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NASB | Luke 14:26 "If anyone comes to Me, and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be My disciple. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Luke 14:26 "If anyone comes to Me, and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life [in the sense of indifference to or relative disregard for them in comparison with his attitude toward God]--he cannot be My disciple. |
Bible Question:
Hi, I understand that the NASB is the most accurate word-for-word translation in the English language, so maybe some of you can help me with this question. This verse says that Jesus taught that his followers should hate their father, mother, wife, children, brothers, and sisters. Given that the 10 Commandments said that we are to honor our father and mother, why did Jesus violate the Law here? As I understand it, Jesus came to fulfill the Law. So why the contradiction? I have looked up this question in the archives and have not seen a satisfactory answer. It was mnetioned that "hate" may be used as a comparative value. But having a face-value approach to the Bible, I feel that if Jesus had meant "does not love Me more," then he would have said so. Can anyone help? seeking4truth |
Bible Answer: Greetings Seeking4truth! As I am sure you are aware, language is a very fluid thing. Words and phrases can have very different meanings in different cultures at different times. However, it is quite clear from the context of this passage that 'hate' here is used in a relative sense. The question is not one of 'love' verses 'hate, but one of 'what' or 'whom' will have first place in our lives. How do we know this? The context of the passage makes it clear. Discipleship requires a great committment. One must put Christ first, over family and even one's own life. One must count the cost. The emphasis is upon the priority we must give Christ. Your Brother in Christ, Tim Moran |