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Nazarene Commentary 2000©

21^st Century Paraphrase of the Hebrew Scriptures© –
21^st Century Version of the Christian Scriptures© [NCMM]

THE GOSPEL OF LUKE

CHAPTER TWELVE:
JESUS TEACHES HIS “LITTLE FLOCK”

[“Fear Not, Little Flock”]
Key word: Readiness

Luke 12:1-7 – Beware of Hypocrisy

|| Matthew 10:17-20, 26-33; 16:6, 12; 476 Mark 3:9; 4:22; 8:15, 17, 38; 13:11 477

476	Matthew 10:17-20, 26-33; 16:6, 12: For details see notes in Nazarene Commentary 2000 on Matthew.

477	Mark 3:9; 4:22; 8:15, 17, 38; 13:11: For details see notes in Nazarene Commentary 2000 on Mark.

LK12:1 At about this same time crowds in the thousands 478 gathered so that they were stepping on one another. Jesus began to speak to his disciples first: “All of you pay close attention 479 so that you are on guard against the leaven of the Pharisees 480 – which is hypocritical.

478

Crowds in the thousands: This occasion is different from the Sermon on the Mount [Matthew 5-7], or the Sermon on the Plain. [Luke 6] Jesus repeats some subjects and introduces others. It should be noted that in this teaching some things are directed to an individual, the disciples themselves, and the crowd at large.

479	All of you pay close attention: Or, beware, pay attention. The Greek “you” is in the plural.

480

Guard against the leaven of the Pharisees: This is a courageous statement, given the Pharisees are likely still present, and that Jesus has just pronounced woes against them. Very likely this is one of the reasons the crowd grew so large. For details see notes in Nazarene Commentary 2000 regarding Pharisaical hypocrisy at Matthew 16:6 and Mark 8:15. This warning about hypocrisy must be kept in the context of the words that follow directed to the disciples.

LK12:2 There is nothing that is covered up that will not become known, 481 for what is secret will become known. 482

481

There is nothing that is covered up that will not become known: Or, KNX: what is veiled will all be revealed; PME: there is nothing covered up which is not going to be exposed. Though this may include the hypocrisy of the Pharisees, it is also possible Jesus is aware of private talk among his own apostles. Surely later one in particular is to be exposed – Judas. No disciple of the Nazarene can remain under the delusion that negative things can be spoken of others in secret and not exposed in the end. At the latest during the parousia-judgment. Compare notes on Matthew 12:35-37. Things spoken in secret, particularly criticisms of others, have ways of backfiring. [Ecclesiastes 10:20]

482	For what is secret will become known: Or, TCN: nor anything kept secret which will not become known.

LK12:3 So then, whatever you [disciples] say in darkness, it will be heard in the light; and whatever you whispered in secrecy will be announced from the rooftops. LK12:4 Now I tell you [disciples], my friends, do not become frightened of those who kill the body but can do nothing more. 483

483	Kill the body but can do nothing more: Compare notes on Matthew 10:28.

LK12:5 Rather, I will indicate to you [disciples] the One to fear 484 – you [disciples] fear the One who after killing the body has authority to hurl into Gehenna. 485 Yes, I tell you [disciples], fear this One!

484	The One to fear: The Nazarene clearly taught the fear of God. Compare 2 Corinthians 7:1 and Philippians 2:12. [Romans 3:18; 2 Corinthians 5:11; Ephesians 5:21; Colossians 3:22; 1 Peter 2:17; Revelation 14:7]

485	Gehenna: For details see notes in Nazarene Commentary 2000 on Gehenna in Where Are The Dead?

LK12:6 Are not five sparrows sold for two assarion? 486 And yet not one of them is overlooked 487 in the sight of The God.

486	Five sparrows sold for two assarion: Or, two farthings, two cents, a penny. Sparrows were the cheapest among the birds used for food.

487	Overlooked: Or, forgotten, escaped notice, everyone in mind.

LK12:7 But even the hairs of your head have all been counted. 488 Do not be frightened. You [disciples] are worth more than many sparrows. 489

488	Hairs of your head have all been counted: Some estimate an average to be about 100,000.

489	Worth more than many sparrows: We can imagine Jesus’ expression as he makes a bit of humor in stating the importance of the apostles. He is assuring them that God cares for them even more than He does for the fallen sparrow.

Luke 12:8-12 – Confessing Christ and Blasphemy

|| Matthew 10:17-20, 32, 33; 12:32; 490 Mark 3:29; 8:38; 13:11 491

490	Matthew 10:17-20, 32, 33; 12:32: For details see notes in Nazarene Commentary 2000 on Matthew.

491	Mark 3:29; 8:38; 13:11: For details see notes in Nazarene Commentary 2000 on Mark.

LK12:8 “I tell all of you [disciples], anyone whoever confesses me before people, 492 the Son of Humankind will also confess the same in the presence 493 of God’s angels.

