_CRITICAL NOTES_ Luke 12:1. AN INNUMERABLE MULTITUDE OF PEOPLE.—“The many thousands of the multitude” (R.V.); lit. “the myriads of the multitude.” The discourse in this chapter is evidently in continuation of what has just been recorded: the cardinal sin of the Pharisees is dealt with, and freedom o... [ Continue Reading ]
_CRITICAL NOTES_ Luke 12:13. ONE OF THE COMPANY.—Rather, “one out of the multitude” (R.V.). Perhaps the mention of magistrates and powers suggested to him Christ’s acting as a judge and giving a decision in his favour. DIVIDE THE INHERITANCE.—See Deuteronomy 21:15. Whether the claim were just or no... [ Continue Reading ]
_CRITICAL NOTES_ Luke 12:22. TAKE NO THOUGHT.—Rather, “be not anxious” (R.V.). The meaning of the word “thought” has changed since 1611. Then it meant “anxiety” (see 1 Samuel 9:5). Luke 12:23. IS MORE.—_I.e._, is a greater gift. He who gave the greater may be relied upon to provide the less. Luke... [ Continue Reading ]
_CRITICAL NOTES_ Luke 12:35. LOINS GIRDED.—An allusion to the long robes of the East, which those who wear them must bind up before they engage in any active employment. LIGHTS BURNING.—The same lesson as in the parable of the Ten Virgins. Luke 12:36. MEN THAT WAIT.—This is a different figure from... [ Continue Reading ]
_CRITICAL NOTES_ Luke 12:41. THEN PETER SAID.—The high reward promised, rather than the duty enjoined, was in Peter’s thoughts, and involved a certain measure of danger against which Christ warns him. It is noticeable that his question is not answered directly, but by implication. “Jesus continues H... [ Continue Reading ]
_CRITICAL NOTES_ Luke 12:49. I AM COME.—Rather, “I came” (R.V.). The tense refers to the historical fact of the Incarnation. Note in this the consciousness of pre-existence, as also of a heavenly origin in the last clause of the verse. FIRE.—As a symbol of discord and violence. WHAT WILL I, etc.—It... [ Continue Reading ]