9.03.25 Luke 12:1-12

Prepare 

John 1:12-13: "To all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God". 

Let us take a moment to reflect on Jesus’ sacrifice for us. 

Read – Luke 12:1-12 

Meanwhile, when a crowd of many thousands had gathered, so that they were trampling on one another, Jesus began to speak first to his disciples, saying: “Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. What you have said in the dark will be heard in the daylight, and what you have whispered in the ear in the inner rooms will be proclaimed from the roofs. 

“I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear him who, after your body has been killed, has authority to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him. Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows. 

“I tell you, whoever publicly acknowledges me before others, the Son of Man will also acknowledge before the angels of God. But whoever disowns me before others will be disowned before the angels of God. And everyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but anyone who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven. 

“When you are brought before synagogues, rulers and authorities, do not worry about how you will defend yourselves or what you will say, for the Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what you should say.” 

Reflect 

As a young teenager, I found it really easy to speak to my friends about Jesus. Today, as an adult, I find it much more difficult. When I think about what has changed, I think it is mainly my ability to take into consideration the opinions of others. However this is not always a good thing – Jesus’ words are so challenging and clear.  

“I tell you, whoever publicly acknowledges me before others, the Son of Man will also acknowledge before the angels of God. But whoever disowns me before others will be disowned before the angels of God.” 

I don’t know how that makes you feel, but the reality is perhaps quite scary. At the same time though, if we are able to take every opportunity we are presented with to acknowledge Jesus, what a wonderful privilege this is to share Him with others. 

Become 

God, help us to be like Jesus, seeking only to please you. Help us to be bold and courageous in declaring our faith and trust in You. 

Do 

The passage also promises that we are not alone in sharing our faith, but that “the Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what you should say.” Thank you God that you teach us through your Holy Spirit and give us the words to say, especially when we find it hard. 

Practice 

Are there any times that we have denied our faith that we want to say sorry to God for? Let’s take some time to think about this and ask God to help us to be bold in sharing our faith with others today. 

Thank you Lord that we are yours.