492	Confesses me before people: Or, WMS: owns me before men; BAS: who gives witness to me; PME: who publicly acknowledges me. The disciples must speak about their Master in public. Compare Romans 10:9-11; Hebrews 13:15.

493	In the presence: The Greek is EMPROSTHEN.

LK12:9 However, the person who denies me 494 in the sight of people will be denied in the sight of 495 God’s angels.

494	Who denies me: Or, disowns; BAS: says that he has no knowledge of me. Something Peter does when he denies Christ three times.

495	In the sight of: The Greek is ENOPION.

LK12:10 Also, anyone who makes a statement against 496 the Son of Humankind will be forgiven. However, anyone who speaks abusively against 497 the holy Pneuma 498 will never be forgiven.

496	A statement against: Or, KJV: speak a word against; BER: make a statement; PME: speaks against.

497

Speaks abusively against: Or, slanders, blasphemes, speak profanely, reviles, says evil. The Greek is BLASPHEMESANTI. In the context in Matthew and Mark Jews have accused Jesus of being demonized and healing by the power of Satan. This amounts to blaspheming the holy spirit. A person may in ignorance speak abusively of the Son, but not the outworking of the Spirit. In other words, one may blaspheme the Son, but not his Father whose Pneuma is His mental power that accomplishes His will. For details see notes in Nazarene Commentary 2000 on Matthew 12:31 and Mark 3:29. [Compare 1 Corinthians 2:16.]

498	The holy Pneuma: Or, spirit, breath, wind. For details see notes in Nazarene Commentary 2000 on 1 Corinthians 2:16. [Compare the Biblical Article God’s Spirit and You.]

LK12:11 So when they bring you [disciples] before synagogues, 499 rulers and authorities, do not be overly concerned 500 about how or what you will speak in your defense or what you will say.

499	Synagogues: For details see notes in Nazarene Commentary 2000 on Mark 13:9, John 16:2, and Acts 6:9.

500	Overly concerned: Or, KJV: take ye no thought; GDS: you must have no anxiety; WEY: anxiously ponder; MOF: not trouble yourselves about; MON: do not worry about.

LK12:12 For the holy Pneuma will teach you 501 [disciples] what it is necessary to say in that same hour.”

501	Pneuma will teach you: The context must be kept in mind: Jesus is speaking to his apostles. For details see notes in Nazarene Commentary 2000 on John 16:13. Examples of this will be seen in Acts chapters 2-5, 7.

Luke 12:13-21 – Guard Against Greed

LK12:13 Now someone in the crowd called out: “Teacher, tell my brother to share the inheritance with me!” 502

502

Tell my brother to share the inheritance with me: We do not know the real circumstances. It may well be this person had a legal right to his inheritance which his brother has extorted. The main problem was that the man had gathered to a crowd listening to a spiritual teacher and he raises a family and financial problem. He betrays his greed and materialism in such an environment. Compare Proverbs 20:21.

LK12:14 But Jesus told him: “Man, who appointed me 503 a judge or arbitrator over you?” [Exodus 2:14]

503

Who appointed me: The words have a strong echo of those used in relation to Moses. [Exodus 2:14] Though Jesus could have easily acted as judge regarding this Jew’s problem, he is no so audacious to act a part to which he has not yet been appointed. Most judges in Israel were former priests who had retired at the age of 50 from temple duties and now heard cases at the city gates. [Exodus 18:22; Leviticus 19:15; Deuteronomy 16:18; 17:9]

LK12:15 Then Jesus said to the crowd: “Look out and be on guard against 504 all kinds of greed, 505 because even if someone is wealthy life does not result from one’s possessions.” 506

504	Look out and be on guard against: Or, KJV: take heed and beware; MOF: see and keep clear; TAY: beware. The words are directed first to the man who made the request to Jesus.

505

All kinds of greed: Or, covetousness. Greed is defined as a desire for more. In Latin the word is CUPIDATIS. The Greek is PLEONEXIAS [Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #4124, desiring more]. They are many forms and degrees of greed from mild gambling to deceitful extortion. The greedy Christian is to be shunned. [1 Corinthians 5:9-11; 6:9, 10] Compare also Exodus 20:17; Psalm 68:16; Matthew 13:17; Romans 7:7; Ephesians 4:19; 5:3; Colossians 3:5.] Jesus warns all that they must be very cautious regarding any kind of greed – the desire for more. The word is often rendered covet, or covetousness. Greed or covetousness runs in bad company. [Mark 7:22; Romans 1:29; James 4:2]

506

One’s life does not result from one’s possessions: Or, TCN: for even in the height of his prosperity a man’s true Life does not depend on what he has; NEB: for even when a man has more than enough, his wealth does not give him life; NAS: for not even when one has an abundance does his life consist of his possessions. Jesus has greed in the context of possessions.

