Luke 18:19
French (La Bible expliquée)
Jésus lui dit: « Pourquoi m'appelles-tu bon? Personne n'est bon si ce n'est Dieu seul.
What Does This Mean?
In this verse from Luke 18:19, Jesus is speaking and responding to someone who called him good. He clarifies that only God can truly be considered good.
Explained for Children
Imagine if your friend said you were the best at everything. You might say, 'Thanks, but no one's perfect except for our parents.' That's kind of what Jesus is saying here; he’s telling us that while we're all special and loved, only God can be called perfectly good.
Historical Background
This verse was written by Luke, a physician and historian, in the late first century AD. The audience was likely Gentile Christians who needed to understand Jesus' teachings clearly within their cultural context of Greek philosophy and Roman law.
Living It Out Today
In today's world, we often praise people for being 'good,' but this verse reminds us that only God deserves such a title. This can be applied when we discuss moral standards or admire someone's actions; the ultimate good always points back to God.
Topics
godlinesshumilitymoralitydivinityperfectionfaith
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Jesus deny being called 'good'?
Jesus is not denying his own goodness, but rather emphasizing that true goodness belongs only to God. This underscores the distinction between human and divine perfection.
How can this verse be used in discussions about morality?
This verse can highlight how our moral standards are rooted in God's character. It suggests that while people can do good, ultimate goodness is a quality of God alone.
Is Jesus claiming to not be good?
No, Jesus isn't saying he isn't good; rather, He’s clarifying the uniqueness of God as the source and standard of all that is truly good. This points to his divine nature while emphasizing humility.
How does this verse relate to our understanding of human limitations?
It reminds us that humans, despite our efforts to do good, fall short of true perfection, which can lead to a more humble view of ourselves and a deeper reliance on God's grace.