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Luke 12:32
Verse
Context
Treasures in Heaven
31But seek His kingdom, and these things will be added unto you.32Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father is pleased to give you the kingdom.33Sell 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.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Fear not, little flock - Or, very little flock, το μικρον ποιμνιον. This is what some term a double diminutive, and, literally translated, is, little little flock. Though this refers solely to the apostles and first believers, of whom it was literally true, yet we may say that the number of genuine believers has been, and is still, small, in comparison of heathens and false Christians. It is your Father's good pleasure - Ευδοκησεν, It hath pleased, etc., though this tense joined with an infinitive has often the force of the present. Our Lord intimated, God has already given you that kingdom which consists in righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost, and has undertaken to protect and save you to the uttermost; therefore, fear not; the smallness of your number cannot hurt you, for omnipotence itself has undertaken your cause.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
little flock, &c.--How sublime and touching a contrast between this tender and pitying appellation, "Little flock" (in the original a double diminutive, which in German can be expressed, but not in English)--and the "good pleasure" of the Father to give them the Kingdom; the one recalling the insignificance and helplessness of that then literal handful of disciples, the other holding up to their view the eternal love that encircled them, the everlasting arms that were underneath them, and the high inheritance awaiting them!--"the kingdom"; grand word; then why not "bread" (Luk 12:31 [BENGEL]). Well might He say, "Fear not!"
John Gill Bible Commentary
Fear not little flock,.... these words are particularly directed to the immediate apostles and disciples of Christ; but are true of all the saints in all ages of time, who are compared to a "flock of sheep", being separated from the rest of the world in election, redemption, and the effectual calling, and being folded together in a Gospel church state; and also for their patience, meekness, humility, and harmlessness: these are a "little" flock; few in number, when compared with the wicked of the world; and mean and despicable in the account of men; and little in their own eyes: these are subject to many "fears"; some relate to their outward state, and condition, as that they shall want food and raiment, and not have the necessaries of life; which seems to be in the first place here intended, as appears from the context: and some regard their spiritual and eternal estate, as lest they should have no interest in the love of God, and in the covenant, in the blessings and promises of his grace; lest they should not belong to Christ; or the good work of grace should not be begun in them; or that they should not persevere to the end, and should at last miscarry of eternal life and happiness: and these fears arise from a body of sin, from the temptations of Satan, the hidings of God's face, and the prevalence of unbelief; for they have no true reason for them: God is on their side, and will not leave, nor forsake them, nor shall they want any good thing Christ is their shepherd, and he has bought them, with his own blood, and will lose none of them; and therefore they need not fear being taken care of both in soul and body, for time and eternity: and especially when what follows is considered, for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom; not only the Gospel, and the knowledge of the mysteries of it; nor the Gospel church state, and a right to all its ordinances; nor only the kingdom of grace, which cannot be moved; but the kingdom of glory: and which is a gift unto them, not obtained by any deserts or works of theirs; nor is their right unto, and enjoyment of it depending upon any such thing: and it their Father's gift, who is so by adopting grace, and through Christ Jesus their Lord; and which he gives according to his sovereign will and pleasure, and with a good will, delighting in them, and rejoicing over them to do them good, both here and hereafter: so that they may depend upon every good thing needful for them both in this world, and in the world to come; nor should they indulge anxious cares, or slavish fears.
Luke 12:32
Treasures in Heaven
31But seek His kingdom, and these things will be added unto you.32Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father is pleased to give you the kingdom.33Sell 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.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Worthy Is the Lamb - Part 1
By Joshua Daniel1.1K25:28PSA 51:17ISA 53:5MAT 10:1LUK 12:32LUK 15:17ROM 8:17EPH 6:12PHP 2:9COL 1:13REV 5:9This sermon delves into the power of darkness and the need for deliverance, highlighting the contrast between the kingdom of darkness and the kingdom of God. It emphasizes the importance of breaking generational curses and the impact of family dynamics on spiritual bondage. The narrative includes a powerful testimony of confronting demonic forces and the authority believers have in Christ to overcome evil. The message underscores the significance of recognizing our unworthiness and embracing the worthiness of Christ, urging a deeper commitment to living in the fullness of God's kingdom.
