What does Luke 18:19 mean?

Explanation

Luke 18:19 is a statement made by Jesus in response to a rich ruler who addressed him as "Good Master" and asked about what he must do to inherit eternal life.

Jesus' response serves as a correction and a teaching moment; he questions why the ruler calls him good, then asserts that no one is good except God alone.

This can be taken at face value as stressing the singular goodness of God above all others, but it may also hint at a deeper meaning: If Jesus defines only God as good, then calling him "good" may imply recognition of his divine status.

Alternatively, it can be an invitation for the ruler (and readers) to reflect on the nature of goodness and perfection which only God embodies.

Historical Context

This verse is part of a narrative found in the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke); however, its wording and placement differ slightly in each.

The passage is part of a teaching moment during Jesus' ministry around the 1st century CE.

An understanding of first-century Jewish concepts of good, God, and the awaited Messiah influences the interpretation of this verse.

The conversation occurred within a society that adhered strictly to Jewish law and where teachers and rabbis were often given titles of respect like "master" or "rabbi."

Theological Insights

The theological insights from this verse are multifaceted:

• It raises questions about the nature of Jesus' identity.

Some Christian denominations might read this as Jesus’ modest way of redirecting focus to God, emphasizing his humanity.

Others interpret it as Jesus subtly affirming his divinity by juxtaposing himself with God.

• There is also an insight regarding the term "good." By defining only God as truly good, Jesus may be suggesting that human standards for goodness are inadequate when compared to the divine standard.

• It's a reminder of the fallen state of humanity. In this interpretation, Jesus emphasizes that humans are inherently sinful and can only be "good" through divine grace and connection with God.

Practical Applications

This verse can be applied in various ways:

• It encourages humility, as it reminds believers that they should not overly praise humans or human leaders, rather reserve ultimate reverence for God.

• The verse can also prompt self-reflection, pushing individuals to reassess their understanding of goodness. It serves as a call to strive for a higher moral standard akin to God's holiness.

• There's an aspect of seeking the divine for moral guidance, rather than relying solely on human judgement.

Cross-References

• Mark 10:18: "And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God."
• Matthew 19:17: "And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments."
• Romans 3:10: "As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:"
• Psalm 14:3: "They are all gone aside, they are all together become filthy: there is none that doeth good, no, not one."

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the word for "good" used is "ἀγαθός" (agathos), which implies moral goodness, virtue, and benevolence.

The Greek raises interesting nuances in translation and interpretation as it embodies a concept of good that is not just about actions, but also about a person's nature.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In comparing other religious beliefs and myths:

• Ancient Greek philosophy, particularly Socrates and Plato, examined what constituted as "good" and often attributed goodness to an abstract, perfect form only truly knowable by the gods.

• In Judaism, God's goodness is central, but human righteousness and adherence to the Law are also emphasized pathways to living a good life.

• Eastern philosophies often have complex understandings of goodness that may include balance, harmony, and appropriate action in line with cosmic principles or dharma.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientific perspectives generally don't address notions of "good" as they lie outside empirical investigation.

However, modern psychology studies human moral development and might suggest that humans have an innate, albeit imperfect, understanding of good influenced by social and evolutionary factors.

Yet, from science's descriptive standpoint, it doesn't prescribe what ought to be considered morally good, which is often left to philosophy and theology.

commentaries

Experts and scholars have varied interpretations of Luke 18:19:

• Some suggest that by questioning the man's use of "good," Jesus is not denying his own goodness or divinity, but rather challenging the man to think about the implications of his address.

• Others see this as Jesus' way of correcting any misunderstanding that he is just a moral teacher, and pointing towards his unique relationship with God.

• Certain commentaries highlight the humility and redirection of Jesus, commending him for always pointing others toward God instead of seeking personal praise.

On a final note, Bible scholars use this verse to discuss concepts of sin, human nature, divine nature, and the identity and mission of Jesus in the Christian narrative.