Luke 12:1-12

3 d. To the Disciples: Luke 12:1-12.

This violent scene had found its echo outside; a considerable crowd had flocked together. Excited by the animosity of their chiefs, the multitude showed a disposition hostile to Jesus and His disciples. Jesus feels the need of turning to His own, and giving them, in presence of all, those encouragements which their situation demands. Besides, He has uttered a word which must have gone to their inmost heart, some of you they will slay and persecute, and He feels the need of supplying some counterpoise. Thus is explained the exhortation which follows, and which has for its object to raise their courage and give them boldness in testifying. Must not one be very hard to please, to challenge, as Holtzmann does, the reality of a situation so simple?

Jesus encourages His apostles: 1 st. By the certainty of the success of their cause (Luke 12:1-3); 2 d. By the assurance which He gives them as to their persons (Luke 12:4-7); 3 d. By the promise of a glorious recompense, which He contrasts with the punishment of the timid, and of their adversaries (Luke 12:8-10); finally, By the assurance of powerful aid (Luke 12:11-12).