Gaining an Eternal Perspective (P2)
By K.P. Yohannan64723:36EternityMAT 6:19MAT 6:25MAT 6:33MAT 19:21LUK 9:24LUK 12:32ROM 10:15In this sermon, the speaker shares a powerful story of a missionary who was brutally attacked while preaching the gospel. Despite the scars and the pain, this missionary continued to faithfully serve God. The speaker emphasizes the importance of prayer and encourages listeners to develop a disciplined prayer life. He also warns against mistaking obedience for legalism and urges believers to truly know and have a personal relationship with God. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the privilege of being born in a Christian home and the responsibility to support and pray for missionaries around the world.
God's Purpose for Our Lives
By Ian Robson5821:03:19LUK 12:32ROM 8:12PE 1:3This sermon emphasizes the importance of understanding God's purpose for each believer, focusing on Romans 8 and the concept of adoption into God's family. It delves into the transformation God desires in believers to be conformed to the image of Jesus, highlighting the role of the Holy Spirit in helping, interceding, and shaping individuals. The sermon encourages a shift from self-centered prayers to aligning with God's will, leading to victory over sin and a life of godliness through the power of the Spirit. It concludes with a call to trust in God's promises, embrace the divine nature, and live out the birthright as children of God.
God of the Living
By Richard E. Bieber0EXO 3:1MAT 6:19MRK 12:18LUK 12:32HEB 2:14HEB 11:13HEB 11:35HEB 12:2Richard E. Bieber preaches about the fear of death and the importance of living a life of faith, knowing that God is the God of the living. He emphasizes the need to lay up treasures in heaven rather than on earth, as our actions in this life determine our eternal destiny. By following the examples of those who lived by faith, endured suffering, and looked beyond the grave, we can overcome the fear of death and walk confidently towards the life God has prepared for us.
The Great Inheritance
By T. Austin-Sparks0Spiritual WarfareInheritanceJOS 1:6LUK 12:32ACT 20:32ACT 26:18ROM 6:4EPH 3:20COL 1:12COL 3:1HEB 9:151PE 1:4T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of the inheritance in the life of believers, drawing parallels between the Old Testament and the New Testament. He explains that the inheritance is not merely a reward but the very essence of redemption, which encompasses past, present, and future salvation. Sparks warns that many may miss this inheritance, just as the majority of Israel did in the wilderness, and stresses the necessity of a circumcised heart and spiritual readiness to claim it. He highlights the role of the Holy Spirit in empowering believers to overcome spiritual battles and take possession of their inheritance. Ultimately, he encourages the congregation to be strong and courageous in their pursuit of God's promises.
Faith
By Richard E. Bieber0MAT 13:44MAT 25:6LUK 5:10LUK 12:32HEB 11:6Richard E. Bieber emphasizes the importance of having true faith in God, not just religious practices. He highlights the examples of Noah, Abraham, and Peter who demonstrated faith by letting go of the familiar and embracing the unknown to walk with God. The sermon challenges believers to abandon distractions, seek God diligently, and simplify their lives to focus on the treasure of knowing and walking with God, made possible through Jesus' sacrifice and the Holy Spirit's guidance.
The Pressing Problem
By Hyman Appelman0ISA 51:1LUK 7:19LUK 12:32JHN 14:6ROM 8:28ROM 8:32Hyman Appelman preaches on the story of John the Baptist sending his disciples to Jesus to inquire if He is the Messiah. Just like John, we often face temptations and doubts about the person, passion, power, and program of Jesus Christ, which can undermine our faith and vitality. Despite our failures, insufficiencies, inactivity, and impatience, we are encouraged to turn to Jesus, the Rock of Ages, who offers help, stability, and assurance in times of trouble and doubt. Through examining Jesus' credentials, including His atonement, resurrection, and the testimony of believers, we find the answer to our doubts and the power to overcome challenges.