LK12:16 So Jesus told them all a parable: “A certain rich person’s farm produced a good crop. 507

507	A certain rich person’s farm produced a good crop: We may assume the man was a Jew given the cultural context, but there is nothing in his life unrighteous or wicked. He is guilty of only one thing – greed.

LK12:17 So he began to say to himself: ‘What should I 508 do, because I have no place to gather in all my produce?’

508	I: The farmer uses the personal pronoun 12 times indicating his egocentric obsession with self.

LK12:18 So the farmer said, ‘This is what I will do. 509 I will tear down my barns and I will build larger ones. Then I will gather into them all the grain and my goods things.

509	This is what I will do: On the farmer’s remark compare James 4:13-15.

LK12:19 Then I will tell my soul, “Soul, 510 you have many good things stored up for many years. 511 Rest now, eat, drink and be merry!”’ 512 [Ecclesiastes 2:24]

510	Soul: The parable contains the two meanings of the word “soul” – the person, or the life of the person.

511

Good things stored up for many years: Or, WEY: you have ample possessions; GDS: great wealth stored up; TCN: plenty of things put by; BAS: great amount of goods in store. Proverbs 6:6-11 counsels imitation of the ant in preparing for the future. However, the matter of saving is only mentioned twice in the Christian Bible and each in the context of having something to share with others. For details see notes in Nazarene Commentary 2000 on 1 Corinthians 16:2 and Ephesians 4:28.

512	Eat, drink and be merry: The phrase may echo Isaiah 22:13 but without the latter part. [Compare 1 Corinthians 15:32] There is nothing wrong with this in itself. [Ecclesiastes 2:24; 11:9] But it can become only self-focusing. [James 5:5]

LK12:20 But then The God said to him: ‘Fool, 513 during this very night they will demand your soul from you. Now to whom will all you prepared belong?’ 514 [Ecclesiastes 2:18, 19]

513	Fool: Or, unreasonable one, simpleton, stupid.

514	Now to whom will all you prepared belong: The phrase is a strong echo of Ecclesiastes 2:18, 19 which describes the vanity of working only for material things, and in the end leaving it all to a fool who will squander the inheritance.

LK12:21 So it happens to the person who saves for self 515 but is not rich with regard to God.” 516

515

The person who saves for self: Or, KJV: layeth up treasure for himself; WEY: who amasses treasure for himself; WMS: who continues to pile up possessions; PME: who hoards things for himself. Rich is defined by Jesus as one with a surplus. [Luke 21:1ff] Wealthy is a person with a surplus who is propertied. Both of these terms are relative to the cultures in which they live. To the billionaire the millionaire is a pauper. To the millionaire the person with an income of $50,000 is rat broke. Saving merely for himself – without any thought for others – was what leads to this farmer’s condemnation. A person will be judged on how they use their riches or wealth. Every Christian ought to make the word groups rich(es) and possessions a special study. Though there have been servants of God who were rich and wealthy – such as Abraham, David, Solomon – the majority of God’s people and the prophets were always poor. [Genesis 14:23; Exodus 30:15; 2 Samuel 12:1, 2, 4; Psalm 49:2, 6, 16] Riches are mentioned often favorably in the Proverbs about a dozen times. However, there are warnings in Proverbs that sound like the Nazarene. Proverbs 23:4, “Do not labor for riches.” Proverbs 28:20, “The man who wants to get rich quick will quickly fail.” Proverbs 30:8, “Give me neither poverty nor riches, grant me only my share of bread to eat.” For details see notes in Nazarene Commentary 2000 on rich(es) and compare the Nazarene’s teachings at Matthew 6:24; 13:22; 19:23, 24; Luke 6:24; 8:14;16:9-11; 18:21, 23; Revelation 3:17, 18; also Paul at 1 Corinthians 4:8; 1 Timothy 6:9, 10, 17-19; and James at James 1:10, 11; 2:5, 6; 5:1-6.

516

Is not rich with regard to God: Or, WEY: has no riches of God; BAS: has not wealth in the eyes of God; NEB: remains a pauper in the sight of God; TCN: are not rich to the glory of God. One becomes spiritually rich by means of several factors: faith in God, spiritual wisdom, love manifest in kindness and charity. Compare notes on Luke 16:9.

