Luke 6:40

The disciple. That is, the learner is not above the teacher. This is similar to our proverb about a stream not rising higher than its source. The Chinese have a proverb to the effect that “a student cannot excel his teacher.” In its contextual relationship to v. 39, the proverb about the student and his teacher equates the “master” with the blind man who attempts to lead, or instruct, another blind man, and the “disciple” with the one being led. The moral is simply that those who would pose as teachers of others must have clear insight into the matters concerning which they propose to give instruction. Unless they do, those they teach can at best reach a low standard.

This “parable” illustrates the same lesson set forth in the metaphor of vs. 41, 42, about the man who proposes to pull a speck or splinter out of his brother’s eye when there is a beam or log in his own. A man must see himself clearly before he can be of any help to others.

Perfect. Gr. katartizo, “to prepare,” “to train,” “to furnish thoroughly.” Hence, “fully taught” (RSV). It is also used as a medical term to describe setting a bone or a joint.

Shall be as his master. That is, no better than his master (cf. v. 39).