Luke 12

-8 1 3 2 -9 1 0 0 0 0 13 96 -9 2 0 0 2 0 1 RVStyle2 7 StyleNameNormal textFontNameArialUnicode Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaUnicode Size Standard StyleNameJumpFontNameTahomaStylefsUnderlineColorclBlue HoverColorclMaroonHoverEffects rvheUnderlineUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameHeading - Module name SizeDoubleFontNameTahomaColorclMaroonUnicode SizeStandard StyleName"Heading small - Module descriptionFontNameTahomaColorclMaroonUnicode Size Standard StyleNameHeading - LinkFontNameTahomaColorclNavy HoverColorclPurpleUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaStylefsUnderlineColorclBlueUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaColorclBlue HoverColorclMaroonNextStyleNoUnicode Jump Size -9 2 0 0 2 0 2 RVStyle2 jBiDiModervbdLeftToRightTabs StyleNameCentered Alignment rvaCenterTabsStandardTabs-9 2 0 0 2 0 4 RVStyle2 -9 0 0 0 0 0 7 1 23 2 8 0 0 CHAPTER XII ) Outline of Chapter 12) ) Theme: The Work Thou Gavest Him to Do) 12:1 3 Pharisaism Exposed) 12:4 7 Fear Not; God Cares) 12:8 12 Fear Not; The Son of Man Will Acknowledge You) The Holy Spirit Will Help You) 12:13 21 Interruption by Someone from the Crowd) Jesus Answer, including) The Parable of (The Notorious One) The Rich Fool) 12:22 34 Warning Against Earthly Anxiety) 12:35 48 The Parable of (The Noble Ones) The Watchful Servants) Interruption by Peter) Jesus Answer, including) The Parable of The Faithful versus The Unfaithful Servant) 12:49 53 Jesus the Divider) 12:54 56 Knowing How to Interpret the Weather) versus) Knowing How to Interpret the Time) 12:57 59 Becoming Reconciled with the Accuser) ) 12:1 3 Pharisaism Exposed) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.26|AUTODETECT|” Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.26|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 10:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.6|AUTODETECT|” 16:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.22|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.8.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.8.15|AUTODETECT|” 8:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.17|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:17) 1 8 2 8 0 0 12 1 In the meantime, when a crowd of so many thousands had gathered that they were trampling on each other, he began to say first of all to his disciples: Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. 2 Nothing is concealed that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be made known. 3 Wherefore whatever you have said in the dark will be heard in the light, and whatever you have whispered��395�� behind closed doors��396�� will be proclaimed from the housetops. ) ) In the previous chapter Jesus was speaking to Pharisees and scribes. He now speaks about them, to his disciples (see verses 1, 22) and to the crowds (see verse 54). He warns against hypocrisy and other evils.) The first part of the discourse, though delivered before a huge audience the luncheon is over, and Jesus is outside again is meant especially for the disciples, while the final part is directed specifically to the multitudes. For details see on verses 13, 14, 16, 22, 54.) It is probably best to consider the contents of the entire chapter as consisting of one connected discourse. With two exceptions it is Jesus who is speaking throughout. The two exceptions may be considered interruptions.

Or they may have been words addressed to Jesus when he for the time being ceased speaking.) The first interruption was by a man from the crowd. He desired to have an inheritance dispute settled in his favor, and he took for granted that Jesus could bring about the desired result. The second interruption was by Peter. He wanted the Master to tell him whether the words he had just spoken were meant for the disciples or for everybody.) As indicated in the Outline, the chapter can be subdivided into nine parts. It contains some of the most often quoted sayings of Jesus (verses 6, 7, 22 28, 31, 32, 34, 47, 48); also three well-known parables.) 1. In the meantime, when a crowd of so many thousands had gathered that they were trampling on each other, he began to say first of all to his disciples: Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.8.15|AUTODETECT|” In the meantime is a very indefinite expression. The events of 11:14 36, relating to The Great Galilean Ministry, are no longer in view. With 11:37 ( Now or Once , after he had finished speaking, a Pharisee invited Jesus to eat at his home ) time and place have changed. Even the warning against the yeast of the Pharisees, recorded in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.8.15|AUTODETECT|” Mark 8:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.1-42.12.3|AUTODETECT|” (noted above this chapter merely for comparison), and referring to an incident that occurred during The Retirement Ministry, is not a true parallel to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.1-42.12.3|AUTODETECT|” Luke 12:1 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ; that is, it does not cover the same event. This becomes very clear when the two stories are placed side by side. What took place as related by Luke here in 12:1 3 probably occurred somewhat later, perhaps during The Perean Ministry. That ministry, let it be borne in mind, is the framework of Luke s Central Section, though the author frequently departs from it; namely, when he sees a good topical or logical connection with a happening that took place at another point of time during Christ s earthly sojourn.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.11.37|AUTODETECT|” The true situation, then, is as follows. This is a continuation of the story begun in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.11.37|AUTODETECT|” Luke 11:37) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . Jesus and his disciples are no longer in the Pharisee s house. Outside, a huge crowd has gathered around the Master. Among the reasons for the size of this multitude ( many thousands, see the note on this verse on page 658) there may well have been these two: (a) interest in Jesus as spellbinder and miracle-worker; (b) curiosity aroused by the controversy between Jesus and his Pharisaic opponents (11:37 54). So, everybody wants to hear what the Prophet is now saying. Since modern equipment was not available, the only way for people to hear was to get near enough to the speaker. No wonder that they were trampling on each other. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.60|AUTODETECT|” Jesus, then, directs his message first of all to his disciples. On this first of all see the note on this verse on pp. 658, 659. The word disciple, however, must not be taken in too narrow a sense. In addition to The Twelve, Jesus had many other followers 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.60|AUTODETECT|” John 6:60) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.66|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.66|AUTODETECT|” 66) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Besides, he knew, of course, that his words would also be heard by the crowds in general, and that is what he wanted. But primarily he was now addressing his disciples.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.11.39-42.11.44|AUTODETECT|” He begins his message by issuing a warning against the yeast of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. This warning is closely linked with that which the Master had said a moment before, while he was still in the house 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.11.39-42.11.44|AUTODETECT|” Luke 11:39 44) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.11.46|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.11.46|AUTODETECT|” 46) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Hypocrisy means play-acting. It refers to the evil habit of hiding one s real self behind a mask. It amounts to insincerity. Hypocrisy is dishonesty, deception.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Implied, of course, is the exhortation, Be sincere! ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=21.12.14|AUTODETECT|” 2. Nothing is concealed that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be made known. Not only is hypocrisy dishonesty, it is also folly. As is stated over and over again in Scripture: the truth will come out, perhaps already in this life; but if not, then certainly on the day of the final judgment. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=21.12.14|AUTODETECT|” Eccles. 12:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.26|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.26|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 10:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.16|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 2:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.3.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.3.13|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 3:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.4.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.4.5|AUTODETECT|” 4:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.12|AUTODETECT|” . The books will be opened 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.12|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 20:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 11 2 8 0 0 The Dutch have the following proverb:) Al is de leugen nog zo snel,) De waarheid achterhaalt haar wel.) The meaning is:) E en though the lie runs e er so fast,) The truth her overtakes at last.) Having stated the general truth, Jesus now applies it particularly to his disciples. He says:) 3. Wherefore whatever you have said in the dark will be heard in the light, and whatever you have whispered behind closed doors will be proclaimed from the housetops.) Says the Psalmist:) Even the darkness hides not from thee,) The night shines as the day;) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.139.12|AUTODETECT|” The darkness and the light are both alike to thee 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.139.12|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 139:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.16|AUTODETECT|” Therefore the Revealer of the secrets of men 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.16|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 2:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) will experience no difficulty in bringing out into the open whatever men, including the disciples of Jesus, have done or said in secret.) 1 7 2 8 0 0 Are there certain things which have been whispered into the ear in inner rooms ? The word inner rooms, used in the original, has reference to enclosures (generally within the homes of the well-to-do) where treasures were kept, and where at times top secret conferences were held.) Today the expression whispered behind closed doors is considered more idiomatic than spoken in the ear in the inner chambers (A.R.V.) or & in closets (A.V.). What Jesus is saying, then, is that whatever was at one time whispered behind closed doors will be publicly proclaimed. Since radio and TV had not yet been invented, and since the nearest thing to present-day broadcasting was at that time making something known by shouting it from the flat roof of a house, the latter figure is here used.) Implied in the lesson, Hypocrisy is folly, is the command, Be wise! ) For Practical Lessons and Greek Words, etc., see pp. 657 661.) ) 12:4 7 Fear Not) God Cares) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.28-40.10.31|AUTODETECT|” Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.28-40.10.31|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 10:28 31) 1 4 2 8 0 0 4 I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that have nothing more they can do. 5 But I will show you whom you should fear. Fear him who, after killing, has power to cast into hell; yes, I tell you, fear him!) 6 Are not five sparrows sold for two cents? Yet not one of them is forgotten in God s sight. 7 In fact, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Have no fear; you are of more value than any number of��397�� sparrows. ) ) We have seen that hypocrisy is dishonesty and folly. It also signifies inability, lack of power. Those who worship at its shrine are weaklings. 4. I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that have nothing more they can do.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.14|AUTODETECT|” Note emphatic I tell you : here and again in verse 8. Also note my friends, used here alone in the Synoptics. However, does not ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.14|AUTODETECT|” John 15:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.15|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.15|AUTODETECT|” 15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 imply that Jesus made frequent use of this term? For its implications see N.T.C. on John, Vol. II, pp. 306, 307.) 1 3 2 8 0 0 The disciples must take to heart the fact that the enemies are powerless. They are unable to inflict permanent injury. They cannot kill the soul. Killing the body is definitely all they can do. Their power to hurt God s children does not go beyond that.) For that reason Jesus urges his disciples not to be afraid of these bitter opponents. The implied directive is Be strong! ) Jesus continues: 5. But I will show you whom you should fear. To be sure, Jesus wants his disciples to fear, but the object of that fear must be God (definitely implied). And the nature of that fear? It amounts to a standing in awe of the majesty and holiness of God.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.6.1-23.6.4|AUTODETECT|” In our own day it is getting to be the custom of some to address God as if he were a chum or pal or hail-fellow well met. Such surely was not the attitude of Isaiah when in a vision he saw the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.6.1-23.6.4|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 6:1 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.1.17|AUTODETECT|” ). The prophet s response was, Woe is me, for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for my eyes have seen the King, Jehovah of hosts. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.1.17|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 1:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 18 2 8 0 0 It is those, those alone, who, by sovereign grace, have learned to pay such subdued, filial reverence to God, that can also enter into the sweetness of fellowship and friendship with him.) Those who are able to lift up their hearts to God and say:) O God, how wonderful thou art,) Thy majesty, how bright!) How beautiful thy mercy-seat) In depths of burning light!) O how I fear thee, living God,) With deepest, tenderest fears,) And worship thee with trembling hope) And penetential tears.) They have a right to add:) Yet I may love thee too, O Lord,) Almighty as thou art;) For thou hast stooped to ask of me) The love of my poor heart.) F. W. Faber) Continued: Fear him who, after killing, has power to cast into hell & ) The sense of the passage is this: the power to bring about momentary physical death is certainly not to be compared with the power to cast into never-ending punishment! Stand in awe, therefore, in the presence of him who is able to bring about this indescribably agonizing retribution. Note the repetition, adding emphasis: yes, I tell you, fear him! In other words, Be reverent! ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.30.33|AUTODETECT|” The term rendered hell is Gehenna. It comes from G-HinnMm, that is, the land of Hinnom, a valley belonging originally to Hinnom and later to his sons. One can find this valley on any good map of Jerusalem (just south of the city and curving toward the west). Originally, no doubt, this was a beautiful valley. But it did not remain so. It was in this valley that a high place was built. It was subsequently called Tophet, meaning, according to some, place of spitting out or abhorrence ; according to others, place of burning. Either interpretation would fit very well. It would seem that in the top of this high place there was a deep hole in which much wood was piled, and that this wood was ignited by a stream of brimstone 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.30.33|AUTODETECT|” Isaiah 30:33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.28.3|AUTODETECT|” ). The wicked kings Ahaz and Manasseh actually made their children pass through this terrible fire as offerings to the gruesome idol Moloch 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.28.3|AUTODETECT|” II Chron. 28:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.33.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.33.6|AUTODETECT|” 33:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.18.21|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.18.21|AUTODETECT|” Lev. 18:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.11.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.11.7|AUTODETECT|” I Kings 11:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.32.35|AUTODETECT|” ). Others copied their wicked example 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.32.35|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 32:35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.7.31-24.7.34|AUTODETECT|” ). Jeremiah predicted that the divine judgment would strike Tophet; God would visit the terrible wickedness that occurred in G-HinnMm with such mass destruction that the place would become known as the valley of slaughter 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.7.31-24.7.34|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 7:31 34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.19.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.19.6|AUTODETECT|” 19:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.32.35|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.32.35|AUTODETECT|” 32:35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.23.10|AUTODETECT|” ). God-fearing King Josiah defiled this idolatrous high place, and stopped its abominations 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.23.10|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 23:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Afterwards Jerusalem s rubbish was burnt here. Hence, whenever a person approached the valley, he would see those rubbish-burning flames.) 1 4 2 8 0 0 Now by adding these various ideas represented by G-HinnMm namely, ever-burning fire, wickedness, abomination, divine judgment, slaughter it is easily seen that this G-HinnMm became a symbol for the everlasting abode of the wicked, namely, hell. G-HinnMm becomes (in Greek) Gehenna, the place of never-ending torment.) The required awe and reverence do not amount to alarm, however. They must be combined with trust, for God is not only majestic and holy; he also loves and cares.) And so in this very heart and center of Luke s Gospel how many verses precede and how many follow? we turn now to the central passage concerning the heart of God. It begins thus:) 6, 7. Are not five sparrows sold for two cents?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.29|AUTODETECT|” Sparrows and other small birds were caught, killed, skinned, roasted, and consumed. They were considered delicacies, as is still the case in certain countries. They were (and are) an article of commerce. The price at the time when Jesus spoke these words was two for an as [or assarion] 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.29|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 10:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), a Roman copper coin worth only about a sixteenth of a denarius. We might call the as a cent or penny; hence, two for a penny. Our present passage shows that for the price of two pennies an extra sparrow was thrown in; hence, five for two cents. ) 1 2 2 8 0 0 But even though sparrows were cheap in comparison with other articles, Jesus assures his disciples: Yet not one of them is forgotten in God s sight. Not even the most insignificant of God s creatures lies outside the sphere of his loving care. Jesus adds, In fact, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. God knows how many there are and pays attention to each and to all. Does not each hair belong to one of his children? Jesus adds, Have no fear; you are of more value [or: are worth more] than any number of sparrows.

