Definition: It is like leaven, which a woman took and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this incredibly important passage from Luke 13:21. It’s a really powerful illustration about forgiveness and change. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes how forgiveness – specifically, the act of letting go of past wrongs – can transform a whole community or even a person's life. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “It is like leaven…” - Think of leavening bread. When you bake bread, you add yeast. Yeast makes the dough rise and become light and fluffy. This “leaven” represents something that starts to change things within us – a past mistake, hurt, or negativity. “…which a woman took…” - This refers to a woman who was deeply upset with someone. She felt wronged and angry. “…and hid in three measures of meal…” - This is the key part. The woman secretly added a small amount of yeast (leaven) into her meal – a large portion of food. It wasn't a huge amount, but it was enough to start an effect. “…till the whole was leavened.” - Over time, this little bit of leavening started working its magic. It caused the bread (our lives) to rise and become much bigger, lighter, and more delicious than it was before. The whole community – or even just that person – was transformed because of this small act! So, what does this mean in a broader sense? Forgiveness is powerful: Luke 13:21 suggests that forgiveness isn't just about stopping a bad action; it’s like adding something positive that transforms everything. Change happens through letting go: It highlights the importance of letting go of resentment, anger, and bitterness because those things can be incredibly heavy and negative. When we forgive someone, we free ourselves from that negativity too. God's grace is transformative: The verse speaks to God’s mercy and ability to transform us through our actions and choices. In short, it’s a story about how forgiveness doesn't just make you feel better; it transforms the entire world. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you another Bible passage with a similar theme?