Luke 10:25

One day an expert in the law stood up to test Him. "Teacher," he asked, "what must I do to inherit eternal life?"

Study Bible

On one occasion
This phrase sets the scene for a specific event in the life of Jesus. It indicates a particular moment in time, suggesting that what follows is a significant teaching moment. Historically, Jesus often taught in public settings, where He was frequently approached by various individuals seeking wisdom or attempting to challenge His teachings.

an expert in the law
The term "expert in the law" refers to a scribe or lawyer, someone well-versed in the Mosaic Law. In the Jewish context, these individuals were highly respected for their knowledge of the Torah and were often involved in teaching and interpreting the law. Their role was crucial in maintaining religious and legal order within Jewish society.

stood up
This action signifies respect and a formal approach to addressing Jesus. In ancient Jewish culture, standing up to speak was a sign of respect and readiness to engage in a serious discussion. It also indicates that the expert in the law was seeking to draw attention to his question, possibly to challenge Jesus publicly.

to test Jesus
The phrase "to test" implies that the expert's intentions were not entirely sincere. The Greek word used here, "πειράζω" (peirazō), can mean to test, tempt, or try. This suggests that the expert was attempting to challenge Jesus' authority or understanding of the law, rather than genuinely seeking knowledge.

Teacher
By addressing Jesus as "Teacher," the expert acknowledges Jesus' role as a rabbi or respected instructor. This title, "Διδάσκαλε" (Didaskale) in Greek, was commonly used for those who taught the Scriptures. Despite the expert's ulterior motives, he recognizes Jesus' position as a teacher of the law.

he asked
The act of asking indicates a desire for dialogue or clarification. In the context of rabbinic tradition, questions were a common method of teaching and learning. This approach allowed for deeper exploration of theological and legal issues.

what must I do
This question reflects a common concern in Jewish thought: the relationship between actions and righteousness. The expert is inquiring about the necessary deeds or observances required to achieve a particular spiritual goal. It highlights the Jewish emphasis on the law and works as a means to attain favor with God.

to inherit eternal life
The concept of "eternal life" is central to Christian theology, representing the ultimate reward of salvation and communion with God. In the Jewish context, eternal life was often associated with the age to come, a time of divine fulfillment and peace. The use of the word "inherit" suggests a legal or familial right, implying that eternal life is a gift or legacy rather than something earned solely through human effort.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Expert in the Law
A scholar or lawyer well-versed in the Jewish Torah, often involved in interpreting and teaching the law. His intention was to test Jesus, possibly to challenge His authority or understanding of the law.

2. Jesus
The central figure of the New Testament, regarded as the Messiah and Son of God by Christians. In this passage, He is addressed as "Teacher," indicating His role as a rabbi or instructor.

3. The Setting
While the specific location is not mentioned in this verse, the context is a public setting where Jesus is teaching, and others are present to witness the interaction.

4. The Question
The expert's question about inheriting eternal life is significant, as it reflects a common concern of the time regarding salvation and the afterlife.

5. Testing Motive
The expert's motive to "test" Jesus suggests a challenge rather than a genuine inquiry, highlighting the tension between Jesus and the religious leaders of His day.

Teaching Points

Understanding the Law
The expert's question reveals a common misunderstanding of the law as a means to earn eternal life. Jesus redirects this understanding towards love and relationship.

Testing vs. Seeking
The expert's motive was to test, not to seek truth. Believers are encouraged to approach Jesus with genuine hearts, seeking wisdom and understanding.

Eternal Life as Inheritance
The concept of "inheriting" eternal life suggests a gift or legacy, not something earned. This aligns with the New Testament teaching of salvation by grace through faith.

The Role of the Law
The law serves as a guide to reveal God's standards and our need for a Savior. It points to the necessity of a heart transformation through Christ.

Engaging with Scripture
Like the expert, believers are called to engage deeply with Scripture, but with humility and openness to the Spirit's teaching, rather than a spirit of testing.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the expert in the law's question reveal about his understanding of eternal life, and how does this compare to the New Testament teaching on salvation?

2. How does Jesus' response to the expert in the law challenge our own motives when we seek answers from God or Scripture?

3. In what ways can we ensure that our study of Scripture is driven by a desire to know God more deeply, rather than to test or challenge?

4. How do the commandments to love God and neighbor encapsulate the essence of the law, and how can we apply these principles in our daily lives?

5. Reflect on a time when you approached God with a testing heart rather than a seeking heart. What did you learn from that experience, and how can it shape your future interactions with Scripture?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 6:5 and Leviticus 19:18
These Old Testament passages are foundational to the Jewish understanding of the law, emphasizing love for God and neighbor, which Jesus later highlights as the greatest commandments.

Matthew 22:34-40
In a similar encounter, Jesus summarizes the law with the commandments to love God and neighbor, reinforcing the centrality of these principles.

Romans 10:4
Paul speaks of Christ as the culmination of the law, providing a New Testament perspective on the fulfillment of the law through faith in Jesus.