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Luke 12:48
Verse
Context
Readiness at Any Hour
47That servant who knows his master’s will but does not get ready or follow his instructions will be beaten with many blows.48But 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.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Shall be beaten with few - For petty offenses the Jews in many cases inflicted so few as four, five, and six stripes. See examples in Lightfoot. From this and the preceding verse we find that it is a crime to be ignorant of God's will; because to every one God has given less or more of the means of instruction. Those who have had much light, or the opportunity of receiving much, and have not improved it to their own salvation, and the good of others, shall have punishment proportioned to the light they have abused. On the other hand, those who have had little light, and few means of improvement, shall have few stripes, shall be punished only for the abuse of the knowledge they possessed. See at the end of the chapter.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
knew not--that is knew but partially; for some knowledge is presupposed both in the name "servant" of Christ, and his being liable to punishment at all. many . . . few stripes--degrees of future punishment proportioned to the knowledge sinned against. Even heathens are not without knowledge enough for future judgment; but the reference here is not to such. It is a solemn truth, and though general, like all other revelations of the future world, discloses a tangible and momentous principle in its awards.
John Gill Bible Commentary
I am come to send fire on the earth,.... Meaning either the Gospel, which is as fire, that gives both light and heat, warms the hearts of God's people, and causes them to burn within them; though very distressing and torturing to wicked men; so the word of God is compared to fire, in Jer 20:9. Or else zeal for it, and which would be opposed with sharp contentions by others; or rather persecution for the sake of the Gospel, called sometimes the fiery trial; which tries men, as gold is tried in the fire, what they are, and what their principles and profession be; unless the Holy Ghost, and baptizing with him, and with fire, should be meant; since Christ in the next verse, speaks of the baptism of his sufferings, which that was to follow: and what will I? what shall I say concerning this fire? what shall I wish and pray for? what would be pleasing and agreeable to me? even this, if it be already kindled; or "that it were already kindled", or "O that it were already kindled"; meaning either that the Gospel was warmly preached by his disciples, and zealously defended by them, as it was after his death and resurrection; or that hot persecution was raised against it which was now beginning, since the advantage of it would be far greater than the evil in it: or that the Holy Ghost was come down in cloven tongues, like as of fire.
Luke 12:48
Readiness at Any Hour
47That servant who knows his master’s will but does not get ready or follow his instructions will be beaten with many blows.48But 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.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Set Your Affections Above - Part 1
By Derek Prince16K22:36AffectionsMAT 6:33LUK 12:482CO 4:172CO 5:7COL 3:1HEB 11:27In 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 as God's children, our lives are hidden with Christ in God. The fear of death is discussed as a bondage that the devil uses to hinder believers from being effective. The speaker encourages the audience to conquer the fear of death and find freedom in Christ, emphasizing that Christ is our life. The privilege of hearing and understanding the truth is also highlighted, with the speaker expressing awe at how rapidly truth is being restored to the people of God. The sermon concludes with a personal testimony of Eldridge Cleaver's conversion experience.
The Power of God - Part 1
By Kathryn Kuhlman11K30:04PowerISA 40:9LUK 12:48JHN 4:24ACT 2:17ROM 8:261CO 15:532TI 3:16In 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 against spiritual pride and bigotry. The speaker also encourages listeners to have a positive mindset and see their current time as their greatest hour. They mention the manifestation of miracles and the closing moments of this dispensation, suggesting that the Holy Spirit is at work in these times.
Christ's Call - Full Length
By K.P. Yohannan4.2K40:44Self-DenialMAT 6:33MAT 28:19MRK 16:15LUK 12:48JHN 20:21ACT 1:81PE 2:21In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of living a simple life and using our resources to reach the lost world. He shares a personal story of receiving a generous donation of $235,000 to buy the "Life of Jesus" film in different languages for illiterate and unreached people. The film had a significant impact, with a report stating that every month, at least 100,000 people were coming to faith in Jesus through watching it. The speaker challenges the audience to not be deceived by worldly desires and to embrace the cross of Christ, which involves self-denial and surrendering our own wishes for the sake of the gospel.
