Luke 12
BSB1 In the meantime, a crowd of many thousands had gathered, so that they were trampling one another. Jesus began to speak first to His disciples: “Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. 2 There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, and nothing hidden that will not be made known. 3 What you have spoken in the dark will be heard in the daylight, and what you have whispered in the inner rooms will be proclaimed from the housetops. 4 I tell you, My friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. 5 But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear the One who, after you have been killed, has authority to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear Him! 6 Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. 7 And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So do not be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows. 8 I tell you, everyone who confesses Me before men, the Son of Man will also confess him before the angels of God. 9 But whoever denies Me before men will be denied before the angels of God. 10 And everyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven. 11 When you are brought before synagogues, rulers, and authorities, do not worry about how to defend yourselves or what to say. 12 For at that time the Holy Spirit will teach you what you should say." 13 Someone in the crowd said to Him, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me." 14 But Jesus replied, “Man, who appointed Me judge or executor between you?" 15 And He said to them, “Watch out! Guard yourselves against every form of greed, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions." 16 Then He told them a parable: “The ground of a certain rich man produced an abundance. 17 So he thought to himself, ‘What shall I do, since I have nowhere to store my crops?’ 18 Then he said, ‘This is what I will do: I will tear down my barns and will build bigger ones, and there I will store up all my grain and my goods. 19 Then I will say to myself, “You have plenty of good things laid up for many years. Take it easy. Eat, drink, and be merry!”’ 20 But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life will be required of you. Then who will own what you have accumulated?’ 21 This is how it will be for anyone who stores up treasure for himself but is not rich toward God." 22 Then Jesus said to His disciples, “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat, or about your body, what you will wear. 23 For life is more than food, and the body more than clothes. 24 Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storehouse or barn; yet God feeds them. How much more valuable you are than the birds! 25 Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? 26 So if you cannot do such a small thing, why do you worry about the rest? 27 Consider how the lilies grow: They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his glory was adorned like one of these. 28 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the furnace, how much more will He clothe you, O you of little faith! 29 And do not be concerned about what you will eat or drink. Do not worry about it. 30 For the Gentiles of the world strive after all these things, and your Father knows that you need them. 31 But seek His kingdom, and these things will be added unto you. 32 Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father is pleased to give you the kingdom. 33 Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide yourselves with purses that will not wear out, an inexhaustible treasure in heaven, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys. 34 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 35 Be dressed for service and keep your lamps burning. 36 Then you will be like servants waiting for their master to return from the wedding banquet, so that when he comes and knocks, they can open the door for him at once. 37 Blessed are those servants whom the master finds on watch when he returns. Truly I tell you, he will dress himself to serve and will have them recline at the table, and he himself will come and wait on them. 38 Even if he comes in the second or third watch of the night and finds them alert, those servants will be blessed. 39 But understand this: If the homeowner had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would not have let his house be broken into. 40 You also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour you do not expect." 41 “Lord,” said Peter, “are You addressing this parable to us, or to everyone else as well?" 42 And the Lord answered, “Who then is the faithful and wise manager, whom the master puts in charge of his servants to give them their portion at the proper time? 43 Blessed is that servant whose master finds him doing so when he returns. 44 Truly I tell you, he will put him in charge of all his possessions. 45 But suppose that servant says in his heart, ‘My master will be a long time in coming,’ and he begins to beat the menservants and maidservants, and to eat and drink and get drunk. 46 The master of that servant will come on a day he does not expect and at an hour he does not anticipate. Then he will cut him to pieces and assign him a place with the unbelievers. 47 That servant who knows his master’s will but does not get ready or follow his instructions will be beaten with many blows. 48 But the one who unknowingly does things worthy of punishment will be beaten with few blows. From everyone who has been given much, much will be required; and from him who has been entrusted with much, even more will be demanded. 49 I have come to ignite a fire on the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled! 50 But I have a baptism to undergo, and how distressed I am until it is accomplished! 51 Do you think that I have come to bring peace to the earth? No, I tell you, but division. 52 From now on, five in one household will be divided, three against two and two against three. 53 They will be divided, father against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law. “ 54 Then Jesus said to the crowds, “As soon as you see a cloud rising in the west, you say, ‘A shower is coming,’ and that is what happens. 55 And when the south wind blows, you say, ‘It will be hot,’ and it is. 56 You hypocrites! You know how to interpret the appearance of the earth and sky. Why don’t you know how to interpret the present time? 57 And why don’t you judge for yourselves what is right? 58 Make every effort to reconcile with your adversary while you are on your way to the magistrate. Otherwise, he may drag you off to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer, and the officer may throw you into prison. 59 I tell you, you will not get out until you have paid the very last penny. “
Study Notes — Luke 12
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Luke 12
- Themes from Luke 12
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Luke 12
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
Luke 12 begins with Jesus warning His disciples about the hypocrisy of the Pharisees, emphasizing the importance of genuine faith and obedience (Luke 12:1-3). He then teaches them about the importance of being prepared for His return, using the parable of the faithful servant (Luke 12:35-40). Jesus also teaches about the importance of trusting in God's provision, using the example of the ravens and the lilies (Luke 12:22-31). The chapter concludes with Jesus emphasizing the need for His followers to be faithful and ready, using the parable of the rich fool (Luke 12:13-21). Throughout the chapter, Jesus emphasizes the importance of living a life of faith, obedience, and trust in God.
