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Saint Thomas Aquinas, Carlo Crivelli

Luke 12

Carlo Crivelli, Saint Thomas Aquinas, 1476 · National Gallery, London · Public domainCarlo Crivelli, Saint Thomas Aquinas, 1476, National Gallery, London

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Thomas Aquinas · Catena Aurea · Chapter 12

Passages · 209

Luke 12:1–3

  • Theophylact of Ohrid on Luke 12:1–3 — The Pharisees sought indeed to catch Jesus in His talk, that they might lead away the people from Him. But this design of theirs is reversed. For the people came all the more unto Him gathered together by thousands,…vatican.va
  • Cyril of Alexandria on Luke 12:1–3 — For they were false accusers; therefore Christ warned His disciples against them.vatican.va
  • Gregory of Nazianzus on Luke 12:1–3 — When leaven is praised it is as composing the bread of life, but when blamed it signifies a lasting and bitter maliciousness.vatican.va
  • Theophylact of Ohrid on Luke 12:1–3 (2) — He calls their hypocrisy leaven, as perverting and corrupting the intentions of the men in whom it has sprung up. For nothing so changes the characters of men as hypocrisy.vatican.va
  • Bede on Luke 12:1–3 — For as a little leaven leaveneth a whole lump of meal, (1 Cor. 5:6.) so hypocrisy will rob the mind of all the purity and integrity of its virtues.vatican.va
  • Ambrose of Milan on Luke 12:1–3 — Our Lord has introduced a most forcible argument for preserving simplicity, and being zealous for the faith, that we should not after the manner of faithless Jews put one thing in practice, while in words we pretend…vatican.va
  • Origen on Luke 12:1–3 — He either then says this concerning that time when God shall judge the secrets of men, or He says it because however much a man may endeavour to hide the good deeds of another by discredit, good of its own nature…vatican.va
  • John Chrysostom on Luke 12:1–3 — As if He says to His disciples, Although now some call you deceivers and wizards, time shall reveal all things and convict them of calumny, while it makes known your virtue. Therefore whatsoever things I have spoken…vatican.va
  • Bede on Luke 12:1–3 (2) — Or He says this, because all the things which the Apostles of old spoke and suffered amid the darkness of oppression and the gloom of the prison, arc now that the Church is made known through the world and their acts…vatican.va
  • Theophylact of Ohrid on Luke 12:1–3 (3) — Or this is addressed to the Pharisees; as if He said, O Pharisees, what you have spoken in darkness, that is, all your endeavours to tempt me in the secrets of your hearts, shall be heard in the light, for I am the…vatican.va

Luke 12:4–7

  • Ambrose of Milan on Luke 12:4–7 — Since unbelief springs from two causes, either from a deeply-seated malice or a sudden fear; lest any one from terror should be compelled to deny the God whom he acknowledges in his heart, He well adds, And I say…vatican.va
  • Cyril of Alexandria on Luke 12:4–7 — For it is not absolutely to every one that this discourse seems to apply, but to those who love God with their whole heart to whom it belongs to say, Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? (Rom. 8:3.) But…vatican.va
  • Ambrose of Milan on Luke 12:4–7 (2) — He tells us also, that that death is not terrible for which at a far more costly rate of interest immortality is to be purchased.vatican.va
  • Cyril of Alexandria on Luke 12:4–7 (2) — We must then consider that crowns and honours are prepared for the labours of those upon whom men are continually venting forth their indignation, and to them the death of the body is the end of their persecutions.…vatican.va
  • Bede on Luke 12:4–7 — Their rage then is but useless raving, who cast the lifeless limbs of martyrs to be torn in pieces by wild beasts and birds, seeing that they can in no wise prevent the omnipotence of God from quickening and bringing…vatican.va
  • John Chrysostom on Luke 12:4–7 — Observe how our Lord makes His disciples superior to all, by exhorting them to despise that very death which is terrible to all. At the same time also he brings them proofs of the immortality of the soul: adding, I…vatican.va
  • Ambrose of Milan on Luke 12:4–7 (3) — For our natural death is not the end of punishment: and therefore He concludes that death is the cessation of bodily punishment, but the punishment of the soul is everlasting. And God alone is to be feared, to whose…vatican.va
  • Theophylact of Ohrid on Luke 12:4–7 — Here observe, that upon sinners death is sent as a punishment, since they are here tormented by destruction, and afterwards thrust down into hell. But if you will sift the words you will understand something farther.…vatican.va
  • Ambrose of Milan on Luke 12:4–7 (4) — Our Lord then had instilled the virtue of simplicity, had awakened a courageous spirit. Their faith alone was wavering, and well did He strengthen it by adding with respect to things of less value, Are not five…vatican.va
  • Bede on Luke 12:4–7 (2) — The dipondius is a coin of the lightest weight, and equal to two asses.vatican.va
  • Glossa Ordinaria on Luke 12:4–7 — Now that which in number is one is in weight an ass, but that which is two is a dipondius.vatican.va
  • Ambrose of Milan on Luke 12:4–7 (5) — But perhaps some one will say, How is it that the Apostle says, Does the Lord care for oxen? (1 Cor. 9:9.) whereas an ox is of more value than a sparrow; but to care for is one thing, to have knowledge another.vatican.va
  • Origen on Luke 12:4–7 — Literally, hereby is signified the quickness of the Divine foresight, which reaches even to the least things. But mystically, the five sparrows justly represent the spiritual senses, which have perception of high and…vatican.va
  • Theophylact of Ohrid on Luke 12:4–7 (2) — Or these five senses are sold for two farthings, that is, the New and Old Testament, and are therefore not forgotten by God. Of those whose senses are given up to the word of life that they may be fit for the…vatican.va
  • Ambrose of Milan on Luke 12:4–7 (6) — Or else; A good sparrow is one which nature has furnished with the power of flying; for nature has given us the grace of flying, pleasure has taken it away, which loads with meats the soul of the wicked, and moulds…vatican.va
  • Cyril of Alexandria on Luke 12:4–7 (3) — It is His care then diligently to know the life of the saints. Whence it follows, But the hairs of your heads are all numbered; by which He means, that of all things which relate to them He has most accurate…vatican.va
  • Ambrose of Milan on Luke 12:4–7 (7) — Lastly, the numbering of the hairs is not to be taken with reference to the act of reckoning, but to the capability of knowing. Yet they are well said to be numbered, because those things which we wish to preserve we…vatican.va
  • Cyril of Alexandria on Luke 12:4–7 (4) — Now mystically, indeed, the head of a man is his understanding, but his hairs the thoughts, which are open to the eye of God.vatican.va
  • Theophylact of Ohrid on Luke 12:4–7 (3) — Or, by the head of each of the faithful, you must understand a conversation meet for Christ, but by his hair, the works of bodily mortification which are numbered by God, and are worthy of the Divine regard.vatican.va
  • Ambrose of Milan on Luke 12:4–7 (8) — If then such is the majesty of God, that a single sparrow or the number of our hair is not beside His knowledge, how unworthy is it to suppose that the Lord is either ignorant of the hearts of the faithful, or…vatican.va
  • Bede on Luke 12:4–7 (3) — We must not read, Ye are more, which relates to the comparison of number, but ye are of more value, that is, of greater estimation in the sight of God.vatican.va
  • Athanasius of Alexandria on Luke 12:4–7 — Now I ask the Arians, if God, as if disdaining to make all other things, made only His Son, but deputed all things to His Son; how is it that He extends His providence even to such trifling things as our hair, and…vatican.va

