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Notes that are not verse specific
This chapter details the responsibilities of the children of Levi with respect to the parts of the tabernacle that each had to deal with when the tabernacle was erected and dismantled. It is a useful chapter to be aware of and mark so that it can be a ready reference when we discuss the movement of the tabernacle.
Peter Forbes [Mountsorrel (UK)] Comment added in 2004 Reply to Peter
The families of Gershon, Kohath, and Merari were responsible for the dismantling, transporting, and erecting of the tabernacle. Three (families) is representative of the completeness of the community.
Michael Parry [Montreal (Can)] Comment added in 2004 Reply to Michael
RESPONSIBILITY
When the tabernacle was set up in the wilderness, the various divisions of the Levites all had specific duties to do. As the Israelites travelled through the wilderness, the tabernacle had to be taken apart, carried to the next destination, and then assembled again. Each different group was responsible for different aspects of this transportation and construction.
The Kohathites were to be responsible for all the furniture in the tabernacle.
The Gershonites were responsible for all the curtains.
And the Merarites were responsible for the crossbars, posts and bases.
Between them, everything that needed to be done as the tabernacle moved, was done.
None of the Levites had any choice as to what parts of the tabernacle they were responsible for, or even, for that matter, whether they wanted to take on that responsibility or not. But whether they liked it or not, they all did their part, and, it seems, did it well. After all, if any one group had not done their part, there would have been no tabernacle and no worship of God in Israel. You couldn't offer sacrifices if there was no altar. There would have been no tabernacle without either the coverings or the poles.
Like the Levites, we too must play our part within the group of believers in which God has placed us. If we don't, we not only affect our own worship, but also the whole community around us. Let us play our part through the wilderness journey of our lives.
Robert Prins [Auckland - Pakuranga - (NZ)] Comment added in 2011 Reply to Robert
Numbers 4:1-4 - The sons of Levi that qualified for service in the Tabernacle were, from 30 to 50 years of age. When the LORD directed the camp of Israel was to move on, the 3 sons of Levi (Num.3:17) Kohath, Gershon and Merari were to dismantle, pack and carry their respective parts of the Tabernacle. The burdens of the Kohathites (Num.4:4-15); the burdens of the Gershonites (vs.24-28) and the burdens of the sons of Merari (vs.29-33) were all appointed by the LORD. When Israel moved on, the Tabernacle with its’ furniture, curtains, covers, bowls, dishes and instruments were prepared for the next stage of the Wilderness journey. All under the direction of the Aaronic Priesthood (Num.4:18-19, 28, 33).
Lessons for Us
The Levites were responsible to and, directed by the Priesthood of Aaron.
We are subject to our High Priest our Lord Jesus Christ. - Heb.3:1 ; 4:14.
Hebrews 9:11 “But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building;”
Levitical Priests began their service at the age of 30 years old - Num.4:3.
Jesus our High Priest began his ministry at 30 years of age - Luke 4:23.
The Lord Jesus can share our burden – Matt.11:28-30.
Peter Moore [Erith, UK] Comment added in 2020 Reply to Peter
4:47 Everyone who would come to do the service of ministry and the service of bearing burdens
The ecclesia is not helped by people who have no sense of service or who despise performing the unglamorous repetitive duties within the ecclesia.
Notice the following:
1. From thirty years old up to fifty years old. Our service should be well defined and specific and should commence at an early age and be something that has a long time span. Flitting around like a dilettante but never sticking at anything does not demonstrate true service. Reliable, consistent week in, week out, service counts
2. Service consists of ministering to others and bearing burdens. Get down into the trenches when it comes to service
3. Identify at an early age what you believe your lifetime contribution to the ecclesia should be and then commit to it. This may include:
* Commitment to an area of the Bible Mission
* Physical maintenance of our halls and schools
* Developing our musical talents and using them in the meetings
* Researching thorny questions and helping others understand them
* Sunday school teaching
* Preaching - publically and privately.
* Teaching your children the things of God.
Bruce Bates [Forbes Australia] Comment added in 2024 Reply to Bruce
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1. And the LORD <3068> spake <1696>(8762) unto Moses <4872> and unto Aaron <175>, saying <559>(8800),
2. Take <5375>(8800) the sum <7218> of the sons <1121> of Kohath <6955> from among <8432> the sons <1121> of Levi <3878>, after their families <4940>, by the house <1004> of their fathers <1>,
3. From thirty <7970> years <8141> old <1121> and upward <4605> even until fifty <2572> years <8141> old <1121>, all that enter <935>(8802) into the host <6635>, to do <6213>(8800) the work <4399> in the tabernacle <168> of the congregation <4150>.
4. This shall be the service <5656> of the sons <1121> of Kohath <6955> in the tabernacle <168> of the congregation <4150>, about the most <6944> holy things <6944>:
5. And when the camp <4264> setteth forward <5265>(8800), Aaron <175> shall come <935>(8804), and his sons <1121>, and they shall take down <3381>(8689) the covering <4539> vail <6532>, and cover <3680>(8765) the ark <727> of testimony <5715> with it:
6. And shall put <5414>(8804) thereon the covering <3681> of badgers <8476>' skins <5785>, and shall spread <6566>(8804) over <4605> it a cloth <899> wholly <3632> of blue <8504>, and shall put <7760>(8804) in the staves <905> thereof.
7. And upon the table <7979> of shewbread <6440> they shall spread <6566>(8799) a cloth <899> of blue <8504>, and put <5414>(8804) thereon the dishes <7086>, and the spoons <3709>, and the bowls <4518>, and covers <7184> to cover withal <5262>: and the continual <8548> bread <3899> shall be thereon:
8. And they shall spread <6566>(8804) upon them a cloth <899> of scarlet <8438> <8144>, and cover <3680>(8765) the same with a covering <4372> of badgers <8476>' skins <5785>, and shall put <7760>(8804) in the staves <905> thereof.
