Book of Luke - Chapter 6 - Verse 3

Jesus is referencing a story from the Old Testament, specifically 1 Samuel 21:1-6, where David and his men were fleeing from King Saul and were hungry. In this passage, David goes to the tabernacle and asks the priest for bread to eat, even though it was reserved only for the priests. The priest gives the consecrated bread to David and his men because they were on a mission from the Lord. Jesus is using this story to teach the Pharisees about mercy and compassion. He is pointing out that the priests broke the law by giving David and his men the bread, but that act of mercy was pleasing to God. By bringing up this story, Jesus is emphasizing the importance of showing compassion and meeting the needs of others, even if it goes against tradition or rules. This verse serves as a reminder that God values mercy and compassion over legalism and rigid adherence to rules.

In this verse, Jesus references an incident from the Old Testament involving King David when he and his companions were hungry. By pointing to this event, Jesus is highlighting the fact that there are instances in Scripture where God's laws are superseded by mercy and the greater need for compassion. Jesus is emphasizing that the Pharisees' strict adherence to the law should not overshadow the importance of showing kindness and understanding towards others. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the balance between following religious laws and embodying the love and compassion that Jesus preached. By using this example from David's life, Jesus encourages his audience to prioritize empathy and care for others over rigid legalism. This verse serves as a reminder to Christians that acts of mercy and love should not be overshadowed by a legalistic interpretation of religious laws.