The implication is Be fearless, trusting. ) Note these last words: any number of sparrows. Literally the original reads many sparrows. Several translators and commentators prefer this rendering, which is certainly correct. The same idea expressed somewhat more picturesquely would be a flock of sparrows, many flocks of sparrows, hundreds of sparrows, a great many sparrows. All of these renderings have been suggested, and there is merit in them all. I can see no valid objection to any of them.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.31-45.8.39|AUTODETECT|” Two other attempts are sparrows ( you are worth far more than sparrows, Moffatt) and any number of sparrows ; see explanation in N.T.C. on Matthew, p. 473; also N.E.B. Why these last two? Probably to avoid a misunderstanding, as if Jesus were saying, You are worth more than many but not worth more than all sparrows. But all this is a minor matter. The main lesson is this: Jesus is assuring his disciples that God s tender love and care will never fail them, not even in the hour of death. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.31-45.8.39|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:31 39) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 4 2 8 0 0 For Practical Lessons and Greek Words, etc., see pp. 657 661.) ) 12:8 12 Fear Not) The Son of Man Will Acknowledge You; the Holy Spirit Will Help You) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.32|AUTODETECT|” Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.32|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 10:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.33|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.33|AUTODETECT|” 33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.32|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.32|AUTODETECT|” 12:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.19|AUTODETECT|” 10:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.20|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.20|AUTODETECT|” 20) 1 5 2 8 0 0 8 I tell you, whoever shall confess me before men, the Son of man will also confess him before the angels of God. 9 But he who 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 anyone who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven.) 11 And when they are bringing you before��398�� synagogues, rulers, and authorities, do not worry about how you will defend yourselves��399�� or what you will say, 12 for in that very hour the Holy Spirit will teach you what you should say. ) ) 8, 9. I tell you, whoever shall confess me before men, the Son of man will also confess him before the angels of God. But he who denies me before men will be denied before the angels of God.) The disciples must not fear men. They must trust God. That was the essence of the exhortation found in verses 4 7. In close connection with this, verse 8 now indicates: (a) the reward of trust that reveals itself in confessing Christ; and (b) the punishment that will follow fear of men, a fear expressing itself in disowning Christ.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.32|AUTODETECT|” It is clear, therefore, that even though Jesus has uttered a similar saying previously 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.32|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 10:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.33|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.33|AUTODETECT|” 33) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), he may very well have repeated it here, in somewhat altered form. The saying, in whichever form, fits beautifully into either context.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.10|AUTODETECT|” Note that where Matthew has I , Luke writes the Son of man, proving that the term the Son of man is Christ s self-designation. For Son of man see also on 5:24. Further, note that where Matthew has before my Father who is in heaven Luke has before the angels of God. In view of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.10|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 7:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.27|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.27|AUTODETECT|” Mat. 16:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.31|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.31|AUTODETECT|” 25:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , this presents no difficulty. Where the Father is, there are also his holy angels.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.66.16|AUTODETECT|” Jesus promises that he will confess or acknowledge before the angels of God those who confess him. This word confess or acknowledge shows that the message to be brought by the disciples must not be coldly objective, a mere recitation of memorized words. On the contrary, the hearts of these men must be in their message. Their preaching must be witness-bearing. It should include their personal testimony 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.66.16|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 66:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.34-40.25.36|AUTODETECT|” ). Jesus, then, promises that he himself will acknowledge those true witnesses to be his own. He will confess them before the angels of God. In this connection read especially ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.34-40.25.36|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 25:34 36) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.40|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.40|AUTODETECT|” 40) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . The lesson is Be outspoken in the defense of the faith!) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.41-40.25.43|AUTODETECT|” On the other hand, those who deny or disown him will be denied before these same angels. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.41-40.25.43|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 25:41 43) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.45|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.45|AUTODETECT|” 45) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . In this case Jesus is not quoted as saying, I will deny them. What we read is they will be denied [or disowned]. This change was made, perhaps, to emphasize all the more strongly the sorrowful lot of those who will be thus rejected.) 1 3 2 8 0 0 10. And everyone who speaks a word against the Son of man will be forgiven, but anyone who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven.) Having spoken about the Father and his care, and about the Son of man and his public acknowledgment of those who are his own, it is but logical that Jesus should now also speak about the Holy Spirit.) First, in comparison with the Son, and then with respect to his relation to the disciples. Is not that a very logical order?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.44|AUTODETECT|” That those who sinned against the Son of man are, upon repentance, forgiven, is clear from many passages, including, for example, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.44|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 27:44) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.42|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.42|AUTODETECT|” Luke 23:42) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.43|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.43|AUTODETECT|” 43) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.12.13|AUTODETECT|” The question is, How is it to be understood that blasphemy against the Holy Spirit is unpardonable? As to other sins, no matter how grievous or gruesome, there is pardon for them. There is forgiveness for David s sin of adultery, dishonesty, and murder 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.12.13|AUTODETECT|” II Sam. 12:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.51.0|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.51.0|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 51) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.32.0|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.32.0|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.0|AUTODETECT|” ); for the many sins of the woman of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.0|AUTODETECT|” Luke 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.15.13|AUTODETECT|” ; for the prodigal son s riotous living 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.15.13|AUTODETECT|” Luke 15:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.15.21-42.15.24|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.15.21-42.15.24|AUTODETECT|” 21 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.74|AUTODETECT|” ); for Simon Peter s triple denial accompanied by profanity 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.74|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 26:74) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.75|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.75|AUTODETECT|” 75) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.31|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.31|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.32|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.32|AUTODETECT|” 32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.15-43.18.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.15-43.18.18|AUTODETECT|” John 18:15 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.25-43.18.27|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.18.25-43.18.27|AUTODETECT|” 25 27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.21.15-43.21.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.21.15-43.21.17|AUTODETECT|” 21:15 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.9.1|AUTODETECT|” ); and for Paul s preconversion merciless persecution of Christians 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.9.1|AUTODETECT|” Acts 9:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.22.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.22.4|AUTODETECT|” 22:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.26.9-44.26.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.26.9-44.26.11|AUTODETECT|” 26:9 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.9|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 15:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.8|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 3:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.6|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 3:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). But for the man who speaks against the Holy Spirit there is no pardon.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.11.15|AUTODETECT|” Why not? Here, as always when the text itself is not immediately clear, the historical context must be our guide. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.11.15|AUTODETECT|” Luke 11:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.11.18|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.11.18|AUTODETECT|” 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.3.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.3.22|AUTODETECT|” Mark 3:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.20|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.20|AUTODETECT|” John 7:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.48|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.48|AUTODETECT|” 8:48) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.52|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.52|AUTODETECT|” 52) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.20|AUTODETECT|” 10:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=62.5.16|AUTODETECT|” . From it we learn that the bitter opponents of Jesus have been ascribing to Satan what the Holy Spirit, through Christ, was achieving. Moreover, they were doing this willfully, deliberately. In spite of all the evidences to the contrary they were still affirming that Jesus was expelling demons by the power of Beelzebul. Now to be forgiven implies that the sinner be truly penitent. Among the opponents such genuine sorrow for sin was totally lacking.

For penitence they substituted hardening; for confession, plotting. Thus, by means of their own criminal and completely inexcusable callousness, they were dooming themselves. Their sin was unpardonable because they were unwilling to tread the path that leads to pardon. For a thief, an adulterer, and a murderer there is hope. The message of the gospel may cause him to cry out, O God be merciful to me, the sinner. But when a man has become hardened, so that he has made up his mind not to pay any attention to the promptings of the Spirit, not even to listen to his pleading and warning voice, he has placed himself on the road that leads to perdition.

He has sinned the sin unto death 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.5.16|AUTODETECT|” I John 5:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.6.4-58.6.8|AUTODETECT|” ; see also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.6.4-58.6.8|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 6:4 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.103.12|AUTODETECT|” For anyone who is truly penitent, no matter how shameful his transgressions may have been, there is no reason to despair 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.103.12|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 103:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.1.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.1.18|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 1:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.44.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.44.22|AUTODETECT|” 44:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.55.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.55.6|AUTODETECT|” 55:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.55.7|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.55.7|AUTODETECT|” 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=33.7.18-33.7.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=33.7.18-33.7.20|AUTODETECT|” Mic. 7:18 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.1.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.1.9|AUTODETECT|” I John 1:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.30|AUTODETECT|” On the other hand, there is no excuse for being indifferent, as if the subject of the unpardonable sin is of no concern to the average church member. The blasphemy against the Spirit is the result of gradual progress in sin. Grieving the Spirit 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.30|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 4:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.7.51|AUTODETECT|” ), if unrepented of, leads to resisting the Spirit 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.7.51|AUTODETECT|” Acts 7:51) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.19|AUTODETECT|” ), which, if persisted in, develops into quenching the Spirit 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.19|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 5:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.95.7|AUTODETECT|” ). The true solution is found in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.95.7|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 95:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.95.8|AUTODETECT|” b, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.95.8|AUTODETECT|” 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.3.7|AUTODETECT|” a, Today O that you would listen to his voice. Harden not your hearts! Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.3.7|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 3:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.3.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=58.3.8|AUTODETECT|” 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 a.) 1 4 2 8 0 0 This warning regarding the blasphemy against the Holy Spirit does not mean that he is someone to be avoided at all cost. On the contrary, not only does the Father tenderly care for his own (verses 4 7), and the Son assure them that he will acknowledge them as his very own (verse 8), but also the Holy Spirit will help them in their hour of need:) 11, 12. And when they are bringing you before synagogues, rulers, and authorities, do not worry about how you will defend yourselves or what you will say, for in that very hour the Holy Spirit will teach you what you should say.) On the synagogue, its history, functions, importance, see N.T.C. on Mark, pp. 74 76. Being brought to trial before synagogues could be a frightening experience. But not only does Jesus mention synagogues, he also speaks of rulers and authorities. These might be either Jewish or Gentile.

How to conduct oneself before such judges, not excluding governors and kings, how to address them and what to say to them in defense, might well fill the minds and hearts of unlearned disciples of Jesus with apprehension and horror.) Nevertheless, Jesus tells his followers, Do not worry, that is, Whenever worry raises its head, knock it down at once. Reason: in that very hour the Holy Spirit will teach you what to say.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.19|AUTODETECT|” As is clear from 21:14, 15 and from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.19|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 10:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.20|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.20|AUTODETECT|” 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , what Jesus means is: at the very moment when you need to know what to say, then and not before, the Holy Spirit will work within you in such an effective manner, illumining the mind and sharpening the power of speech, that you will know exactly what to say.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.8-44.4.12|AUTODETECT|” That this prophecy too was gloriously fulfilled is evident from the speeches of Peter, or Peter and John 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.8-44.4.12|AUTODETECT|” Acts 4:8 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.19|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.19|AUTODETECT|” 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.20|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.20|AUTODETECT|” 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.21.39-44.22.21|AUTODETECT|” , with the effect upon the audience described in 4:13, 14), and from those of Paul 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.21.39-44.22.21|AUTODETECT|” Acts 21:39 22:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.23.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.23.1|AUTODETECT|” 23:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.23.6|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.23.6|AUTODETECT|” 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.24.10-44.24.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.24.10-44.24.21|AUTODETECT|” 24:10 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.26.1-44.26.23|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.26.1-44.26.23|AUTODETECT|” 26:1 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).��400��) 1 9 2 8 0 0 ) Practical Lessons Derived from 12:1 12) The Lesson Summary is: be sincere, wise, strong, reverent, fearless, trusting, outspoken.) Verse 2) Nothing is concealed that will not be revealed. You can fool some of the people all of the time, and all of the people some of the time, but you cannot fool all of the people all the time. Attributed to A. Lincoln. See chart on page 658.) Verses 6, 7) Are not five sparrows sold for two cents? & Have no fear; you are of more value than any number of sparrows. ) Biblical Examples of Hypocrisy and Its Results) Name(s) of the Person(s) Guilty of Hypocrisy Description of the Deed Read: Result Read: ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.27.1-1.27.33|AUTODETECT|” Jacob ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.27.1-1.27.33|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 27:1 33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.27.41|AUTODETECT|” ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.27.41|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 27:41) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.15.1-10.15.3|AUTODETECT|” Absalom ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.15.1-10.15.3|AUTODETECT|” II Sam. 15:1 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.18.9|AUTODETECT|” ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.18.9|AUTODETECT|” II Sam. 18:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.18.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.18.14|AUTODETECT|” 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.14.1-11.14.4|AUTODETECT|” Jeroboam ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.14.1-11.14.4|AUTODETECT|” I Kings 14:1 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.14.5-11.14.17|AUTODETECT|” ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.14.5-11.14.17|AUTODETECT|” I Kings 14:5 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.5.20-12.5.25|AUTODETECT|” Gehazi ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.5.20-12.5.25|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 5:20 25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.5.26|AUTODETECT|” ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.5.26|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 5:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.5.27|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.5.27|AUTODETECT|” 27) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.49|AUTODETECT|” Judas Iscariot ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.49|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 26:49) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.3-40.27.5|AUTODETECT|” ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.3-40.27.5|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 27:3 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.1|AUTODETECT|” Ananias and Sapphira ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.1|AUTODETECT|” Acts 5:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.7|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.7|AUTODETECT|” 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.8|AUTODETECT|” 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.3-44.2.6|AUTODETECT|” ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.3-44.2.6|AUTODETECT|” Acts 2:3 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.9|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.9|AUTODETECT|” 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.10|AUTODETECT|” 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 1 22 2 8 0 0 ) ) ) Said the robin to the sparrow,) I should really like to know) Why those anxious human beings) Rush about and worry so.) ) Said the sparrow to the robin,) Well, I think that it must be) That they have no heavenly Father) Such as cares for you and me.) The Prairie Pastor) Verse 10) But anyone who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven. ) The essence of the sin against the Holy Spirit can be condensed into, just one word i m p e n i t e n c e.) If anyone is truly sorry for his sins, he cannot at the same time be guilty of the sin against the Holy Spirit, the unpardonable sin, for true sorrow is the work and fruit of the Holy Spirit, and shows that this Spirit is dwelling in the heart of that penitent.) ) Notes on Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 12:1 12) Verse 1) � �7�, in the midst of which; that is, in the meantime. To begin a new paragraph with a relative was in harmony with classical usage. Note gen. absolute construction: a crowd of so many thousands having gathered, etc.) �������������, gen. pl. aor. pass. participle of ��������, to gather, assemble.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.19.19|AUTODETECT|” ��������, gen. pl. of ������, basically ten thousand. The word is used in that sense in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.19.19|AUTODETECT|” Acts 19:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , where five ten thousands means fifty thousand. Secondary meaning: innumerable multitude, pl. thousands or even thousands upon thousands. Cf. myriad.) 1 9 2 8 0 0 Greijdanus constructs ������ with ���������, be on your guard. His argument is that, later on in the chapter we do not read that Jesus subsequently began to speak to others (Korte Verklaring, Vol. I, p. 328). Geldenhuys agrees, op. cit., p. 350. Well, that construction makes sense, and these authors may be right in favoring it. Nevertheless, is it correct to say that in the entire chapter Jesus is not represented as addressing another group?