9. And they shall take <3947>(8804) a cloth <899> of blue <8504>, and cover <3680>(8765) the candlestick <4501> of the light <3974>, and his lamps <5216>, and his tongs <4457>, and his snuffdishes <4289>, and all the oil <8081> vessels <3627> thereof, wherewith they minister <8334>(8762) unto it:
10. And they shall put <5414>(8804) it and all the vessels <3627> thereof within a covering <4372> of badgers <8476>' skins <5785>, and shall put <5414>(8804) it upon a bar <4132>.
11. And upon the golden <2091> altar <4196> they shall spread <6566>(8799) a cloth <899> of blue <8504>, and cover <3680>(8765) it with a covering <4372> of badgers <8476>' skins <5785>, and shall put <7760>(8804) to the staves <905> thereof:
12. And they shall take <3947>(8804) all the instruments <3627> of ministry <8335>, wherewith they minister <8334>(8762) in the sanctuary <6944>, and put <5414>(8804) them in a cloth <899> of blue <8504>, and cover <3680>(8765) them with a covering <4372> of badgers <8476>' skins <5785>, and shall put <5414>(8804) them on a bar <4132>:
13. And they shall take away the ashes <1878>(8765) from the altar <4196>, and spread <6566>(8804) a purple <713> cloth <899> thereon:
14. And they shall put <5414>(8804) upon it all the vessels <3627> thereof, wherewith they minister <8334>(8762) about it, even the censers <4289>, the fleshhooks <4207>, and the shovels <3257>, and the basons <4219>, all the vessels <3627> of the altar <4196>; and they shall spread <6566>(8804) upon it a covering <3681> of badgers <8476>' skins <5785>, and put <7760>(8804) to the staves <905> of it.
15. And when Aaron <175> and his sons <1121> have made an end <3615>(8765) of covering <3680>(8763) the sanctuary <6944>, and all the vessels <3627> of the sanctuary <6944>, as the camp <4264> is to set forward <5265>(8800); after <310> that, the sons <1121> of Kohath <6955> shall come <935>(8799) to bear <5375>(8800) it: but they shall not touch <5060>(8799) any holy thing <6944>, lest they die <4191>(8804). These things are the burden <4853> of the sons <1121> of Kohath <6955> in the tabernacle <168> of the congregation <4150>.
16. And to the office <6486> of Eleazar <499> the son <1121> of Aaron <175> the priest <3548> pertaineth the oil <8081> for the light <3974>, and the sweet <5561> incense <7004>, and the daily <8548> meat offering <4503>, and the anointing <4888> oil <8081>, and the oversight <6486> of all the tabernacle <4908>, and of all that therein is, in the sanctuary <6944>, and in the vessels <3627> thereof.
17. And the LORD <3068> spake <1696>(8762) unto Moses <4872> and unto Aaron <175>, saying <559>(8800),
18. Cut ye not off <3772>(8686) the tribe <7626> of the families <4940> of the Kohathites <6956> from among <8432> the Levites <3881>:
19. But thus do <6213>(8798) unto them, that they may live <2421>(8804), and not die <4191>(8799), when they approach <5066>(8800) unto the most <6944> holy things <6944>: Aaron <175> and his sons <1121> shall go in <935>(8799), and appoint <7760>(8804) them every <376> one <376> to his service <5656> and to his burden <4853>:
20. But they shall not go in <935>(8799) to see <7200>(8800) when the holy things <6944> are covered <1104>(8763), lest they die <4191>(8804).
21. And the LORD <3068> spake <1696>(8762) unto Moses <4872>, saying <559>(8800),
22. Take <5375>(8800) also the sum <7218> of the sons <1121> of Gershon <1648>, throughout the houses <1004> of their fathers <1>, by their families <4940>;
23. From thirty <7970> years <8141> old <1121> and upward <4605> until fifty <2572> years <8141> old <1121> shalt thou number <6485>(8799) them; all that enter in <935>(8802) to perform <6633>(8800) the service <6635>, to do <5647>(8800) the work <5656> in the tabernacle <168> of the congregation <4150>.
24. This is the service <5656> of the families <4940> of the Gershonites <1649>, to serve <5647>(8800), and for burdens <4853>:
25. And they shall bear <5375>(8804) the curtains <3407> of the tabernacle <4908>, and the tabernacle <168> of the congregation <4150>, his covering <4372>, and the covering <4372> of the badgers <8476>' skins that is above <4605> upon it, and the hanging <4539> for the door <6607> of the tabernacle <168> of the congregation <4150>,
26. And the hangings <7050> of the court <2691>, and the hanging <4539> for the door <6607> of the gate <8179> of the court <2691>, which is by the tabernacle <4908> and by the altar <4196> round about <5439>, and their cords <4340>, and all the instruments <3627> of their service <5656>, and all that is made <6213>(8735) for them: so shall they serve <5647>(8804).
27. At the appointment <6310> of Aaron <175> and his sons <1121> shall be all the service <5656> of the sons <1121> of the Gershonites <1649>, in all their burdens <4853>, and in all their service <5656>: and ye shall appoint <6485>(8804) unto them in charge <4931> all their burdens <4853>.
28. This is the service <5656> of the families <4940> of the sons <1121> of Gershon <1649> in the tabernacle <168> of the congregation <4150>: and their charge <4931> shall be under the hand <3027> of Ithamar <385> the son <1121> of Aaron <175> the priest <3548>.