Luke 12:22-34 – Anxiety and the Kingdom

|| Matthew 6:25-34 517

517	Matthew 6:25-34: For details see notes in Nazarene Commentary 2000 on Matthew.

LK12:22 Now Jesus turned to his disciples and said: “And so I tell you [disciples], do not be anxious 518 regarding your souls as to what you will eat, nor regarding your body as to what you will wear.

518

Do not be anxious: Or, stop worrying; KNX: for not fret. Jesus mentions anxiety [or, worry] several times in this sermon. [Luke 12:11, 22, 25, 26, 29] This anxiety involves three things: soul and body – food, drink, and clothing. These are the most primary things to human existence. Jesus does not have in mind anxieties over luxuries. Modern western societies with all their riches and wealth are still plagued by anxiety and worry, not over food, drink and clothing, but because of their luxuries. In this regard millions of Christians have self-inflicted wounds that destroy faith and end up causing a person to blame God for their problem. [1 Timothy 6:5-10] The counsel of the Nazarene stands in contrast to the modern “prosperity preachers” in twist scores of Bible verses to convince Christians they deserve to be rich and will become so if they donate “love gifts” to them. Such “lovers of money” [Luke 16:14] will not find God very “friendly” when they stand before Him in the judgment. [Luke 16:9]

LK12:23 For the soul is more than food and the body more than clothing. LK12:24 You [disciples], consider the ravens how they do not sow or reap. They have neither barn nor storehouse, and yet The God feeds them. How much more valuable are you than these birds? LK12:25 But which one of you [disciples] is able to add but a cubit to his lifespan by anxiety? 519

519	Lifespan by anxiety: It is now medically known that just the opposite occurs.

LK12:26 If you cannot do such a small thing, then why are you anxious about the rest? LK12:27 You [disciples], consider how the lilies grow. It does not labor or spin. But I tell you that Solomon in all his glory was not clothed as one of these. LK12:28 So if these are in the field of a meadow today and tomorrow thrown into an oven, how much more The God clothes you of little faith. LK12:29 So, all of you [disciples] do not keep seeking 520 what you will eat or what you will drink, 521 and do not continue to be anxious. 522

520	Do not keep seeking: Or, WMS: stop seeking; PME: you must not set your heart on. Jesus has in mind life’s aims or goals. Those who make the desire for more their aim will not remain genuine disciples of Christ. [John 8:31 NCMM] For details see notes in Nazarene Commentary 2000 on Matthew 6:31.

521

Eat or what you will drink: Jesus considers only the most basics of life – food, drink, and clothing. And even these are not to remain a focus of anxiety. We can imagine how our Master would feel about those whose daily concerns involve western society’s luxuries. If we listed these they would fill the entire page. It is a sad fact that if all those who claim to be Christians were judged on Luke chapter 12, virtually all of Christendom will hang its head when before the judgment seat of Christ. [2 Corinthians 5:10; 1 John 2:28]

522

Do not continue to be anxious: Or, KJV: neither be ye of doubtful mind; RHM: be not held in suspense; WEY: do not waver between hope and fear; LAM: let not your mind be disturbed by these things; RIE: be harassed no more; ABU: be not tossed about with cares: NWT: anxious suspense. The Greek METEORIZESTHE [Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #3349] comes from the thought of suspense regarding the beginning of a voyage at sea as though watching the air. There are probably no greater daily concerns that eat away at the fiber of individuals than their constant concerns about the necessities of life. The modern problem is that hundreds of items have been added to the Nazarene’s meager list of food, drink, and clothing. So while the Christian world publishes hundreds of books on how to lose weight, the third world is starving, or at least living at the same standards they did two thousand years ago.

LK12:30 For these things the non-Jews of the world of humanity 523 continue to strive after, 524 because your Father is aware you need these things.

523

The non-Jews of the world of humanity: Or, gentiles. The Greek is ETHNE TOU KOSMOU. Originally ETHNOS [English = ethnic] meant a non-Roman and was then adopted in the Christian Bible for that part of the world that was not Jewish, thus non-Jews. It is similar to the Hebrew equivalent GOYIM [goy]. Though the non-Jewish world was almost exclusively devoted to materialism, the entire Jewish generation of Jesus’ time also made pursuit of material security a primary aim. The Law of Moses warned the Israelites about such materialism. [Deuteronomy 8:11-18; 9:4-6; Ecclesiastes chapter 2]

524	Continue to strive after: Or, seek after, their aim, greedily trying to get, busy about. One way to observe this is the subjects people talk about. The Greek EPIZETOUSIN [Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #1934] has the strong meaning of clamoring for or zealously searching for.

