Luke 12

Jesus, not quite done with his critique of the Pharisees, warns against their hypocrisy at the start of Chapter 12. Like leaven, it grows, expands and could easily overtake the lives of his disciples if they aren't careful. Throughout the chapter, contrasts are drawn between those, like the Pharisees, who reject Jesus and those who choose to follow him. In the midst of making that point, Jesus speaks in wonderful, folksy terms about just how deeply God knows us and cares for us. Still, he tells us, judgement looms and punishment is awaiting those who disregard the master's will. On Sunday, I'd like to hear what you think about Jesus' words on this topic.

When Jesus mentions hypocrisy (v. 1), he's naming what was earlier described about the Pharisees in 11:37-44. He promises all of that will be revealed (v. 2-3) and seems to be suggesting his followers should fear God, not those religious leaders who could potentially kill them (v. 4-5). Remember, the scribes and Pharisees had become very hostile to Jesus (11:53-54). Jesus may be reflecting on his own impending death, which he has cryptically referred to (9:44 and 11:29), and the future reality that his followers will face persecution (v. 11-12). As Jesus appeals to God's control and sovereignty, we unexpectedly get a tender reminder of his intimate involvement in our lives and the lives of all creation (v. 6-7). This is one of two memorable passages in this chapter about how God cares for us.

In a reference to himself, Jesus notes that deniers of the Son of Man can be forgiven (assuming they repent). But there's a whole other level of deliberate, willful, settled hostility toward him that he terms blaspheming the Holy Spirit which won't be forgiven (v. 10). I wonder which category those who said earlier that Jesus was doing miracles through Beelzebul (11:14-26) would fit into? At any rate, he sets up a contrast between the followers (v. 12) and deniers (v. 10) of the Holy Spirit.

Jesus tells a sobering parable and gives us an important warning about our possessions when someone in the crowd attempts to inject him into an inheritance dispute. Verse 15's warning about greed is something each of us should consider memorizing, writing down and prominently displaying, or tattooing on our arms! (Actually, Laurel says "No tattoos!") We're all susceptible to this because each of us has so many possessions. The parable in v. 16-21 again reinforces the idea that God's in charge no matter what plans we make. I'd like to hear your thoughts on what it would mean to be "rich toward" God (v. 21).

In v. 22-32, Jesus ties this quest for amassing wealth and security (v. 19) to worry, which he advises against, as well. This beautiful, poetic passage is also a return to God's care for us and is worth lingering on. Re-read it and think more about what the passage says. It speaks about the attitude we need to approach life with as followers of God. It does not in any way absolve us of taking care of, being responsible for or making plans for ourselves. The point is more about becoming obsessed with having "enough." Rather than seeking materials things, seek the kingdom of God (sound familiar?) and the Father will meet your needs (v. 29-31). By the way, the kingdom is a free gift gladly given by him (v. 32). And what to do with those possessions you've already amassed? Jesus gives us an answer in v. 33. What do you think of this admonition? How would selling your possession and giving the proceeds to charity change you?

Another way to think about this, or perhaps another aspect of being a kingdom seeker, is to live with expectation and readiness for the Son of Man's return, as described in the parables of the master and his stewards (v. 35-48). How can we do this? An interesting statement that perhaps speaks of Jesus' mission on earth is in v. 37, which says the master will serve those who remain on the alert. Those who live without that sense of expectation or know the master's will but don't do it, on the other hand, will face punishment (v. 45-47). What do you think of verse 48, that more is required from some? Does this apply to us?

So, we've stopped worrying and are trusting God instead. We've sold our possessions. We're living with expectation of Christ's return and doing his will in our lives. We can live in peace and unity, right? Actually, no, says Jesus, who's come to cast fire upon the earth (v. 49) and create division, even among families (v. 51-53). What's going on here? Give me your thoughts on Sunday.

Jesus then circles back to his theme about hypocrisy, kind of broadening the charge to the whole crowd (v. 54-56). He calls on his listeners to engage their senses, analyze what's happening and use some discernment to choose the right path before it's too late (v. 57-59). As I said earlier, he has contrasted ways to live, expressed the Father's care for people and sounded themes of God's judgement. It won't always be easy to follow Jesus, but he may now be calling on his listeners (including us) to choose if we will.