Luke 12:8–12

  • Bede on Luke 12:8–12 — It was said above, that every hidden work and word is to be revealed, but He now declares that this revelation is to take place in the presence of the heavenly city and the eternal Judge and King; saying, But I say…vatican.va
  • Ambrose of Milan on Luke 12:8–12 — He has also well introduced faith, stimulating us to its confession, and to faith itself He has placed virtue as a foundation. For as faith is the incentive to fortitude, so is fortitude the strong support of faith.vatican.va
  • John Chrysostom on Luke 12:8–12 — The Lord is not then content with an inward faith, but requires an outward confession, urging us to confidence and greater love. And since this is useful for all, He speaks generally, saying, Whosoever shall confess…vatican.va
  • Cyril of Alexandria on Luke 12:8–12 — Now Paul says, If thou wilt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and believe in thy heart that God raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. (Rom. 10:9.) The whole mystery of Christ is conveyed in these words.…vatican.va
  • Eusebius of Caesarea on Luke 12:8–12 — But what will be more glorious than to have the only-begotten Word of God Himself to bear witness in our behalf at the divine judgment, and by His own love to draw forth as a recompense for confession, a declaration…vatican.va
  • John Chrysostom on Luke 12:8–12 (2) — Both in condemnation a greater punishment is announced, and in blessing a greater reward; as if He said, Now you confess and deny, but I then, for a far greater recompense of good and evil awaits them in the world to…vatican.va
  • Eusebius of Caesarea on Luke 12:8–12 (2) — He rightly declares this threatening, in order that none should refuse to confess Him by reason of the punishment, which is to be denied by the Son of God, to be disowned by Wisdom, to fall away from life, to be…vatican.va
  • Cyril of Alexandria on Luke 12:8–12 (2) — Now they who deny are first indeed those who in time of persecution renounce the faith. Besides these, there are heretical teachers also, and their disciples.vatican.va
  • John Chrysostom on Luke 12:8–12 (3) — There are other modes also of denying which St. Paul describes, saying, They profess that they know God, but in works they deny him. (Tit. 1:16.) And again, If any provide not for his own, and specially for those of…vatican.va
  • Bede on Luke 12:8–12 (2) — But lest from what He says, that those who have denied Him are to be denied, it should be supposed that the condition of all was alike, that is, both of those who deny deliberately, and those who deny from infirmity…vatican.va
  • Cyril of Alexandria on Luke 12:8–12 (3) — But if our Saviour means to imply, that if any injurious word is spoken by us against a common man, we shall obtain pardon if we repent, there is no difficulty in the passage, for since God is by nature merciful, He…vatican.va
  • Ambrose of Milan on Luke 12:8–12 (2) — Truly by the Son of Man we understand Christ, Who by the Holy Spirit was born of a virgin, seeing that His only parent on earth is the Virgin. What then, is the Holy Spirit greater than Christ, that they who sin…vatican.va
  • Athanasius of Alexandria on Luke 12:8–12 — The ancients indeed, the learned Origen and the great Theognostus, describe this to be the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost, when they who have been counted worthy of the gift of the Holy Spirit in Baptism, fall back…vatican.va
  • Ambrose of Milan on Luke 12:8–12 (3) — Thus it is thought by some that we should believe both the Son and the Holy Spirit to be the same Christ, preserving the distinction of Persons with the unity of the substance, since Christ both God and man is one…vatican.va
  • Bede on Luke 12:8–12 (3) — Or else; Whoso saith that the works of the Holy Spirit are those of Beelzebub, it shall not be forgiven him either in the present world, or in that which is to come. Not that we deny that if he could come to…vatican.va
  • Cyril of Alexandria on Luke 12:8–12 (4) — But if the Holy Spirit were a creature, and not of the divine substance of the Father and the Son, how does an injury committed against Him entail upon it so great a punishment as is denounced against those that…vatican.va
  • Bede on Luke 12:8–12 (4) — Nor however are all they who say that the Spirit is not holy, or is not God, but is inferior to the Father and the Son, involved in the crime of unpardonable blasphemy, because they are led to do it through human…vatican.va
  • Augustine of Hippo on Luke 12:8–12 — Or if it were here said, “Who hath spoken any blasphemy whatever against the Holy Spirit,” we ought then to understand thereby “all blasphemy;” but because it was said, who blasphemeth against the Holy Spirit, let it…vatican.va
  • Cyril of Alexandria on Luke 12:8–12 (5) — But the Lord after having inspired such great fear, and prepared men to resist those who depart from a right confession, commanded them for the rest to take no care what they should answer, because for those who are…vatican.va
  • Glossa Ordinaria on Luke 12:8–12 — Now he says, how, with respect to the manner of speaking, what, with respect to the manner of intention. How ye shall answer to those who ask, or what ye shall say to those who wish to learn.vatican.va
  • Bede on Luke 12:8–12 (5) — For when we are led for Christ’s sake before judges, we ought to offer only our will for Christ, but in answering, the Holy Spirit will supply His grace, as it is added, For the Holy Spirit will leach you, &c.vatican.va
  • John Chrysostom on Luke 12:8–12 (4) — But elsewhere it is said, Be ready to answer every one who shall ask you for a reason of the hope that is in you. When indeed a contest or strife arises among friends, He bids us take thought, but when there are the…vatican.va
  • Theophylact of Ohrid on Luke 12:8–12 — Since then our weakness is twofold, and either from fear of punishment we shun martyrdom, or because we are ignorant and can not give a reason of our faith, he has excluded both; the fear of punishment in that He…vatican.va