LK12:31 Instead, all of you [disciples] continue to seek His Kingdom 525 and everything else will be provided to you. 526

525

Continue to seek His Kingdom: Or, strive to find, chief care, first care, set your heart on, eager to have. The same zeal the non-Jews exercise in seeking material things ought to be stronger in the Christian disciple for things of the Kingdom. It is a continual process for the Nazarene disciple. Compare Romans 8:5-8 and Colossians 3:1, 2. In the end Life will be billions of years long, and this brief part of time in the present life is not worth pursuing a life-style that either ignores God, or places Him in a very little corner of one’s heart.

526	Everything else will be provided to you: That is the bare necessities of life – food, drink, and clothing. Despite this promise, it does not mean there will be times when some Christians being persecuted may go without. Compare 1 Corinthians 4:11 and 2 Corinthians 11:27.

LK12:32 Do not be afraid, 527 little flock, 528 your Father was well pleased to give to you [disciples] the Kingdom.

527	Do not be afraid: Or, WEY: dismiss your fears. One of the greatest sources of worry and anxiety is a lack of security. Jesus anticipates a normal reaction to what he has just told them.

528

Little flock: There are several views on the identity of this “little flock.” Some maintain it is the whole Church and that this is limited in number. Reading the context of chapter twelve it is clear to others that the “little flock” is limited to Jesus’ apostles. Return to Luke 12:22 and the beginning of the context. This does not mean that the counsel of our Master cannot be extended to other disciples in principle. However, those who claim to make up the “little flock” would be under charge by their Master to do what verse 33 directs.

LK12:33 Sell your possessions and give to charity. 529 Make for yourselves purses that never wear out 530 – an inexhaustible 531 celestial treasure – where a thief can never get close and moths never consume.

529

Sell your possessions and give to charity: Or, KJV: sell that ye have, and give alms; NOR: give to the poor; WMS: sell your property and give to charity; NKB: give to those in need. The Greek is literally “sell your belongings and give gifts of mercy.” Jesus gives these instructions directly to his “little flock” – that is, his apostles. They did exactly as he told them. Compare Luke 18:28. After the ascension of Christ the early Church followed the example of the apostles. [Acts 2:44, 45; 4:32-37] This was something voluntary and no one was forced to sell their property. [Acts 5:1-6] Nowhere in all of Paul’s writings does he instruct the churches to follow this example. He does encourage sharing and suggests an economic equalization was the better way. [Romans 12:13; 2 Corinthians 8:14, 15] He instructs Timothy to give orders to the rich. [1 Timothy 6:17-19] Compare footnote in the NJB on this verse.

530	Purses that never wear out: A spiritual pocket book in which credits with God may be entered and saved for that future ONTOS ZOES. [1 Timothy 6:19]

531	Inexhaustible: Or, LAM: does not run short; BAS: yours for ever; BEC: never used up; RIE: does not fail; NWT: never-failing.

LK12:34 For where your treasures are there also will be your hearts. 532

532

Your hearts: Or, heart. Compare Matthew 6:21. Ask: what is it I really treasure in life? What do I think about the most? What do I talk about most often? What do I read about most often? If those who know me best were asked what my central focus was what would be their answer? Only each individual can answer: what do I think about the most?

Luke 12:35-40 – Waiting for the Master

|| Matthew 24:43, 44; 533 Mark 13:35 534

533	Matthew 24:43, 44: For details see notes in Nazarene Commentary 2000 on Matthew.

534	Mark 13:35: For details see notes in Nazarene Commentary 2000 on Mark.

LK12:35 “Strengthen your thighs 535 with your lamps lit. 536

535	Strengthen your thighs: Or, KJV: let your loins be girded about; TCN: make yourselves ready; WMS: you must keep your belts tight; BAS: be ready, dressed for the journey; NEB: be ready for action, with belts fastened. Compare Exodus 12:11; Proverbs 31:17.

536	With your lamps lit: Or, your lamps burning. Compare Matthew 25:1; Philippians 2:15.

LK12:36 You [disciples] should be like men waiting for their Master, 537 so that when he returns 538 from the marriage banquet and arrives knocking 539 they may open the door at once.

537	Like men waiting for their Lord: That is men servants waiting for the master of the house.

538	Returns: The Parousia, or second coming.

539	Arrives knocking: The imminent return.

LK12:37 When the Master arrives 540 blessed are those slaves he discovers have kept watching. 541 I tell you [disciples] this truth: he will put on his apron and have them recline at the table 542 while he comes close to serve them.