What of verse 54? That verse has convinced me that the more generally accepted rendering he began to say first of all to his disciples has a slight edge.) ��������� & ��, put your mind (supply �x� ����) on avoiding, etc.; that is, be on your guard against, etc.) Verse 2) ��������������� ����, third per. s. perf. pass. periphrastic of ����������*, to cover up completely, conceal.) ��������������, third per. s. fut. indicat. pass. of ���������, to uncover, reveal. See also 2:35; 10:21, 22; 17:30.) Verse 3) ��� ��. Robertson (Translation, pp. 75, 195) offers because as English equivalent. It is difficult, however, to understand how the statement Whatever you have said in the dark will be heard in the light can indicate the cause of the far more general truth Nothing is concealed that will not he revealed. But, as I have shown in my dissertation The Meaning of the Preposition ��� in the New Testament, pp. 26, 27, 40, the solution is that ��� does not always mean because.

It can also mean wherefore. An interesting example is the one from the Rosetta Stone: & wherefore the gods gave you health, victory, strength, and all other good things. ) Of course, one is not limited to the word wherefore. Any true synonym will do; e.g., therefore, accordingly, so, so then, etc. Among those translations that show that the authors have correctly grasped the connection between verses 2 and 3, and the true meaning here of ��� ��, are the following: A.V., A.R.V., N.A.S., N.E.B., Berkeley Version, Moffatt, Weymouth, Norlie, Jerusalem Bible, Good News for Modern Man, Lenski, Dutch (both Statenvertaling and Nieuwe Vertaling). Even the omission in English of any connecting word, such as wherefore, cannot be considered incorrect, since the omission at this point will almost certainly convey to the reader the same idea as wherefore. In the group of correct translations the following must therefore also be included: R.S.V., Beck, Phillips, Amplified, N.I.V.) Now everything runs smoothly: because the general proposition holds, namely, that nothing is concealed that will not be revealed, it follows that the far more restricted proposition is also true: Whatever you have said in the dark will be heard in the light. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.19|AUTODETECT|” ��������, dat. pl. Of �������; here: inner room; in verse 24: storeroom. For an obvious reason 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.19|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 6:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.20|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.20|AUTODETECT|” 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) a storeroom for precious commodities was generally an inner room.) 1 9 2 8 0 0 Verses 4 7) We should distinguish carefully between the various forms of the verb ����� here used:) �������� (verses 4a, 5a), sec. per. pl. aor. subjunct. middle (verse 4a, in a prohibition).) �������� (twice in verse 5), sec. per. pl. aor. imperat. middle, in a command.) �������� (verse 7), sec. per. pl. pres. imperat. middle, in a prohibition; durative: have no fear.) Note also in verse 6 the nom. pl., and in verse 7 the gen. pl. (because of ���������) of the noun ���������, sparrow.) A few more words two in verse 6, three in verse 7 merit comment:) ���������, third per. pl. indicat. pass. of �����, to sell. Note also the sec. per. pl. aor. imperat. act. form of this verb in verse 33. Cf. monopoly.) ���� ������������, periphrastic third per. s. perf. indicat. pass. of ������������, to forget; pass., as here: to be forgotten, to escape notice.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.18|AUTODETECT|” ��� (see also the note on 1:60 on page 119) is not always an adversative particle; it can also be ascensive. When this is true the meaning will vary according to context. The following translations have been suggested: in fact (here in 12:7), why (16:21), in addition [or besides] (24:22), yes 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.18|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 1:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 ���������, third per. pl. indicat. pass. of ������, to number.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.11.16|AUTODETECT|” ���������, sec. per. pl. pres. indicat. of �������; lit. to carry in different directions, or: to carry through 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.11.16|AUTODETECT|” Mark 11:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.41|AUTODETECT|” ); to differ 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.41|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 15:41) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.7|AUTODETECT|” ); and here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.7|AUTODETECT|” Luke 12:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 to differ favorably; that is, to excel; so also in verse 24.) 1 10 2 8 0 0 Verses 8 10) For A��������, third per. s. aor. subjunct. act. of A�������, to confess, acknowledge; see also N.T.C. on Matthew, footnote 477 on pp. 497, 498. The phrase A������� � can be regarded as an Aramaism.) ��� E� & � �P��. There is an anacoluthon here, for �P�� refers to ��� E� which, however, the Greek allows to remain in the nominative, ��� E� & ������� being a nominative absolute. Note somewhat similar anacolutha in verses 9 and 10.) ����������, nom. aor. (timeless) s. participle of �������, to deny, disown. A compound form of the same verb is ������������, third per. s. fut. pass. of ���������.) ��������� (twice in verse 10), third per. s. fut. indicat. pass. of �����, here meaning: to forgive (impersonal use of verb in both cases). For various meanings of this verb see the note on 4:39 on page 271, and the note on 6:42 on page 364.) �������������, dat. s. masc. aor. act. participle of ���������.

When, as here, this verb is used with the Deity as its object, the meaning is: to blaspheme; when men are the objects, the sense is: to revile, insult.) Verse 11) �0��������, third per. pl. pres. subjunct. (after E���, when or whenever) act. of �0�����, to bring in.) �����������, sec. per. pl. aor. subjunct. (in a prohibition) of �������� (lit., to divide the mind), to be anxious, to worry.) We have already met this verb in 10:41; see the note on that verse on page 603. And now in chapter 12 forms of this verb are found also in verse 22 (���������), sec. per. pl. pres. imperat.; in verse 26, same form but now pres. indicat.; and in verse 25 (��������), pres. participle.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.25-40.6.34|AUTODETECT|” Aside from these occurrences in Luke, the New Testament use of this verb is confined to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.25-40.6.34|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 6:25 34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.7.32-46.7.34|AUTODETECT|” (6 times); 10:19; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.7.32-46.7.34|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 7:32 34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.20|AUTODETECT|” (4 times); 12:25; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.20|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 2:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.6|AUTODETECT|” 4:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 13 2 8 0 0 �����������, sec. per. pl. aor. subjunct. (deliberative) middle of ����������, to defend oneself. Cf. apology.) ) 12:13 21 The Parable of) (The Notorious One)) The Rich Fool) 13 Someone from the crowd said to him, Teacher, tell my brother to share the inheritance with me. 14 He answered, Man, who appointed me judge or arbitrator in your case? 15 Then he said to them, Watch out! Be on your guard against greed of every description, for a man s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions. ) 16 And he told them a parable, saying:) The ground of a certain rich man produced bumper crops. 17 So he carried on a dialogue within himself, saying, What shall I do, for I have no space where I can store my crops? 18 Then he said, This is what I ll do: I will tear down my barns��401�� and I will build bigger ones, and there I will store all my grain and goods. 19 And I will say to my soul, Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years. Take it easy; eat, drink, and have a good time. 20 But God said to him, You fool! This very night your soul is being demanded of you, and the things you have prepared (for yourself), whose shall they be? 21 So it goes with one who hoards up riches for himself but is not rich in God s sight. ��402��) ) Jesus has been emphasizing the folly of worry. He has been saying, Are not five sparrows sold for two cents?

Yet not one of them is forgotten in God s sight.& Have no fear; you are of more value than any number of sparrows. ) One would think that in view of such words of encouragement the reaction of everyone would be, How rich we are! ) Upon one listener, however, the words of Jesus seem to have made no impression whatever. Someone has said, When there is an inheritance 99 percent of the people become wolves. ) 13. Someone from the crowd said to him, Teacher, tell my brother to share the inheritance with me.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.21.15-5.21.17|AUTODETECT|” The person who made this request could think of only one thing: the inheritance! He was convinced that he was being cheated. To be sure, regulations concerning the division of an inheritance could be found in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.21.15-5.21.17|AUTODETECT|” Deut. 21:15 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.27.8-4.27.11|AUTODETECT|” ; see also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.27.8-4.27.11|AUTODETECT|” Num. 27:8 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 and ch. 36. But it is possible that in the present case justice was not being done. So, at least, it seemed to the complainant. Was he, perhaps, the younger of two brothers, and was his brother totally unwilling to share the inheritance with him?) 1 9 2 8 0 0 But why did he urge Jesus to intervene in this dispute? The reason may have been that he took this Teacher to be a rabbi, and, knowing that rabbis at times settled matters of this nature, therefore asked him to bring this quarrel to a conclusion favorable to himself, the younger brother.) 14. He answered, Man, who appointed me judge or arbitrator in your case?) Jesus definitely refuses to comply with the request; this probably for two reasons: (a) he did not wish to ignore the authorities who were supposed to take care of such matters; and (b) he himself had been appointed to shoulder a task far more important and sublime, namely, to seek and to save the lost (19:10).) The Master knew very well that the petitioner s preoccupation with strictly mundane affairs had its root in cupidity. Therefore he now issues a warning, addressed not only to this man but to the entire multitude: 15. Then he said to them, Watch out! Be on your guard against greed of every description.) This is a most earnest warning.

Let every listener take it to heart. Let him begin to take inventory. Let him make it his serious business to ask himself again and again, Am I perhaps a greedy individual? Do I experience joy in giving, in helping along good causes? Or am I, perhaps, a selfish person? Do I have an inordinate yearning for material possessions?

For honor, prestige? For power and position? Briefly, am I greedy? ) The Greek word for greed is very descriptive. Literally it means: the thirst for having more, always having more and more and still more. It is as if a man in order to quench his thirst takes a drink of salt water, which happens to be the only water that is available. This makes him still more thirsty.

So he drinks again and again, until his thirst kills him. In this connection think also of one of the German words for greed: die Habgier; cf. the Dutch: hebzucht, the uncontrolled yearning to have & have & have & more & and & more & and still more.) Jesus tells these people and is telling us today not to become enslaved to this demon of greed, and he adds: for a man s life [the life that really matters] does not consist in the abundance of his possessions, his earthly goods.) In order to drive home this point, there follows:) 16. And he told them a parable, saying: The ground of a certain rich man produced bumper crops.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.13.2|AUTODETECT|” What was wrong with this farmer? The fact that he was successful? Of course not. Nowhere does Scripture condemn success of riches as such. God never rebuked the following because they were rich: Abraham, Solomon, Job, Joseph of Arimathea 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.13.2|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 13:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.3.10-11.3.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.3.10-11.3.13|AUTODETECT|” I Kings 3:10 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.42.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.42.12|AUTODETECT|” Job 42:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.57|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.57|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 27:57) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 23 2 8 0 0 What then? Had he acquired his wealth by dishonest means? There is nothing in the text that points in that direction. On the contrary, we are given the distinct impression that this man had become rich because God had blessed the labors of his hands and had caused his soil to be so fertile that it produced bumper crops.) What was really wrong becomes clear from the following verses: 17 19. So he carried on a dialogue within himself, saying, What shall I do, for I have no space where I can store my crops? Then he said, This is what I ll do: I will tear down my barns and I will build bigger ones, and there I will store all my grain and goods.

And I will say to my soul, Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years. Take it easy; eat, drink, and have a good time.) Note the following:) First of all, the rich man shows that he does not know himself. He fails to realize that his body is mortal and will not necessarily live on for many years: Also, he does not take account of the fact that the ample goods in which he rejoices cannot satisfy the soul. His soul has nothing!) Secondly, he does not figure with the needs of others. He is thoroughly selfish. Both in the Greek original and in my translation the words I and my occur an even dozen times.

There are 8 I s and 4 my s. He should have realized that there were other people who were in need of some of his grain. He missed the joy of generous giving. All he could think of was tearing down the old barns or granaries in order to build bigger ones, in which to store for himself his grain, etc.) Applying this to the present-day situation, we may well ask ourselves whether we are doing all we should for the hungry and poverty-stricken. Consider the population explosion. It is estimated that at the time when this parable was spoken there were about one-fourth of a billion people living on earth.

Not until the year a.d. 1830 did the number reach one billion, a century later two billion. Today (1978) the estimated world population is over four billion.) These people need food. They need healthy bodies. In certain regions of the earth there are hundreds of thousands of children with bloated abdomens, toothpick arms, and bulging eyes! Indeed, the outline of their ribs is visible on their chests!) In addition to the population explosion there are other reasons for this deplorable situation. Some of them are: unfavorable climatic and/or soil conditions, lack of sanitation, crude farm implements, lack of technical skills, and, let us not forget, superstition.

Thus, to a Hindu the cow is the most sacred of animals. It is not an article of food.) What the hungry people of the earth need, therefore, is technical skill, knowledge and application of the rules of hygiene, of crop-raising and soil cultivation and irrigation, in some instances better seed, and a sufficient number of good doctors. All these needs are urgent. They must not be underestimated. But what they need above all else is the gospel of the saving grace of God in Jesus Christ!) Shall we, whose souls are lighted) With wisdom from on high,) Shall we to men benighted) The lamp of life deny?) Salvation! O salvation!) The joyful sound proclaim) Till earth s remotest nation) Has learned Messiah s Name.) R.

Heber,) third stanza of) From Greenland s Icy Mountains ) Thirdly, the rich man does not thank and glorify God. For all practical purposes this man is an atheist. In view of his abundant harvest we were justified in expecting him to exclaim, Bless Jehovah, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits! Who am I that thou hast brought me so far? What shall I render to the Lord for all his benefits toward me? But no, he says nothing of the kind.

What he does say in his soliloquy is, Take it easy; eat, drink, and have a good time !) The grim awakening follows:) 20. But God said to him, You fool! This very night your soul is being demanded of you, and the things you have prepared (for yourself), whose shall they be?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.39.4-19.39.6|AUTODETECT|” God calls this man Fool, and a fool he was indeed, for he seemed to think that he had no need of God whatever, that he himself was in control of his life, soul and body both, that he was the master of his fate and the captain of his soul. Now God tells him that his soul will be required of him not after many years but this very night. God himself will demand it of him. Note that the fool was wrong not only in thinking that he was in control of life s ending. He was also wrong in forgetting that he did not even know when it would be terminated. He should have reminded himself of the words of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.39.4-19.39.6|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 39:4 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.90.10|AUTODETECT|” (in part), Jehovah, let me know how frail I am.& Surely every man is mere breath.& He heaps up riches, and knows not who shall gather them. See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.90.10|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 90:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 and 103:15, 16.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.73.19|AUTODETECT|” How the heirs trust have laughed as they were dividing the things he had so studiously heaped up & for himself! And while they were doing this, where was he? Read ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.73.19|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 73:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.73.20|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.73.20|AUTODETECT|” 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 2 2 8 0 0 Jesus sums up the parable s main lesson as follows:) 21. So it goes with one who hoards up riches for himself but is not rich in God s sight. Jesus has reference to the man who lives only for himself and does not figure with God.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.6.6|AUTODETECT|” To be sure, a man should, in thorough consciousness of his dependence on God, and in gratitude to him, try to supply his own needs and those of his family. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.6.6|AUTODETECT|” Prov. 6:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.41.25-1.41.36|AUTODETECT|” ( Go to the ant, you sluggard, etc.) was not written in vain; neither was the advice Joseph gave to Pharaoh 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.41.25-1.41.36|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 41:25 36) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.21|AUTODETECT|” ). Just so one does not forget the principle laid down so clearly here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.21|AUTODETECT|” Luke 12:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.33|AUTODETECT|” . And is not this the same, in essence, as that which the Lord also established in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.33|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 6:33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.37.4|AUTODETECT|” , But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be granted to you as an extra gift ? It s a matter of selecting the right item to be placed first on our list of priorities. It should be his kingdom and his righteousness. Delight yourself in Jehovah, and he will give you the desires of your heart 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.37.4|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 37:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.10.31|AUTODETECT|” ). See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.10.31|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 10:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 3 2 8 0 0 For Practical Lessons and Greek Words, etc., see pp. 671 675.) ) 12:22 34 Warning Against Earthly Anxiety) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.19-40.6.21|AUTODETECT|” Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.19-40.6.21|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 6:19 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.25-40.6.34|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.25-40.6.34|AUTODETECT|” 25 34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.19.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.19.21|AUTODETECT|” 19:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.21|AUTODETECT|” Mark 10:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.11.41|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.11.41|AUTODETECT|” Luke 11:41) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.18.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.18.22|AUTODETECT|” 18:22) 1 7 2 8 0 0 22 And he said to his disciples, Therefore I say to you, Do not be anxious about your life, what you are going to eat; or about your body, what you are going to wear. 23 Life is worth more than food, and the body than clothes. 24 Consider the ravens: they neither sow nor reap; they have neither storeroom nor granary;��403�� yet God feeds them. How much more valuable you are than the birds! 25 And who among you is able, by worrying, to add even one cubit to his life-span? 26 Since, then, you cannot do this very little thing, why are you anxious about the rest?) 27 Consider the lilies, how they grow. They neither toil nor spin; yet I tell you that even Solomon in all his splendor did not dress himself like one of these. 28 Now if God so clothes the grass in the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the furnace, how much more will he clothe you, O men of little faith! 29 You surely must not set your heart on what you will eat or what you will drink, nor must you live in a state of constant worry. 30 For all of these matters are the very things worldly people��404�� are constantly craving. Besides, your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 31 But seek his kingdom, and these things will be granted to you as an extra gift.) 32 Fear not, little flock, for your Father takes pleasure in giving you the kingdom. 33 Sell your possessions and give to charity. Provide for yourselves purses that will never wear out, a treasure in heaven that will never give out, where no thief can reach and no moth ravage. 34 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. ) ) 22, 23. And he said to his disciples, Therefore I say to you, Do not be anxious about your life, what you are going to eat; or about your body, what you are going to wear.