29. As for the sons <1121> of Merari <4847>, thou shalt number <6485>(8799) them after their families <4940>, by the house <1004> of their fathers <1>;
30. From thirty <7970> years <8141> old <1121> and upward <4605> even unto fifty <2572> years <8141> old <1121> shalt thou number <6485>(8799) them, every one that entereth <935>(8802) into the service <6635>, to do <5647>(8800) the work <5656> of the tabernacle <168> of the congregation <4150>.
31. And this is the charge <4931> of their burden <4853>, according to all their service <5656> in the tabernacle <168> of the congregation <4150>; the boards <7175> of the tabernacle <4908>, and the bars <1280> thereof, and the pillars <5982> thereof, and sockets <134> thereof,
32. And the pillars <5982> of the court <2691> round about <5439>, and their sockets <134>, and their pins <3489>, and their cords <4340>, with all their instruments <3627>, and with all their service <5656>: and by name <8034> ye shall reckon <6485>(8799) the instruments <3627> of the charge <4931> of their burden <4853>.
33. This is the service <5656> of the families <4940> of the sons <1121> of Merari <4847>, according to all their service <5656>, in the tabernacle <168> of the congregation <4150>, under the hand <3027> of Ithamar <385> the son <1121> of Aaron <175> the priest <3548>.
34. And Moses <4872> and Aaron <175> and the chief <5387> of the congregation <5712> numbered <6485>(8799) the sons <1121> of the Kohathites <6956> after their families <4940>, and after the house <1004> of their fathers <1>,
35. From thirty <7970> years <8141> old <1121> and upward <4605> even unto fifty <2572> years <8141> old <1121>, every one that entereth <935>(8802) into the service <6635>, for the work <5656> in the tabernacle <168> of the congregation <4150>:
36. And those that were numbered <6485>(8803) of them by their families <4940> were two thousand <505> seven <7651> hundred <3967> and fifty <2572>.
37. These were they that were numbered <6485>(8803) of the families <4940> of the Kohathites <6956>, all that might do service <5647>(8802) in the tabernacle <168> of the congregation <4150>, which Moses <4872> and Aaron <175> did number <6485>(8804) according to the commandment <6310> of the LORD <3068> by the hand <3027> of Moses <4872>.
38. And those that were numbered <6485>(8803) of the sons <1121> of Gershon <1648>, throughout their families <4940>, and by the house <1004> of their fathers <1>,
39. From thirty <7970> years <8141> old <1121> and upward <4605> even unto fifty <2572> years <8141> old <1121>, every one that entereth <935>(8802) into the service <6635>, for the work <5656> in the tabernacle <168> of the congregation <4150>,
40. Even those that were numbered <6485>(8803) of them, throughout their families <4940>, by the house <1004> of their fathers <1>, were two thousand <505> and six <8337> hundred <3967> and thirty <7970>.
41. These are they that were numbered <6485>(8803) of the families <4940> of the sons <1121> of Gershon <1648>, of all that might do service <5647>(8802) in the tabernacle <168> of the congregation <4150>, whom Moses <4872> and Aaron <175> did number <6485>(8804) according to the commandment <6310> of the LORD <3068>.
42. And those that were numbered <6485>(8803) of the families <4940> of the sons <1121> of Merari <4847>, throughout their families <4940>, by the house <1004> of their fathers <1>,
43. From thirty <7970> years <8141> old <1121> and upward <4605> even unto fifty <2572> years <8141> old <1121>, every one that entereth <935>(8802) into the service <6635>, for the work <5656> in the tabernacle <168> of the congregation <4150>,
44. Even those that were numbered <6485>(8803) of them after their families <4940>, were three <7969> thousand <505> and two hundred <3967>.
45. These be those that were numbered <6485>(8803) of the families <4940> of the sons <1121> of Merari <4847>, whom Moses <4872> and Aaron <175> numbered <6485>(8804) according to the word <6310> of the LORD <3068> by the hand <3027> of Moses <4872>.
46. All those that were numbered <6485>(8803) of the Levites <3881>, whom Moses <4872> and Aaron <175> and the chief <5387> of Israel <3478> numbered <6485>(8804), after their families <4940>, and after the house <1004> of their fathers <1>,
47. From thirty <7970> years <8141> old <1121> and upward <4605> even unto fifty <2572> years <8141> old <1121>, every one that came <935>(8802) to do <5647>(8800) the service of the ministry <5656>, and the service <5656> of the burden <4853> in the tabernacle <168> of the congregation <4150>,
48. Even those that were numbered <6485>(8803) of them, were eight <8083> thousand <505> and five <2568> hundred <3967> and fourscore <8084>.
49. According to the commandment <6310> of the LORD <3068> they were numbered <6485>(8804) by the hand <3027> of Moses <4872>, every <376> one <376> according to his service <5656>, and according to his burden <4853>: thus were they numbered <6485>(8803) of him, as the LORD <3068> commanded <6680>(8765) Moses <4872>.
Notes that are not verse specific
After the title the writer defines the design and nature of the instructions of the book. He paternally invites attention to those instructions and warns his readers against the enticements of the wicked. In a beautiful personification, wisdom is then introduced in a most solemn and impressive manner, publicly inviting men to receive its teachings, warning those who reject, and encouraging those who accept, the proffered instructions.
John Wilson [Toronto West (Can)] Comment added in 2005 Reply to John
We should take time to ponder on verses 27 & 28. It is too easy to read and move on without appreciating the horror of God not answering us in our distress. It would be our own fault because we refused to listen to Him. The contrast could not be clearer when we remember the Ps 91 (especially v15 which I believe to be the angel of the Lord v11 answering our call) where the whole Psalm should lift our spirit, cheer our heart and strengthen our desire to serve God.
