Luke 8:18
Verse
Context
The Lesson of the Lamp
17For there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be made known and brought to light.18Pay attention, therefore, to how you listen. Whoever has will be given more, but whoever does not have, even what he thinks he has will be taken away from him.”
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Even that which he seemeth to have - Or rather, even what he hath. Ὁ δοκει εχειν, rendered by our common version, what he seemeth to have, seems to me to contradict itself. Let us examine this subject a little. 1. To seem to have a thing, is only to have it in appearance, and not in reality; but what is possessed in appearance only can only be taken away in appearance; therefore on the one side there is no gain, and on the other side no loss. On this ground, the text speaks just nothing. 2. It is evident that ὁ δοκει εχειν, what he seemeth to have, here, is equivalent to ὁ εχει, what he hath, in the parallel places, Mar 4:25; Mat 13:12; Mat 25:29; and in Luk 19:26. 3. It is evident, also, that these persons had something which might be taken away from them. For 1. The word of God, the Divine seed, was planted in their hearts. 2. It had already produced some good effects; but they permitted the devil, the cares of the world, the desire of riches, and the love of pleasure, to destroy its produce. 4. The word δοκειν is often an expletive: so Xenophon in Hellen, vi. ὁτι εδοκει πατικος φιλος αυτοις, Because he seemed to be (i.e. Was) their father's friend. So in his Oeeon. Among the cities that seemed to be (δοκουσαις, actually were) at war. So Athenaeus, lib. vi. chap. 4. They who seemed to be (δοκουντες, who really were) the most opulent, drank out of brazen cups. 5. It often strengthens the sense, and is thus used by the very best Greek writers. Ulpian, in one of his notes on Demosthenes' Orat. Olinth. 1, quoted by Bishop Pearce, says expressly, το δοκειν ου παντως επι αμφιβολου ταττουσιν οἱ παλαιοι, αλλα πολλακις και επι του αληθευειν. The word δοκειν is used by the ancients to express, not always what is doubtful, but oftentimes what is true and certain. And this is manifestly its meaning in Mat 3:9; Luk 22:24; Joh 5:39; Co1 7:40; Co1 10:12; Co1 11:16; Gal 2:9; Phi 3:4; and in the text. See these meanings of the word established beyond the possibility of successful contradiction, in Bishop Pearce's notes on Mar 10:42, and in Kypke in loc. See also the notes on Mat 13:12 (note).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
how ye--in Mar 4:24, "what ye hear." The one implies the other. The precept is very weighty. seemeth to have--or, "thinketh that he hath" (Margin). The "having" of Mat 13:12 (on which see), and this "thinking he hath," are not different. Hanging loosely on him, and not appropriated, it is and is not his.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Then came to him his mother and his brethren,.... It was when Christ was preaching in an house at Capernaum, that Mary his mother, and some of his near kinsmen with her, came from Nazareth to him: these brethren of his were relations according to the flesh, either by Joseph, or his mother's side: who they were, cannot be said with certainty: it may be they were Joses and Simon; for as for James and Judas, they were among the twelve apostles, and with him; and these are the four only persons that are mentioned by name, as his brethren, Mat 13:55 though there were others that were so called, who did not believe in him, Joh 7:5 and could not come at him for the press; the multitude of people that were about him, who were so thick, that there was no coming near him, much less was there an opportunity of speaking privately, with him. The Syriac version renders it, "they could not speak unto him for the multitude".
Tyndale Open Study Notes
8:18 those who listen: Cp. Prov 9:9.
Luke 8:18
The Lesson of the Lamp
17For there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be made known and brought to light.18Pay attention, therefore, to how you listen. Whoever has will be given more, but whoever does not have, even what he thinks he has will be taken away from him.”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Take Heed How You Hear
By A.W. Tozer3.0K39:02HearingLUK 8:16LUK 8:18ROM 10:171CO 2:14HEB 4:12HEB 11:6The sermon transcript emphasizes the importance of listening to the word of God and not just hearing it. It highlights the danger of routine religion and the need for a genuine and personal connection with God. The speaker addresses the critical attitude of some individuals who focus on superficial aspects of preaching rather than the message itself. The transcript also references biblical verses that emphasize the significance of how one hears and the consequences of not truly understanding and applying the word of God.