Luke 12:13–15

  • Ambrose of Milan on Luke 12:13–15 — The whole of the former passage is given to prepare us for undergoing suffering for confessing the Lord, or for contempt of death, or for the hope of reward, or for denunciation of the punishment that will await him…vatican.va
  • Theophylact of Ohrid on Luke 12:13–15 — As these two brothers were contending concerning the division of their paternal inheritance, it follows, that one meant to defraud the other; but our Lord teaches us that we ought not to be set on earthly things, and…vatican.va
  • Bede on Luke 12:13–15 — He who wills to impose the trouble of division of lands upon the Master who is commending the joys of heavenly peace, is rightly called man, according to that, whereas there is envying, strife, and divisions among…vatican.va
  • Cyril of Alexandria on Luke 12:13–15 — Now the Son of God, when He was made like unto us, was appointed by God the Father to be King and Prince upon his holy Mount of Sion, to make known the Divine command.vatican.va
  • Ambrose of Milan on Luke 12:13–15 (2) — Well then does He avoid earthly things who had descended for the sake of divine things, and deigns not to be a judge of strifes and arbiter of laws, having the judgment of the quick and dead and the recompensing of…vatican.va
  • Bede on Luke 12:13–15 (2) — He takes occasion from this foolish petitioner to fortify both the multitudes and His disciples alike by precept and example against the plague of covetousness. Whence it follows, He said to them, Take heed, and…vatican.va
  • Cyril of Alexandria on Luke 12:13–15 (2) — Or he says, of all covetousness, that is, great and little. For covetousness is unprofitable, as the Lord says, Ye shall build houses of hewn stone, and shall not dwell in them. (Amos 5:11, Isa. 5:10.) And elsewhere,…vatican.va
  • Theophylact of Ohrid on Luke 12:13–15 (2) — This our Lord says to rebuke the motives of the covetous, who seem to heap up riches as if they were going to live for a long time. But will wealth ever make thee long lived? Why then dost thou manifestly undergo…vatican.va

