Luke 12:57

And why don't you judge for yourselves what is right?

Study Bible

Why don't you judge for yourselves what is right?
Why
This word introduces a question that prompts introspection and self-examination. In the Greek, "διὰ τί" (dia ti) is often used to challenge the listener to consider their own reasoning and motivations. Jesus frequently used questions to provoke thought and reflection, encouraging His audience to look beyond surface-level understanding and to seek deeper spiritual truths.

don't you
This phrase implies a lack of action or understanding on the part of the listener. It suggests that the ability to judge rightly is within their grasp, yet they are failing to do so. The Greek "οὐ" (ou) is a negation, emphasizing the absence of something expected. In this context, it highlights the expectation that followers of Christ should be discerning and wise.

judge
The Greek word "κρίνετε" (krinete) means to separate, distinguish, or make a decision. It is often used in the New Testament to refer to discernment or making a judgment based on righteousness. In a biblical context, judging is not merely about making decisions but involves aligning one's judgment with God's standards and truth.

for yourselves
This phrase emphasizes personal responsibility and accountability. The Greek "ἑαυτοῖς" (heautois) indicates that the judgment is not to be outsourced or dependent on others. Each individual is called to exercise their own discernment, reflecting a personal relationship with God and an understanding of His will.

what is right
The Greek "τὸ δίκαιον" (to dikaion) refers to what is just, righteous, or in accordance with God's law. This phrase calls believers to align their judgments with divine righteousness rather than human standards. In the broader biblical narrative, righteousness is a key attribute of God, and His followers are called to pursue it in their lives.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus Christ
The speaker of this verse, Jesus is addressing His disciples and the crowd, teaching them about discernment and the importance of understanding the times.

2. The Disciples
The primary audience of Jesus' teachings, they are being instructed to develop spiritual discernment.

3. The Crowd
A larger group of people who are also listening to Jesus' teachings, representing the general populace of Israel at the time.

4. The Pharisees and Religious Leaders
Though not directly mentioned in this verse, they are often the implicit audience in Jesus' teachings about discernment and righteousness.

5. The Context of Judgment
This verse is part of a larger discourse where Jesus is urging His listeners to recognize the signs of the times and to make righteous judgments.

Teaching Points

Develop Spiritual Discernment
Jesus calls us to judge for ourselves what is right, emphasizing the need for personal discernment. This requires a deep understanding of God's Word and reliance on the Holy Spirit.

Recognize the Signs of the Times
Just as Jesus urged His listeners to interpret the times, we must be aware of the spiritual and moral climate around us and respond appropriately.

Righteous Judgment
Our judgments should be based on righteousness and truth, not on appearances or societal pressures. This requires aligning our values with biblical principles.

Personal Responsibility
Jesus' question implies that we have a personal responsibility to seek and understand what is right. We cannot rely solely on others for spiritual guidance.

Seek Divine Guidance
In making judgments, we must seek God's wisdom through prayer and study of the Scriptures, ensuring our decisions align with His will.

Bible Study Questions

1. How can we develop the ability to judge what is right in our daily lives, according to Luke 12:57?

2. In what ways does the call to discernment in Luke 12:57 relate to the broader teachings of Jesus about understanding the times?

3. How can we ensure that our judgments are righteous and not influenced by external pressures or biases?

4. What role does the Holy Spirit play in helping us discern what is right, and how can we cultivate a deeper reliance on Him?

5. How can we apply the principle of personal responsibility in spiritual discernment to our interactions with others in our community?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 16:2-3
Jesus rebukes the Pharisees and Sadducees for their inability to interpret the signs of the times, similar to His call for discernment in Luke 12:57.

John 7:24
Jesus instructs to judge with righteous judgment, emphasizing the need for discernment and fairness.

1 Corinthians 2:15
Paul speaks about the spiritual person who judges all things, highlighting the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding discernment.

Hebrews 5:14
The writer of Hebrews discusses the mature believer's ability to discern good from evil, which aligns with Jesus' call for personal judgment.

Proverbs 3:5-6
Encourages trust in the Lord and not leaning on one's own understanding, which complements the need for divine guidance in making judgments.