The Sin of Gluttony
By Denny Kenaston2.6K1:28:49GluttonyMAT 6:33MRK 4:24LUK 8:18ROM 10:171CO 10:11PE 4:6In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of gluttony and overindulgence in the context of the story of the Israelites in Numbers 11. The speaker highlights how the Israelites longed for the food they had in Egypt and how their desire for flesh led them to sin. The sermon emphasizes the warning from God in Deuteronomy to beware of forgetting Him when they become full and prosperous. The speaker also references 1 Corinthians 10, which discusses the reasons why Israel fell in the wilderness, including their lust and dissatisfaction with what God provided.
Preparing a Sanctuary for God
By George Warnock2.1K1:01:55SanctuaryEXO 15:2PRO 4:23MAT 6:33LUK 8:181CO 2:132PE 1:9In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the movement of the Spirit of God upon the waters, symbolizing a new beginning. The preacher explains that God's creative power will shake both the earth and the heavens, removing all things that are shakeable. The sermon warns against being terrified by the crumbling of human institutions, as God is only shaking those things that can be shaken. The preacher encourages believers to overcome evil with good, darkness with light, and to lay down their lives for others, trusting in God's ultimate intention for their lives.
Ploughing a Rock
By C.H. Spurgeon2.0K38:53PRO 26:11MAT 7:6MAT 13:15MRK 4:12LUK 8:18JHN 12:40ROM 10:16The sermon transcript discusses the futility of seeking satisfaction and fulfillment in worldly pursuits such as pleasure, wealth, and success. The author presents various examples of individuals who achieved greatness in their respective fields but ultimately found themselves unfulfilled and dissatisfied. The sermon emphasizes the importance of the gospel and the need for individuals to accept it in order to find true satisfaction. The preacher expresses frustration with those who refuse to accept the gospel despite repeated explanations and attempts to reach them.
Take Heed How You Hear
By Roy Hession1.3K47:25WarningMAT 6:33LUK 8:18ROM 9:13JAS 1:21In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that the purpose of the Southworld conference is not just for games and enjoyment, but primarily to hear and receive the word of God. The speaker encourages the audience to take heed of how they hear, as the effectiveness of their experience at the conference depends on their attitude and receptiveness. The speaker highlights that the speakers themselves are not the main source of spiritual growth, but rather the word of God, which should be received with meekness. The audience is reminded that the manner and state of their hearts when hearing the word will determine whether they receive nothing or have a life-changing encounter with Jesus.
The Apocalypse - Introduction to the Revelation
By Steve Gallagher1.2K46:04Apocalypse StudyMAT 6:33LUK 8:18REV 1:19REV 22:7REV 22:9In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of not giving one's heart over to the things of the world. They discuss the battle for people's hearts and how ultimately everyone will worship something or somebody. The sermon also touches on the book of Revelation and its depiction of a global spiritual war. The speaker highlights the need to listen attentively and implement the truths heard into one's life, as well as the urgency of being prepared to meet Christ. Additionally, they mention the unfolding of events such as the rise of the Antichrist, the formation of a one world government, the apostasy of Christians, and the spiritual oppression and physical persecution of God's people in the end times.
The Hearing of Faith
By Alan Martin74500:00FaithMRK 4:17LUK 8:16LUK 8:18JHN 8:12ROM 10:17JAS 3:8In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of not hiding the light of Christ but letting it shine for all to see. He uses the analogy of a lamp that is not covered but placed on a lampstand to illuminate a room. The speaker also shares a personal experience of encountering Jesus and being transformed by faith in Him. He highlights the need for believers to have a zeal for justice and to see Christ formed in their lives. The sermon concludes with a discussion on the significance of learning obedience and the role of the Word of God in overcoming the evil one.