540	When the Lord arrives: At the Return of Christ. Jesus does not know when the Father has purposed the Return of the Son of Humankind. [Matthew 24:36] He does not tell his apostles he will return in their lifetime. He tells them no matter when he returns to be prepared. [1 Corinthians 4:5]

541	Kept watching: This state of alert may be characterized by faithful obedience, continued charity, constantly growing spiritual enlightenment, and an expectant heart yearned for Christ’s return.

542	Recline at table: Even upon his reunion with his Church, Christ promises to continue to serve them with spiritual food. [Matthew 20:28]

LK12:38 Even if he arrives in the second or third watch 543 [of the night] and he finds [them ready] – those are blessed.

543	Second or third watch: That is, 9 PM – 12, and, 12 AM – 3 AM.

LK12:39 But all of you understand this: if the master of the house was aware in what hour the thief would arrive, he would not have allowed him to break in. LK12:40 All of you be prepared 544 because in an hour you do not think 545 it to be the Son of Humankind will return.” 546

544	Be prepared: Or, ready yourselves, be vigilant, get ready. Each day the disciple of the Nazarene must be a genuine Christian, evidenced in deep faith, charitable love, care for others in the Church, introducing others to Christ, and self-sacrificing endurance.

545

In an hour you do not think: Hour, not day, or season. No matter when Christ returns it will be a moment not expected by his disciples. For details see notes in Nazarene Commentary 2000 on Matthew 24:36 and Mark 13:32. [Acts 1:7] Anyone who tells you differently should never be followed. [Luke 21:8]

546	Return: For details see notes in Nazarene Commentary 2000 on the Second Coming and compare Matthew 24:30, 31; John 14:1-3; 1 Corinthians 15:23; 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17.

Luke 12:41-48 – Who Is the Faithful Steward?

|| Matthew 24:45-51 547

547	Matthew 24:45-51: For details see notes in Nazarene Commentary 2000 on Matthew.

LK12:41 Now Peter asked: “Master, do you speak this parable to just us 548 or also to everyone else?”

548	Master, do you speak this parable to just us: There is a huge crowd and Peter wants to know if this parable of the ready servants applies directly to the apostles only or also to others.

LK12:42 And the Master said: “Who is the faithful and wise steward? 549 The one the Master will appoint over his body of attendants 550 to continue to provide allotments of wheat at the proper season? 551

549	Who is the faithful and wise steward: Jesus asks a rhetorical question which the following analogy is to answer. The conclusion seems to mean that Jesus has in mind his apostles as these are the ones he will appoint,

550

The one the Master will appoint over his body of attendants: The parable is of a house servant who is appointed over the household slaves. For details see notes in Nazarene Commentary 2000 on Matthew 24:45. The phrase “body of attendants” is from the Greek THERAPEIAS [therapists; curing staff]. The 1st Century Jewish philosopher actually reports that a commune of Christians in Egypt called their members by this Greek word. There are several views. Some view the parable as applying to all Christians. Others to a particular body of elders. It is possible the immediate question of Peter, as well as the identity of the “little flock” mentioned above, the “faithful steward” is the body of the apostles. At the same time the principle could be applied to any Christian who is in fact faithful and wise and who feeds other community members.

551

To continue to provide allotments of wheat at the proper season: Or, grain, food. The faithful steward would first have to have access to such food. It is interesting that if the parable were viewed literally, we do find the apostles later actually in charge of the literal feeding of the early Church members. Compare Acts 6:1-7. That body of elders throughout the Gospel Age who have busied themselves as slaves to the whole household could be described as such a “faithful steward.” Compare notes on 1 Corinthians 12:27, 28 and Ephesians 4:11-16.

LK12:43 Blessed is that slave whom the returning Master 552 finds doing the same.

552	The returning Master: The happy “faithful steward” will be that one as part of “we the living” of 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17. Whenever the Master returns there will be either individuals or bodies of people who will fit the Master’s parable.

LK12:44 Truly I tell you [disciples], he will appoint him over all of his possessions! 553

553	Over all of his possessions: This would be explained by Revelation 3:21 and Revelation 20:4, 6.

LK12:45 However, if that slave ever says in his heart, ‘My Master delays his return’ 554 – and begins to beat 555 male and female servants and to eat and drink and get drunk 556 –

554

My Master delays his return: Or, parousia. It is unfortunate that large numbers of members of the Church, as well as many so-called scholars, have written of the “delayed parousia.” An entire theology has been structured on the idea that Christ and his apostles expected the parousia in their lifetime, making all of them great disappointments. For details see notes in Nazarene Commentary 2000 on the delay of the parousia and compare 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17 and 2 Thessalonians 2:1-3. It is very serious state of mind to begin to think the Master is not coming. Compare Habakkuk 2:4-6. Regarding whether the Master taught his Return would be imminent compare Matthew 25:14 with Luke 19:11-15. The Master confessed he did not know when the parousia would occur; therefore he could not expect it imminently. [Matthew 24:36; Mark 13:32]

555	Begins to beat: Or, maltreat, bully. An identifying feature of the evil slave. Compare Acts 20:29, 30. For details see notes in Nazarene Commentary 2000 on 2 Corinthians 11:4, 14, 20.