Luke 12:16–21

  • Theophylact of Ohrid on Luke 12:16–21 — Having said that the life of man is not extended by abundance of wealth, he adds a parable to induce belief in this, as it follows, And he spake a parable unto them, saying, The ground of a certain rich man brought…vatican.va
  • Basil the Great on Luke 12:16–21 — Not indeed about to reap any good from his plenty of fruits, but that the mercy of God might the more appear, which extends its goodness even to the bad; sending down His rain upon the just and the unjust. But what…vatican.va
  • Gregory the Great on Luke 12:16–21 — O adversity, the child of plenty. For saying, What shall I do, he surely betokens, that, oppressed by the success of his wishes, he labours as it were under a load of goods.vatican.va
  • Basil the Great on Luke 12:16–21 (2) — It was easy for him to say, I will open my barn, I will call together the needy, but he has no thought of want, only of amassing; for it follows, And he said, This will I do, I will pull down my barns. Thou doest…vatican.va
  • Cyril of Alexandria on Luke 12:16–21 — Observe also in another respect the folly of his words, when he says, I will gather all my fruits, as if he thought that he had not obtained them from God, but that they were the fruits of his own labours.vatican.va
  • Basil the Great on Luke 12:16–21 (3) — But if thou confessest that those things have come to thee from God, is God then unjust in distributing to us unequally. Why dost thou abound while another begs? unless that thou shouldest gain the rewards of a good…vatican.va
  • John Chrysostom on Luke 12:16–21 — But in this he errs, that he thinks those things good which are indifferent. For there are some things good, some evil, some between the two. The good are chastity, and humility, and the like, which when a man…vatican.va
  • Cyril of Alexandria on Luke 12:16–21 (2) — The rich man then builds barns which last not, but decay, and what is still more foolish, reckons for himself upon a long life; for it follows, And I will say unto my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many…vatican.va
  • Athanasius of Alexandria on Luke 12:16–21 — Now if any one lives so as to die daily, seeing that our life is naturally uncertain, he will not sin, for the greater fear destroys very much pleasure, but the rich man on the contrary, promising to himself length…vatican.va
  • Basil the Great on Luke 12:16–21 (4) — Thou art so careless with respect to the goods of the soul, that thou ascribest the meats of the body to the soul. If indeed it has virtue, if it is fruitful in good works, if it clings to God, it possesses many…vatican.va
  • John Chrysostom on Luke 12:16–21 (2) — Now it behoves us not to indulge in delights which fattening the body make lean the soul, and bring a heavy burden upon it, and spread darkness over it, and a thick covering, because in pleasure our governing part…vatican.va
  • Basil the Great on Luke 12:16–21 (5) — But he was permitted to deliberate in every thing, and to manifest his purpose, that he might receive a sentence such as his inclinations deserved. But while he speaks in secret, his words are weighed in heaven, from…vatican.va
  • Gregory the Great on Luke 12:16–21 (2) — The same night he was taken away, who had expected many years, that he indeed who had in gathering stores for himself looked a long time forward, should not see even the next day.vatican.va
  • John Chrysostom on Luke 12:16–21 (3) — They shall require of thee, for perhaps certain dread powers were sent to require it, since if when going from city to city we want a guide, much more will the soul when released from the body, and passing to a…vatican.va
  • Gregory the Great on Luke 12:16–21 (3) — But in the night the soul was taken away which had gone forth in the darkness of its heart, being unwilling to have the light of consideration, so as to foresee what it might suffer. But He adds, Then whose shall…vatican.va
  • John Chrysostom on Luke 12:16–21 (4) — For here shalt thou leave those things, and not only reap no advantage from them, but carry a load of sins upon thy own shoulders. And these things which thou hast laid up will for the most part come into the hands…vatican.va
  • Bede on Luke 12:16–21 — For such a one is a fool, and will be taken off in the night. He then who wishes to be rich toward God, will not lay up treasures for himself, but distribute his possessions to the poor.vatican.va
  • Ambrose of Milan on Luke 12:16–21 — For in vain he amasses wealth who knows not how to use it. Neither are these things ours which we cannot take away with us. Virtue alone is the companion of the dead, mercy alone follows us, which gains for the dead…vatican.va

Luke 12:22–23

  • Theophylact of Ohrid on Luke 12:22–23 — The Lord carries us onward by degrees to a more perfect teaching. For He taught us above to beware of covetousness, and He added the parable of the rich man, intimating thereby that the fool is he who desires more…vatican.va
  • John Chrysostom on Luke 12:22–23 — Now the words, Take no thought, are not the same as do no work, but, “Have not your minds fixed on earthly things.” For it so happens, that the man who is working takes no thought.vatican.va
  • Cyril of Alexandria on Luke 12:22–23 — Now the soul is more excellent than food, and the body than clothing. Therefore He adds, The life is more than meat, &c. As if He said, “God who has implanted that which is greater, how will He not give that which is…vatican.va
  • Ambrose of Milan on Luke 12:22–23 — Now nothing is more likely to produce conviction in believers that God can give us all things, than the fact, that the ethereal spirit perpetuates the vital union of the soul and body in close fellowship, without our…vatican.va

Luke 12:24–26

  • Cyril of Alexandria on Luke 12:24–26 — As before in raising our minds to spiritual boldness, He assured us by the example of the birds, which are counted of little worth, saying, Ye are of more value than many sparrows; so now also from the instance of…vatican.va
  • Bede on Luke 12:24–26 — That is, ye are more precious, because a rational animal like man is of a higher order in the nature of things than irrational things, as the birds are.vatican.va
  • Ambrose of Milan on Luke 12:24–26 — : But it is a great thing to follow up this example in faith. For to the birds of the air who have no labour of tilling, no produce from the fruitfulness of crops, Divine Providence grants an unfailing sustenance. It…vatican.va
  • Cyril of Alexandria on Luke 12:24–26 (2) — Now whereas our Lord might have taken an example from the men who have cared least about earthly things, such as Elias, Moses, and John, and the like, He made mention of the birds, following the Old Testament, which…vatican.va
  • Theophylact of Ohrid on Luke 12:24–26 — Now the reason that he omits mention of the other birds, and speaks only of the ravens, is, that the young of the ravens are by an especial providence fed by God. For the ravens produce indeed, but do not feed, but…vatican.va
  • Eusebius of Caesarea on Luke 12:24–26 — By the ravens also he signifies something else, for the birds which pick up seeds have a ready source of food, but those that feed on flesh as the ravens do have more difficulty in getting it. Yet birds of this kind…vatican.va
  • John Chrysostom on Luke 12:24–26 — Observe, that when God has once given a soul, it abides the same, but the body is taking growth daily. Passing over then the soul as not receiving increase, he makes mention only of the body, giving us to understand…vatican.va
  • Eusebius of Caesarea on Luke 12:24–26 (2) — If no one has by his own skill contrived a bodily stature for himself, but can not add even the shortest delay to the prefixed limit of his time of life, why should we be vainly anxious about the necessaries of life?vatican.va
  • Bede on Luke 12:24–26 (2) — To Him then leave the care of directing the body, by whose aid you see it to come to pass that you have a body of such a stature.vatican.va
  • Augustine of Hippo on Luke 12:24–26 — But in speaking concerning increasing the stature of the body, He refers to that which is least, that is, to God, to make bodies.vatican.va