What Is Prophetic? - Part 1
By Art Katz3.7K1:30:19PropheticEXO 22:22PRO 14:31ISA 1:17AMO 8:4MIC 6:8LUK 12:48JAS 1:27In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being prepared to preach the word of God. He reflects on the example of Moses and the depth of God's dealing with him during his time in the wilderness and leading the people. The speaker also mentions a personal experience where he was drained but was able to speak after a worshipful man sang. He highlights the need for patience and waiting for the full disclosure of God's message before passing judgment. The sermon also touches on the destructive nature of worldly ambitions and the consequences of playing games with people's lives.
Hosea #3 Ch. 4-5 Israel's Willful Ignorance
By Chuck Missler3.1K1:15:47IgnoranceHOS 4:1HOS 5:6HOS 5:15HOS 12:7MAT 6:33LUK 12:48In this sermon on the book of Hosea, the speaker begins by highlighting the broken home of Israel as a result of their adulterous relationship with God. The focus then shifts to chapter 4, where God presents his charges against Israel, comparing it to a court case. The speaker emphasizes the sins of omission, such as the lack of truth, mercy, and knowledge of God in the land. The sermon concludes by emphasizing that God's holiness demands an indictment for Israel's sin and that justice requires punishment.
A Lost Opportunity
By J. Glyn Owen2.1K42:59Bearing FruitMAT 3:8MAT 7:16LUK 12:48LUK 13:6JHN 15:16ACT 2:1EPH 5:16In this sermon, the speaker reflects on a parable about a barren fig tree and its implications for our lives. The parable emphasizes the importance of producing fruit and the consequences of not doing so. The vine dresser pleads for one more chance for the tree, showing compassion despite the tree's lack of productivity. The speaker applies this parable to our own lives, urging us to examine our faith, repentance, and dedication to God. He reminds us that God expects us to produce fruit and calls us to redeem the time and fulfill our purpose in life.
Light on Satan's Tactics - Satan's Tactic With Job
By Zac Poonen2.1K58:38SatanJOB 1:5JOB 1:10MAT 5:28MAT 6:33LUK 12:48In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the book of Job and highlights the godly character of Job, who was also a wealthy man and a father of ten children. The preacher emphasizes Job's commitment to his family, as he would gather them for feasts on their birthdays. The sermon also discusses Satan's tactics and the counterfeit gospels he uses to lead people astray. The preacher emphasizes the importance of overcoming spiritual pride and loving God above all else. The sermon concludes by highlighting God's faithfulness to Job, as he blesses him with double of what he had before and restores his family.
The Fear of the Lord - Part 2
By K.P. Yohannan2.0K42:48Fear Of The LordGEN 12:2PRO 9:10MAT 12:36LUK 12:48ACT 1:8ROM 2:16HEB 12:29In this video, Brother KP Johanin discusses the importance of fearing the Lord and how it can impact our lives. He emphasizes that God has called and blessed us to be a blessing to others in this generation. Johanin shares stories from his own life to illustrate the significance of fearing the Lord. He also mentions the challenges faced by missionaries in Asia due to martial law, but highlights the growth of the church in spite of these obstacles. Overall, the message encourages believers to prioritize their relationship with God and to live a life of sacrifice and obedience.
Reality Check Conference 2007
By Paul Washer1.7K43:21PSA 30:5ISA 61:3MAT 6:33LUK 12:48JHN 16:20ACT 16:252CO 7:9In this video, the speaker discusses the transformative power of receiving a revelation of God. He emphasizes that when someone truly hears the Gospel for the first time, it opens their heart and mind to the truth. This revelation also leads to a realization of one's own brokenness and sinfulness, causing a sense of mourning and crisis. However, the speaker assures that the Bible is a survival book, offering hope and guidance. He also highlights the responsibility that comes with receiving such a revelation, urging listeners to obey and guard their hearts in order to have a pure heart and actions.
