The disciple is not above his master: but every one shall be perfect, if he be as his master.
ουκ εστιν μαθητης υπερ τον διδασκαλον αυτου κατηρτισμενος δε πας εσται ως ο διδασκαλος αυτου
6 Church Fathers comment on this verse · 7 commentaries
The student is never above the instructor. Thus, if you, the alleged instructor and guide, stumble, it is certain that the student under your guidance will also falter. A well-equipped disciple, or a truly mature disciple, will reflect the character of his teacher. After stating this, reminding us not to pass judgment on those who may be weaker and seemingly sinful, He continues to expound on this theme.
Moreover, by dismantling the desire for recognition that ensnares many, He emphasized that one should not strive to exceed their mentors in respect, stating, ‘A disciple is not above his teacher.’ Even if some individuals progress to a degree where their virtue approaches that of their mentors, they remain as imitators and do not rise above that level. Paul reinforces this idea, declaring, ‘Be imitators of me, even as I am of Christ.’ Since the Master has not yet rendered judgment, why do you judge? For His purpose was not to condemn the world but to offer compassion. As stated earlier, if I do not judge, you, as a disciple, should not judge either. Yet, if you are guilty of sins that are greater than those you condemn in others, how can you avoid humiliation when you face condemnation for them? The Lord elucidated this point in another parable.
The blessed apostles were meant to serve as hidden guides and educators of the celestial realm. Thus, it was appropriate for them to embody true piety, to understand the path of a gospel-centered life, to lead in every virtuous endeavor, and to share with those they taught a precise, salvific, and truth-filled message. This was essential since they had been granted insight and had their minds illuminated by divine wisdom, ensuring they would not become misguided leaders for others who are also blind. Those enveloped in ignorance cannot lead others toward the knowledge of truth, as they share the same afflictions. Even if they desire to assist, both would inevitably fall into the snare of their own desires.
To counteract the folly of arrogance that seeks to exceed the respect owed to teachers, Jesus stated: A disciple is not above his teacher (Lk 6:40). Even if some manage to cultivate virtues comparable to those of their instructors, they will remain within the same sphere and become their followers, echoing Paul's words: Imitate me as I imitate Christ (1 Cor 4:16).
A student is never superior to their instructor. In the nineteenth chapter of the Gospel according to Matthew, He reiterated this principle regarding Himself (Matthew 10:24). Here, He refers to the disciples, whom He appointed as educators, to ensure that no one would elevate themselves above them, believing they had exceeded their moral excellence. However, when fully developed, each will resemble their teacher. For He also stated in the same nineteenth chapter, ‘It is enough for a disciple that he should be like his teacher’ (Matt. 10:25).
In summary, the Lord instructed that in every situation we should consistently seek God through prayer, ensuring that our love for others matches the love we hold for ourselves. We are to train ourselves to follow a righteous path, exercise caution in the face of misleading teachers, and put into practice what we have been taught. By establishing these life guidelines for His disciples, the Lord highlighted the vital differences between their righteousness and that of the Pharisees, creating a strong basis for the spiritual growth of His chosen community.
These teachings were not meant solely for that particular time or for specific individuals; rather, they are intended as a law and guide for all believers, as they are grounded in the eternal principles of Divine holiness and the moral truths established by the Creator within human nature.
The chosen ones had little prior instruction, having spent some time only with disciples of John, like Andrew and John. The Lord selected those who demonstrated their love for Him, trusting like children and free from the contamination of misguided enlightenment. He imparted their education through both word and action, whether in solitude or before the multitudes, in homes or on the roads, on land and at sea. He clarified what remained obscure to others, allowing them to witness His life and works. He gradually dismantled the biases they had absorbed from Jewish teachings, utilizing their mistakes as learning opportunities. He encouraged them to discuss subjects familiar to them, without disregarding the fact that He was aware not only of their conversations but also of the innermost thoughts of individuals. He guided their emotional responses, aligning them with their responsibilities.
In essence, He purified and illuminated their minds and hearts, preparing them for a profound outpouring of the Spirit of truth and sanctification. Initially, they related to the Lord as His disciples, but by the conclusion of His earthly ministry, He referred to them as His friends (Jn. 15:14-15), for He shared all with them; ultimately, He called them brothers.
Verses 21-23 serve as a bridge from the earlier discussion about false prophets to the final call to action. This segment clarifies the importance of not just hearing the words of Christ but also acting upon them. Simply identifying oneself as a Christian does not guarantee eternal happiness. Many who minister in Christ's name and work for the salvation of others may be recipients of divine gifts, such as prophecy or miracles, including the expulsion of demons. Yet, at the Last Judgment, even those individuals may hear the Lord declare, “I have never known you,” indicating a lack of true relationship.
In Luke, the concluding thoughts begin in verse 39 with statements that find different contexts in Matthew. This divergence underscores that, as closest disciples, you are called to be beacons of light and teachers, instilling the lessons you receive from me into the hearts of humanity. To effectively share the Gospel’s luminous message, however, it is essential to first address your own spiritual blindness; the blind cannot lead the blind. Those who are spiritually blind include the teachers you previously followed, the Pharisees. You must cease following them and their corrupt ways. Since a disciple is not greater than his teacher, you cannot guide others unless you are illuminated by the truth and goodness yourselves. Thus, you must first remove the plank from your own eye, instead of merely noticing the speck in your neighbor's eye. Strive to produce good fruit, not merely profess my teachings with your words. Whoever heeds my instructions is likened to a wise builder, establishing a structure on a solid foundation impervious to destruction.
A disciple is not greater than his master; yet when he attains maturity, all will resemble their master.
Passages read together with this verse.
Greek text, 14 words with lemma, transliteration and Strong’s number. Tap to expand.
THEOSIS