Lindsay Yuile [Glasgow South Scotland (UK)] Comment added in 2009 Reply to Lindsay
Verse 33 echoes the sentiment of Psa 25:12-13
The word translated here as "quiet", means to be peaceful. Jeremiah uses it when speaking of Israel returned to the land and dwelling peacefully in Jer 30:10 (quiet) and 46:27 (at ease)
Ken Trelfer [Rockingham Forest, UK] Comment added in 2010 Reply to Ken
MY SON
The first nine chapters of Proverbs detail the advice a wise father gives his son. In particular, they are the words of Solomon, a king who was abundantly blessed with wisdom from God. They were written to his son, perhaps Rehoboam, who was to reign after him. The words recorded in these first chapters of Proverbs make up principles that, when put into practice, would turn a boy into a man, a man into a man of God, and a man of God into a righteous king.
Yes, the first nine chapters of Proverbs are written for everyone to read and learn from, but in particular they are written for men. They deal with issues that men face: growing in wisdom, resisting temptation, making good choices, becoming a great leader, justice, resisting sexual temptation, pride, money, discipline, working hard, growth, and above all, getting to know God. These are all issues that we men need to grow in if we want to become true men of God. We cannot afford to gloss over them like we do other Scriptures if we want to become men of God.
So let's stop, read them, absorb them, put them into practice and grow to develop the royal character that goes with being a son of God.
Robert Prins [Auckland - Pakuranga - (NZ)] Comment added in 2012 Reply to Robert
Scorning God
v22 introduces Proverbs excellently:
"How long, ye simple ones, will ye love simplicity? and the scorners delight in their scorning, and fools hate knowledge?"
Sometimes I'm guilty of talking about simplicity as if it were a virtue. In my rush to be inclusive and non-judgemental I have perhaps gone too far. Proverbs is telling us that the status quo isn't good enough. Staying with our simple understanding of God and His word isn't good enough, and the writer calls it "scornful". Are we in danger of being scornful of God?
Rob de Jongh [Mountsorrel (UK)] Comment added in 2014 Reply to Rob
LOVE & FEAR
The Psalms express the emotion of Love; the Proverbs reveal the requirements of reverence. Both love & reverence are required for true worship. The former prevents the latter degenerating into mere servility; the latter prevents the former from becoming too familiar. A blend of both elevates the respect and filial love that is due to GOD so that we honour Him as a father and obey Him as a master. - HP Mansfield
Peter Dulis [toronto west] Comment added in 2015 Reply to Peter
1:8 Hear my son, your father's instruction, and forsake not your mother's teaching
We are all busy. BUT the primary role of parents is instruction and teaching. Too often we neglect these things or subcontract them to others - Sunday school teachers, others in the meeting.
A suggestion: each family should reserve at least 20 minutes per day in the gentle instruction from the Bible and its relevance to that family, for that day. By doing so , we will go a long way to avoid the calamity of vv29, 30 where people hate and despise knowledge, counsel and reproof. They are rejected by God (v28).
Bruce Bates [Forbes Australia] Comment added in 2024 Reply to Bruce
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1. The proverbs <4912> of Solomon <8010> the son <1121> of David <1732>, king <4428> of Israel <3478>;
2. To know <3045>(8800) wisdom <2451> and instruction <4148>; to perceive <995>(8687) the words <561> of understanding <998>;
3. To receive <3947>(8800) the instruction <4148> of wisdom <7919>(8687), justice <6664>, and judgment <4941>, and equity <4339>;
4. To give <5414>(8800) subtilty <6195> to the simple <6612>, to the young man <5288> knowledge <1847> and discretion <4209>.
5. A wise <2450> man will hear <8085>(8799), and will increase <3254>(8686) learning <3948>; and a man of understanding <995>(8737) shall attain <7069>(8799) unto wise counsels <8458>:
6. To understand <995>(8687) a proverb <4912>, and the interpretation <4426>; the words <1697> of the wise <2450>, and their dark sayings <2420>.
7. The fear <3374> of the LORD <3068> is the beginning <7225> of knowledge <1847>: but fools <191> despise <936>(8804) wisdom <2451> and instruction <4148>.
8. My son <1121>, hear <8085>(8798) the instruction <4148> of thy father <1>, and forsake <5203>(8799) not the law <8451> of thy mother <517>:
9. For they shall be an ornament <3880> of grace <2580> unto thy head <7218>, and chains <6060> about thy neck <1621>.
10. My son <1121>, if sinners <2400> entice <6601>(8762) thee, consent <14>(8799) thou not.
11. If they say <559>(8799), Come <3212>(8798) with us, let us lay wait <693>(8799) for blood <1818>, let us lurk <6845>(8799) privily for the innocent <5355> without cause <2600>:
12. Let us swallow them up <1104>(8799) alive <2416> as the grave <7585>; and whole <8549>, as those that go down <3381>(8802) into the pit <953>:
13. We shall find <4672>(8799) all precious <3368> substance <1952>, we shall fill <4390>(8762) our houses <1004> with spoil <7998>:
14. Cast <5307>(8686) in thy lot <1486> among <8432> us; let us all have one <259> purse <3599>:
15. My son <1121>, walk <3212>(8799) not thou in the way <1870> with them; refrain <4513>(8798) thy foot <7272> from their path <5410>:
16. For their feet <7272> run <7323>(8799) to evil <7451>, and make haste <4116>(8762) to shed <8210>(8800) blood <1818>.
