Luke chapter 12 is filled with warnings and the CEB paragraph titles convey to the reader the predominance of this theme.
Warnings to Jesus' friends. Luke 12:1-12. I like how Fred Craddock (Interpretation commentary) discusses Jesus' warning against hypocrisy in the opening verses of chapter 12. He acknowledges that we tend to view hypocrisy in the usual way...when someone pretends to be something they are not. In the Christian life, such a person would be pretending to be a true disciple of Jesus for the transformation of the world when in reality their heart and mind are devoted to other values. However, Craddock surmises that there are circumstances when the reverse form of hypocrisy may be the problem and that this is what Jesus is actually warning them about: pretending not to be a disciple when in reality one has made a commitment to following Jesus. Does Peter come to mind for any of you?
Warning against greed. Luke 12:13-21. This is the first of a two-part warning about concern over possessions. By now, Jesus is known for speaking out against greed and is once again holding up as the "standard for disciples the voluntary sharing of one's goods." Don't give in to the seduction of wealth and possessions.
Warning about worry. Luke 12:22-34. The second part of the warning is a bit simpler...don't become preoccupied with material things.
"Where your treasure is, there your heart will be too." (Luke 12:34)
Warning about being prepared. Luke 12:35-48. The final verse of this section of chapter 12 is true for virtually every aspect of discipleship:
"Much will be demanded from everyone who has been given much, and from the one who has been entrusted with much, even more will be asked." (Luke 12:48b)
(Note
- My apologies for being late with this blog post. This week's reading
is actually on Luke chapter 13 but, late or not, I did not want to skip
chapter 12. A blog on chapter 13 will be posted by the end of the week
to keep us on schedule.)
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