Expert: Scott Talbot - 6/15/2009

Question
To apply this verse today, does it mean that when I lend money to someone I shouldn't ask them to pay me back?

Answer
Hi Al,

Luke 6:34 "And if you lend to those from whom you expect repayment, what credit is that to you? Even 'sinners' lend to 'sinners,' expecting to be repaid in full."

Interesting question. I'm sure you weren't the first one to wonder about the application of this verse.

In Luke 6:34, Jesus was not giving guidelines for conducting business. He was describing acts of unconditional love which grow out of true righteousness--qualities necessary in the earthly kingdom which Jesus intends to establish.

I don't think Jesus was saying that lending is never appropriate. Could you imagine trying to get a mortgage if everyone were required to follow this guideline, and an outright gift were the only option?

I think what He was getting at was this. Some were so self-centered that they would never consider giving something to someone without getting something in return. Jesus wanted them to be more loving, and willing to give, even when there was no guarantee of reward or compensation.

I hope that helps.

Scott