Luke 6:5

Then Jesus declared, "The Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath."

Study Bible

Then Jesus declared
This phrase marks a pivotal moment in the narrative, where Jesus asserts His authority. The Greek word for "declared" is "ἔλεγεν" (elegen), which implies a continuous or repeated action. This suggests that Jesus' declaration was not a one-time statement but part of His ongoing teaching and revelation of His identity. Historically, this declaration would have been radical, as it challenged the prevailing religious norms and interpretations of the Law.

The Son of Man
This title, "Son of Man," is deeply rooted in Jewish eschatological expectations and is derived from Daniel 7:13-14, where it describes a heavenly figure endowed with authority and dominion. In the Gospels, Jesus frequently uses this title to refer to Himself, emphasizing both His humanity and His divine authority. The use of "Son of Man" here underscores Jesus' role as the Messiah and His unique authority over religious practices, including the Sabbath.

is Lord
The term "Lord" (Greek: "κύριος," kyrios) signifies authority and ownership. In the context of the New Testament, it is often used to denote divinity and supreme authority. By declaring Himself "Lord," Jesus is asserting His divine prerogative and authority over the Sabbath, a day that was central to Jewish religious life. This claim would have been understood as a direct assertion of His divine nature and His authority to interpret and fulfill the Law.

of the Sabbath
The Sabbath, instituted in Genesis 2:2-3 and codified in the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:8-11), was a day of rest and worship, symbolizing God's rest after creation. It was a sign of the covenant between God and Israel, a day set apart for holiness. By claiming lordship over the Sabbath, Jesus is not abolishing it but reinterpreting its purpose and significance. He emphasizes that the Sabbath was made for man's benefit (Mark 2:27) and that He, as the Son of Man, has the authority to define its true meaning and practice.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus
Central figure in the New Testament, the Son of God, and the Messiah. In this passage, He asserts His authority over the Sabbath.

2. The Son of Man
A title Jesus frequently uses for Himself, emphasizing both His humanity and His divine authority.

3. The Sabbath
A day of rest and worship observed by the Jewish people, originating from the creation account in Genesis and codified in the Ten Commandments.

4. Pharisees
A Jewish religious group known for strict adherence to the Law. They often challenged Jesus on His interpretation and application of the Law.

5. Disciples
Followers of Jesus who were with Him during His ministry and witnessed His teachings and miracles.

Teaching Points

Jesus' Authority
Jesus' declaration as "Lord of the Sabbath" asserts His divine authority, challenging traditional interpretations and emphasizing His role as the fulfillment of the Law.

Purpose of the Sabbath
The Sabbath was instituted for the benefit of humanity, providing rest and a focus on God. Jesus' teaching redirects focus from legalistic observance to the heart of worship and rest.

Freedom in Christ
Believers are called to live in the freedom Christ provides, understanding that He fulfills the Law and offers rest for our souls.

Christ-Centered Worship
Worship should be centered on Christ, recognizing His lordship and aligning our practices with His teachings.

Balancing Law and Grace
While the Law is important, Jesus teaches us to balance it with grace, understanding the spirit of the Law rather than just the letter.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jesus' declaration as "Lord of the Sabbath" challenge the traditional understanding of the Sabbath?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of Sabbath rest in our modern lives, considering Jesus' teachings?

3. How does understanding Jesus as the fulfillment of the Law affect our view of Old Testament commandments?

4. What are some practical ways we can ensure our worship remains Christ-centered, especially in observing traditions?

5. How can we balance the observance of religious practices with the freedom and grace found in Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 2:2-3
The origin of the Sabbath, where God rested on the seventh day, setting a precedent for the Sabbath rest.

Exodus 20:8-11
The commandment to keep the Sabbath holy, highlighting its importance in Jewish law.

Mark 2:27-28
A parallel account where Jesus explains that the Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath, reinforcing His authority over it.

Matthew 12:8
Another parallel passage where Jesus declares His lordship over the Sabbath, emphasizing His divine authority.

Colossians 2:16-17
Paul’s teaching on the Sabbath as a shadow of things to come, pointing to the substance found in Christ.