Luke 12:27–31

  • John Chrysostom on Luke 12:27–31 — As our Lord had before given instruction about food, so now also about raiment, saying, Consider the lilies of the field how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin, that is, to make themselves clothing. Now…vatican.va
  • Eusebius of Caesarea on Luke 12:27–31 — But if a man wishes to be adorned with precious raiment, let him observe closely how even down to the flowers which spring from the earth God extends His manifold wisdom, adorning them with divers colours, so…vatican.va
  • John Chrysostom on Luke 12:27–31 (2) — He does not here employ the example of the birds, making mention of a swan or a peacock, but the lilies, for he wishes to give force to the argument on both sides, that is to say, both from the meanness of the things…vatican.va
  • Cyril of Alexandria on Luke 12:27–31 — For it is sufficient to the prudent for the sake of necessity only, to have a suitable garment, and moderate food, not exceeding what is enough. To the saints it is sufficient even to have those spiritual delights…vatican.va
  • Ambrose of Milan on Luke 12:27–31 — Nor does it seem of light moment, that a flower is either compared to man, or even almost more than to man is preferred to Solomon, to make us conceive the glory expressed, from the brightness of the colour to be…vatican.va
  • Cyril of Alexandria on Luke 12:27–31 (2) — it were strange for the disciples, who ought to set before others the rule and pattern of life, to fall into those things, which it was their duty to advise men to renounce; and therefore our Lord adds, And seek not…vatican.va
  • Bede on Luke 12:27–31 — It must however be observed, that He says not, Do not seek or take thought about meat, or drink, or raiment, but what ye shall eat or drink, in which He seems to me to reprove those who, despising the common food and…vatican.va
  • Gregory of Nyssa on Luke 12:27–31 — Some have obtained dominion and honours and riches by praying for them, how then dost thou forbid us to seek such things in prayer? And indeed that all these things belong to the Divine counsel is plain to every one,…vatican.va
  • Augustine of Hippo on Luke 12:27–31 — Now having forbidden all thought about food, he next goes on to warn men not to be puffed up, saying, Neither be ye lifted up, (nolite in sublime tolli μὴ μετεωρίζισθε.) for man first seeks these things to satisfy…vatican.va
  • Theophylact of Ohrid on Luke 12:27–31 — Or by being lifted up he means nothing else but an unsteady motion of the mind, meditating first one thing, then another, and jumping from this to that, and imagining lofty things.vatican.va
  • Basil the Great on Luke 12:27–31 — And that you may understand an elation of this kind, remember the vanity of your own youth; if at any time while by yourself you have thought about life and promotions, passing rapidly from one dignity to another,…vatican.va
  • Gregory of Nyssa on Luke 12:27–31 (2) — For to be careful about visible things is the part of those who possess no hope of a future life, no fear of judgment to come.vatican.va
  • Basil the Great on Luke 12:27–31 (2) — But with respect to the necessaries of life, He adds, And your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things.vatican.va
  • John Chrysostom on Luke 12:27–31 (3) — He said not “God,” but your Father, to incite them to greater confidence. For who is a father, and would not allow the want of his children to be supplied? But He adds another thing also; for you could not say that…vatican.va
  • Ambrose of Milan on Luke 12:27–31 (2) — But He goes on to shew, that neither at the present time, nor hereafter, will grace be lacking to the faithful, if only they who desire heavenly things seek not earthly; for it is unworthy for men to care for meats,…vatican.va
  • John Chrysostom on Luke 12:27–31 (4) — Now Christ promises not only a kingdom, but also riches with it; for if we rescue from cares those who neglecting their own concerns are diligent about ours, much more will God.vatican.va
  • Bede on Luke 12:27–31 (2) — For He declares that there is one thing which is primarily given, another which is superadded; that we ought to make eternity our aim, the present life our business.vatican.va

