Introduction
Luke 12:1–12: Jesus warns his followers to avoid dishonest teachings and to fear only God.
Today’s Key Verse: Luke 12:2 GNT
[Jesus said:] “Whatever is covered up will be uncovered, and every secret will be made known.”
Read
12 As thousands of people crowded together, so that they were stepping on each other, Jesus said first to his disciples, “Be on guard against the yeast of the Pharisees—I mean their hypocrisy. 2 Whatever is covered up will be uncovered, and every secret will be made known. 3 So then, whatever you have said in the dark will be heard in broad daylight, and whatever you have whispered in private in a closed room will be shouted from the housetops.
4 “I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot afterward do anything worse. 5 I will show you whom to fear: fear God, who, after killing, has the authority to throw into hell. Believe me, he is the one you must fear!
6 “Aren’t five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one sparrow is forgotten by God. 7 Even the hairs of your head have all been counted. So do not be afraid; you are worth much more than many sparrows!
8 “I assure you that those who declare publicly that they belong to me, the Son of Man will do the same for them before the angels of God. 9 But those who reject me publicly, the Son of Man will also reject them before the angels of God.
10 “Whoever says a word against the Son of Man can be forgiven; but whoever says evil things against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven.
11 “When they bring you to be tried in the synagogues or before governors or rulers, do not be worried about how you will defend yourself or what you will say. 12 For the Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what you should say.”
Reflect
Jesus uses the metaphor of yeast when referring to hypocrisy. What is the significance of this metaphor? Have you ever encountered someone who tried to turn you away from your beliefs or who said the right things but did not live by them? How can you “be on guard” against such subtle danger?
Pray
Lord Jesus, I place my trust in you and in your teachings. Keep my heart pure this day and guide me in the path of your truth. Amen.
Tomorrow’s Reading
Luke 12:13–21: Jesus warns against trusting in earthly wealth.