17. Surely in vain <2600> the net <7568> is spread <2219>(8794) in the sight <5869> of any bird <1167> <3671>.
18. And they lay wait <693>(8799) for their own blood <1818>; they lurk privily <6845>(8799) for their own lives <5315>.
19. So are the ways <734> of every one that is greedy <1214>(8802) of gain <1215>; which taketh away <3947>(8799) the life <5315> of the owners <1167> thereof.
20. Wisdom <2454> crieth <7442>(8799) without <2351>; she uttereth <5414>(8799) her voice <6963> in the streets <7339>:
21. She crieth <7121>(8799) in the chief place <7218> of concourse <1993>(8802), in the openings <6607> of the gates <8179>: in the city <5892> she uttereth <559>(8799) her words <561>, saying,
22. How long, ye simple ones <6612>, will ye love <157>(8799) simplicity <6612>? and the scorners <3887>(8801) delight <2530>(8804) in their scorning <3944>, and fools <3684> hate <8130>(8799) knowledge <1847>?
23. Turn <7725>(8799) you at my reproof <8433>: behold, I will pour out <5042>(8686) my spirit <7307> unto you, I will make known <3045>(8686) my words <1697> unto you.
24. Because I have called <7121>(8804), and ye refused <3985>(8762); I have stretched out <5186>(8804) my hand <3027>, and no man regarded <7181>(8688);
25. But ye have set at nought <6544>(8799) all my counsel <6098>, and would <14>(8804) none of my reproof <8433>:
26. I also will laugh <7832>(8799) at your calamity <343>; I will mock <3932>(8799) when your fear <6343> cometh <935>(8800);
27. When your fear <6343> cometh <935>(8800) as desolation <7722>(8675) <7584>, and your destruction <343> cometh <857>(8799) as a whirlwind <5492>; when distress <6869> and anguish <6695> cometh <935>(8800) upon you.
28. Then shall they call <7121>(8799) upon me, but I will not answer <6030>(8799); they shall seek me early <7836>(8762), but they shall not find <4672>(8799) me:
29. For that they hated <8130>(8804) knowledge <1847>, and did not choose <977>(8804) the fear <3374> of the LORD <3068>:
30. They would <14>(8804) none of my counsel <6098>: they despised <5006>(8804) all my reproof <8433>.
31. Therefore shall they eat <398>(8799) of the fruit <6529> of their own way <1870>, and be filled <7646>(8799) with their own devices <4156>.
32. For the turning away <4878> of the simple <6612> shall slay <2026>(8799) them, and the prosperity <7962> of fools <3684> shall destroy <6>(8762) them.
33. But whoso hearkeneth <8085>(8802) unto me shall dwell <7931>(8799) safely <983>, and shall be quiet <7599>(8768) from fear <6343> of evil <7451>.
Notes that are not verse specific
The three parables in this chapter have one central theme. The Father's love for the lost. Why did Christ tell these parables in the listed order? First parable; one sheep out of a hundred is lost. Second parable; one coin out of ten is lost, and finally one son out of two is lost. Is there any significance in the order listed?
John Wilson [Toronto West (Can)] Comment added in 2004 Reply to John
Jesus came to the lost sheep of the house of Israel (Matt 15:24). He urged His disciples to reach out to them also (Matt 10:6).
What about the lost sheep of the spiritual house of Israel?
Do we reach out to them - our brothers and sisters who have left the fold? Let's make every effort. There is not much time to recover them before the Lord returns.
Michael Parry [Montreal (Can)] Comment added in 2004 Reply to Michael
Parables Of Redemption:
Wherever Jesus went, he drew to himself Publicans and Sinners - - - men looked upon as separated from the righteous by their means of livelihood and their way of life. It was one of the Pharisees’ greatest problems. They could not understand the attitude of Jesus in allowing these men even to approach him. That he should talk to them, and sink to the depravity of excepting their hospitality, was horrifying. They were overwhelmed with their contempt for these people and the sense of their own righteousness, which they felt was properly marked by separation from sinners. This is the background to the circumstances that Luke describes in recording these “parables of redemption”.
Jesus’ words were so powerful, that even those who had previously disregarded the Word of God pressed in to hear him speak:
“Now all the tax-gatherers and the sinners were coming near him to listen
to him”. Luke 15:1
The Scribes and Pharisees did not like it and murmured among themselves:
“…This man receives sinners and eats with them”. Luke 15:2
Jesus heard them and answered their remarks with these parables.
The five stories are hardly separate parables at all. Luke records that he told them “this parable”. (Verse 3) Then follows with barely a break between them, Jesus’ words regarding “the Lost Sheep”, “ the Lost Coin”, “the Lost Son”, “the Unjust Steward” and “the Rich Man and Lazarus”.
The Lost Sheep - Luke 15:3-7
The Pharisees called those who did not keep the law “the people of the land”. The barrier between the Pharisees and such people was complete. These Religious leaders looked for such peoples’ destruction, not their restoration.
Contrasting their attitude to “lost” men and women was the attitude of a shepherd regarding even just one lost sheep out of a flock of 100. A shepherd fulfilled his responsibility regarding loyalty to the flock. He acknowledged his duty to account for every sheep entrusted to his care. (Bible echo - John 17:6, 12) He would leave the 99 secure sheep to go in search of the one that had strayed.
The village where he lived shared his concern for the lost sheep and would watch for his return. When they saw him striding home with the lost sheep across his shoulders, they would shout with joy and with thanksgiving.