Judgment Prepared in the Ungodly Ii
By Aaron Dunlop1.7K33:29JudgmentPSA 119:11PRO 24:30ISA 34:5MAT 6:19LUK 12:482TI 2:15JAS 1:22In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of complacency and its consequences. He uses the analogy of thieves robbing vineyards to illustrate how God will strip away everything from the complacent. The preacher emphasizes the importance of studying and reading good books as tools for spiritual growth. He also highlights the pride and false security of the ungodly, who refuse to believe the Gospel due to their complacency and pride. The sermon warns against complacency and encourages listeners to seek God and avoid being complacent in their faith.
The Cost of Moses Disobedience
By David Ravenhill1.6K1:10:48EXO 33:18DEU 34:5JOS 1:2LUK 12:48JAS 3:1In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua in the nation of Israel. The speaker emphasizes the importance of responsibility and the requirement for leaders to understand the ways and heart of God. The death of Moses is discussed, highlighting his unique relationship with God and the knowledge he possessed. The speaker then delves into the commissioning of Joshua, emphasizing God's promise to be with him and not to fail or forsake him. The sermon also touches on the incident where Moses struck the rock instead of speaking to it, highlighting the importance of obedience to God's instructions.
(Hosea) Reaping the Whirlwind
By David Guzik1.3K49:55ISA 28:10JER 31:33LUK 12:48In this sermon, the preacher shares a story about the value of honesty, using the example of a man who planned to steal watermelons with his daughter's help. However, each time the daughter warns him that someone is watching, he can't see anyone. The preacher then focuses on a verse from the book of Hosea, where the prophet prays to God, asking what he should give to his people. The sermon emphasizes the importance of checking our hearts before praying angry prayers against others. The preacher also highlights the greatness of the Bible and how it is often received as a strange thing by the natural man.
Two Kinds of Christians
By Bill McLeod1.2K39:39ProfessionLUK 12:48GAL 1:6In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal experience of attending a meeting in a logging camp. Despite the difficult journey to get there, the speaker emphasizes the importance of not missing out on the blessings of God. The speaker also discusses the different ways people read the Bible, highlighting the need to read it without bias or colored glasses. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the consequences of not being in God's presence and the importance of enjoying the blessings God provides.
Chosen Vessel - Surviving Opposition From Within
By Chuck Smith1.1K42:58LeadershipNEH 2:17NEH 5:7PRO 14:29MAT 7:21LUK 12:48ROM 3:81CO 11:23In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of not acting out of anger. He shares a story about Plato and his servant to illustrate the need for self-reflection and wise decision-making. The speaker then discusses the rebuke of the noble ruler in the Bible and how he confronted them for charging usury. He highlights the lack of fear of God in those who use gimmicks and devices to exploit people for money, and calls for a genuine fear of God in our hearts. The speaker also criticizes the misuse of money in the name of God and advocates for a simple lifestyle.
Sin and Holiness - Part 2
By Art Katz1.0K47:07SinEXO 33:11ISA 53:3LUK 12:48ROM 1:16In this sermon, the speaker discusses the failure of a shepherd and how it reflects the failure of the church body. The shepherd's loss of reality and increasing professionalism is seen as a danger and a sign that he is on the way out. The speaker emphasizes the importance of identifying sin early and speaking the truth in love to correct it. The sermon also highlights the significance of walking before God and the need for constant watchfulness against temptation.
The Great Deception
By Chuck Smith99612:05EZK 33:31MAT 21:28LUK 12:48ROM 2:17GAL 6:1JAS 1:22JAS 4:17This sermon focuses on the importance of not only hearing the Word of God but also obeying it. It highlights the tendency of people to show love with their mouths but have hearts that chase after worldly desires, emphasizing the need for genuine obedience. The message draws parallels between the disobedience of the people in Ezekiel's time and the call for believers today to be doers of the Word, not just hearers.