Luke 12:32–34

  • Glossa Ordinaria on Luke 12:32–34 — Our Lord having removed the care of temporal things from the hearts of His disciples, now banishes fear from them, from which superfluous cares proceed, saying, Fear not, &c.vatican.va
  • Theophylact of Ohrid on Luke 12:32–34 — By the little flock, our Lord signifies those who are willing to become His disciples, or because in this world the Saints seem little because of their voluntary poverty, or because they are outnumbered by the…vatican.va
  • Cyril of Alexandria on Luke 12:32–34 — But why they ought not to fear, He shews, adding, for it is your Father’s good pleasure; as if He says, How shall He who gives such precious things be wearied in shewing mercy towards you? For although His flock is…vatican.va
  • Bede on Luke 12:32–34 — As if He says, Fear not lest they who warfare for the kingdom of God, should be in want of the necessaries of this life. But sell that ye have for alms’ sake, which then is done worthily, when a man having once for…vatican.va
  • John Chrysostom on Luke 12:32–34 — For there is no sin which almsgiving does not avail to blot out. It is a salve adapted to ever wound. But almsgiving has to do not only with money, but with all matters also wherein man succours man, as when the…vatican.va
  • Gregory of Nazianzus on Luke 12:32–34 — Now I fear lest you should think deeds of mercy to be not necessary to you, but voluntary. I also thought so, but was alarmed at the goats placed on the left hand, not because they robbed, but did not minister unto…vatican.va
  • John Chrysostom on Luke 12:32–34 (2) — For without alms it is impossible to see the kingdom. For as a fountain if it keeps its waters within itself grows foul, so also rich men when they retain every thing in their possession.vatican.va
  • Basil the Great on Luke 12:32–34 — But some one will ask, upon what grounds ought we to sell that which we have? Is it that these things are by nature hurtful, or because of the temptation to our souls? To this we must answer, first, that every thing…vatican.va
  • Cyril of Alexandria on Luke 12:32–34 (2) — Now perhaps this command is irksome to the rich, yet to those who are of a sound mind, it is not unprofitable, for their treasure is the kingdom of heaven. Hence it follows, Provide for yourselves bags which wax not…vatican.va
  • Bede on Luke 12:32–34 (2) — That is, by doing alms, the reward of which abideth for ever; which must not be taken as a command that no money be kept by the saints either for their own, or the use of the poor, since we read that our Lord…vatican.va
  • Gregory of Nyssa on Luke 12:32–34 — But He bids us lay up our visible and earthly treasures where the power of corruption does not reach, and hence He adds, a treasure that faileth not, &c.vatican.va
  • Theophylact of Ohrid on Luke 12:32–34 (2) — As if He said, “Here the moth corrupts, but there is no corruption in heaven.” Then because there are some things which the moth does not corrupt, He goes on to speak of the thief. For gold the moth corrupts not, but…vatican.va
  • Bede on Luke 12:32–34 (3) — Whether then should it be simply understood, that money kept faileth, but given away to our neighbour bears everlasting fruit in heaven; or, that the treasure of good works, if it be stored up for the sake of earthly…vatican.va
  • Glossa Ordinaria on Luke 12:32–34 (2) — Or, the thieves are heretics and evil spirits, who are bent upon depriving us of spiritual things. The moth which secretly frets the garments is envy, which mars good desires, and bursts the bonds of charity.vatican.va
  • Theophylact of Ohrid on Luke 12:32–34 (3) — Moreover, because all things are not taken away by theft, He adds a more excellent reason, and one which admits of no objection whatever, saying, For where your treasure is, there will your hearts be also; as if He…vatican.va
  • Eusebius of Caesarea on Luke 12:32–34 — For every man naturally dwells upon that which is the object of his desire, and thither he directs all his thoughts, where he supposes his whole interest to rest. If any one then has his whole mind and affections,…vatican.va
  • Bede on Luke 12:32–34 (4) — Now this must not only be felt concerning love of money, but all the passions. Luxurious feasts are treasures; also the sports of the gay and the desires of the lover,vatican.va

Luke 12:35–40

Luke 12:41–46

  • Theophylact of Ohrid on Luke 12:41–46 — Peter, to whom the Church had already been committed, as having the care of all things, inquires whether our Lord put forth this parable to all. As it follows, Then Peter said unto him, Lord, speakest thou this…vatican.va
  • Bede on Luke 12:41–46 — Our Lord had taught two things in the preceding parable unto all, even that He would come suddenly, and that they ought to be ready and waiting for Him. But it is not very plain concerning which of these, or whether…vatican.va
  • Cyril of Alexandria on Luke 12:41–46 — Now to the courageous rightly belong the great and difficult of God’s holy commandments, but to those who have not yet attained to such virtue, belong those things from which all difficulty is excluded. Our Lord…vatican.va
  • Ambrose of Milan on Luke 12:41–46 — Or else, the form of the first command is a general one adapted to all, but the following example seems to be proposed to the stewards, that is, the priests; and therefore it follows, And the Lord said, Who then is…vatican.va
  • Theophylact of Ohrid on Luke 12:41–46 (2) — The above-mentioned parable relates to all the faithful in common, but now hear what suits the Apostles and teachers. For I ask, where will be found the steward, that possesses in himself faithfulness and wisdom? for…vatican.va
  • John Chrysostom on Luke 12:41–46 — But our Lord here asks the question not as ignorant, who was a faithful and wise steward, but wishing to imply the rareness of such, and the greatness of this kind of chief government.vatican.va
  • Theophylact of Ohrid on Luke 12:41–46 (3) — Whosoever then has been found a faithful and wise steward, let him bear rule over the Lord’s household, that he may give them their portion of meat in due season, either the word of doctrine by which their souls are…vatican.va
  • Augustine of Hippo on Luke 12:41–46 — Now he says portion, because of suiting His measure to the capacity of his several hearers.vatican.va
  • Isidore of Seville on Luke 12:41–46 — It was added also in their due season, because a benefit not conferred at its proper time is rendered vain, and loses the name of a benefit. The same bread is not equally coveted by the hungry man, and him that is…vatican.va
  • Basil the Great on Luke 12:41–46 — He says not, ‘doing,’ as if by chance, but so doing. For not only conquest is honourable, but to contend lawfully, which is to perform each thing as we have been commanded.vatican.va
  • Cyril of Alexandria on Luke 12:41–46 (2) — Thus the faithful and wise servant prudently giving out in due season the servants’ food, that is, their spiritual meat, will be blessed according to the Saviour’s word, in that he will obtain still greater things,…vatican.va
  • Bede on Luke 12:41–46 (2) — For whatever difference there is in the merits of good hearers and good teachers, such also there is in their rewards; for the one whom when He cometh He finds watching, He will make to sit down; but the others whom…vatican.va
  • Theophylact of Ohrid on Luke 12:41–46 (4) — Or, he will make him ruler over all that he hath, not only over His own household, but that earthly things as well as heavenly shall obey him. As it was with Joshua the son of Nun, and Elias, the one commanding the…vatican.va
  • John Chrysostom on Luke 12:41–46 (2) — But our Lord not only by the honours kept in store for the good, but by threats of punishment upon the bad, leads the hearer to correction, as it follows, But if that servant shall say in his heart, My Lord delayeth…vatican.va
  • Bede on Luke 12:41–46 (3) — Observe that it is counted among the vices of a bad servant that he thought the coming of his Lord slow, yet it is not numbered among the virtues of the good that he hoped it would come quickly, but only that he…vatican.va
  • Theophylact of Ohrid on Luke 12:41–46 (5) — Now from not considering the time of our departure, there proceed many evils. For surely if we thought that our Lord was coming, and that the end of our life was at hand, we should sin the less. Hence it follows, And…vatican.va
  • Bede on Luke 12:41–46 (4) — In this servant is declared the condemnation of all evil rulers, who, forsaking the fear of the Lord, not only give themselves up to pleasures, but also provoke with injuries those who are put under them. Although…vatican.va
  • Basil the Great on Luke 12:41–46 (2) — The body indeed is not divided, so that one part indeed should be exposed to torments, the other escape. For this is a fable, nor is it a part of just judgment when the whole has offended that half only should suffer…vatican.va
  • Bede on Luke 12:41–46 (5) — Or He will cut him in sunder, by separating him from the communion of the faithful, and dismissing him to those who have never attained unto the faith. Hence it follows, And will appoint him his portion with the…vatican.va
  • Theophylact of Ohrid on Luke 12:41–46 (6) — Rightly also shall the unbelieving steward receive his portion with the unbelievers, because he was without true faith.vatican.va