Life is worth more than food, and the body than clothes.) At this point it is clear that Jesus addresses himself again particularly to his disciples. He starts out by saying, Therefore, etc.) In other words, worry about what to eat and what to wear ill befits the person who realizes that his life and his body are under God s constant care, and that it is God, he alone, who determines the length of anyone s life-span (see verses 6, 7, 20). Moreover, he who has provided the greater, namely, life and the body, will he not also furnish the lesser, namely, food and clothes?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.0|AUTODETECT|” To anyone who is acquainted with The Sermon on the Mount 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.0|AUTODETECT|” Luke 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.22-42.12.34|AUTODETECT|” ) it is immediately clear that the part of the discourse recorded here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.22-42.12.34|AUTODETECT|” Luke 12:22 34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.25-40.6.34|AUTODETECT|” is a repetition, with variations, omissions, and additions, of a section of that famous sermon, namely, of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.25-40.6.34|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 6:25 34) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . And would it not have been a great loss if these precious passages had been spoken only once during Christ s earthly ministry?) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Continuing, then, with passages from The Sermon on the Mount, Jesus says (he may have been pointing upward to a flock of ravens or as others) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.0|AUTODETECT|” Similarities Between ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.0|AUTODETECT|” Luke 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.0|AUTODETECT|” and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.0|AUTODETECT|” Matthew 6) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Verse) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.0|AUTODETECT|” in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.0|AUTODETECT|” Luke 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 Key to Content Verse(s) in) 7 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.0|AUTODETECT|” Matthew 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 1 14 2 8 0 0 22 Do not be anxious about your life & your body 25a ) 23 Life is worth more than food, and the body than clothes 25b ) 24 Consider the ravens [the birds of the air] 26 ) 25 Who is able, by worrying, to add one cubit to his life-span? 27 ) 27 Consider the lilies, how they grow 28b, 29 ) 28 If God so clothes the grass. etc. 30 ) 29 You & must not live in & constant worry, etc. cf. 31, 34 ) 30 All these things worldly people are craving cf. 32 ) 31 Seek his kingdom [Seek first his kingdom] 33 ) 33b & where no thief can reach and no moth ravage cf. 19, 20 ) 34 Where your treasure is, etc. 21 ) ) ) interpret the word crows): 24. Consider the ravens; they neither sow nor reap; they have neither storeroom nor granary; yet God feeds them. How much more valuable you are than the birds.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.11.13-3.11.19|AUTODETECT|” These ravens were merely birds. Besides, they knew nothing about farming; that is, they neither sowed nor reaped. Also, they neither owned nor had at their disposal storerooms or barns to which they could bring their goods. To top it all, they were even counted among the unclean birds 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.11.13-3.11.19|AUTODETECT|” Lev. 11:13 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Nevertheless, they were well taken care of, for God himself fed them. Jesus implies: then why should you worry? How much more valuable you are than the birds!) 1 2 2 8 0 0 The senselessness of worry is evident also from the following:) 25, 26. And who among you is able, by worrying, to add even one cubit to his life-span? Since, then, you cannot do this very little thing, why are you anxious about the rest?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.19.3|AUTODETECT|” The word I have translated life-span may refer either to age or to height or stature. Thus Zacchaeus was small in stature 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.19.3|AUTODETECT|” Luke 19:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.11.11|AUTODETECT|” ), but Sarah was long past the age of conceiving 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.11.11|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 11:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.9.21|AUTODETECT|” ). The man born blind, healed by Jesus, had reached the age of legal maturity 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.9.21|AUTODETECT|” John 9:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.9.23|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.9.23|AUTODETECT|” 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.25|AUTODETECT|” ). Here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.25|AUTODETECT|” Luke 12:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.39.4-19.39.6|AUTODETECT|” A.V. has stature. But in the present context this meaning is improbable, and this for two reasons: (a) adding this amount is here represented as being a very little thing. Adding a cubit to a life-span of seventy or eighty years would not amount to much, but actually becoming taller by forty-six centimeters can hardly be considered an altogether insignificant accomplishment; and (b) who, except perhaps a dwarf or a midget, would impatiently desire to add that amount to his height? A man may worry himself to death; he cannot worry himself into a longer span of life. See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=19.39.4-19.39.6|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 39:4 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 9 2 8 0 0 The Lord now turns to another example from nature. Paralleling what he has said about the ravens (verse 24), he now turns to the lilies (verses 27, 28). In line with his teaching regarding the divine provision of food so that a person may keep alive (verse 24), he now shows that God will also provide clothes so that this person s body may be covered. Jesus says: 27. Consider the lilies, how they grow. They neither toil nor spin; yet I tell you that even Solomon in all his splendor did not dress himself like one of these.) Consider that is, notice carefully, study closely the lilies.

Exactly what kind of flower the Lord had in mind when he said lilies cannot be determined. Some guesses are: irises, narcissi, Turk s cap lilies, and gladioli. In the light of the context it is very well possible that Jesus, instead of referring to any particular kind of flower, was thinking of all the beautiful flowers that were adding their splendor to the landscape at that time of the year.) How they grow must mean, as the context indicates: without any toil whatever on their part, nor any care being bestowed on them by any human individual, how easily and freely, and yet how gorgeously. Though the lilies do not spin a single thread, yet even Solomon in all his splendor did not dress himself like one of these. Is not this true in at least this respect, namely, that Solomon s finest apparel was at best but a mimicry and derivative of that which in nature comes fresh from the hand of God? Pristine beauty cannot be matched!) Yet the simultaneous outburst of flowers in the spring of the year just as suddenly vanishes: today these flowers are fully alive and adorn the fields; tomorrow this grass in the field, that is, this sum total of uncultivated (in contrast with cultivated) plants, serves as fuel for the domestic oven, in a land where fuel was not plentiful.) 28.

Now if God so clothes the grass in the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the furnace, how much more will he clothe you, O men of little faith!) There is a double argument here, as follows:) a. from the less to the greater: if God provides for the short-lived grass, he will surely provide for his children, destined for eternal glory.) b. from the greater to the less: If God decks the wild flowers with such very beautiful garments, then he will certainly clothe his children with the ordinary garments which they need.) Jesus calls his worrying followers men of little faith. The various passages and the contexts in which he makes use of this description are as follows:) 7 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.30|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 6:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.28|AUTODETECT|” and its parallel here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.28|AUTODETECT|” Luke 12:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 (worry about clothes)) 7 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.26|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 8:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 (the disciples fear of drowning during a storm at sea)) 7 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.14.31|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 14:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 (Peter s similar fear)) 7 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.8|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 16:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 (the disciples failure to remember the lesson they had received in connection with Christ s miracle-working power).) 1 6 2 8 0 0 Based upon these passages, it would seem that the description refers to the fact that those so characterized were not sufficiently taking to heart the comfort they should have derived from the presence, promises, power, and love of Christ.) So far in this section Jesus has shown that worry or earthly anxiety is inconsistent with his disciples position as the crown of God s creation (verses 22 24, 28, 29), and that it is also thoroughly useless (verses 25, 26). In verses 29, 30 he adds as a further argument against worry the fact that it is inconsistent with the disciples position as believers over against unbelievers, worldlings. Are not Christ s followers the children of the heavenly Father, that is, of him who knows their needs and will therefore supply them? Jesus says: 29, 30. You surely must not set your heart on what you will eat or what you will drink, nor must you live in a state of constant worry. For all of these matters are the very things worldly people are constantly craving.

Besides, your heavenly Father knows that you need them.) Note the marked emphasis on you over against others!) What Jesus is stressing is that God s children must not behave like the nations of the world. They must be distinctive in their thinking, speaking, acting.) It would be difficult to exaggerate the significance of the passage before us. What Jesus is saying is that believers must differ in their inner yearnings, must set their hearts on different things, must be controlled by different ideals, and must be motivated by a different love.) When church members hardly differ at all from outsiders in the ambitions they cherish, in the goals they try to achieve, in the manner in which they react to the disappointments and adversities of life, in the way they conduct their social events and parties, in the kind of literature they prefer to read, in the songs they prefer to sing, in their choice of friends with whom they feel at home, etc., there is something very wrong. What Jesus here teaches is entirely in line with the rest of Scripture. A few passages must suffice:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.23.9|AUTODETECT|” It is a people that dwells alone and shall not be reckoned among the nations 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.23.9|AUTODETECT|” Num. 23:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.18.21|AUTODETECT|” If Jehovah be God, follow him; but if Baal, then follow him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.18.21|AUTODETECT|” I Kings 18:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.14|AUTODETECT|” Be not unequally yoked with unbelievers 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.14|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 6:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 3 2 8 0 0 To be real, religion must be vital. It is easy to recite the Apostles Creed, and in doing so to say, I believe in God the Father, Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, but to realize in one s heart of hearts that this heavenly Father actually knows that we need food and drink, and will take care that we have it, to be convinced of this even though we may be unemployed & that is another matter. But that is exactly what Jesus here teaches.) Note also that Jesus refers not only to eating but also to drinking. The reason for this may well be that he knew and figured with the fact that there and then water especially water fit to drink was not always and everywhere easily obtainable.) Jesus has been speaking in negative terms. He has been saying, Do not be anxious about your life (verse 22) and Do not set your heart on what you will eat or what you will drink. He now changes to the positive approach and says, 31. But seek his kingdom, and these things will be granted to you as an extra gift.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.3.10-11.3.14|AUTODETECT|” For the meaning of the term the kingdom of God see on 4:43. Christ s disciples are being urged, therefore, to see to it that the rule of God is being established more and more in their own lives and in the lives of others. The reward of grace is this, that while they are concentrating all their attention on establishing God s kingdom everywhere, their heavenly Father sees to it that they do not only have an abundance of spiritual blessings, but also, in addition, food and clothing. The necessities of daily living will not be lacking to them. For further elucidation see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.3.10-11.3.14|AUTODETECT|” I Kings 3:10 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.29|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.29|AUTODETECT|” Mark 10:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.30|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.30|AUTODETECT|” 30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.35|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.35|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.4.8|AUTODETECT|” ; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.4.8|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 4:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 2 2 8 0 0 Very tenderly Jesus now adds, 32. Fear not, little flock [a form of address found nowhere else in the New Testament], for your Father takes pleasure in giving you the kingdom. Though small in number, the flock is dear to the Father!) Jesus a moment ago (verse 31) told his disciples that they must seek the kingdom, making it an object of continuous search. Now he calls the kingdom a gift. Nevertheless, these two ideas are not contradictory. An example from nature will clarify this.

Of itself a tree has no power to maintain itself. Its roots are, as it were, empty hands stretched out to the environment. It is dependent on the sun, the air, the clouds, and the soil. It does not even have the strength to absorb the nourishment it requires. The sun is the source of its energy. But does this mean that the tree is therefore inactive?

Not at all; its roots and leaves, though completely receptive, are enormously active. For example, it has been estimated that the amount of work performed by a certain large tree in a single day to raise water and minerals from the soil to the leaves is equal to the amount of energy expended by a person who carries three hundred buckets full of water, two at a time, up a ten-foot flight of stairs. The leaves too are virtual factories. They too are tremendously active.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.12|AUTODETECT|” The same holds also with respect to the citizens of the kingdom. They receive the kingdom as a gift. Yet, after the new principle of life has been received, the recipients become very active. They work very hard, not by means of anything in themselves but by the power that is being constantly supplied to them by the Lord s Spirit. They work out their own salvation, and are able to do this because it is God who works in them both to will and to work for his good pleasure 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.12|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 2:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.13|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.13|AUTODETECT|” 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.7.13|AUTODETECT|” . See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.7.13|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 7:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.13.24|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.13.24|AUTODETECT|” Luke 13:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.16.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.16.16|AUTODETECT|” 16:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 b). They trust in God s promises, pray, spread the message of salvation, and out of gratitude perform good works to benefit men and to glorify God. And the gift increases with the search!) 1 1 2 8 0 0 A second thought on which the emphasis also falls is this: the One whom Jesus tenderly calls your Father does not bestow the kingdom upon the disciples grudgingly. On the contrary. It is his good pleasure to do so. It is with keen delight that he does it.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=23.55.6|AUTODETECT|” Because of the past tense of the verb to take pleasure there are those who insist on the rendering, It did please the Father, etc., or The Father has been pleased to give you, etc. This may be correct. On the other hand, in connection with this particular verb the past tense can be used even to indicate present action. See, for example, 3:22. The difference is minor. God is from everlasting to everlasting, and he is unchangeable.

