Luke 12:15

Commentary on Luke 12:15 (NKJV)

Luke 12:15 (NKJV):

“And He said to them, ‘Take heed and beware of {all} covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses.’“

Introduction

Luke 12:15 is a profound teaching of Jesus Christ, addressing the issue of covetousness and the false security found in material wealth. This verse is pivotal in understanding the biblical view on wealth, contentment, and the Christian life.

Context of Luke 12

In Luke 12, Jesus addresses various topics, including hypocrisy, fear, the acknowledgement of Christ before men, and the parable of the rich fool. The immediate context of Luke 12:15 is the interaction between Jesus and a man who asked Him to arbitrate an inheritance dispute (Luke 12:13–14). This setting provides the backdrop for Jesus’ warning against covetousness and the subsequent parable of the rich fool (Luke 12:16–21).

Teaching of Luke 12:15

Covetousness

Jesus’ admonition, “Take heed and beware of {all} covetousness,” is a clear directive for believers to guard against the desire for excessive wealth and material possessions. Covetousness, or greed, is often seen as idolatry (Colossians 3:5), as it places material things above God. Covetousness is viewed as a sin that leads individuals away from trusting in God’s provision and towards a self-centred life focused on accumulation and material success.

True Life and Material Possessions

Jesus underscores that “one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses.” This statement challenges the secular view that equates success and security with material wealth. Instead, life, in its truest sense, is found in a relationship with God and in seeking His kingdom (Matthew 6:33). Believers are to find their identity and purpose in Christ, not in the temporal and fleeting nature of material wealth.

Application to Modern Christian Living

Contentment and Trust in God

Believers are called to cultivate contentment and trust in God’s provision. The apostle Paul echoes this sentiment in 1 Timothy 6:6–10, where he speaks about the dangers of the love of money and the importance of godliness with contentment. Modern Christians are encouraged to reflect on their own lives and consider whether their pursuit of material wealth is overshadowing their dependence on God.

Stewardship and Generosity

The concept of stewardship is where believers are seen as managers of God’s resources. This perspective encourages the responsible use of wealth and an attitude of generosity towards others (2 Corinthians 9:6–7). Christians are called to use their resources to further God’s kingdom and to help those in need, rather than hoarding wealth for personal gain.

Conclusion

Luke 12:15 serves as a timeless reminder for believers to guard against covetousness and to find true life in Christ rather than in material possessions. By embracing contentment, trust in God, and a spirit of generosity, Christians can live out the teachings of Jesus in a way that honours God and impacts the world for His glory.

By reflecting on the insights from Luke 12:15 and the broader context of Scripture, Christians can navigate the challenges of modern living with a biblical perspective on wealth and contentment.