The Light of the World
By Don McClure84047:07MAT 5:3MAT 5:14LUK 12:48In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of knowing one's purpose in life and being ready to serve God. He uses the analogy of a light that should be shining and making a difference in the world. The speaker refers to Matthew chapter 5, where Jesus teaches about being the light of the world. He encourages the audience to understand that they are the hope of the world and have a responsibility to share their knowledge and experiences of God's love and redemption.
New Covenant Principles
By Zac Poonen8231:04:12MAT 6:15MAT 18:21LUK 12:33LUK 12:48JHN 10:27ACT 24:162CO 5:17HEB 9:14This sermon emphasizes the importance of keeping a clear conscience before God and men, focusing on forgiveness, setting things right, and pursuing peace. It highlights the need to align with God's standards, believe in His word, and strive for righteousness to be part of the resurrection of the righteous. The speaker urges the congregation to prioritize spiritual growth, humility, and genuine repentance to experience God's grace and salvation.
Invest Your Life in the Harvest, Part Two
By K.P. Yohannan74823:19HarvestPRO 10:5MAT 9:36MAT 28:19LUK 12:48LUK 19:10ACT 1:8In this sermon, the speaker shares a powerful story of a man who was kidnapped by radical Muslims in the deep jungle. The man's family was threatened with his life unless they paid a large sum of money. Unable to gather the funds, the man was forced to dig his own grave while being surrounded by armed men. Despite the dire circumstances, the man remained faithful and prayed to the Lord. Eventually, through God's intervention, the man and his family were saved, and a Hindu priestess who had been paralyzed for three years was healed and converted to Christianity. This story serves as a reminder of the importance of actively participating in the harvest of souls and not sleeping during this crucial time.
Hell #02: What Does the Bible Teach?
By Edward Donnelly7091:12:36HellMAT 11:21MAT 25:14MRK 12:38LUK 12:48JHN 3:16HEB 6:1JAS 3:1In this sermon, the preacher addresses the disturbing and alarming statements found in the scripture. He compares it to someone shouting "Fire!" in a building, causing panic and disturbance. The preacher emphasizes that the purpose of these disturbing statements is not to upset us, but to warn us of the consequences of not obeying the gospel. He explains that hell is a real place of punishment for the devil, his angels, and the unsaved, and that there is no neutral state between heaven and hell. The preacher also highlights the justice of the punishment in hell, which is measured according to each individual's knowledge and privileges.
Friday Devotions (Bromley)
By George Verwer68037:49MAT 6:33LUK 12:48ROM 12:32TI 2:21PE 5:6The sermon transcript discusses the story of a high school basketball team called Red Dawn, who are taken over by Russian and Cuban forces. The speaker reflects on the psychological manipulation used to turn the basketball team into a group of violent individuals. The sermon also emphasizes the importance of finding a balance between pushing oneself and accepting oneself, as well as between going on the offensive and being defensive. The speaker encourages the audience to take responsibility for the spiritual resources they have been given and to not use them as a means of escapism.
46 - Questions on the Church Response to the Opening of North Korea
By Ben Torrey68006:57North KoreaLEV 25:23PRO 14:21ISA 1:17MAT 22:21LUK 12:48ACT 2:44JAS 2:14In this sermon transcript, the speaker discusses the importance of addressing questions related to the Church's response to the opening of North Korea. They emphasize the need for both spiritual and practical readiness in order to effectively share the love of Jesus Christ in North Korea. The speaker specifically focuses on the issue of land ownership in North Korea and the responsibility of Christians who hold claims to land. They raise questions about whether Christians should publicly cancel their claims to promote peaceful land distribution and justice for the poor. The speaker emphasizes the need for the Church to come up with compassionate and just answers to these questions before it's too late.