With Jesus in the position of the true Shepherd, we see an echo from Isaiah:
“All of us like sheep have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; but the Lord has caused the iniquity of us all to fall on him”. Isaiah 53:6
The Pharisees saw themselves as the descendants of Abraham, “the friend of God”. (Isaiah 41:8) But they were not. Abraham was a shepherd. (Gen. 12:16; 13:2) They were certainly not shepherds in the spiritual sense and Jesus had already condemned them for not doing the deeds of Abraham. (John 8:39) They falsely saw themselves either as shepherds leading the flock, or as sheep who never strayed, 99 just persons needing no repentance. (Luke 15:7).
Matt Drywood [Hamilton Book Road (Can)] Comment added in 2005 Reply to Matt
The Lost Coin - Luke 15:8-10
Now Jesus presents the sinners as coins - a piece of silver, the price of redemption under the law. (Bible echo - Exodus 30:11-16; 38:25, 26)
The picture becomes a more intimate one. The countryside has become the house. The 100 sheep become 10 coins. The shepherd has become the poor woman. Lighting a candle, she sweeps the house and diligently searches until she finds it. Then she calls her friends and neighbours bidding them to rejoice with her because she has found what she has lost. Once again the emphasis is directed toward the love of God and of Jesus, the importance of those who were lost, and the joy of restoration.
A sheep can stray or become lost of its own accord, but a coin cannot. The coin was lost through no fault of its own. Someone else was to blame. It was the careless Scribes and Pharisees who had lost the sinners in need of redemption in the first place. Why didn’t they light up the house of Israel with the Word of God, (Luke 8:16), and search for them?
In Jesus a lamp had been lit, and sinners were gathered around to hear the word of redemption spoken in their midst. The Pharisees whose holiness and righteousness was a hypocritical conceit, did not rejoice.
Matt Drywood [Hamilton Book Road (Can)] Comment added in 2005 Reply to Matt
The Lost Son - Luke 15:11-32
We now see another change of figures. The Scribes and Pharisees are a sullen elder son resenting the return of the repentant “Publicans and Sinners”. In this parable, these repenting sinners are the erring younger brother.
Like the Pharisees in Luke 15:1,2, the elder brother stood outside the feast and grumbled about what went on within. (verse 28)
It is true that the Publican and Sinners had turned away from God. They had deliberately become lost. But they “had come to their senses” (verse 17), and had turned to come back to the Father. (verse 18)
The younger son was repentant. The Scribes and Pharisees (the elder son) were not repentant. Outwardly they made a show of serving God, but Christ’s words opened their hearts for all to see the loveless motives of their “service”.
The detail Jesus provided in this parable laid before the Pharisees an unmistakable picture of themselves. As we look at the reaction and words of the elder son, we see them clearly reflected:
The Pharisees were trying to place God in their debt: “for so many years we have been serving you” (verse 29). Their whole attitude shows that their years of obedience to the Father had been years of duty, in which they sought to place God in their debt. These were not years of loving service. The professed love of God was a mask for love of self. (Compare Luke 17:10; Romans 4:4)
They were egotists. Notice the personal pronouns “I”, “me”, “my” - the elder brother’s assessment of himself.
They disclaimed any association with these repentant sinners. Notice how the elder son refers to his brother as “your son”, not as “my brother”. (verse 30)
They were disobedient liars. They refused to obey the Father’s request to join the feast (verse 28), but claimed to be sinless: “I have never neglected a command of yours”. (verse 29)
They were ready to think the worst about others. Notice that there is no mention of association by the young brother with “harlots” until the elder brother declares it”. (verse 30)
They were envious of the sinners’ way of life: “…you have never given me a kid, that I might be merry with my friends;” (verse 29). He obviously had friends not among those whom his father had invited. The Scribes and Pharisees, though publicly disdainful of the Publicans and Sinners, were inwardly longing for their way of life.
The real prodigal was not the repentant son, but the surly elder brother. The real sinners were not the people gathered around Jesus, but the Pharisees.
This parable not only condemned the Pharisees, it comforted the sinners, showing that the father awaited anxiously for the return of the errant son. If they would “come to themselves”, and turn to God, He would see them “from a long way off” and would welcome them. All He required of them was that journey toward Him. (Luke 15:18-23)
The Pharisees heard this story with some grimness. They could not miss its meaning, nor its invitation to join the Publican and Sinners, in joining Jesus in order to share in the blessings of his Father’s love. But the elder brother maintained his position. He preferred to continue in his hurt self-righteousness and, therefore, maintain his position of praise and acceptance with others which he so dearly loved.
Jesus saw that the appeal of his word pictures was lost upon them. He turned to his Disciples and described these men to them, to further bring out the inconsistency and hypocrisy of these Religious leaders. {from the Life of Christ Seminar}
Matt Drywood [Hamilton Book Road (Can)] Comment added in 2005 Reply to Matt
It is important to bear in mind that it is not only those who stray away from the ecclesia (the lost sheep, the prodigal son) who are lost, but also those who get "lost" within the ecclesia. Either though the negligence of the ecclesia (the lost coin - how well are we caring for our brethren and sisters?), or the attitude of individual brethren and sisters to others (what is our own attitude to the ups & downs of our brethren and sisters? Do we begrudge the forgiveness of the Father by a self-righteous attitude?)
Wendy Johnsen [Nanaimo, BC, Canada] Comment added in 2006 Reply to Wendy
In today’s chapter we have three super stories, all with the same theme: a lost sheep; a lost coin, and a lost son – well actually, two lost sons, for neither pleased his father with a good heart. The sheep caused a lot of extra work, but was found. The coin cannot be blamed for getting lost, as it has no sense or feeling – but the great thing about this parable is that it was still “in the house”. If the lost sheep represents a member who walks away from the ecclesia, the lost coin surely symbolizes one who still is in the house (or ecclesia), but whose heart is not there. That Brother or Sister is as much in need of saving as the one who leaves. Both bring joy in Heaven when they return. The third parable incorporates both of these meanings – the younger son who left and went far away, while the older one stayed at home, but not with a good heart. Jesus was indeed a wonderful story teller, and His lessons were very carefully thought out. Of-course it is quite possible to see several other types in these parables.