Context for the Chapter
Luke 12 is part of the larger narrative of Jesus' journey to Jerusalem, where He will ultimately face rejection, crucifixion, and resurrection. The chapter is situated in the midst of Jesus' teachings on the importance of faith, obedience, and trust in God. As Jesus travels to Jerusalem, He is preparing His disciples for the challenges of the Christian life, emphasizing the need for faithfulness, readiness, and trust in God's provision.
Heart Application
The teachings of Luke 12 have significant implications for the Christian life. Believers are called to examine their own hearts, ensuring that their faith is genuine and obedient. They are also called to trust in God's provision, living a life of faith and readiness. As Jesus emphasizes, believers should prioritize their relationship with God, seeking first the kingdom of God and trusting that their physical needs will be met.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
Luke 12 teaches that Jesus wants His followers to be faithful and ready for His return. He wants them to trust in God's provision and live a life of faith and obedience. As Jesus says, "But seek first the kingdom of God, and these things will be added to you" (Luke 12:31). This means that believers should prioritize their relationship with God and trust that their physical needs will be met.
Voices from the Church
“The faithful servant is not one who is perfect, but one who is faithful in the discharge of his duties. He is one who is diligent in his work, and who trusts in the goodness and provision of his Master.”
— John Calvin
“The ravens and the lilies are examples of God's faithfulness in providing for the needs of His creation. They remind us that God is a faithful provider, and that we can trust in His goodness and provision.”
— Charles Spurgeon
Outline for Preaching
- The Dangers of Hypocrisy (Luke 12:1-3) — Jesus warns His disciples about the hypocrisy of the Pharisees, emphasizing the importance of genuine faith and obedience.
- The Parable of the Faithful Servant (Luke 12:35-40) — Jesus teaches His disciples about the importance of being prepared for His return, using the parable of the faithful servant.
- The Example of the Ravens and the Lilies (Luke 12:22-31) — Jesus teaches about the importance of trusting in God's provision, using the example of the ravens and the lilies.
- The Parable of the Rich Fool (Luke 12:13-21) — Jesus teaches about the importance of trusting in God's provision, using the parable of the rich fool.
- The Importance of Faithfulness and Readiness (Luke 12:41-48) — Jesus concludes the chapter by emphasizing the need for His followers to be faithful and ready, using the parable of the faithful servant.
Core Doctrines
- The Importance of Faithfulness
- Luke 12 teaches that faithfulness is a crucial aspect of the Christian life. Believers are called to be faithful in their obedience to God, trusting in His goodness and provision.
- The Doctrine of Providence
- The chapter emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's provision, using the example of the ravens and the lilies. This highlights the faithfulness of God in providing for the needs of His creation.
- The Return of Christ
- The chapter concludes with Jesus emphasizing the need for His followers to be faithful and ready for His return. This highlights the importance of living a life of faith and obedience, trusting in God's goodness and provision.
- The Importance of Genuine Faith
- The chapter begins with Jesus warning His disciples about the hypocrisy of the Pharisees, emphasizing the importance of genuine faith and obedience. This highlights the need for believers to examine their own hearts and ensure that their faith is genuine.
Lessons from Luke 12
- The Importance of Genuine Faith — The chapter begins with Jesus warning His disciples about the hypocrisy of the Pharisees, emphasizing the importance of genuine faith and obedience.
- The Parable of the Faithful Servant — Jesus teaches His disciples about the importance of being prepared for His return, using the parable of the faithful servant.
- The Example of the Ravens and the Lilies — Jesus teaches about the importance of trusting in God's provision, using the example of the ravens and the lilies.
- The Parable of the Rich Fool — Jesus teaches about the importance of trusting in God's provision, using the parable of the rich fool.
- The Importance of Faithfulness and Readiness — Jesus concludes the chapter by emphasizing the need for His followers to be faithful and ready, using the parable of the faithful servant.
Themes from Luke 12
- Faithfulness — The chapter emphasizes the importance of faithfulness in the Christian life, trusting in God's goodness and provision.
- Readiness — Jesus teaches His disciples about the importance of being prepared for His return, using the parable of the faithful servant.