Luke 12:47–48

  • Theophylact of Ohrid on Luke 12:47–48 — Our Lord here points to something still greater and more terrible, for the unfaithful steward shall not only be deprived of the grace he had, so that it should profit him nothing in escaping punishment, but the…vatican.va
  • John Chrysostom on Luke 12:47–48 — For all things are not judged alike in all, but greater knowledge is an occasion of greater punishment. Therefore shall the Priest, committing the same sin with the people, suffer a far heavier penalty.vatican.va
  • Cyril of Alexandria on Luke 12:47–48 — For the man of understanding who has given up his will to baser things will shamelessly implore pardon, because he has committed an inexcusable sin, departing as it were maliciously from the will of God, but the rude…vatican.va
  • Theophylact of Ohrid on Luke 12:47–48 (2) — Here some object, saying, He is deservedly punished who, knowing the will of His Lord, pursues it not; but why is the ignorant punished? Because when he might have known, be would not, but being himself slothful, was…vatican.va
  • Basil the Great on Luke 12:47–48 — But you will say, If the one indeed received many stripes, and the other few, how do some say He assigns no end to punishments? But we must know, that what is here said assigns neither measure nor end of punishments,…vatican.va
  • Theophylact of Ohrid on Luke 12:47–48 (3) — But he goes on to shew why teachers and learned men deserve a severer punishment, as it is said, For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required. Teachers indeed are given the grace to perform…vatican.va
  • Bede on Luke 12:47–48 — Or else, much is often given also to certain individuals, upon whom is bestowed the knowledge of God’s will, and the means of performing what they know; much also is given to him to whom, together with his own…vatican.va