So, when he took pleasure he also takes pleasure and will take pleasure. What was his delight is still his delight and will ever remain so. It is therefore possible to say that the rendering Your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom is correct, and so is the translation Your Father is pleased to give you the kingdom. The main fact on which the passage rivets our attention is that when the Father gives, he gives unstintingly, a marvelous truth confirmed also by such passages as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=23.55.6|AUTODETECT|”

Isa. 55:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=23.55.7|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=23.55.7|AUTODETECT|”

7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=26.18.23|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=26.18.23|AUTODETECT|”

Ezek. 18:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=26.18.32|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=26.18.32|AUTODETECT|”

32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=26.33.11|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=26.33.11|AUTODETECT|”

33:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=28.11.8|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=28.11.8|AUTODETECT|”

Hos. 11:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.23.37|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.23.37|AUTODETECT|”

Matt. 23:37) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.2.14|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.2.14|AUTODETECT|”

Luke 2:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.13.34|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.13.34|AUTODETECT|”

13:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.13.35|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.13.35|AUTODETECT|”

35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=49.1.5|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=49.1.5|AUTODETECT|”

Eph. 1:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=49.1.9|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=49.1.9|AUTODETECT|”

9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

, etc.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.6.0|AUTODETECT|”

The Father gives. His children should do the same, in their own limited way, but from the heart and generously: 33a. Sell your possessions and give to charity. Verses 32, 33a are not duplicated in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.6.0|AUTODETECT|”

Matt. 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.5.7|AUTODETECT|”

. Nevertheless, broadly speaking, the philosophy of the contents of 12:33a can be found in The Sermon on the Mount 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.5.7|AUTODETECT|”

Matt. 5:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.6.3|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.6.3|AUTODETECT|”

6:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.11.41|AUTODETECT|”

). For a somewhat closer parallel one would have to turn to such passages as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.11.41|AUTODETECT|”

Luke 11:41) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.19.21|AUTODETECT|”

; and see also 18:22 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.19.21|AUTODETECT|”

Matt. 19:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=41.10.21|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=41.10.21|AUTODETECT|”

Mark 10:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 0

Christ s command to the rich young ruler ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.33|AUTODETECT|” As to the meaning of the passage, it has at times been grossly misinterpreted, as if Jesus said to all his followers, Sell all your possessions and give the entire proceeds to the poor. The result would be that very soon the church would become a burden to society. A text must be explained in the light of its context. A moment ago Jesus told the parable of that notorious individual, The Rich Fool (verses 16 21). That man kept everything for himself. It is that selfish spirit which Jesus is here combating. The true interpretation of what the Master says here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.33|AUTODETECT|” Luke 12:33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.16.2|AUTODETECT|” a can be found in such passages as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.16.2|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 16:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.16.3|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.16.3|AUTODETECT|”

3. 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.8.1-47.8.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.8.1-47.8.9|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 8:1 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.10|AUTODETECT|” ; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.10|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 6:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.0|AUTODETECT|” Broadly parallel with a passage from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.0|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.33|AUTODETECT|” is ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.33|AUTODETECT|” Luke 12:33) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 b. Provide for yourselves purses that will never wear out, a treasure in heaven that will never give out, where no thief can reach and no moth ravage.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.41|AUTODETECT|” For the nature of that treasure in heaven see such passages as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.41|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 10:41) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.42|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.42|AUTODETECT|”
4. 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.34-40.25.46|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.34-40.25.46|AUTODETECT|” 25:34 46) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.16.9|AUTODETECT|” ; and cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.16.9|AUTODETECT|” Luke 16:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.19.17-42.19.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.19.17-42.19.19|AUTODETECT|” 19:17 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . That treasure can indeed be symbolized by purses that never wear out. Moreover, it never gives out. There is always more and more and still more. And, to top it all, the riches of the heavenly life, in principle begun already on earth but in fulness reserved for heaven, will be completely out of reach for thieves and moths.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 That the heavenly treasures are moth-proof and burglar-proof, in other words, that they endure forever in all their sparkling luster, as the irremovable possession of the children of the heavenly Father, is the teaching of Scripture throughout, for it tells us about:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.89.33|AUTODETECT|” a faithfulness that will never be removed 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.89.33|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 89:33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.138.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.138.8|AUTODETECT|” 138:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ),) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” a life that will never end 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” John 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ),) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.14|AUTODETECT|” a spring of water that will never cease to bubble up within the one who drinks of it 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.14|AUTODETECT|” John 4:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ),) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.37|AUTODETECT|” a gift that will never be lost 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.37|AUTODETECT|” John 6:37) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.39|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.39|AUTODETECT|”
5. 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ),) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.28|AUTODETECT|” a hand out of which the Good Shepherd s sheep will never be snatched 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.28|AUTODETECT|” John 10:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ),) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.29|AUTODETECT|” a chain that will never be broken 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.29|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.30|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.30|AUTODETECT|”
6. 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ),) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.39|AUTODETECT|” a love from which we shall never be separated 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.39|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:39) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ),) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.11.29|AUTODETECT|” a calling that will never be revoked 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.11.29|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 11:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ),) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.2.19|AUTODETECT|” a foundation that will never be destroyed 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.2.19|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 2:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ),) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.1.4|AUTODETECT|” and an inheritance that will never fade out 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.1.4|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 1:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.1.5|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.1.5|AUTODETECT|”
7. 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0

34. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.4.23|AUTODETECT|” The sentence introduced by For states the reason why the exhortations of verses 32, 33 should be obeyed. Naturally, if a person s real treasure, his ultimate aim in all his striving, is something pertaining to this earth the acquisition of money, fame, popularity, prestige, power then his heart, the very center of his life 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.4.23|AUTODETECT|” Prov. 4:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), will be completely absorbed in that mundane object. All of his activities, including even the so-called religious, will be subservient to this one goal. On the other hand, if, out of sincere and humble gratitude to God, he has made God s kingdom, that is, the joyful recognition of God s sovereignty in his own life and in every sphere, his treasure, then there is also where his heart will be. Money, in that case, will be a help, not a hindrance. The heart cannot be in both of these places at the same time. It is an either-or proposition! See 16:13.��405��) 1 6 2 8 0 0 ) Practical Lessons Derived from 12:13 34) Verses 13, 15) Tell my brother to share the inheritance with me. Be on your guard against greed. ) Let us say that, in connection with an inheritance, you received a bum deal. The trouble is that you make so much fuss about it that it begins to look as if all your happiness depends upon the solution, in your favor, of this injustice. You are not putting first things first. Better examine yourself and repent.) Verse 20) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.31-45.8.39|AUTODETECT|” This very night your soul is being demanded of you. Does not this parable imply that our real riches consists in that which is stated so beautifully in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.31-45.8.39|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:31 39) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ?) 1 3 2 8 0 0 Verses 24, 27) Consider the ravens & the lilies. What Jesus says about them does not mean that we too should not work for a living. Rather, it means that if even these creatures are the objects of God s concern, then surely we, whom God has endowed with gifts and talents enabling us to plan and to work, will be provided for.) Verse 29) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.10.31|AUTODETECT|” You surely must not set your heart on what you will eat or what you will drink. Making such things our chief aim in life is what is wrong with us. Our chief aim should be obedience to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.10.31|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 10:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Verse 32) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” Your Father takes pleasure in giving you the kingdom. Does not this passage reveal the very heart of God? See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” John 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.6-45.5.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.6-45.5.11|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 5:6 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.32|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.32|AUTODETECT|” 8:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=36.3.17|AUTODETECT|” . When we make obedience to God s will our chief joy, God is so happy that he sings! You don t believe it? Read ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=36.3.17|AUTODETECT|” Zeph. 3:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 16 2 8 0 0 ) Notes on Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 12:13 34) Verses 13, 14) ����������, aor. middle infinitive of ������, to divide; middle, to share.) ��������, acc. s. of ��������, divider, arbitrator.) Verse 15) ���������� (����� plus ��), eagerness to have more, covetousness, greed.) E�� �P� & ��� Q��������� �P��; lit. for not in the abounding to anyone of the things belonging to him does his life consist; i.e., for a man s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.) Versa 16) �P�������, third per. s. aor. indicat. of �P�����* (�V plus ����), to bear well; to bring forth plentifully, bumper crops.) Verses 17, 18) ������ (twice), first per. fut. indicat. act. of ������, to bring together, to store, a verb especially frequent in Matthew and in the writings of Luke.) ������, first per. s. fut. indicat. act. of ��������, to tear down, demolish. See 1:52, He has brought down rulers from their thrones. ) For �������, acc. pl. of ������ (�� plus ������), the place where grain is stored away, granary, barn; see 3:17.) Verses 19, 20) In verses 19, 20 the word ���� is used three times, first, the dat. form occurs, as indirect object of the verb ��; immediately after that the vocative, both of these at the beginning of verse 19; hence, And I will say to my soul, Soul, you have, etc. Finally, in verse 20 the same word is used once more, this time in the accusative, as the direct object of a verb.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.19|AUTODETECT|” How should these three instances of the word ���� be translated? I have found that the great majority of the translators use as English equivalent the word soul, and this in all three cases. This is done by A.V., A.R.V., R.S.V., N.A.S., Moffatt, Goodspeed, Weymouth, Williams, Phillips, Robertson, Lenski, Amplified, Berkeley, Norlie, Jerusalem Bible, Dutch (both Statenvertaling and Nieuwe Vertaling: ziel), etc., etc. I too believe that this is the best procedure. On the other hand, here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.19|AUTODETECT|” Luke 12:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.20|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.20|AUTODETECT|”

20. 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=66.6.9|AUTODETECT|” N.I.V. all in all an excellent translation; by all means purchase a copy! leaves out entirely the word soul. One should be careful in criticizing this. It is true that the clause, And I will say to my soul, can probably also be correctly rendered, And I will say to myself, for this use of a form of ���� may well be influenced by Hebrew style, so that the reflexive relationship is here conveyed. Hence, N.I.V. cannot be taken to task for its translation, And I ll say to myself . See L.N.T. (A. and G.), p. 902. It is also true that ���� can at times he correctly rendered life.

See verses 22, 23. Therefore, N.I.V. s rendering This very night your life will be demanded of you is again a tenable rendering. What, as far as I see, is an error, is N.I.V. s complete omission of the second of the three instances of ����, the vocative. Here N.I.V. offers You have plenty of good things, etc. But the original has, Soul, you have, etc. As L.N.T. (A. and G.), p. 901, points out, here the ���� is viewed as the seat and center of the inner life of man.

I can see no good reason for omitting this ���� in translation, just as I can see no justification for omitting it in the translation of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.6.9|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 6:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 and 20:4, where N.I.V. is certainly correct. On ���� see also N.T.C. on Mark, p. 315, footnote 370.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Note that while ���� and ��� are aor., ������� and �P������� are pres. imperatives, and see the translation. On the verb �P������, to be merry, etc., see also the note on 15:23, 24 on page 762.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.4.25|AUTODETECT|” You fool! This very night your soul is being demanded of you. Robertson (Word Pictures, Luke, p. 176) points out that the rabbis used they to avoid saying God. Without denying this, is not what we have here another instance of Luke s frequent use of Semitic style? Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.4.25|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 4:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 where They shall make thee eat (A.V., retaining the grammatical structure of the original) sounds better to us when transposed to you shall be made to eat (R.S.V.).) 1 2 2 8 0 0 ���������, third per. pl. pres. indicat. act. of ������, to ask for, demand, require.) Verse 21) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.19|AUTODETECT|” ����������, nom. s. masc. pres. participle of ���������, to treasure up, hoard. For the noun �������� see verse 34. Cf. thesaurus. The verb is found also in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.19|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 6:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.20|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.20|AUTODETECT|” 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.5|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 2:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.16.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.16.2|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 16:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.12.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.12.14|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 12:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.5.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.5.3|AUTODETECT|” James 5:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.3.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.3.7|AUTODETECT|” II Peter 3:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 8 2 8 0 0 Verse 22) For forms of the verb ��������� in verses 22, 25, 26, see on verse 11. The aor. subjunctives ������ and �������� are retained in the indirect question.) Verses 23, 24) Both the noun ����� (here gen. -��) and the verb ����� are represented here. The noun means food, nourishment; the cognate verb, to feed, rear, cause to grow. Cf. atrophy (a wasting away because of insufficient nutrition).) �������, acc. pl. of �����, crow, raven.) E��, probably declarative here. Either a colon or that can serve as the English equivalent.) Verse 25) !������, acc. of !�����, life-span, not (with Robertson, Translation, p. 77) stature. See the commentary.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.27|AUTODETECT|” �����, acc. of �����, cubit; so also in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.27|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 6:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.21.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.21.8|AUTODETECT|” John 21:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.21.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.21.17|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 21:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , basically the distance between the bend in the elbow and the tip of the middle finger. For more on biblical measurements see N.T.C. on John, Vol. II, pp. 482, 483, footnote 299.) 1 8 2 8 0 0 Verse 26) ��������, acc. s. neut. superlative of ������ (small). This form is here used in the elative sense: very little.) Verse 27) �����������, sec. per. pl. aor. imperat. act. of �������� (���� perfective plus ����), carefully fix your mind on, observe, consider.) �����, acc. pl. of ������, lily. Cf. crinoid (lily-like). A beautiful and very colorful tree is the crinodendron.) �����, third per. s. pres. indicat. of ����, to spin. Though to sew is not the same as to spin, yet the two are related. Accordingly cf. needle, German N�hen, Dutch naaien.) �����������, third per. s. 2nd aor. indicat. middle of ���������, to cast around, clothe; in middle, to dress oneself.) Verse 28) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.5.47|AUTODETECT|” This is a simple or first class conditional sentence, generally with �0 and any tense of the indicat. (in this case the present) in the protasis, and here 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.5.47|AUTODETECT|” John 5:47) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) a question in the apodosis. In the present passage the question is incompletely expressed, but the verb ������� is easily supplied from the preceding clause.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.30|AUTODETECT|” ��������, acc. s. of ��������, in the New Testament occurring only here and in the parallel passage ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.30|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 6:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , means oven, furnace.) 1 9 2 8 0 0 Verse 29) Note the fully expressed (not merely implied in a verb) Q����, and its forward position. This emphasis should be retained in translation. Among the well-known translations there are very few that have retained this emphasis. Among the favorable exceptions are Lenski, Robertson, A.V., A.R.V., Jerusalem Bible, and the Dutch versions (both Statenvertaling and Nieuwe Vertaling).) Verse 32) �x & �������� (= ! ������), flock. Note preceding article. Though such an article preceding a noun in the vocative is not unusual even in Greek, it can be expected in Hebrew and Aramaic, and is not strange here, since, as has been shown, Semitisms abound in Luke s Gospel.) �P�������, third per. s. aor. (probably timeless here) indicat. of �P�����. See the note on 3:22 on page 220.) Verse 33) For �������� see the note on 12:6 on page 660.) For ��������� see the note on 11:41 on page 646.) For ��������� see the note on 10:4 on page 587.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.19|AUTODETECT|” ���, moth, as in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.19|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 6:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.20|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.20|AUTODETECT|” 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.4.16|AUTODETECT|” ����������, third per. s. pres. indicat. act. of ���������. See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.4.16|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 4:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.6.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.6.5|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 6:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.8.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.8.9|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 8:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.11.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.11.18|AUTODETECT|” 11:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , to destroy thoroughly, to corrupt.) 1 3 2 8 0 0 Verse 34) Use of the word �������� can be distributed under the following four categories:) A. General Sense) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.21|AUTODETECT|” man s treasure viewed as the object of his chief interest and devotion, whatever that object may be 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.21|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 6:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.34|AUTODETECT|” and also here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.34|AUTODETECT|” Luke 12:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 B. Man s Heart and Mind) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.35|AUTODETECT|” viewed as a source of good 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.35|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 12:35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.45|AUTODETECT|” a; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.45|AUTODETECT|” Luke 6:45) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.35|AUTODETECT|” ) or of evil 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.35|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 12:35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.52|AUTODETECT|” b); or (in favorable sense) of things new and old 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.52|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 13:52) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 C. Emphasis on the Physical or Earthly) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.2.11|AUTODETECT|” treasure chest 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.2.11|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 2:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.19|AUTODETECT|” ); treasures on earth 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.19|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 6:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.44|AUTODETECT|” ); treasure hidden in the field 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.44|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 13:44) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.11.26|AUTODETECT|” ); treasures of Egypt 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.11.26|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 11:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 D. Emphasis on the Spiritual or Heavenly) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.3|AUTODETECT|” treasures of wisdom and knowledge 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.3|AUTODETECT|” Col. 2:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.4.7|AUTODETECT|” ); the light of the knowledge of the glory of God, etc., viewed as a treasure in jars of clay 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.4.7|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 4:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.20|AUTODETECT|” ); a treasure (or treasures) in heaven (or: in the heavens), see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.20|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 6:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.19.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.19.21|AUTODETECT|” 19:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.21|AUTODETECT|” Mark 10:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.33|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.33|AUTODETECT|” Luke 12:33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.18.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.18.22|AUTODETECT|” 18:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 8 2 8 0 0 ) 12:35 48 The Parable of) (The Noble Ones)) The Watchful Servants) Interruption by Peter) Jesus Answer) including) The Parable of The Faithful versus the Unfaithful Servant) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.42|AUTODETECT|” Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.42|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 24:42) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.43|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.43|AUTODETECT|” 43) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.45-40.24.51|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.45-40.24.51|AUTODETECT|” 45 51) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.1|AUTODETECT|” 25:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.13.32-41.13.37|AUTODETECT|” ff.; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.13.32-41.13.37|AUTODETECT|” Mark 13:32 37) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.27|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.27|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.1-43.13.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.1-43.13.17|AUTODETECT|” John 13:1 17) 1 9 2 8 0 0 35 Always be dressed so that you are ready for action,��406�� and keep your lamps burning, 36 like men who, when their master is about to return from the marriage feast, are waiting for him; so that when he comes and knocks they can immediately open the door for him. 37 Blessed are those servants whom the master at his coming will find on the alert. I solemnly declare to you that he will dress himself to serve, will have them recline at table, and will go ahead and wait on them. 38 Whether he comes in the second or in the third watch and finds them so, blessed are they!) 39 But of this be assured, that if the owner of the house had known at what hour the burglar was coming, he would not have permitted his house to be broken into. 40 You also must be ever ready, for at an hour when you do not expect him, the Son of man arrives. ) 41 Peter asked him, Lord, are you addressing this parable to us or to all alike? 42 The Lord answered, Who then is the faithful and sensible manager, whom the master will put in charge of his servants, to give them their food allowance at the proper time? 43 Blessed is that servant whom his master at his coming will find so doing. 44 Truly I tell you, he will set him over all his possessions. 45 But if that servant shall say in his heart, My master is taking his time in coming, and shall begin to beat up the men and the women servants, and to eat and drink and get drunk, 46 the master of that servant shall arrive on a day he does not expect him and at an hour he does not figure on, and shall cut him to pieces and assign him a place with the unfaithful.) 47 And that servant who knew his master s will but did not get ready or act in accordance with that will shall receive many blows of the lash. 48 But he who did not know and did things that call for a beating shall receive few blows. From every one who has been given much, much will be required; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, all the more will be demanded. ) ) It will be recalled that in 12:13 21 Jesus told the parable of The Rich Fool. This was followed by a warning against earthly anxiety (verses 22 34), which may be considered an elaboration of the lesson taught by that parable. It is therefore easy to remember that Jesus now calls attention to people who form a contrast to the fool. The fool had his heart and mind centered on the earth, the watchful servants on heaven.) For the sake of simplicity verses 35 48 can be divided into two parables, that of The Watchful Servants (verses 35 40) and that of The Faithful versus the Unfaithful Servant (verses 41 48).

