Luke 8:16-21

content/bible_journal/luke_8:16-21.md

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+title = "Luke 8:16–21"
+date = "2022-11-23"
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+
+### [Read the passage.](https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Lk8.16-21)
+
+Here is your periodic reminder that the section titles, and even the chapter
+and verse numbers you find in your Bible are not part of the original text and
+therefore not inspired by the Holy Spirit. I should have included these verses
+in yesterday's notes, perhaps. At any rate, even though Jesus changes
+metaphors, He is still continuing to teach on the same point as the parable of
+the sower.
+
+Recall that the point of the parable is that not everyone who hears God's word
+will believe in it, or at least not enough to be saved. It has been hidden from
+them so that God's purposes may be fulfilled. But those who do hear and believe
+will reproduce God's word so that it may be dispersed far beyond their reach.
+These are the ones who are like the lighted lamp that is put on a stand.
+Instead of hiding the truth, it is shown to all, because even though it is
+hidden from some for now, it will be known by everyone for true and for sure in
+the Day of the Lord. And that is why we are admonished to "take care then how
+you hear" (_v. 18_). It has eternal significance in how we are judged.
+
+The conclusion to Jesus's lesson comes at a providential moment when His family
+comes to speak to Him. He clarifies that one takes care of how you hear by
+obeying what God has told you. Familial relations are important, but your
+relationship with God is more important.
+
+* * *
+
+Give us ears to hear, hearts to obey, and hands to do good works for Your
+Name's sake.