Responsibility of Hearing the Gospel
By Charles Finney0Hearing the GospelSpiritual ResponsibilityPRO 4:20MAT 13:9LUK 8:18ROM 10:17HEB 2:1JAS 1:22Charles Finney emphasizes the critical responsibility of how we hear the Gospel, urging listeners to take heed and be attentive to God's word. He explains that the manner of our hearing directly impacts our understanding and spiritual growth, as well as the salvation of ourselves and others. Finney warns that neglecting to hear with seriousness can lead to misunderstanding and spiritual decline, and he outlines specific ways to approach hearing the Gospel, including deep attention, reverence, and a sincere desire to understand. He concludes by stressing the eternal consequences of our hearing and the importance of responding to God's call with urgency and obedience.
An Open Ear
By Richard E. Bieber0PSA 19:1PSA 27:14ISA 50:4MAT 13:16LUK 8:18JHN 8:2EPH 2:13HEB 1:1Richard E. Bieber preaches about the importance of having open ears to hear God's messages, emphasizing that God continues to speak to individuals, groups, and communities in ways that are understandable to all. The sermon highlights the significance of being attentive to God's word, as seen in the examples of prophets and Jesus speaking to humanity. It contrasts those with open ears who yield and obey, like the servant in Isaiah, with those who have closed ears and refuse to listen, as shown in the story of Zechariah. The sermon urges listeners to be like the disciples who actively listen, understand the secrets of the kingdom of God, and act upon Jesus' teachings.
Directions How to Hear Sermons. (Luke 8:18)
By George Whitefield0MAT 28:19LUK 8:18ACT 2:411CO 1:12EPH 4:111TH 5:17HEB 4:12JAS 1:222PE 2:5JUD 1:14George Whitefield preaches on the importance of being attentive and receptive to the Word of God, using the caution from Luke 8:18 as a foundation. He emphasizes the need for sincere desire and humility in approaching sermons, urging listeners to prepare their hearts and diligently heed the teachings. Whitefield highlights the role of ministers as messengers of God's truth and the responsibility of the congregation to receive the message with open hearts. He warns against prejudice towards ministers and encourages a balanced view of their role, ultimately stressing the necessity of personal application and prayer for a transformative experience.
John Wesley's Explanatory Notes - Matthew 13
By John Wesley0ParablesSpiritual GrowthISA 6:9MAT 13:3MAT 13:11MAT 13:19MAT 13:22MAT 13:44MAT 13:52MRK 4:25LUK 8:18JHN 12:40John Wesley explains Matthew 13, emphasizing the significance of parables in conveying spiritual truths. He highlights the various responses to the Gospel, illustrating how the condition of one's heart affects their ability to receive and bear fruit from God's word. Wesley points out that while some hear the message with joy, they may lack depth and ultimately fall away, while others allow worldly concerns to choke their spiritual growth. He concludes that the kingdom of heaven is a treasure that requires earnest seeking and understanding, and warns against the dangers of unbelief that can hinder God's work in our lives.
The Ear
By H.J. Vine0LEV 14:14MRK 4:24LUK 8:18LUK 9:352TI 4:4H.J. Vine emphasizes the importance of being mindful of what we listen to, as God is very jealous of how we use our ears. He highlights how Satan entered man's soul through Eve's ear, leading to man-degrading consequences. Christians are reminded to guard what enters their ears, symbolized by the blood and oil placed on the right ear in the cleansing of the leper and consecration of the priests. Jesus instructs us to be cautious of what and how we hear, emphasizing the significance of listening to His words which bring eternal life and blessings.
Do Not Labor for the Food Which Perishes
By John Piper0MAT 6:19MAT 6:33LUK 8:18JHN 4:32JHN 6:271CO 7:30John Piper preaches on the importance of not laboring for material possessions that perish, but instead focusing on laboring for the eternal food that Jesus provides. He emphasizes the need for submission to Jesus as Lord and the willingness to obey His surprising commands, highlighting the difference between a fleshly attitude of resistance and a Spirit-filled attitude of humble submission. Piper explains that seeking Jesus and believing in His power is not enough; true spiritual nourishment comes from feasting on Christ and finding satisfaction in His eternal promises.