In this arrangement Peter s question is included in the second parable, since it led to the telling of that parable. With the exception of a few verses the first of these two parables is peculiar to Luke, the second is common to Luke and Matthew.) A. The Parable of The Watchful Servants) 35, 36. Always be dressed so that you are ready for action, and keep your lamps burning, like men who, when their master is about to return from the marriage feast, are waiting for him; so that when he comes and knocks they can immediately open the door for him.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.7.58|AUTODETECT|” The meaning of the expression used in the original, namely, Let your loins be girded about, is that the long, flowing robes of the servants must not be left hanging loose, making work difficult or even impossible 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.7.58|AUTODETECT|” Acts 7:58) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). These robes must be tucked into the belt, so that the servants can work with ease and are ready to wait on their master.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.1-40.25.13|AUTODETECT|” Applied spiritually, the resultant sense is always be ready (a) to welcome the Master at his return from the marriage feast of heavenly glory, and (b) to render to him any service he desires. Keep your lamps burning also points to the necessity of preparation. What we have here is essentially the same lesson as is found in the parable of The Five Foolish and The Five Sensible Girls . See N.T.C. on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.1-40.25.13|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 25:1 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 0 37. Blessed are those servants whom the master at his coming will find on the alert. I solemnly declare to you that he will dress himself to serve, will have them recline at table, and will go ahead and wait on them.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.27|AUTODETECT|” The underlying figure seems strange. Must we imagine, then, that an earthly master would actually wait on his servants? Probably not, but this Master, the One here symbolized, did that very thing when he was on earth. Note, I am among you as one who serves 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.27|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.1-43.13.15|AUTODETECT|” ), and cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.1-43.13.15|AUTODETECT|” John 13:1 15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , picturing Jesus washing the feet of his disciples. What is promised here, therefore, is that our Lord, at his second coming will, in a manner consonant with his glory and majesty, wait on his faithful servants!) 1 2 2 8 0 0 No wonder these servants are called blessed. This almost unbelievable promise is introduced by the formula, Amen, I say to you .) Continued: 38. Whether he comes in the second or in the third watch and finds them so, blessed are they!) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.7.19|AUTODETECT|” As Plummer (op. cit., p. 331) and many after him see it, Luke is here following the Jewish division of the night into three watches 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.7.19|AUTODETECT|” Judg. 7:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), not the Roman division into four watches. This may be correct, but we cannot be sure. That Mark divided the night into four watches is clear from 13:35; that Matthew did also follows from 14:25. I can see no compelling reason to conclude that Luke, whose report, in these few verses, in other respects follows Matthew s, adopted a different time computation. That not all translators and interpreters agree with Plummer on this point is clear from (to mention but two examples) (a) the footnote on verse 38 in N.A.S., and (b) Lenski s comment (op. cit., p. 444).) 1 3 2 8 0 0 However, this is a minor point. The reason why Jesus did not say in the first watch is probably that then the wedding feast would still be in progress. For the rest, the main thought is this: the believers superlative blessedness at Christ s return.) Because the truth here revealed, namely, that at his return Jesus will himself wait on the redeemed, is so exceedingly precious, the benediction of verse 37 is repeated in verse 38: blessed are they. ) 39, 40. But of this be assured, that if the owner of the house had known at what hour the burglar was coming, he would not have permitted his house to be broken into. You also must be ever ready, for at an hour when you do not expect him, the Son of man arrives.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.36|AUTODETECT|” For the term Son of man see on 5:24. When will he return? Jesus states that just as the owner of a house does not know when the burglar is coming but must be at all times ready to protect his property, so also believers do not know when their Master will return, and should, accordingly, always be prepared in mind and heart. When least expected, he arrives. For other passages that stress this same truth see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.36|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 24:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.21.34|AUTODETECT|” ; 42 44; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.21.34|AUTODETECT|” Luke 21:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.2-52.5.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.2-52.5.4|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 5:2 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.3.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.3.10|AUTODETECT|” II Peter 3:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.3|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 3:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.16.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.16.15|AUTODETECT|” 16:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 5 2 8 0 0 B. The Parable of The Faithful versus The Unfaithful Servant) 41. Peter asked him, Lord, are you addressing this parable to us or to all alike?) Though this parable is also found in Matthew (24:45 51), it is not there preceded by Peter s question. What moved this apostle to ask the question? The answer is not given. One guess might well be the following:) Peter s curiosity had been aroused.

Jesus had been speaking about those who at his coming would be ready (verse 37), but he had implied that some would not be ready. An understandable inference would be that The Twelve and some other constant followers would be the ready ones; the rest of the people, the unready ones. Yet, from verse 22 on the Master had been directing his attention to his disciples, and not nearly as directly to the vast multitude. Did the Master mean, then, that even among his disciples there would be those not ready to welcome him? To whom was Jesus telling the parable?) 42 44. The Lord answered, Who then is the faithful and sensible manager, whom the master will put in charge of his servants, to give them their food allowance at the proper time?

Blessed is that servant whom his master at his coming will find so doing. Truly I tell you, he will set him over all his possessions.��407��) 7 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.45-40.24.51|AUTODETECT|” Matthew 24:45 51) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.42-42.12.46|AUTODETECT|” Compared with ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.12.42-42.12.46|AUTODETECT|” Luke 12:42 46) 1 15 2 8 0 0 Matthew Luke ) servant manager ) has put in charge will put in charge ) household employees servants ) food food allowance or food ration ) wicked omitted in Luke ) is taking his time is taking his time in coming ) his fellow servants the men and women servants ) shall eat and drink with drunkards to eat and drink and get drunk ) with hypocrites with the unfaithful ) ) ) Note that what happens here may be compared to what takes place at another occasion (13:23). See on that passage. There too the question of curiosity does not receive a direct answer. What Jesus seems to be saying, then, is this, Never mind asking questions stemming from curiosity pure and simple. What you should do is try very hard to be a faithful and sensible manager. ) To illustrate what he means Jesus now tells another parable, that of the faithful over against the unfaithful servant. As to the meaning of this parable, a safe presupposition is that a master of a number of servants or, if one prefers, slaves, is about to leave on a journey.

Before he leaves he places his most trusted underling in charge of the other employees. In this capacity this newly appointed manager not only supervises the work of the other servants but also and specifically takes care that they are well provided for. Some are of the opinion that Jesus was thinking especially of his disciples, considered as office-bearers, and so, by extension, of all ministers and pastors of the churches to be organized during the entire new dispensation. They may well be right. But we cannot be certain about this. After all, the duty of faithfulness applies not only to pastors but also to elders, deacons, teachers, parents; in fact, to all believers.

Doing the will of the Master and caring for those in need is certainly the task assigned to all.) Now upon the faithful and sensible manager a special beatitude is pronounced. He is called blessed. He is the object of his master s special favor. Moreover, the clause whom his master shall find so doing shows that the proper attitude on the part of the one who awaits the master s return is eagerness to render active service in the interest of those entrusted to the servant.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.20|AUTODETECT|” When the figure is interpreted, this means that the proper spirit in which believers should await as Savior the Lord Jesus Christ 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.20|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 3:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.1|AUTODETECT|” ) is not the feverish nervousness of certain Thessalonians 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.1|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 2:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.6-53.3.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.6-53.3.12|AUTODETECT|” 3:6 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.14-66.3.22|AUTODETECT|” ), nor the nauseating lukewarmness of the Laodiceans 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.14-66.3.22|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 3:14 22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.8-66.2.11|AUTODETECT|” ), but the active faithfulness of the Smyrniots 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.8-66.2.11|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 2:8 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.19.17|AUTODETECT|” ). Just as in the parable the master, upon his return, rewards his faithful servant by setting him over all his possessions, so also Jesus himself at his glorious coming will bestow on all his faithful ones a high degree of glory and honor. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.19.17|AUTODETECT|” Luke 19:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.19.19|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.19.19|AUTODETECT|” 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . Does not Christ s promise also imply the assignment of certain specific tasks in the life hereafter, each task a matter of pure delight and satisfaction, and each in harmony with the individuality of the person for whom it is marked out?) 1 2 2 8 0 0 Having revealed what will happen to the faithful servant, Jesus now shows what will be the lot of the unfaithful one. In reality the two, the faithful and the unfaithful, are here represented as one and the same person. Note verse 45, But if that servant shall say in his heart, etc. But in the parable this man has how changed so radically that he may not incorrectly be viewed as a different individual.) 45, 46. But if that servant shall say in his heart, My master is taking his time in coming, and shall begin to beat up the men and the women servants, and to eat and drink and get drunk, the master of that servant shall arrive on a day he does not expect him and at an hour he does not figure on, and shall cut him to pieces and assign him a place with the unfaithful.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.23.7|AUTODETECT|” Note that this servant is saying something in his heart, that is, to himself. Now what a man says to himself is often even more important than what he says openly. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.23.7|AUTODETECT|” Prov. 23:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.3|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 9:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.21|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.21|AUTODETECT|” 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.17|AUTODETECT|” Luke 12:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.15.17-42.15.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.15.17-42.15.19|AUTODETECT|” 15:17 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.3.4|AUTODETECT|” . But within the secret precincts of his own being this particular man is conversing wickedly, irresponsibly. We are reminded of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.3.4|AUTODETECT|” II Peter 3:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . He is saying, It will be a long, long time before the master returns. In the meantime let me have some fun. ) 1 2 2 8 0 0 He is not thinking of innocent fun. No, this man is a sadist. Just for fun he begins to beat up the male and female slaves that have been entrusted to his care. He begins to throw his weight around. Let those slaves cower. Let them cringe. Meantime he revels in eating, drinking, and getting drunk.) Suddenly and unexpectedly the master returns! Convinced by the evidence that this servant, whom he had elevated to a high position, has abused the trust reposed in him and is a thoroughly unreliable person, he issues orders that the culprit be cut to pieces.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.16.1|AUTODETECT|” Anyone who has made a thorough study of Church History not only ancient and medieval but also modern will have discovered, if he has not experienced it in his own person, that what Jesus here presents was a true picture of events to come. To be sure, there have been and there are many faithful servants, who will one day hear the welcome words, Well done! But are there not also many of the opposite type, men filled with envy, lust to rule, selfishness? The tribe of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram, who rebelled against Moses 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.16.1|AUTODETECT|” Num. 16:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=64.1.9|AUTODETECT|” ff.), of Diotrephes, who made life difficult for the apostle John 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=64.1.9|AUTODETECT|” III John 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), and of scribes and chief priests, who brought about the death of Jesus, has not yet died out.) 1 6 2 8 0 0 In telling this parable Jesus aim may well have been: (a) to open the eyes of the true church, and (b) to warn the deceivers in order that they may even now repent. If they do not, the Lord will assign to them a place with the unfaithful. They will be cut to pieces. ) Does this mean, then, that the Master is cruel? Not at all. That he is just and reasonable appears from the closing passage of this section:) 47, 48. And that servant who knew his master s will but did not get ready or act in accordance with that will shall receive many blows of the lash.

