The way we see the world—our perceptions, assumptions, and prejudices—shapes how we interpret people and situations. In Luke 6, Jesus reveals how distorted vision can prevent people from understanding God’s heart and purposes. Several groups in this chapter view situations through incorrect lenses, causing them to miss what Jesus intends to show them:

• The Pharisees look at Jesus through a negative and judgmental lens, which prevents them from experiencing His goodness or learning from His teachings.

• Some disciples focus primarily on receiving physical blessings, which may cause them to miss the deeper, eternal blessings Jesus speaks of.

• Some people are quick to judge others, failing to recognise their own limitations and need for self-reflection.

Luke 6 invites us to examine our own vision and consider whether we are seeing things the way God wants us to see them.

Looking Through the Pharisees’ Negative Lenses

Clouded by hostility toward Jesus, the Pharisees continually look for reasons to accuse Him (Lk 6:7, 11). In this chapter, they make two accusations concerning Sabbath observance: Jesus’ disciples plucking and eating heads of grain on the Sabbath (Lk 6:1), and Jesus healing a man with a withered hand on the Sabbath (Lk 6:6).

When we begin with a negative perception, it becomes difficult to recognise goodness in others. This distorted lens prevented the Pharisees from understanding that God created the Sabbath as a gift for humanity—a loving provision for rest from daily toil. Instead, they narrowly defined plucking grain as work forbidden on the Sabbath (Ex 20:8–11).

Jesus responded by revealing God’s merciful perspective: the Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath, and human needs—such as eating—are not opposed to God’s intentions. Yet even after witnessing the healing of the man with the withered hand, the Pharisees failed to rejoice. Their prejudice blinded them to the good that was done, despite Jesus’ reminder that doing good, not evil, is what truly honours the Sabbath (Lk 6:9).

Because their vision was shaped by evil thoughts and hardened intentions, they neither produced good fruit nor experienced the goodness Jesus offered.

Understanding Blessings and Woes Through Jesus’ Perspective

Aware of Jesus’ power, many disciples seek Him for healing—both physical and spiritual (Lk 6:17–19). However, Jesus then challenges their understanding of what it truly means to be blessed.

From a worldly perspective, blessing is often associated with wealth, satisfaction, laughter, and comfort. Yet Jesus describes these conditions as woes. This does not mean that physical blessings are inherently wrong. Scripture affirms that blessings and the ability to enjoy them come from God (Prov 10:22; Ecc 5:19).

Rather, Jesus is correcting the lens through which blessings are viewed. He teaches that true and lasting blessing is eternal and heavenly in nature. Even if believers must first endure hunger, sorrow, rejection, or hardship, their ultimate reward is found in heaven. Jesus calls His followers to look beyond immediate comfort and see life through an eternal lens.

Focusing on the Faults of Others While Missing Our Own Limitations

A speck is insignificant when compared to a plank. Yet when our vision is misdirected, we often find it easier to notice the faults of others than to confront our own shortcomings. Jesus addresses this distorted perspective by teaching us to exercise humility and mercy.

He reminds us, “Judge not, and you shall not be judged. Condemn not, and you shall not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.” (Lk 6:37)

Correct vision begins with self-examination. When we focus excessively on others’ failures, we risk overlooking areas in our own lives that need growth and repentance.

Summary

Luke 6 challenges us to recalibrate our vision. It invites us to examine whether the lenses through which we view God, others, and ourselves are aligned with God’s heart and purposes. Clear spiritual vision allows us to recognise mercy, understand true blessing, and walk humbly before God.

Reflection Questions:

• Are there any of God’s commandments that I view through a negative lens?

• What do I consider to be true blessings in my life?

• Do I often judge others while neglecting personal reflection, causing me to miss my own shortcomings?