New Testament

Luke 12:21

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, Jesus teaches that accumulating wealth solely for oneself is ultimately meaningless if one does not also invest in their relationship with God.

Author
Luke the physician
Written
Around AD 60-62
Genre
Gospel and history
Original Audience
Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
CBTClear Bible Translation

That's how it is for anyone who hoards wealth for themselves but isn't rich toward God."

KJVKing James Version

So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, Jesus teaches that accumulating wealth solely for oneself is ultimately meaningless if one does not also invest in their relationship with God. The person who hoards riches may appear successful by worldly standards, but they lack spiritual wealth. Being 'rich toward God' means prioritizing spiritual growth, generosity, and helping others. It emphasizes that true fulfillment comes from a life aligned with God's values rather than merely seeking material possessions. This teaching encourages individuals to reflect on their priorities and consider how they can use their resources to serve God and others, rather than just themselves. The contrast between earthly treasure and heavenly treasure highlights the importance of focusing on what truly matters in life, which is our relationship with God and our impact on the world around us.

How to apply Luke 12:21 to your life

To apply this teaching, evaluate your own priorities regarding wealth. Consider how you can use your resources to help others and grow spiritually. Engage in acts of kindness, support charitable causes, and invest time in your relationship with God to cultivate true richness in your life.

Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Luke 12:21 mean?

Luke 12:21 means that hoarding wealth for oneself is pointless if one does not also invest in their relationship with God. It highlights the importance of being spiritually rich rather than just accumulating material possessions.

What is the meaning of 'rich toward God' in Luke 12:21?

'Rich toward God' refers to prioritizing spiritual growth, generosity, and helping others. It emphasizes that true fulfillment comes from aligning one's life with God's values instead of focusing solely on material wealth.

How can I apply Luke 12:21 in my life?

To apply Luke 12:21, evaluate your priorities regarding wealth and consider how you can use your resources to help others. Engage in acts of kindness, support charitable causes, and invest time in your relationship with God.

What themes are present in Luke 12:21?

Themes in Luke 12:21 include wealth, spiritual richness, generosity, materialism, priorities, and an eternal perspective. The verse contrasts earthly treasure with heavenly treasure, emphasizing what truly matters in life.

The Book of Luke
Book Summary

The Book of Luke

Luke 1: The Births of John the Baptist and Jesus Foretold

In the days of Herod, king of Judaea, a priest named Zacharias serves in the temple. He and his wife Elisabeth are both righteous but have no children because Elisabeth is barren, and they are both old. While Zacharias burns incense, the angel Gabriel appears to him and says Elisabeth will bear a son who is to be named John. The child will be great before the Lord, will drink no wine or strong drink, and will be filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother's womb. He will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. Zacharias asks how he can know this, since he and his wife are old. Gabriel says Zacharias will be unable to speak until these things come to pass because he did not believe.

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