Summary
Jesus opens with a caution against the Pharisees’ hypocrisy, asserting that nothing is hidden from God. He urges his followers not to fear earthly powers but to fear God, who holds judgment. He uses the example of sparrows to reassure that believers are valuable. Jesus then stresses the importance of confession and warns against blasphemy. He teaches that the Holy Spirit will guide believers in times of trial. He speaks of a servant’s responsibility to divide his inheritance and cautions against covetousness, reminding that true wealth lies in a relationship with God. In the parable of the rich man’s storehouses, the rich man misuses his resources, but God rebukes him for planning for himself rather than for others. Jesus encourages his disciples to be ready, using the lilies and ravens as illustrations of God’s providence. He warns that the Son will come unexpectedly, urging readiness through vigilance, comparing the faithful servant to the good man who watches for the thief. He concludes by highlighting the impending division among people and a final warning about the last mite, urging diligent judgment.