After Against the Night What Next
By George Verwer53117:44MissionsPSA 68:5ISA 35:6LUK 12:48LUK 14:28LUK 15:72TI 4:7JAS 1:22In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of following up on a revival or deep spiritual experience with action. They quote the Bible, stating that those who receive much will be required to give much. The speaker encourages the audience to share what they have learned and experienced with others, and to get involved in activities that allow them to share their faith. They also discuss the need for balance and grace in our spiritual journey, reminding listeners to pace themselves and not become discouraged when they make mistakes.
The Centrality of the Word of God
By Roy Daniel3631:12:45Word Of GodMAT 6:33LUK 11:28LUK 12:48JHN 3:3JHN 5:392CO 3:142TI 3:15In this sermon, the speaker criticizes a woman who distorts and adds to God's word, using emotional experiences and pantheistic ideas that are not supported by the Bible. The speaker also mentions the desire for entertainment in the conservative church, particularly among young people. They briefly discuss the history of the Bible, including its canonization and translation into multiple languages. The speaker emphasizes the importance of the Word of God and warns against relying on external experiences or music to determine one's salvation.
Parable of the Talents
By George Warnock3081:25:45ParableISA 55:11MAT 7:24MAT 25:1LUK 12:48ROM 2:12HEB 12:6In this sermon, the preacher discusses the parable of the talents from Matthew 25. The parable tells the story of a man who goes on a journey and entrusts his servants with different amounts of talents (a form of currency). Each servant is given talents according to their ability. The preacher emphasizes that God gives us gifts and abilities according to his plan and purpose for our lives. He encourages the congregation to use their talents wisely and invest them in the lives of others, so that they may bear fruit and bring increase to the kingdom of God. The sermon serves as a warning to not be prideful or discontent with the talents we have been given, but to faithfully steward them for God's glory.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Shall be beaten with few - For petty offenses the Jews in many cases inflicted so few as four, five, and six stripes. See examples in Lightfoot. From this and the preceding verse we find that it is a crime to be ignorant of God's will; because to every one God has given less or more of the means of instruction. Those who have had much light, or the opportunity of receiving much, and have not improved it to their own salvation, and the good of others, shall have punishment proportioned to the light they have abused. On the other hand, those who have had little light, and few means of improvement, shall have few stripes, shall be punished only for the abuse of the knowledge they possessed. See at the end of the chapter.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
knew not--that is knew but partially; for some knowledge is presupposed both in the name "servant" of Christ, and his being liable to punishment at all. many . . . few stripes--degrees of future punishment proportioned to the knowledge sinned against. Even heathens are not without knowledge enough for future judgment; but the reference here is not to such. It is a solemn truth, and though general, like all other revelations of the future world, discloses a tangible and momentous principle in its awards.
John Gill Bible Commentary
I am come to send fire on the earth,.... Meaning either the Gospel, which is as fire, that gives both light and heat, warms the hearts of God's people, and causes them to burn within them; though very distressing and torturing to wicked men; so the word of God is compared to fire, in Jer 20:9. Or else zeal for it, and which would be opposed with sharp contentions by others; or rather persecution for the sake of the Gospel, called sometimes the fiery trial; which tries men, as gold is tried in the fire, what they are, and what their principles and profession be; unless the Holy Ghost, and baptizing with him, and with fire, should be meant; since Christ in the next verse, speaks of the baptism of his sufferings, which that was to follow: and what will I? what shall I say concerning this fire? what shall I wish and pray for? what would be pleasing and agreeable to me? even this, if it be already kindled; or "that it were already kindled", or "O that it were already kindled"; meaning either that the Gospel was warmly preached by his disciples, and zealously defended by them, as it was after his death and resurrection; or that hot persecution was raised against it which was now beginning, since the advantage of it would be far greater than the evil in it: or that the Holy Ghost was come down in cloven tongues, like as of fire.