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Book of Luke - Chapter 16 - Verse 14

16:14
And the Pharisees also, who were covetous, heard all these things: and they derided him.

Meaning

In this verse, we see the Pharisees displaying their true colors as they hear the teachings of Jesus. The Pharisees were known for being religious leaders who prided themselves on their commitment to following the law. However, despite their outward appearance of piety, they were actually driven by their greed and desire for material possessions. When they heard Jesus speaking about the importance of putting God above wealth, they scoffed and ridiculed him. This reaction highlights the hypocrisy of the Pharisees, who claimed to be righteous but were actually consumed by their own selfish desires. It serves as a warning to all of us to be wary of falling into the trap of prioritizing earthly possessions over spiritual matters.

Theological Overview

Within this verse, it is evident that the Pharisees exhibited a morally corrupt behavior as they were described as being covetous. By being focused on their own selfish desires, they could not truly understand or appreciate the teachings of Jesus. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the dangers of greed and the importance of maintaining a pure heart in order to fully grasp the spiritual truths being shared. The Pharisees' reaction of derision towards Jesus demonstrates their lack of humility and willingness to be open to the message he is trying to convey. Through word studies, the term "derided" can be examined further to reveal the extent of the Pharisees' mocking and scorn towards Jesus. This verse serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of allowing greed and self-interest to cloud one's judgment and hinder their ability to embrace divine truths.

American Standard Version

And the Pharisees, who were lovers of money, heard all these things; and they scoffed at him.
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