David Simpson [Worcester (UK)] Comment added in 2007 Reply to David
I have a humorous rendition of the Prodigal Son. If you care to see, it e-mail me.
Michael Parry [Montreal (Can)] Comment added in 2007 Reply to Michael
Luke 16:18
"Whosoever putteth away his wife, and marrieth another, committeth adultery: and whosoever marrieth her that is put away from her husband committeth adultery."
“Christ’s words (Matt 5:32, and Luke 16:18) relate to divorce for insufficient cause (as was at that time common among the Jews). He recognizes no divorce as lawful ‘save for the cause of fornication.’ This severs the bond.” Robert Roberts, 1891
Put away is # <630>; putteth away is # <630>, apoluo, "to send away, dismiss..." If there is no legal divorce, the couple is still married despite the separation. Therefore, to remarry is adultery. This is what this verse states. Divorce must be on Scripturally sanctioned grounds; this is correct. It is incorrect to apply "apoluo" to mean divorce, though. Please read 2018 notes on Matt 5:31,32; Matt 19:3 expounding further on this.
Valerie Mello [in isolation, TN, USA] Comment added in 2018 Reply to Valerie
15:30,32 When this son of yours came ... this your brother
The older brother is contemptuous of his brother, simply styling him "this son of yours" almost to impugn his father. He is distancing himself relationally from his brother. Yet the father gently corrects him by referring to his youngest son as the "brother" of the older son.
Despite the gentle imploring of the father, there is no indication that the older brother came in to the house to rejoice at the return of his younger brother.
Bruce Bates [Forbes Australia] Comment added in 2024 Reply to Bruce
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1. Then <1161> drew near <2258>(5713) <1448>(5723) unto him <846> all <3956> the publicans <5057> and <2532> sinners <268> for to hear <191>(5721) him <846>.
2. And <2532> the Pharisees <5330> and <2532> scribes <1122> murmured <1234>(5707), saying <3004>(5723), This man <3754> <3778> receiveth <4327>(5736) sinners <268>, and <2532> eateth <4906>(5719) with them <846>.
3. And <1161> he spake <2036>(5627) this <5026> parable <3850> unto <4314> them <846>, saying <3004>(5723),
4. What <5101> man <444> of <1537> you <5216>, having <2192>(5723) an hundred <1540> sheep <4263>, if <2532> he lose <622>(5660) one <1520> of <1537> them <846>, doth <2641> <0> not <3756> leave <2641>(5719) the ninety and nine <1768> in <1722> the wilderness <2048>, and <2532> go <4198>(5736) after <1909> that which is lost <622>(5756), until <2193> he find <2147>(5632) it <846>?
5. And <2532> when he hath found <2147>(5631) it, he layeth <2007>(5719) it on <1909> his <1438> shoulders <5606>, rejoicing <5463>(5723).
6. And <2532> when he cometh <2064>(5631) <1519> home <3624>, he calleth together <4779>(5719) his friends <5384> and <2532> neighbours <1069>, saying <3004>(5723) unto them <846>, Rejoice <4796>(5645) with me <3427>; for <3754> I have found <2147>(5627) my <3450> sheep <4263> which <3588> was lost <622>(5756).
7. I say <3004>(5719) unto you <5213>, that <3754> likewise <3779> joy <5479> shall be <2071>(5704) in <1722> heaven <3772> over <1909> one <1520> sinner <268> that repenteth <3340>(5723), more than <2228> over <1909> ninety and nine <1768> just persons <1342>, which <3748> need <2192>(5719) <5532> no <3756> repentance <3341>.
8. Either <2228> what <5101> woman <1135> having <2192>(5723) ten <1176> pieces of silver <1406>, if <1437> she lose <622>(5661) one <3391> piece <1406>, doth not <3780> light <681>(5719) a candle <3088>, and <2532> sweep <4563>(5719) the house <3614>, and <2532> seek <2212>(5719) diligently <1960> till <2193> <3755> she find <2147>(5632) it?
9. And <2532> when she hath found <2147>(5631) it, she calleth <4779> <0> her friends <5384> and <2532> her neighbours <1069> together <4779>(5731), saying <3004>(5723), Rejoice <4796>(5645) with me <3427>; for <3754> I have found <2147>(5627) the piece <1406> which <3739> I had lost <622>(5656).
10. Likewise <3779>, I say <3004>(5719) unto you <5213>, there is <1096>(5736) joy <5479> in the presence <1799> of the angels <32> of God <2316> over <1909> one <1520> sinner <268> that repenteth <3340>(5723).
11. And <1161> he said <2036>(5627), A certain <5100> man <444> had <2192>(5707) two <1417> sons <5207>:
12. And <2532> the younger <3501> of them <846> said <2036>(5627) to his father <3962>, Father <3962>, give <1325>(5628) me <3427> the portion <3313> of goods <3776> that falleth <1911>(5723) to me. And <2532> he divided <1244>(5627) unto them <846> his living <979>.
13. And <2532> not <3756> many <4183> days <2250> after <3326> the younger <3501> son <5207> gathered <4863> <0> all <537> together <4863>(5631), and took his journey <589>(5656) into <1519> a far <3117> country <5561>, and <2532> there <1563> wasted <1287>(5656) his <848> substance <3776> with riotous <811> living <2198>(5723).