Let God Have His Way
By Mary Wilder Tileston0PSA 105:8LUK 12:32ROM 8:281CO 15:57PHP 4:6Mary Wilder Tileston preaches about the importance of trusting in God's will and finding joy and tranquility in surrendering to His ways. By aligning our will with God's will, we can experience a perpetual kingdom of peace and victory, regardless of the circumstances we face. This trust in God's sovereignty leads to a life of thanksgiving, rest of heart, and a spirit of unspeakable joy, knowing that He always causes us to triumph in Christ.
God's New Israel - Part 5
By T. Austin-Sparks0Spiritual WarfareInheritanceJOS 1:6LUK 12:32ACT 20:32ACT 26:18ROM 6:4EPH 3:20COL 1:12COL 3:1HEB 9:151PE 1:4T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of the inheritance in God's New Israel, drawing parallels between the Old Testament and the New Testament. He explains that the inheritance is central to understanding redemption and salvation, highlighting that many who left Egypt did not enter the promised land due to disobedience. Sparks urges believers to recognize their identity as heirs and the importance of a circumcised heart for entering into their inheritance. He stresses that spiritual battles will arise as believers pursue their inheritance, but they must remain courageous, relying on the power of the Holy Spirit. Ultimately, the inheritance represents the Kingdom of God, which believers are called to inherit and reign with Christ.
Long and Short Sight
By D.L. Moody0Eternal PerspectiveThe Role of the Holy SpiritISA 61:1LUK 12:32JHN 14:16JHN 16:33ACT 7:55ROM 8:262CO 4:18PHP 3:20HEB 11:101JN 2:15D.L. Moody emphasizes the contrast between long-sightedness and short-sightedness in faith, using Abraham and Lot as examples. Abraham, with his eyes set on the eternal city built by God, exemplifies long-sightedness, while Lot represents those who are focused only on immediate worldly pleasures. Moody warns that many in the Church are caught between these two perspectives, leading to confusion and blurred vision. He highlights the importance of the Holy Spirit as the Comforter, who helps believers to let go of worldly attachments and focus on eternal truths. Ultimately, Moody calls for a powerful outpouring of the Spirit to cleanse and empower the Church to see clearly.
How Long Lord?
By Richard E. Bieber0MAT 7:11LUK 12:6LUK 12:32JHN 6:37JHN 9:4JHN 14:18JHN 14:21JHN 16:332CO 3:18HEB 13:5Richard E. Bieber preaches about the desolation of soul that believers may experience, questioning God's promises and feeling abandoned. He emphasizes that Jesus, who experienced true desolation on the cross, will never leave or forsake His followers. Bieber reminds believers to turn their focus back to Jesus, reflecting His glory and finding rest in Him, even in the midst of tribulations and persecution.
The Gospel of Luke
By Arno Clemens Gaebelein0LUK 9:51LUK 10:27LUK 11:9LUK 12:32LUK 13:3LUK 14:27LUK 15:7LUK 16:13LUK 17:5LUK 18:17LUK 19:10Arno Clemens Gaebelein preaches about the journey of the Lord Jesus towards Jerusalem, emphasizing the rejection He faced and the necessity of repentance and faith. The parables and teachings in the Gospel of Luke reveal the compassion, power, and glory of the Son of Man, who came to seek and save the lost. The miracles, warnings, and interactions with various individuals and groups highlight the importance of prayer, service, and discipleship in following Christ.