556	Eat and drink and get drunk: The unfaithful steward becomes focused on the very things Jesus mentions above. They seek those things the Nazarene warned about. Compare also Luke 21:34.

LK12:46 the Master of that slave will return on a day that he did not expect and in an hour that he did not know. And he will cut him in two 557 and will put him with the unfaithful. 558

557

Cut him in two: Or, KJV: cut him asunder; RIE: tear him to pieces; TCN: flog him severely; LAM: severely punish him. In this parable Jesus lists four types of Household slaves – all members of the Christian Church – and the various punishments they will receive: a] the faithful steward; b] the unfaithful steward who harmed his fellows; c] the slave who but did not perform; and, d] the slave who did not know what to do.

558

Put him with the unfaithful: Or, potion with, place among, share the lot, consign; unbelievers, untrustworthy, the traitor’s lot. Unlike the faithful Christian who remain busy in the care of their fellows and was appointed over the Master’s possessions, this Christian slave is thrown in with the infidels. Compare notes on John 5:29 and 1 John 2:28.

LK12:47 Now that slave who knew his Master’s will 559 but did not prepare 560 and do according to it will be beaten with many strokes.

559	Slave who knew his Master’s will: The Christian who is familiar with the Master’s teachings.

560

Did not prepare: Or, GDS: does not get ready or act upon them; BER: neither got ready for the program nor worked it out; NEB: yet made no attempt to carry them out. Many Christians belong to this group of slaves: they do not harm others, but neither do they respond positively or energetically. When the Master returns they will be severely beaten with the figurative 40 strokes. How this will take place is not described. It surely will include deep embarrassment when in the presence of the Master. [Daniel 12:2; 1 John 2:28]

LK12:48 But the one who was not aware 561 but did things worthy of a beating 562 will be beaten with only a few. Now to everyone to whom much was given, 563 much will be required from him; 564 and the one who was entrusted with a lot, 565 they will ask even more from him. 566

561

The one who was not aware: Or, KJV: knew not; TCN: one who does not know his master’s wishes; WEY: who had not been told. Millions in modern Christendom fit this category of those ignorant slaves. They are still members of the Christian Church but either due to their leadership or their own failure to learn the Master’s will it is not clear to them what is required. These will still be beaten but with few strokes. The whole parable tells us several things: a] it tells us something about our Master, that he is not just a passive, all forgiving Savior; and, b] though the Master metes out severe punishment to those who deserve it, he is also very merciful to the last two slaves, who are not assigned with the infidels. Compare the parables in Matthew chapter 25.

562	Did things worthy of a beating: Or, MOF: did what deserves a beating; RIE: committed punishable faults; PME: has done wrong; KNX: earned a beating. They are not described as beating their fellows or getting drunk.

563	Much was given: Not all Christians are equal in gifts of responsibility. These gifts vary. For details see notes in Nazarene Commentary 2000 on Romans 12:3-8; 1 Corinthians 12:27-31; Ephesians 4:11-16; 1 Peter 4:10, 11.

564

Much will be required from him: Or, expected, demanded. Compare notes on James 3:1-3. Christian men who are elders will be held accountable for what they do or do not do. [Titus 2:1, 2] Mature Christian women will be held responsible for what they teach younger women. [Titus 2:3, 4] Christian parents will be held responsible for what they teach their children. [Ephesians 6:1-4]

565	The one who was entrusted with a lot: Degrees of responsibility within the Church varies according to gifts and blessings. To be given an assignment and fail to carry it out is a most serious matter.

566	They will ask even more from him: It is a truth that persons who fulfill responsibilities faithfully continue to get increased accountability.

Luke 12:49-53 – I Came to Create Division

|| Matthew 10:34-36 567

567	Matthew 10:34-36: For details see notes in Nazarene Commentary 2000 on Matthew.

LK12:49 “I came to hurl fire upon the earth 568 – and how I wish it was already ignited! 569

568

I came to hurl fire upon the earth: Or, to send fire, build a fire, set the world on fire. Any retrospective of history can see how this lone carpenter from Nazareth did indeed set a fire on earth. The Jews held that when Messiah came universal peace would begin. However, Jesus teaches just the opposite.