But he who did not know and did things that call for a beating shall receive few blows. From every one who has been given much, much will be required; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, all the more will be demanded.) Note the following:) a. The parable has ended. Nevertheless, verses 47, 48 are perhaps not as loosely related to the preceding verses as some maintain. Do not these verses make clear that the master to whom reference is made in verses 47, 48 is the same as the one in the immediately preceding verses, and that in both cases he is at least symbolizes Jesus Christ?) Also, do not verses 47, 48 shed light on the reason why the punishment described in verse 46 was so severe? Is not the answer: because the servant who received this punishment knew his master s will but did not obey it (see verse 47)?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.41|AUTODETECT|” b. Among those who at the master s return are punished there is indeed a difference: some are punished severely, others lightly. This shows that not only are there degrees of glory in the new heaven and earth 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.41|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 15:41) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.42|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.42|AUTODETECT|” 42) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), but there are also degrees of suffering in hell.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 c. Responsibility varies with gifts; it is commensurate with knowledge and opportunity. But see also Practical Lessons on verse 48.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.15|AUTODETECT|” d. The New Testament teaches this not only here but also in such passages as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.15|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 10:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.11.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.11.22|AUTODETECT|” 11:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.11.24|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.11.24|AUTODETECT|” 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.12-42.10.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.12-42.10.14|AUTODETECT|” Luke 10:12 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.34|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.34|AUTODETECT|” 23:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.3.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.3.17|AUTODETECT|” Acts 3:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.1.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.1.13|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 1:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.26.28|AUTODETECT|” e. Even the Old Testament teaches this 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.26.28|AUTODETECT|” Lev. 26:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.15.22-4.15.31|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.15.22-4.15.31|AUTODETECT|” Num. 15:22 31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.19.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.19.12|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 19:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.19.13|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.19.13|AUTODETECT|” 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=30.3.2|AUTODETECT|” ; and, last but not least, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=30.3.2|AUTODETECT|” Amos 3:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.20|AUTODETECT|” f. Why should the servant who did not know his master s will be punished at all? Answer: ignorance is never absolute. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.20|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 1:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.21|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.21|AUTODETECT|” 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.14-45.2.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.14-45.2.16|AUTODETECT|” 2:14 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.9.22|AUTODETECT|” g. The entire passage see especially verse 48b makes clear that the talents with which God has endowed men must be used, the time must be redeemed, the opportunities improved. No one has the right to be lazy. Also, no one has the right to live for himself alone. A person must live for others 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.9.22|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 9:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.10.31|AUTODETECT|” ), and for God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.10.31|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 10:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 3 2 8 0 0 For Practical Lessons and Greek Words, etc., see pp. 686 690.) ) 12:49 53 Jesus the Divider) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.34-40.10.36|AUTODETECT|” Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.34-40.10.36|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 10:34 36) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.38|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.38|AUTODETECT|” Mark 10:38) 1 4 2 8 0 0 49 I have come to cast fire on the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled! 50 I have a baptism with which to be baptized, and how overwhelmed with anguish I am until it is accomplished! 51 Do you think that I have come to give peace on earth? No, I tell you, but rather division. 52 For from now on in one family there will be five divided against each other: 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. ) ) 49. I have come to cast fire on the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled!) For a possible topical connection between this verse and the immediately preceding passage see p. 536. The fire of which Jesus speaks in all probability refers to the judgment of God upon the sins of his people. That judgment would be rendered at Calvary. It is Jesus himself who will satisfy God s justice and bear the punishment.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.66.15|AUTODETECT|” That there is a connection between fire and judgment is very clear. See the following passages: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.66.15|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 66:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=29.2.30|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=29.2.30|AUTODETECT|” Joel 2:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=30.1.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=30.1.7|AUTODETECT|” Amos 1:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=30.1.10-30.1.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=30.1.10-30.1.14|AUTODETECT|” 10 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=30.2.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=30.2.2|AUTODETECT|” 2:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=30.2.5|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=30.2.5|AUTODETECT|” 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=39.3.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=39.3.2|AUTODETECT|” Mal. 3:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=39.3.5|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=39.3.5|AUTODETECT|” 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.3.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.3.13|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 3:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.7|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 1:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.8|AUTODETECT|” 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . Jesus is thinking of his fast approaching passion and death.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 He realizes that his suffering will be intense. It is not surprising therefore that he says, and how I wish it were already kindled. Besides, he knows that the firm foundation for the salvation of his people will not have been completed until at Calvary the sacrifice will have been brought.) In line with this is also verse 50. I have a baptism with which to be baptized, and how overwhelmed with anguish I am until it is accomplished!) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.21.4|AUTODETECT|” The words baptism and to be baptized are here probably used in a figurative sense: Jesus is going to be overwhelmed by agony. He will be plunged into the flood of horrible distress. Note the somewhat similar use of this verb in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.21.4|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 21:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.42.7|AUTODETECT|” (LXX) and in Josephus, Jewish War IV.137. See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.42.7|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 42:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.124.4|AUTODETECT|” , All thy waves and thy billows have gone over me ; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.124.4|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 124:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.38|AUTODETECT|” , Then would the waters have overwhelmed us; the torrent would have passed over our soul. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.38|AUTODETECT|” Mark 10:38) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 2 2 8 0 0 But Jesus is not complaining. The opposite is true: the opening words of verses 49, 50 are I have come to [or: in order to]. Jesus knew what awaited him on earth. Other children are passive in their birth. Jesus was active: he came in order to take upon himself the burden of God s wrath resulting from the sin of his people, and to suffer the agonies of hell the hell of Calvary in their stead. But when he now reflects on the agony that lies ahead, is it any wonder that he says, How overwhelmed with anguish I am until it is accomplished ?

Cf. 22:44.) 51 53. Do you think that I have come to give peace on earth! No, I tell you, but rather division. For from now on in one family there will be five divided against each other: three against two, and two against three. 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.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.9.6|AUTODETECT|” We have here a mashal; that is, a paradoxical saying, one that sounds unbelievable! That it is contrary to prevailing opinion is indicated by the question, Do you think that I have come to give peace on earth? and the answer, No, I tell you, but rather division. What Jesus says here causes the one who hears or reads it to startle in shocked disbelief. The natural reaction to the surprising statement would be: How can this saying be true? Is not Christ the Prince of Peace 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.9.6|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 9:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.9|AUTODETECT|” )? Is he not the One who pronounces a blessing on those who make peace 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.9|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 5:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.72.3|AUTODETECT|” )? If he did not come in order to bring peace how can the following passages be true: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.72.3|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 72:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.72.7|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.72.7|AUTODETECT|” 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.79|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.79|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:79) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.14|AUTODETECT|” 2:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.50|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.50|AUTODETECT|” 7:50) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.48|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.48|AUTODETECT|” 8:48) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.27|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.27|AUTODETECT|” John 14:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.16.33|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.16.33|AUTODETECT|” 16:33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.19|AUTODETECT|” 20:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.21|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.21|AUTODETECT|” 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.1|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 5:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.10.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.10.15|AUTODETECT|” 10:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.14.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.14.17|AUTODETECT|” 14:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.14|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 2:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.20|AUTODETECT|” Col. 1:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.6.20-58.7.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.6.20-58.7.2|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 6:20 7:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ? Do not all of them in the strongest terms proclaim Jesus as the Bringer of peace? ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.34|AUTODETECT|” We should remember, however, that it is the characteristic of many a mashal to place emphasis on one aspect of the truth rather than on a proposition that is universally valid. See on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.34|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 5:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.3|AUTODETECT|” , Do not take any oath at all. The merit of such aphorisms is that they stop a person short and make him think. So here also. A little reflection will soon convince the earnest student of Scripture that there is a sense in which the coming of Christ into this world not only brought division but was even intended to do so. If that had not been its immediate purpose would not all men have been lost 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.3|AUTODETECT|” John 3:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.5|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.5|AUTODETECT|” 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.9-45.3.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.9-45.3.18|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 3:9 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.14.22|AUTODETECT|” )? Would they not all have rushed onward toward their doom? Besides, even in the lives of those who are ultimately saved is it not true that through many tribulations they must enter into the kingdom of God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.14.22|AUTODETECT|” Acts 14:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.24|AUTODETECT|” )? Is not the life of the believer one of Sturm und Drang (storm and stress)? To be sure, in the end all is peace, but the same Paul who exclaims, I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord, also complains, Wretched man that I am! 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.24|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 7:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.25|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.25|AUTODETECT|” 25) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=6.5.13|AUTODETECT|” In addition, there will be bitter opponents. Here on earth, that is, during this present dispensation, the followers of Christ must expect division. It is thus that it will become evident who is on the Lord s side and who is not. It is thus that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=6.5.13|AUTODETECT|” Josh. 5:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=6.5.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=6.5.14|AUTODETECT|” 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.21.44|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.21.44|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 21:44) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.34|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.34|AUTODETECT|” Luke 2:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.35|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.35|AUTODETECT|” 35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.20.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.20.18|AUTODETECT|” 20:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). The entrance of Christ into this world divides in two, splits apart, cleaves asunder, and in so doing turns one person against another.) 1 6 2 8 0 0 Faith not only creates division between one race and another, one people and another, one church and another; it even brings about division in the family, in fact often the sharpest division of all. In this connection Luke here mentions five family members all living under the same roof; father, mother, unmarried daughter, married son and his wife (the parents daughter-in-law). Because of the relation which these various members assume toward Christ there is intense friction between them: three against two, and two against three. ) For Practical Lessons and Greek Words, etc., see pp. 686 690.) ) 12:54 56 Knowing How to Interpret the Weather) versus) Knowing How to Interpret the Time) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.2|AUTODETECT|” Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.2|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 16:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.3|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.3|AUTODETECT|” 3) 1 17 2 8 0 0 54 He also said to the crowds, When you see a cloud rising in the west, at once you say, It is going to rain. And so it does. 55 And when a south wind is blowing, you say, Scorching heat is on the way. And it comes. 56 Hypocrites! The look of earth and sky you know how to interpret. Then how is it that you do not know how to interpret this present critical hour? ) ) For a possible connection between this section and the immediately preceding one see p. 537.) Again, as once before (verses 14 21), Jesus turns to the crowds.) 54, 55. He also said to the crowds, When you see a cloud rising in the west, at once you say, It is going to rain.

And so it does. And when a south wind is blowing, you say, Scorching heat is on the way. And it comes.) Israel s rain comes from the west, from the Mediterranean Sea. So) When in the west the sky turns grey,) One can expect a rainy day.) The sirocco wind blows into the country from the south and east, that is, from the desert. Hence,) When blows the south wind, you will say,) Some scorching heat is on the way. ) Jesus continues:) 56. Hypocrites!

The look of earth and sky you know how to interpret. Then how is it that you do not know how to interpret this present critical hour?) Jesus rebukes these people because they pay far more attention to constantly changing weather conditions than to events that usher in epoch-making historical changes. Did not the coming into this world of the Son of man, with his emphasis on the power, grace, and love of God, rather than on man-made regulations, and with his exhibition of power over everything, including even disease, death, demons, and destructive storms, foretell the downfall of legalistic Judaism? Did it not spell the rise of a church gathered out of both Jews and Gentiles and consisting of all those who believed in salvation by grace through faith and in a life of gratitude to God and of service to man? Were not this coming and that manifestation of power and grace a clear prediction both of the doom of Satan and of the significant strengthening of the kingdom that can never be destroyed? Were these critics utterly blind?

Could they not read the handwriting on the wall? Did they not understand that their days, including their quibbling about nonessentials, were numbered, and that the gospel that was being proclaimed by the Prophet from Galilee, even the Son of God, would begin to spread and spread until it covered the earth? But no, the present critical hour does not seem to interest them. They prefer to concentrate on the weather! Jesus calls these people hypocrites, for, though they pretended to be religious, they were showing far more interest in the weather than in the mighty work God was doing on earth just now. They were better weather forecasters than crisis interpreters.) For Practical Lessons and Greek Words, etc., see pp. 686 690.) ) 12:57 59 Becoming Reconciled with the Accuser) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.25|AUTODETECT|” Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.25|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 5:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.26|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.26|AUTODETECT|” 26) 1 24 2 8 0 0 57 Why do you not judge for yourselves what is right? 58 For instance, when you are going with your opponent before a magistrate, on the way make every effort to settle with him, lest he drag you before the judge, and the judge turn you over to the constable, and the constable throw you into prison. 59 I tell you, never will you get out of that place until you have paid the last mite. ) ) 57. Why do you not judge for yourselves what is right?) For the interpretation see also p. 537. Opinions with respect to the meaning of this passage vary widely. Among those I have come across are the following (not quoted literally but reproduced here in abbreviated form):) a. Why do you not judge what is right, that is, why not concentrate on ethics, instead of on the weather?) b. Why not judge yourselves instead of judging and condemning other people?) c.

Why not judge for yourselves instead of allowing others scribes, Pharisees to do your thinking for you?) d. Why not let conscience be your guide?) e. Why not learn to think for yourselves (implying that up to this time they had not done so)? One author opines that what Jesus said amounted to a rebuke to the listeners for not using their common sense in the sphere of religious matters.) When opinions differ so widely, it is not always easy to make the right choice. For myself, I see little merit in opinions (a) and (b). On the other hand, (c), (d), and (e) are not far apart and may well lead us in the right direction.

One thing must not be ignored, namely, that verses 58, 59 certainly picture a situation in which each person has to make his own individual decision, and what an important decision it is:) 58, 59. For instance, when you are going with your opponent before a magistrate, on the way make every effort to settle with him, lest he drag you before the judge, and the judge turn you over to the constable, and the constable throw you into prison. I tell you, never will you get out of that place until you have paid the last mite.) The preceding context has driven home the following truths: It is necessary for everyone to ask himself the question, Am I a faithful or unfaithful servant (verses 41 46)? The hour of crisis has arrived (verse 49). You must choose sides (verses 52, 53). God is speaking to you in the present critical hour (verses 54 56).) In harmony with all this, Jesus is winding up his address with a dramatic appeal to every listener, urging him to make his peace with God; to do so now, before it is too late.

