Luke 6:26Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

For this expression, woe, is always said in the Scriptures to those who cannot escape from future punishment.

Let us be cautious, dear brethren, for great sorrow awaits those who seek the approval of people. We indeed should aim to receive commendation from others, but priority must be given to God’s approval.

Having said before that poverty for God’s sake is the cause of every good thing, and that hunger and weeping will not be without the reward of the saints, he goes on to denounce the opposite to these as the source of condemnation and punishment. But woe unto you rich, for ye have your consolation.

Now it is plain that the rule of abstinence is necessary, because the Apostle mentions it among the fruits of the Spirit. (Gal. 5:23.) For the subjection of the body is by nothing so obtained as by abstinence, whereby, as it were a bridle, it becomes us to keep in check the fervour of youth. Abstinence then is the putting to death of sin, the extirpation of passions, the beginning of the spiritual life, blunting in itself the sting of temptations. But lest there should be any agreement with the enemies of God, we must accept every thing as the occasion requires, to shew, that to the pure all things are pure (Tit. 1:15.), by coming indeed to the necessaries of life, but abstaining altogether from those which conduce to pleasure.

But although in the abundance of wealth many are the allurements to crime, yet many also are the incitements to virtue. Although virtue requires no support, and the offering of the poor man is more commendable than the liberality of the rich, still it is not those who possess riches, but those who know not how to use them, that are condemned by the authority of the heavenly sentence. For as that poor man is more praiseworthy who gives without grudging, so is the rich man more guilty, who ought to return thanks for what he has received, and not to hide without using it the sum which was given him for the common good. It is not therefore the money, but the heart of the possessor which is in fault.

Beware when everyone speaks favorably of you! Even if you are morally corrupt, it is a warning when they commend you for satisfying their desires instead of honoring God. Just as it is a blessing for those who endure unjust criticism, so too is it a cause for concern for those who receive unwarranted praise. This mirrors the actions of their ancestors who treated the false prophets in the same manner. Therefore, it is clear that they offered accolades to those who proclaimed messages simply to gain favor.

It is unwise to seek the approval of everyone, for it is written, ‘Woe to you when all men speak well of you!' True prophets faced death for proclaiming the truth, whereas false prophets uttered words that satisfied the desires of people and gained their affection. Therefore, if you strive to speak the truth, consider the possibility of suffering for it rather than pursuing the admiration and love of others. I share these thoughts as I perceive them; may they lead you to spiritual tranquility. However, if your aim is to garner the favor of people, you may find yourself under their judgment due to a disregard for the truth. In contrast, if you are fervent in your commitment to the truth, those who initially oppose you may be saddened by your conviction, but ultimately they will stand in awe of your devotion and commend your righteous enthusiasm.

Beware when everyone commends you, which reflects a longing to receive only favorable remarks from others and to take delight in the honors and accolades they bestow. Great Message.

Woe to you that are full, for ye shall be hungry. That rich man clothed in purple was full, feasting sumptuously every day, but endured in hunger that dreadful “woe,” when from the finger of Lazarus, whom he had despised, he begged a drop of water.

Beware when everyone praises you. Why did the Lord make this statement, considering that the reputation of virtuous individuals spreads widely, and some receive honor from all? The reason is that it is unattainable for a genuine follower of Christ. The Lord declared, 'I have chosen you out of the world... For this cause the world hates you' (Jn. 15:19). If everyone speaks favorably of you, it often results from a lack of commitment to righteousness and indulgence in worldly favor. What is said about the renown of certain individuals may ring true for many; thus, while many may offer compliments, they reflect the opinions of the masses.

Not boasting in a false sense of righteousness like the Pharisees, but instead aware of their own spiritual destitution, lamenting their transgressions, and earnestly pursuing divine righteousness (Rom. 3:21), they detach their hearts from worldly desires. Simultaneously, they show gentleness towards the weaknesses of others, always willing to assist their neighbors in times of need (merciful), and working diligently to foster peace and unity everywhere (peacemakers). Ultimately, they stand resolute in their faith and moral integrity, even to the point of self-sacrifice. These are the individuals whom the Lord acknowledges as the children of His kingdom.

Ultimately, sorrow is declared upon those who are spoken favorably of by everyone, in contrast to those who endure persecution and scorn for the sake of Christ's name. The sentiment of all humanity, or the entire world, is viewed as antagonistic to the teachings and spirit of Christ, thus harboring animosity towards Him and those who proclaim His message (John 15:17-19). If this fallen world lauds anyone opposed to Christ and His followers, it indicates that such an individual does not proclaim or adhere to the truth of Christ; had they done so, they would surely attract hatred and persecution from the world. It is important to note that this does not preclude commendation from believers towards those who are truly deserving of it.

In contrast to the blessings granted to genuine followers of the Gospel, the Lord pronounced woes upon the arrogant and self-serving, who prioritize wealth and earthly pleasures above all else. He said: Woe unto you rich men, for you will forfeit your comfort; woe unto you who are full now, for you shall experience hunger; woe unto you who rejoice now, for you will mourn and weep; woe when all people speak well of you; for in a similar manner, their ancestors treated the false prophets.