Faith the Reality
By Richard E. Bieber0PSA 63:1MAT 13:44MAT 25:6LUK 5:10LUK 12:32HEB 11:6Richard E. Bieber emphasizes the importance of having true faith in God, not just religious practices. He illustrates this through the stories of Noah, Abraham, and Peter, who all took bold steps of faith by letting go of the familiar and embracing the unknown to follow God's calling. Bieber challenges the congregation to joyfully abandon distractions and idols in their lives to pursue a deeper relationship with God, comparing it to the priceless treasure hidden in a field that requires everything to obtain. He urges believers to seek God diligently, expect His manifestation, and rid themselves of anything that hinders their faith, emphasizing that faith is a personal journey that no one else can undertake for them.
That I May Dwell Among Them
By Philip Hodson0GEN 1:26JER 31:31EZK 11:19ZEC 2:10MAT 6:33LUK 11:9LUK 12:32JHN 14:10ROM 8:311CO 14:24EPH 2:18Philip Hodson preaches about the deep yearnings of God's heart to dwell among His people, emphasizing the intimate communion He desires with us. From the creation of man in His image to the establishment of the New Covenant, God's longing to dwell among us is evident throughout the Bible. The essence of New Covenant life is the access to the Father through Jesus, allowing us to be a dwelling place of God in the Spirit. The vital reality of God's presence in our midst is the defining mark of believers and the church, leading to a transformative and powerful life.
Jesus Delights in Blessing His People
By David Wilkerson0God's BlessingsGrace and MercyMAT 5:3LUK 12:32David Wilkerson emphasizes that God delights in blessing His people rather than merely chastising them. He highlights that Jesus takes pleasure in giving us the kingdom and assures us of His desire to bless us abundantly. Throughout the Gospels, Jesus consistently pronounced blessings, from the Sermon on the Mount to His final words with His disciples. Wilkerson reminds us that God's blessings are not earned but are given out of His mercy and grace, encouraging believers to embrace their worthiness in Christ. Ultimately, the message is one of hope and assurance that God's heart is set on blessing us.
The People Who Receive the Saints' Rest
By Richard Baxter0MRK 2:17LUK 12:32LUK 17:21JHN 3:3ACT 7:59EPH 1:4PHP 1:232TH 1:7HEB 4:9REV 5:9Richard Baxter preaches about the heavenly rest designed for the people of God, who are chosen by God before the foundation of the world and are born again spiritually. These individuals experience conviction of sin, their own insufficiency, and are convinced of the full sufficiency of Jesus Christ. The will of the people of God is changed by their conviction, leading them to accept Christ as Savior and Lord with their whole soul. Baxter urges self-examination to see if one truly belongs to the people of God and emphasizes the importance of abiding in Christ and enduring to the end.
The Dirty Lane
By Thomas Brooks0DeathEternal LifeLUK 12:321CO 9:242CO 5:1PHP 1:21PHP 1:232TI 4:8HEB 12:28JAS 1:121PE 5:4REV 2:10Thomas Brooks emphasizes the profound gain that comes through death for a Christian, as expressed in Philippians 1:21. He argues that while life in Christ is valuable, being with Christ after death is the ultimate blessing, as highlighted in Philippians 1:23. Brooks encourages believers to view death as a necessary passage to receive eternal crowns and a glorious kingdom, portraying it as the 'dirty lane' that leads to everlasting joy and peace. He reassures that through death, Christians transition from mortality to immortality, ultimately joining the marriage-supper of the Lamb.
Letter 43
By James Bourne0ISA 53:3LUK 12:32ROM 5:32CO 12:9HEB 12:11James Bourne writes a heartfelt letter to his daughters, expressing his struggles and moments of comfort in the midst of trials, finding solace in identifying with the sufferings of Jesus Christ. He acknowledges the importance of spiritual exercises in maintaining faith and drawing closer to God, emphasizing the sweetness of God's presence in times of difficulty. Bourne reflects on the blessings that have come through faithful ministry and the perseverance needed to follow Christ despite challenges, urging prayers for their minister and the government. He marvels at the grace of God that sustains and enriches believers in all circumstances, desiring that his children experience the abundant blessings of God even in their troubles.