569	Ignited: Or, kindled, started. The fire will start until after his execution and the spread of his Church throughout the Roman world.

LK12:50 And I have a baptism 570 to be baptized with – and how I am distressed until it is finished!

570	Baptism: An immersion into a self-sacrificing death. Compare notes on Matthew 20:22 and Mark 10:38. [John 12:27] See also Romans 6:3-5. Jesus also compares it to a “cup.” [Matthew 26:39]

LK12:51 Do you [disciples] think that I came to bring peace on earth? 571 No, I tell you! Rather, division! 572

571	Bring peace on earth: One of the reasons modern rabbis do not think Jesus to have been the Messiah is because of their view that when Christ comes peace will come to earth. Since this has not happened, they reason Jesus could not have been Messiah. However, Jesus taught exactly the opposite.

572	Division: Or, discord, dissension. Not only would there be divisions between individuals and families, the Church itself would be fracture until the 10,000 schisms today. Compare notes on 1 Corinthians 11:17-19. The nations of earth have been more and more divided.

LK12:52 For from now on in one house five will be divided 573 against three, and three against two, and two against three.

573

Divided: Jesus borrows from Micah 7:6 in describing the divisions Christianity would bring in households. Such divisions continue to this day. Jesus did not promise one Church with perfect unity. Such unity was for but a moment when the Church reached maturity by the end of the 1st Century. [Ephesians 4:12-16] Since, as Paul predicted in 1 Corinthians 11:17-19 and elsewhere, the Church has remained divided into 10,000 schisms of sects, organizations, and denominations. This has also divided families. This division will continue until Christ comes with his angels to separate the wheat [or, sheep] from the weeds [or, goats] within his own Church. For details see notes in Nazarene Commentary 2000 on Matthew 13:40-43 and Matthew 25:1-46. In part this is all due to the great apostasy foretold by Jesus and his inspired disciples. For details see notes in Nazarene Commentary 2000 on apostasy and compare Matthew 13:25, 39 and related cross-references.

LK12:53 A father will be divided against a son, and a son against a father, a mother against the daughter, and a daughter against the mother, a mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law.” [Micah 7:6]

Luke 12:54-59 – Interpret the Season

|| Matthew 16:2, 3 574

574	Matthew 16:2, 3: For details see notes in Nazarene Commentary 2000 on Matthew.

LK12:54 Then Jesus also spoke to the crowds: “When you see the clouds building in the west, right away you say a rain storm is coming and so it happens. LK12:55 Also, when a south wind begins to blow, you say it will be hot and it happens. LK12:56 Hypocrites, 575 you can interpret 576 the appearance of the earth and the sky. How come you are not aware how to interpret this present season? 577

575

Hypocrites: Jesus’ language to the crowd at large is harsh for he knows the vast majority have not come to learn but to see signs. These same people will later scream for his execution. The Nazarene has condemned his generation and this will be fulfilled in the year 70 AD with the destruction of Jerusalem and the death of one million Jews.

576	Interpret: Or, discern, read, decipher, analyze.

577	How to interpret this present season: Or, this time, present crisis, fateful hour. Compare what Jesus tells his generation at Luke 19:42-44 and to his apostles at Luke 21:20-24.

LK12:57 Also, why do you not judge for yourselves what is right? 578

578	Judge for yourselves what is right: Or, KNX: does not your own experience teach you to make right decisions; RIE: why can you not do better still and out of your own conscience judge aright; NEB: what is the right course.

LK12:58 For as you are on your way to a ruler with your adversary before the law, on the way work out your dispute with him and get rid of the problem. 579 Otherwise, he will drag you before the judge, 580 and the judge will hand you over to the court officer, and he will put you in prison.

579	Get rid of the problem: Jesus analogy is likely to mean the righteous Jew should settle his differences with the Judge and make for peace before the coming cataclysm.

580	Judge: Judgment is a major theme of the Nazarene. Indeed, while he only uses the word “salvation” twice, he uses the word group judge and judgment about 60 times. For details see notes in Nazarene Commentary 2000 on God and Judgment in Biblical Articles.

LK12:59 I tell you, you will be no means ever get out until you have paid back the last lepton.” 581

581	Lepton: The smallest of Jewish coins no bigger than the fingernail on the small finger. It was what the widow put in the temple donation box. [Luke 21:1-4] Lepton is a word used in Physics for the smallest of atomic particles.

Review Questions on Chapter Twelve