- Provision — The chapter emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's provision, using the example of the ravens and the lilies.
- Genuine Faith — The chapter begins with Jesus warning His disciples about the hypocrisy of the Pharisees, emphasizing the importance of genuine faith and obedience.
- The Return of Christ — The chapter concludes with Jesus emphasizing the need for His followers to be faithful and ready for His return.
Questions for Meditation
- What are some ways that you can prioritize your relationship with God, seeking first the kingdom of God?
- How can you trust in God's provision, even when faced with uncertainty or doubt?
- What are some ways that you can be faithful and prepared for the challenges of the Christian life?
- How can you ensure that your faith is genuine, and not just a superficial expression of religiosity?
- What are some ways that you can live a life of faith and obedience, trusting in God's goodness and provision?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. The Dangers of Hypocrisy (Luke 12:1-3)
| Luke 12:1 | Jesus warns His disciples about the hypocrisy of the Pharisees, emphasizing the importance of genuine faith and obedience. |
| Luke 12:2 | He teaches that nothing is hidden that will not be revealed, and nothing is secret that will not be made known. |
| Luke 12:3 | He emphasizes the importance of speaking the truth, and warns against the dangers of hypocrisy and deception. |
2. The Parable of the Faithful Servant (Luke 12:35-40)
| Luke 12:35 | Jesus teaches His disciples about the importance of being prepared for His return, using the parable of the faithful servant. |
| Luke 12:36 | He emphasizes the importance of being faithful and prepared, trusting in God's goodness and provision. |
| Luke 12:37 | He teaches that the faithful servant will be blessed, and will be given a place of honor in the kingdom of God. |
| Luke 12:38 | He warns against the dangers of complacency and laziness, emphasizing the importance of being faithful and prepared. |
3. The Example of the Ravens and the Lilies (Luke 12:22-31)
| Luke 12:22 | Jesus teaches about the importance of trusting in God's provision, using the example of the ravens and the lilies. |
| Luke 12:23 | He emphasizes the importance of not worrying about the future, but instead trusting in God's goodness and provision. |
| Luke 12:24 | He teaches that God provides for the needs of His creation, and that believers should trust in His provision. |
| Luke 12:25 | He warns against the dangers of anxiety and worry, emphasizing the importance of trusting in God's goodness and provision. |
4. The Parable of the Rich Fool (Luke 12:13-21)
| Luke 12:13 | Jesus teaches about the importance of trusting in God's provision, using the parable of the rich fool. |
| Luke 12:14 | He emphasizes the importance of not storing up treasures on earth, but instead storing up treasures in heaven. |
| Luke 12:15 | He teaches that a person's life is not measured by their wealth, but instead by their relationship with God. |
| Luke 12:16 | He warns against the dangers of greed and materialism, emphasizing the importance of trusting in God's provision. |
5. The Importance of Faithfulness and Readiness (Luke 12:41-48)
| Luke 12:41 | Jesus concludes the chapter by emphasizing the need for His followers to be faithful and ready, using the parable of the faithful servant. |
| Luke 12:42 | He teaches that the faithful servant will be blessed, and will be given a place of honor in the kingdom of God. |
| Luke 12:43 | He warns against the dangers of complacency and laziness, emphasizing the importance of being faithful and prepared. |
| Luke 12:44 | He emphasizes the importance of being faithful and obedient, trusting in God's goodness and provision. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main theme of Luke 12?
The main theme of Luke 12 is the importance of faithfulness and readiness in the Christian life, trusting in God's goodness and provision. As Jesus teaches, "But seek first the kingdom of God, and these things will be added to you" (Luke 12:31).
What is the parable of the faithful servant about?
The parable of the faithful servant is about the importance of being prepared for Jesus' return, using the example of a faithful servant who is blessed and given a place of honor in the kingdom of God. As Jesus teaches, "Who then is the faithful and wise manager, whom his master will put in charge of his servants to give them their food allowance at the proper time?" (Luke 12:42).
What is the example of the ravens and the lilies about?
The example of the ravens and the lilies is about the importance of trusting in God's provision, using the example of God's faithfulness in providing for the needs of His creation. As Jesus teaches, "Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds!" (Luke 12:24).