14. And <1161> when he <846> had spent <1159>(5660) all <3956>, there arose <1096>(5633) a mighty <2478> famine <3042> in <2596> that <1565> land <5561>; and <2532> he began <756>(5662) to be in want <5302>(5745).
15. And <2532> he went <4198>(5679) and joined himself <2853>(5681) to <1520> a citizen <4177> of that <1565> country <5561>; and <2532> he sent <3992>(5656) him <846> into <1519> his <848> fields <68> to feed <1006>(5721) swine <5519>.
16. And <2532> he would fain <1937>(5707) have filled <1072>(5658) his <848> belly <2836> with <575> the husks <2769> that <3739> the swine <5519> did eat <2068>(5707): and <2532> no man <3762> gave <1325>(5707) unto him <846>.
17. And <1161> when he came <2064>(5631) to <1519> himself <1438>, he said <2036>(5627), How many <4214> hired servants <3407> of my <3450> father's <3962> have bread <740> enough and to spare <4052>(5719), and <1161> I <1473> perish <622>(5731) with hunger <3042>!
18. I will arise <450>(5631) and go <4198>(5695) to <4314> my <3450> father <3962>, and <2532> will say <2046>(5692) unto him <846>, Father <3962>, I have sinned <264>(5627) against <1519> heaven <3772>, and <2532> before <1799> thee <4675>,
19. And <2532> am <1510>(5748) no more <3765> worthy <514> to be called <2564>(5683) thy <4675> son <5207>: make <4160>(5657) me <3165> as <5613> one <1520> of thy <4675> hired servants <3407>.
20. And <2532> he arose <450>(5631), and came <2064>(5627) to <4314> his <1438> father <3962>. But <1161> when he <846> was yet <2089> a great way <3112> off <568>(5723), his <846> father <3962> saw <1492>(5627) him <846>, and <2532> had compassion <4697>(5675), and <2532> ran <5143>(5631), and fell <1968>(5627) on <1909> his <846> neck <5137>, and <2532> kissed <2705>(5656) him <846>.
21. And <1161> the son <5207> said <2036>(5627) unto him <846>, Father <3962>, I have sinned <264>(5627) against <1519> heaven <3772>, and <2532> in <1799> <0> thy <4675> sight <1799>, and <2532> am <1510>(5748) no more <3765> worthy <514> to be called <2564>(5683) thy <4675> son <5207>.
22. But <1161> the father <3962> said <2036>(5627) to <4314> his <848> servants <1401>, Bring forth <1627>(5657) the best <4413> robe <4749>, and <2532> put it on <1746>(5657) him <846>; and <2532> put <1325>(5628) a ring <1146> on <1519> his <846> hand <5495>, and <2532> shoes <5266> on <1519> his feet <4228>:
23. And <2532> bring hither <5342>(5660) the fatted <4618> calf <3448>, and kill <2380>(5657) it; and <2532> let us eat <5315>(5631), and be merry <2165>(5686):
24. For <3754> this <3778> my <3450> son <5207> was <2258>(5713) dead <3498>, and <2532> is alive again <326>(5656); <2532> he was <2258>(5713) lost <622>(5756), and <2532> is found <2147>(5681). And <2532> they began <756>(5662) to be merry <2165>(5745).
25. Now <1161> his <846> elder <4245> son <5207> was <2258>(5713) in <1722> the field <68>: and <2532> as <5613> he came <2064>(5740) and drew nigh <1448>(5656) to the house <3614>, he heard <191>(5656) musick <4858> and <2532> dancing <5525>.
26. And <2532> he called <4341>(5666) one <1520> of the servants <3816>, and asked <4441>(5711) what <5101> these things <5023> meant <1498>(5751).
27. And <1161> he said <2036>(5627) unto him <846>, <3754> Thy <4675> brother <80> is come <2240>(5719); and <2532> thy <4675> father <3962> hath killed <2380>(5656) the fatted <4618> calf <3448>, because <3754> he hath received <618>(5627) him <846> safe and sound <5198>(5723).
28. And <1161> he was angry <3710>(5681), and <2532> would <2309>(5707) not <3756> go in <1525>(5629): therefore <3767> came <1831> <0> his <846> father <3962> out <1831>(5631), and intreated <3870>(5707) him <846>.
29. And <1161> he answering <611>(5679) said <2036>(5627) to his father <3962>, Lo <2400>(5628), these many <5118> years <2094> do I serve <1398>(5719) thee <4671>, neither <3763> <0> transgressed I <3928>(5627) at any time <3763> thy <4675> commandment <1785>: and <2532> yet <2532> thou <1325> <0> never <3763> gavest <1325>(5656) me <1698> a kid <2056>, that <2443> I might make merry <2165>(5686) with <3326> my <3450> friends <5384>:
30. But <1161> as soon as <3753> this <3778> thy <4675> son <5207> was come <2064>(5627), which <3588> hath devoured <2719>(5631) thy <4675> living <979> with <3326> harlots <4204>, thou hast killed <2380>(5656) for him <846> the fatted <4618> calf <3448>.
31. And <1161> he said <2036>(5627) unto him <846>, Son <5043>, thou <4771> art <1488>(5748) ever <3842> with <3326> me <1700>, and <2532> all <3956> that I have <1699> is <2076>(5748) thine <4674>.
32. It was <1161> meet <1163>(5713) that we should make merry <2165>(5683), and <2532> be glad <5463>(5646): for <3754> this <3778> thy <4675> brother <80> was <2258>(5713) dead <3498>, and <2532> is alive again <326>(5656); and <2532> was <2258>(5713) lost <622>(5756), and <2532> is found <2147>(5681).