God's New Israel
By T. Austin-Sparks0Spiritual EmancipationIdentity in ChristLUK 12:32ACT 15:141CO 10:11GAL 6:16EPH 6:12HEB 8:9HEB 9:261PE 2:91JN 5:19REV 5:12T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes that God's purpose remains unchanged as He transitions from the Old Testament's physical Israel to a new spiritual Israel, the Church, which is formed from all nations. He highlights the principles of emancipation from spiritual bondage, showcasing how the old Israel's liberation from Egypt parallels the Church's deliverance from sin and the world. Sparks stresses the importance of understanding the power of the Blood of the Lamb and the spiritual battle against evil forces, asserting that true believers are a threat to the kingdom of darkness. He encourages the congregation to recognize their identity as part of this new Israel and to rely on God's power in their spiritual journey.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Fear not, little flock - Or, very little flock, το μικρον ποιμνιον. This is what some term a double diminutive, and, literally translated, is, little little flock. Though this refers solely to the apostles and first believers, of whom it was literally true, yet we may say that the number of genuine believers has been, and is still, small, in comparison of heathens and false Christians. It is your Father's good pleasure - Ευδοκησεν, It hath pleased, etc., though this tense joined with an infinitive has often the force of the present. Our Lord intimated, God has already given you that kingdom which consists in righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost, and has undertaken to protect and save you to the uttermost; therefore, fear not; the smallness of your number cannot hurt you, for omnipotence itself has undertaken your cause.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
little flock, &c.--How sublime and touching a contrast between this tender and pitying appellation, "Little flock" (in the original a double diminutive, which in German can be expressed, but not in English)--and the "good pleasure" of the Father to give them the Kingdom; the one recalling the insignificance and helplessness of that then literal handful of disciples, the other holding up to their view the eternal love that encircled them, the everlasting arms that were underneath them, and the high inheritance awaiting them!--"the kingdom"; grand word; then why not "bread" (Luk 12:31 [BENGEL]). Well might He say, "Fear not!"
John Gill Bible Commentary
Fear not little flock,.... these words are particularly directed to the immediate apostles and disciples of Christ; but are true of all the saints in all ages of time, who are compared to a "flock of sheep", being separated from the rest of the world in election, redemption, and the effectual calling, and being folded together in a Gospel church state; and also for their patience, meekness, humility, and harmlessness: these are a "little" flock; few in number, when compared with the wicked of the world; and mean and despicable in the account of men; and little in their own eyes: these are subject to many "fears"; some relate to their outward state, and condition, as that they shall want food and raiment, and not have the necessaries of life; which seems to be in the first place here intended, as appears from the context: and some regard their spiritual and eternal estate, as lest they should have no interest in the love of God, and in the covenant, in the blessings and promises of his grace; lest they should not belong to Christ; or the good work of grace should not be begun in them; or that they should not persevere to the end, and should at last miscarry of eternal life and happiness: and these fears arise from a body of sin, from the temptations of Satan, the hidings of God's face, and the prevalence of unbelief; for they have no true reason for them: God is on their side, and will not leave, nor forsake them, nor shall they want any good thing Christ is their shepherd, and he has bought them, with his own blood, and will lose none of them; and therefore they need not fear being taken care of both in soul and body, for time and eternity: and especially when what follows is considered, for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom; not only the Gospel, and the knowledge of the mysteries of it; nor the Gospel church state, and a right to all its ordinances; nor only the kingdom of grace, which cannot be moved; but the kingdom of glory: and which is a gift unto them, not obtained by any deserts or works of theirs; nor is their right unto, and enjoyment of it depending upon any such thing: and it their Father's gift, who is so by adopting grace, and through Christ Jesus their Lord; and which he gives according to his sovereign will and pleasure, and with a good will, delighting in them, and rejoicing over them to do them good, both here and hereafter: so that they may depend upon every good thing needful for them both in this world, and in the world to come; nor should they indulge anxious cares, or slavish fears.