbath's true purpose.

Legalism vs. Compassion
The Pharisees' focus on legalistic interpretations of the Law blinded them to the needs of people. Christians are called to prioritize compassion and mercy over rigid adherence to rules.

Jesus' Authority
Jesus asserts His authority over the Sabbath, indicating His divine nature and the fulfillment of the Law through Him.

Heart Attitude
The Pharisees' intent to accuse Jesus reveals a heart issue. Believers should examine their motives and ensure they align with God's love and truth.

Witnessing Opportunities
Jesus' actions on the Sabbath provide a model for using every opportunity to demonstrate God's love and power, even in the face of opposition.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jesus' healing on the Sabbath challenge the traditional understanding of the Law, and what does this teach us about the nature of God's commandments?

2. In what ways can we fall into the trap of legalism in our own lives, and how can we ensure our focus remains on compassion and mercy?

3. How does Jesus' authority over the Sabbath inform our understanding of His identity and mission?

4. What are some practical ways we can demonstrate God's love and compassion in our daily lives, especially when faced with opposition or criticism?

5. How can we guard our hearts against the attitudes of the Pharisees, ensuring our motives align with God's will and purpose?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 12:9-14
This passage parallels Luke 6:7, where Jesus heals a man with a withered hand on the Sabbath, highlighting the tension between Jesus and the Pharisees.

Mark 3:1-6
Another account of the same event, emphasizing the hardness of the Pharisees' hearts and Jesus' authority over the Sabbath.

Exodus 20:8-11
The commandment to keep the Sabbath holy, providing background to the Pharisees' concerns.

Isaiah 58:13-14
Discusses the true spirit of the Sabbath, which is relevant to understanding Jesus' actions and teachings.