Luke 12:49–53

  • Ambrose of Milan on Luke 12:49–53 — To stewards, that is, to Priests, the preceding words seem to have been addressed, that they may thereby know that hereafter a heavier punishment awaits them, if, intent upon the world’s pleasures, they have…vatican.va
  • Cyril of Alexandria on Luke 12:49–53 — Now it is the way of holy Scripture to use sometimes the term fire, of holy and divine words. For as they who know how to purify gold and silver, destroy the dross by fire, so the Saviour by the teaching of the…vatican.va
  • John Chrysostom on Luke 12:49–53 — For by the earth He now means not that which we tread under our feet, but that which was fashioned by His hands, namely, man, upon whom the Lord pours out fire for the consuming of sins, and the renewing of souls.vatican.va
  • Titus of Bostra on Luke 12:49–53 — And we must here believe that Christ came down from heaven. For if He had come from earth to earth, He would not say, I came to send fire upon the earth.vatican.va
  • Cyril of Alexandria on Luke 12:49–53 (2) — But our Lord was hastening the kindling of the fire, and hence it follows, And what will I, save that it be kindleda? (nisi ut accendatur) For already some of the Jews believed, of whom the first were the holy…vatican.va
  • Gregory the Great on Luke 12:49–53 — Or else, fire is sent upon the earth, when by the fiery breath of the Holy Spirit, the earthly mind has all its carnal desires burnt up, but inflamed with spiritual love, bewails the evil it has done; and so the…vatican.va
  • Bede on Luke 12:49–53 — But He adds, I have a baptism to be baptized with, that is, I have first to be sprinkled with the drops of My own Blood, and then to inflame the hearts of believers by the fire of the Spirit.vatican.va
  • Ambrose of Milan on Luke 12:49–53 (2) — But so great was our Lord’s condescension, that He tells us He has a desire of inspiring us with devotion, of accomplishing perfection in us, and of hastening His passion for us; as it follows, And how am I…vatican.va
  • Bede on Luke 12:49–53 (2) — Some manuscripts have, “And how am I anguished,” (coangor) that is, grieved. For though He had in Himself nothing to grieve Him, yet was He afflicted by our woes, and at the time of death He betrayed the anguish…vatican.va
  • Bede on Luke 12:49–53 (3) — But the manner in which after the baptism of His passion and the coming of the spiritual fire the earth will be burnt, He declares as follows, Suppose ye that I am to give peace, &c.vatican.va
  • Cyril of Alexandria on Luke 12:49–53 (3) — What sayest thou, O Lord? Didst thou not come to give peace, Who art made peace for us? (Eph. 2:14.) making peace by Thy cross with things in earth and things in heaven; (Col. 1:20.) Who saidst, My peace I give unto…vatican.va
  • Ambrose of Milan on Luke 12:49–53 (3) — Though the connexion would seem to be of six persons, father and son, mother and daughter, mother in law and daughter in law, yet are they five, for the mother and the mother in law may be taken as the same, since…vatican.va
  • John Chrysostom on Luke 12:49–53 (2) — Now hereby He declared a future event, for it so happened in the same house that there have been believers whose fathers wished to bring them to unbelief; but the power of Christ’s doctrines has so prevailed, that…vatican.va
  • Ambrose of Milan on Luke 12:49–53 (4) — Now in a mystical sense the one house is one man, but by two we often mean the soul and the body. But if two things meet together, each one has its part; there is one which obeys, another which rules. But there are…vatican.va
  • Bede on Luke 12:49–53 (4) — Or in another way. By three are signified those who have faith in the Trinity, by two the unbelievers who depart from the unity of the faith. But the father is the devil, whose children we were by following him, but…vatican.va

Luke 12:54–57

  • Theophylact of Ohrid on Luke 12:54–57 — When He spoke about preaching, and called it a sword, His hearers may have been troubled, not knowing what He meant. And therefore our Lord adds, that as men determine the state of the weather by certain signs, so…vatican.va
  • Bede on Luke 12:54–57 — Or, they who from the change of the elements can easily when they like predetermine the state of the weather, might if they wished also understand the time of our Lord’s coming from the words of the Prophets.vatican.va
  • Cyril of Alexandria on Luke 12:54–57 — For the prophets have in many ways foretold the mystery of Christ; it became them therefore, if they were wise, to stretch their prospect beyond to the future, nor will ignorance of the time to come avail them after…vatican.va
  • Basil the Great on Luke 12:54–57 — Now we must observe, that conjectures concerning the stars are necessary to the life of man, as long as we do lot push our searches into their signs beyond due limits. For it is possible to discover some things with…vatican.va
  • Bede on Luke 12:54–57 (2) — But lest any of the people should allege their ignorance of the prophetical books as a reason why they could not discern the courses of the times, He carefully adds, And why even of yourselves judge ye not what is…vatican.va
  • Origen on Luke 12:54–57 — But had it not been implanted in our nature to judge what is right, our Lord would never have said this.vatican.va

Luke 12:58–59

  • Theophylact of Ohrid on Luke 12:58–59 — Our Lord having described a rightful difference, next teaches us a rightful reconciliation, saying, When thou goest with thine adversary to the magistrate, as thou art in the way, give diligence that thou mayest be…vatican.va
  • Cyril of Alexandria on Luke 12:58–59 — Where thou wilt suffer want until thou payest the last farthing; and this is what He adds, I say unto you, thou shalt not depart hence.vatican.va
  • John Chrysostom on Luke 12:58–59 — It seems to me that He is speaking of the present judges, and of the way to the present judgment, and of the prison of this world. For by these things which are visible and at hand, ignorant men are wont to gain…vatican.va
  • Ambrose of Milan on Luke 12:58–59 — Or our adversary is the devil, who lays his baits for sin, that he may have those his partners in punishment who were his accomplices in crime; our adversary is also every vicious practice. Lastly, our adversary is…vatican.va
  • Origen on Luke 12:58–59 — Or else, He here introduces four characters, the adversary, the magistrate, the officer, and the judge. But with Matthew the character of the magistrate is left out, and instead of the officer a servant is…vatican.va
  • Bede on Luke 12:58–59 — Or else, our adversary in the way is the word of God, which opposes our carnal desires in this life; from which he is delivered who is subject to its precepts. Else he will be delivered to the judge, for of contempt…vatican.va

Scripture cited · 35 verses

Exodus 32:34 · Isaiah 5:10 · Isaiah 6:10 · Isaiah 11:5 · Lamentations 4:20 · Amos 5:11 · Matthew 4:11 · Matthew 6:26 · Matthew 13:49 · Matthew 22:12 · Matthew 28:19 · Luke 7:41 · John 12:6 · John 14:6 · John 14:27 · John 15:13 · John 16:13 · Romans 8:3 · Romans 10:9 · 1 Corinthians 3:3 · 1 Corinthians 5:6 · 1 Corinthians 9:9 · 2 Corinthians 11:2 · 2 Corinthians 11:10 · Galatians 4:6 · Galatians 4:19 · Ephesians 2:14 · Colossians 1:20 · Colossians 3:5 · 1 Thessalonians 5:2 · 1 Timothy 4:4 · 1 Timothy 5:8 · Titus 1:16 · Hebrews 6:4 · James 1:13

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