Note change of you (pl.) to you (s.). To each person Jesus is saying, Be reconciled to God. ) To impress this truth on the heart of every individual Jesus uses an allegory or parable (in the broader sense of the term). He is saying that in ordinary life, when you are involved in a legal dispute in which you are the accused, the best thing to do is to try to settle the case out of court ; in other words, to become reconciled with the opponent or accuser. By doing this you can avoid being dragged before the judge and being put in prison, with no chance of escape.) Thus also in the religious sphere what each person should do is to become reconciled to God.) Once a person enters hell, he will never get out, not until you have paid the last lepton, says Jesus; i.e., the last fraction of a penny.��408��) Implication: The heavenly Father will be glad to welcome his penitent child back to his loving heart.��409��) ) Practical Lessons Derived from 12:35 59) Verse 35) Always be & ready for action & keep your lamps burning. Whatever we do here and now has significance for all eternity.) Verse 37) He will dress himself to & wait on them. Could anything be more wonderful?) Verse 48) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.20-40.25.23|AUTODETECT|” And from the one who has been entrusted with much, all the more will be demanded. Does this mean the greater the trust, the higher the bracket ? Cf. graduated income tax. Does ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.20-40.25.23|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 25:20 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 shed any light on this?) 1 5 2 8 0 0 Cf. 9:51 Jesus resolutely set out for [stedfastly set his face to go to] Jerusalem and 12:49, 50, How I wish it [the fire] were already kindled ; How overwhelmed with anguish I am until it is accomplished. Does not the Savior s anguish, his sensitivity to suffering, make his determination to lay down his life all the more wonderful?) Verse 56) How is it that you do not know how to interpret this present critical hour? ) People may be divided into two groups: (a) some regard time only as chronos, the stream of moments flying by with incredible speed. They sigh tempus fugit, and do nothing positive about it. (b) Others have an eye for the kairos, the critical and often favorable moment to do something for God and his kingdom. Putting it differently, we might say some interpret carpe diem to mean snatch the opportunity to have fun, never mind the future ; others explain it to mean snatch the opportunity to promote the kingdom of God and its causes. ) Verse 59) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.1.18|AUTODETECT|” Never will you get out of that place until you have paid the last mite. This sounds terrible. It is terrible. But it should be read in conjunction with ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.1.18|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 1:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , Though your sins be as scarlet, etc.) 1 4 2 8 0 0 ) Notes on Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 12:35 59) Verses 35 37) ������ & �������������, third per. pl. periphrastic perf. imperat. pass. of �����������, to gird around. Let your loins be girded about (A.V.) correctly reproduces the meaning of the original, though Keep your belts fastened or even better, Always be dressed so that you are ready for action, or ready to serve, is probably what we would say today. The same verb, but now third per. s. future indicat. middle, occurs in verse 37.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.23|AUTODETECT|” ������, third per. s. intrans. aor. subjunct. (here deliberative) of �����, to depart, return. Tense and mood are retained in the indirect question. The only other use of this verb in the New Testament is ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.23|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 1:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , where Paul speaks about his desire to depart and be with Christ. See N.T.C. on that passage.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.22.2|AUTODETECT|” Note � ��� �����, and with this compare 14:8 and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.22.2|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 22:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . This plural may have arisen from the fact that a wedding feast frequently lasted several days and included many festive activities. Cf. nuptials (also plural).) 1 11 2 8 0 0 In the final clause of verse 36 him is modified by coming and knocking. Yet, the genitive absolute, consisting of the aor. act. participles ������� ��v ����������, remains unchanged in spite of to him (�P��) in the dative. Note also that it is the master that is coming and knocking; yet the pronoun �P���, though definitely implied, is not written out as part of the genitive absolute. But are not such peculiarities, which basically fall under the heading of abbreviated expression (see N.T.C. on John, Vol. I, p. 206), part and parcel of every language? Would it not be a sad situation if everything had to be spelled out in full?) For ��������, third per. pl. aor. subjunct. act. of �����, see the note on 1:64 on page 120.) ������������, masc. acc. pl. pres. act. participle of ��������.

Cf. Gregory.) Verses 38, 39) In verse 38 note third class (or future more vivid) conditional sentence, with repeated �� (= ��v ��) and 2nd aor. subjunct. for both verbs in the protasis, and pres. indicat. in the apodosis; and in verse 39 note second class (or contrary to fact) conditional sentence, with �0 and pluperf. indicat. (followed by present) in the protasis, and �P� � and aor. indicat. (followed by aor. pass. infinitive) in the apodosis. This is all very regular. See N.T.C. on John, Vol. I, pp. 40 45.) Verse 42) For �������� (here gen. -�) see the note on 9:11 on page 484.) �����������*, food ration (or food allowance), from ����� and ������. The word �����������, formerly thought to be confined to the New Testament, has been discovered also in secular Greek.

See A. Deissmann, op. cit., pp. 76, 104.) Verses 45, 46) These two verses clearly belong together, forming one third class or future more vivid conditional sentence, with p� followed by two aor. subjunct. verbs , the second of which is followed by four pres. infinitives, in the protasis; and with three future tense verbs in the apodosis.) With ����������� (third per. s. fut. indicat. act. of ���������), compare the English word dichotomize, but note that while the latter generally has a very innocent meaning, the Greek in the present context means to cut in two, cut to pieces, dismember, and this here applied to persons.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.51|AUTODETECT|” ���p ��� ������, with the unfaithful, unreliable; or, as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.51|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 24:51) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 has it, with the hypocrites. It is clear, therefore, that at least in the present instance the rendering with the unbelievers is not the best.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 Verses 47, 48a) A �����, 2nd aor. act. participle of �������.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.31-40.25.46|AUTODETECT|” ���������, third per. s. fut. indicat. pass. of ����, to skin, flay, beat. According to Robertson (Word Pictures, Luke, p. 182), the aor. participles �����, ��������, ������� must be considered timeless. Accordingly he translates as follows, But that slave who knows & while the one who does not know, etc. (Translation, p. 79). Among modern translations several agree with this position. The possibility that this view is correct cannot be denied. There can be no question of the fact that, whether directly or by implication, a general principle is here announced. On the other hand, whether this principle is here directly expressed is open to some doubt. The picture of the final judgment drawn in such passages as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.31-40.25.46|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 25:31 46) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.10|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 5:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.11-66.20.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.11-66.20.15|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 20:11 15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 shows that rewards and punishments are rendered in accordance with that which men have done. Accordingly the rendering, And that servant who knew.& But he who did not know, etc., cannot be considered incorrect. Among those who favor it are A.V., N.A.S., R.S.V., N.E.B., Beck, and Dutch (both Statenvertaling and Nieuwe Vertaling). To be supplied in both verse 47 (end of verse, after ������) and verse 48 (after @�����) is ������; cf. 10:30.) 1 4 2 8 0 0 Verse 48b) Note inverse attraction from � to �����; also ���� �P��� regardless of �����. For ���������, third per. pl. 2nd aor. indicat. middle of ����������, here to entrust, see the note on 9:16 on page 485.) ������������ �0��������, literally They will ask [or demand] all the more. This may be another Semitism; see on 12:20; also the note on 6:38 on page 359.) Verses 49, 50) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.15.44|AUTODETECT|” In the light of the context it would seem that �� in verse 49 is equivalent to ��� in verse 50. As to �0, after a verb of emotion such as, being surprised, amazed, longing, agonizing this little word at times approaches E�� in meaning. For other examples see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.15.44|AUTODETECT|” Mark 15:44) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.15|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 11:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.3.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.3.13|AUTODETECT|” I John 3:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.3.5|AUTODETECT|” �����, third per. s. aor. indicat. pass. of �����, to kindle. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.3.5|AUTODETECT|” James 3:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.23|AUTODETECT|” For ���������, first per. s. pres. indicat. pass. of ������; in pass.: to be hemmed in, held tight, seized (for example, with great fear), and here: to be overwhelmed (with anguish), see the note on 8:37 on page 453. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.23|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 1:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , I am hard pressed between the two. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.19.30|AUTODETECT|” ������� (after �� E���), third per. s. aor. subjunct. passive of �����, to bring to an end, finish, accomplish, fulfil. Among other examples see also 2:39; 18:31; 22:37; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.19.30|AUTODETECT|” John 19:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 6 2 8 0 0 Verses 51 53) �����������, acc. s. of ����������� (��� plus ������), division, dissension.) ������ & ���������������, third per. pl. fut. perf. pass. periphrastic of ���������; in the pass.: to be split into dissenting parties, to be divided. See the note on 11:17 on page 633.) ����������������, third per. pl. fut. indicat. pass. of the same verb.) �������, mother-in-law.) In the New Testament the word ����� has three distinct meanings:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.29|AUTODETECT|” a. bride. This, or closely related marriageable young woman, young wife, is the basic meaning of the term, so used in Greek from the time of Homer. In the New Testament the meaning bride must be ascribed to the word as used in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.29|AUTODETECT|” John 3:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.18.23|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.18.23|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 18:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.21.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.21.2|AUTODETECT|” 21:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.21.9|AUTODETECT|” b. Bride, figurative sense: the church viewed as wedded to Christ, the Lamb 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.21.9|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 21:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.22.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.22.17|AUTODETECT|” 22:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.53|AUTODETECT|” c. Not found in Greek outside of biblical sources and writings based on these sources is the meaning daughter-in-law, as here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.53|AUTODETECT|” Luke 12:53) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.35|AUTODETECT|” and its parallel ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.35|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 10:35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.11.31|AUTODETECT|” . This is also the meaning in LXX ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.11.31|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 11:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.38.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.38.11|AUTODETECT|” 38:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.38.16|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.38.16|AUTODETECT|” 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.38.24|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.38.24|AUTODETECT|” 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , etc. This extension of meaning can be explained by the fact that the underlying Hebrew word, and also the closely related Aramaic word, have two distinct meanings: bride and daughter-in-law. For more on this see the article by J. Jeremias, �����, �������, Th.D.N.T., Vol. IV, p. 1099.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 Though the fact that this Greek word has three meanings, and that two of these, referring to earthly family relationships, have connotations that differ rather widely, may seem somewhat confusing, it should be borne in mind that this peculiarity is characteristic of language in general. It does not pertain only to Greek. English, too, is full of examples. When a mother asks the teacher, How is my child doing in school? the answer Johnnie is trying may mean He is doing his best. It may also mean, He makes life miserable for me. When a Netherlander introduces a young lady as being his nicht, this can mean that she is his niece.

It can also mean that she is his cousin. If the American or the Britisher is becoming impatient with the Dutchman because of such ambiguities, the latter can answer that at least with respect to the second personal pronoun the inhabitant of the low country is way ahead. The pronoun you may refer to a president or to a pauper. It may be used in addressing one person or a thousand. Were it not for the context in which it is used, it would indeed be very ambiguous. Compare this with the rich variety of pronouns the Netherlander has at his disposal in addressing a person or persons: jij, gij, u, jelui, jullie, gijlieden, ulieden.) Verse 54) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.45|AUTODETECT|” �����������, acc. s. fem. pres. participle (here intransit.) of �������, to rise. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.45|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 5:45) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.78|AUTODETECT|” , transit., to cause to rise. Also note ������, the Rising Sun 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.78|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:78) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.11|AUTODETECT|” �v ������, in the west. In the New Testament �����, west, always occurs in the gen. pl. form. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.11|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 8:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.27|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.27|AUTODETECT|” 24:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.13.29|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.13.29|AUTODETECT|” Luke 13:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.21.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.21.13|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 21:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 2 2 8 0 0 D�����, a shower, rain. Cf. to imbrue (drench, soak).) Verse 55) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.12|AUTODETECT|” ������ 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.12|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 20:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.1.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=59.1.11|AUTODETECT|” James 1:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), a heat wave, scorching heat. Cf. holocaust, caustic.) 1 42 2 8 0 0 Verse 56) ��������, here used in the sense of appearance, look. See also 9:29, 51 53; 10:1; 20:21; 21:35.) ������, acc. s. of ������. The distinction between ������ and ������ should be observed: ������ is the more inclusive term. It is time considered as duration, succession of moments. ������, on the other hand, is an era, epoch, hour, or moment within this ������. The correct translation varies with the specific context in which the word is used. Right or proper or opportune time, favorable season, critical hour, time of crisis, opportunity are some of the words that can be used in translation.

See R. C. Trench, Synonyms of the New Testament, par. lvii.) Earlier instances of this word in Luke s Gospel: 1:20; 4:13; 8:13; 12:42. This evangelist is going to use it again in 13:1; 18:30; 19:44; 20:10; 21:8, 24, 36. In fact, no New Testament writer uses this word as often as do Luke (Gospel and Acts) and Paul. It occurs in all except two of Paul s epistles; also in Matthew, Mark, John, Hebrews, I Peter, and Revelation.) Verse 57) �x �������, what is right, or the right thing.) Verse 58) This verse contains several terms that merit brief comment:) ��������, gen. s. (after ���p ���) of �������� opponent.) ������, acc. s. (after ��) of ����, magistrate.) �x� �������, Lat. da operam, to take pains, put forth effort.) ��������� perf. pass. infinitive of ��������, here: to get rid of, come to terms with.) ��������, third per. s. aor. (probably), subjunct. (after ������) act. of ��������*, to drag down or away.) �������, constable or bailiff, the man who carries out (or: into practice) the orders of the judge.

Note also the dat. s. ��������.) Verse 59) Note double negative �P ��, not at all, never & until, etc.) Summary of Chapter 12) See p. 535.) ) ) ) ) 395 Literally: spoken in the ear.) 396 Literally: in the inner (or: most private) rooms.) A.R.V. American Standard Revised Version) A.V. Authorized Version (King James)) 397 Lit., than many.) N.T.C. W. Hendriksen, New Testament Commentary) N.E.B. New English Bible) 398 Or: & you are brought before.) 399 Another reading has: how or what you will answer in defense.) 400 Notes on Greek words, phrases, and constructions in 12:1 12 begin on page 658.) R.S.V.

Revised Standard Version) N.I.V. New International Version of The New Testament) 401 Or: granaries.) 402 Literally: is not rich toward God.) 403 Or: barn.) 404 Or: the nations of the world.) 405 Notes on Greek words, phrases, and constructions in 12:13 34 begin on page 672.) L.N.T. (A. and G.) W. F. Arndt and F. W. Gingrich, A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature) 406 Lit., Let your loins be well-girt [or: girded about].) 407) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.45-40.24.51|AUTODETECT|” The resemblance between ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.45-40.24.51|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 24:45 51) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.42-42.12.46|AUTODETECT|” and its parallel in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.42-42.12.46|AUTODETECT|” Luke 12:42 46) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 is striking. The slight differences are noted in the following chart.) 7 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.45-40.24.51|AUTODETECT|” Matthew 24:45 51) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.42-42.12.46|AUTODETECT|” Compared with ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.42-42.12.46|AUTODETECT|” Luke 12:42 46) 1 12 2 8 0 0 Matthew Luke ) servant manager ) has put in charge will put in charge ) household employees servants ) food food allowance or food ration ) wicked omitted in Luke ) is taking his time is taking his time in coming ) his fellow servants the men and women servants ) shall eat and drink with drunkards to eat and drink and get drunk ) with the hypocrites with the unfaithful ) ) ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.12.42|AUTODETECT|” 408 According to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.12.42|AUTODETECT|” Mark 12:42) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.18.28|AUTODETECT|” two lepta equals a quarter of an as or assarius. And an assarius was worth only one sixteenth of a denarius! The denarius was a laborer s average daily wage 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.18.28|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 18:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.2|AUTODETECT|” 20:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.9|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.9|AUTODETECT|” 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.13|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.13|AUTODETECT|” 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.22.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.22.19|AUTODETECT|” 22:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Due to constantly varying monetary values it is impossible to indicate with any degree of accuracy what such coins would be worth today in American or in English money. If the denarius be viewed as the equivalent of 16 or 18 American cents, then the assarius would be worth about a cent, the quarter or quadrant only about 1/4 cent, and the lepton merely 1/8 cent.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 409 Notes on Greek words, phrases, and constructions in 12:35 59 begin on page 687.) Th.D.N.T. Theological Dictionary of the New Testament, edited by G. Kittel and G. Friedrich, and translated from the German by G. W. Bromiley)