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Luke 12:1 → Matthew 23:1-12 | The warning against hypocrisy in Luke 12:1 is similar to Jesus' warning against the hypocrisy of the Pharisees in Matthew 23:1-12. |
| 2 | Luke 12:35 → Mark 13:33-37 | The parable of the faithful servant in Luke 12:35 is similar to Jesus' teaching on the importance of being prepared for His return in Mark 13:33-37. |
| 3 | Luke 12:22 → Matthew 6:25-34 | The example of the ravens and the lilies in Luke 12:22 is similar to Jesus' teaching on the importance of trusting in God's provision in Matthew 6:25-34. |
| 4 | Luke 12:13 → 1 Timothy 6:10 | The parable of the rich fool in Luke 12:13 is similar to the warning against the dangers of greed and materialism in 1 Timothy 6:10. |
| 5 | Luke 12:41 → Matthew 24:42-44 | The emphasis on faithfulness and readiness in Luke 12:41 is similar to Jesus' teaching on the importance of being prepared for His return in Matthew 24:42-44. |
| 6 | Luke 12:1 → Psalm 51:17 | The warning against hypocrisy in Luke 12:1 is similar to the warning against hypocrisy in Psalm 51:17. |
| 7 | Luke 12:35 → Isaiah 40:31 | The parable of the faithful servant in Luke 12:35 is similar to the promise of God's strength and provision in Isaiah 40:31. |
| 8 | Luke 12:22 → Psalm 104:27-28 | The example of the ravens and the lilies in Luke 12:22 is similar to the description of God's provision for His creation in Psalm 104:27-28. |
| 9 | Luke 12:13 → Proverbs 28:20 | The parable of the rich fool in Luke 12:13 is similar to the warning against the dangers of greed and materialism in Proverbs 28:20. |
| 10 | Luke 12:41 → 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 | The emphasis on faithfulness and readiness in Luke 12:41 is similar to the teaching on the importance of being prepared for the Lord's return in 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24. |
Sermons on Luke 12
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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Are We Willing to Drink His Cup? by Leonard Ravenhill | In this sermon, the speaker shares a story about a young girl who had a profound impact on the powerful women of her time. The girl preached against prostitution and even caught th |
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Set Your Affections Above - Part 1 by Derek Prince | In this sermon, the speaker focuses on 2nd Corinthians chapter 4 and highlights the idea that everything in the universe is for the sake of believers. The speaker emphasizes that a |
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Please Sir Save Me! by William Booth | In this sermon, the preacher tells a story about a gold miner on a ship that gets caught in a storm and starts sinking. A little girl asks the miner if he can swim, and he realizes |
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The Power of God - Part 1 by Kathryn Kuhlman | In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the power of the Holy Spirit and the need for believers to be led by the Spirit. They emphasize the importance of humility and caution again |
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"Dow Jones and Revival" by Leonard Ravenhill | This sermon emphasizes the importance of Christians prioritizing the kingdom of God over worldly concerns, drawing a parallel between the focus on financial markets like the Dow Jo |
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Converted by the Spirit by Tim Keller | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of real conversion and spiritual transformation. He emphasizes that true conversion is initiated by God and not by human effort. |
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The Gospel, Possessions and Prosperity - Session 1 by David Platt | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding the gospel and its implications for our lives. He highlights five different threads of the gospel, emphasizin |
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Whats Wrong With the Gospel - Part 4 by Keith Green | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the topic of money and the potential loss that can occur if we don't take breaks. He emphasizes the importance of taking breaks and not consta |
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(Heavenly Life) Heavenly Attitudes by Zac Poonen | This sermon emphasizes the importance of being the salt of the earth by bringing a taste of heaven to wherever we are, whether at home, work, or church. It highlights the need to h |
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(Dangers in the Way Series): Dangers of Prosperity and Adversity by A.W. Tozer | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the dangers that Christians face in their journey towards heaven. He emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and addressing these perils, |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Luke 12
In Luke 12, Jesus teaches His disciples about the importance of faithfulness and readiness in the Christian life. He warns against the dangers of hypocrisy and greed, emphasizing the importance of trusting in God's provision and living a life of faith and obedience. As Matthew Henry notes, 'Our Lord Jesus, in this chapter, teaches us to be faithful and wise in our trust, and to be always ready for our account.' (Matthew Henry Commentary, Luke 12). The chapter concludes with Jesus emphasizing the need for His followers to be faithful and ready, using the parable of the faithful servant. As Henry notes, 'The faithful servant will be blessed, and will be given a place of honor in the kingdom of God.' (Matthew Henry Commentary, Luke 12:43). Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
The Importance of Genuine Faith
The chapter begins with Jesus warning His disciples about the hypocrisy of the Pharisees, emphasizing the importance of genuine faith and obedience. This highlights the need for believers to examine their own hearts and ensure that their faith is genuine.
The Parable of the Faithful Servant
Jesus teaches His disciples about the importance of being prepared for His return, using the parable of the faithful servant. This parable emphasizes the need for believers to be faithful and prepared, trusting in God's goodness and provision.
The Example of the Ravens and the Lilies
Jesus teaches about the importance of trusting in God's provision, using the example of the ravens and the lilies. This example highlights the faithfulness of God in providing for the needs of His creation, and the need for believers to trust in His goodness.