New Testament
Luke 12:15
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Then he said to them all, "Be on your guard against every kind of greed, because a person's life isn't measured by how much they own."
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And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.
What Luke 12:15 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus warns his listeners to be cautious about greed and the desire for material possessions. He emphasizes that a person's worth and life are not determined by their wealth or what they own. Instead, true value comes from spiritual richness and relationships, not material abundance. This teaching challenges societal norms that equate success with possessions. Jesus encourages a mindset that prioritizes generosity and contentment over the relentless pursuit of more. By recognizing that life is more than just accumulating things, individuals can focus on what truly matters, such as love, kindness, and faith. This perspective helps to cultivate a more fulfilling and meaningful life, free from the burdens of greed and envy.
How to apply Luke 12:15 to your life
To apply this teaching, regularly assess your priorities and values. Focus on building relationships and serving others rather than accumulating wealth. Practice gratitude for what you have and consider ways to share your resources with those in need, fostering a spirit of generosity.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
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At a Glance — the Book of Luke
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 12:15 mean?
Luke 12:15 teaches that one should be cautious of greed and materialism. Jesus emphasizes that a person's life is not defined by their possessions, encouraging a focus on spiritual values and relationships instead.
What is the meaning of greed in Luke 12:15?
In Luke 12:15, greed refers to an excessive desire for wealth and possessions. Jesus warns that this mindset can distract from what truly matters in life, which is not measured by material abundance.
How can I apply Luke 12:15 in my life?
To apply Luke 12:15, focus on valuing relationships and serving others rather than accumulating wealth. Practice gratitude for what you have and look for ways to share your resources generously.
What does Jesus mean by 'a person's life isn't measured by how much they own'?
Jesus means that true value in life comes from spiritual fulfillment and connections with others, not from material possessions. This challenges the common belief that success is tied to wealth.
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