How to Listen to a Sermon
By George Whitefield0MAT 23:1MAT 26:22LUK 8:181CO 1:12EPH 6:19George Whitefield emphasizes the importance of actively engaging with sermons to benefit spiritually, urging listeners to come with a sincere desire to know and do their duty, to give diligent heed to the Word of God, and to avoid prejudices against the minister. He warns against idolizing preachers and encourages personal application of the message to one's own heart. Whitefield stresses the need for prayer before, during, and after sermons, both for the minister's empowerment and the listeners' willingness to act on the teachings.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Even that which he seemeth to have - Or rather, even what he hath. Ὁ δοκει εχειν, rendered by our common version, what he seemeth to have, seems to me to contradict itself. Let us examine this subject a little. 1. To seem to have a thing, is only to have it in appearance, and not in reality; but what is possessed in appearance only can only be taken away in appearance; therefore on the one side there is no gain, and on the other side no loss. On this ground, the text speaks just nothing. 2. It is evident that ὁ δοκει εχειν, what he seemeth to have, here, is equivalent to ὁ εχει, what he hath, in the parallel places, Mar 4:25; Mat 13:12; Mat 25:29; and in Luk 19:26. 3. It is evident, also, that these persons had something which might be taken away from them. For 1. The word of God, the Divine seed, was planted in their hearts. 2. It had already produced some good effects; but they permitted the devil, the cares of the world, the desire of riches, and the love of pleasure, to destroy its produce. 4. The word δοκειν is often an expletive: so Xenophon in Hellen, vi. ὁτι εδοκει πατικος φιλος αυτοις, Because he seemed to be (i.e. Was) their father's friend. So in his Oeeon. Among the cities that seemed to be (δοκουσαις, actually were) at war. So Athenaeus, lib. vi. chap. 4. They who seemed to be (δοκουντες, who really were) the most opulent, drank out of brazen cups. 5. It often strengthens the sense, and is thus used by the very best Greek writers. Ulpian, in one of his notes on Demosthenes' Orat. Olinth. 1, quoted by Bishop Pearce, says expressly, το δοκειν ου παντως επι αμφιβολου ταττουσιν οἱ παλαιοι, αλλα πολλακις και επι του αληθευειν. The word δοκειν is used by the ancients to express, not always what is doubtful, but oftentimes what is true and certain. And this is manifestly its meaning in Mat 3:9; Luk 22:24; Joh 5:39; Co1 7:40; Co1 10:12; Co1 11:16; Gal 2:9; Phi 3:4; and in the text. See these meanings of the word established beyond the possibility of successful contradiction, in Bishop Pearce's notes on Mar 10:42, and in Kypke in loc. See also the notes on Mat 13:12 (note).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
how ye--in Mar 4:24, "what ye hear." The one implies the other. The precept is very weighty. seemeth to have--or, "thinketh that he hath" (Margin). The "having" of Mat 13:12 (on which see), and this "thinking he hath," are not different. Hanging loosely on him, and not appropriated, it is and is not his.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Then came to him his mother and his brethren,.... It was when Christ was preaching in an house at Capernaum, that Mary his mother, and some of his near kinsmen with her, came from Nazareth to him: these brethren of his were relations according to the flesh, either by Joseph, or his mother's side: who they were, cannot be said with certainty: it may be they were Joses and Simon; for as for James and Judas, they were among the twelve apostles, and with him; and these are the four only persons that are mentioned by name, as his brethren, Mat 13:55 though there were others that were so called, who did not believe in him, Joh 7:5 and could not come at him for the press; the multitude of people that were about him, who were so thick, that there was no coming near him, much less was there an opportunity of speaking privately, with him. The Syriac version renders it, "they could not speak unto him for the multitude".
Tyndale Open Study Notes
8:18 those who listen: Cp. Prov 9:9.