Definition: And Jesus answering spake unto the lawyers and Pharisees, saying, Is it lawful to heal on the sabbath day?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Luke 14:3: “And Jesus answering spake unto the lawyers and Pharisees, saying, Is it lawful to heal on the sabbath day?” Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: Jesus is asking a question about something that seems unusual – healing people. Let’s unpack it layer by layer: “Jesus answering spake” : This means Jesus responded to a question or statement. He wasn’t just talking; he was actively addressing it. “unto the lawyers and Pharisees” : This tells us who is involved – two groups of Jewish leaders (lawyers and Pharisees) who were very concerned about what Jesus was doing. They were worried about following the rules set by the religious authorities. “saying, Is it lawful to heal on the sabbath day?” This is the core of the question. It’s asking if it's okay to perform miracles or healing activities during a day that's meant for rest and worship (the "Sabbath"). What’s the Big Context? This verse comes up in Jesus’s teachings about his authority and what it means to be a good servant of God. It was a significant point of debate amongst the Jewish leaders at the time – they were worried that Jesus might be defying tradition and being too powerful. Why is this important? Jesus was showing them that healing wasn't just about helping people, but also about demonstrating his divine power and setting an example for others. It was a way to show God’s love and care. It highlighted the idea that true authority comes from God, not just human law. In short: Jesus is asking if it’s right for him to heal people on days off (the Sabbath), because he's trying to show his power and importance as a leader. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the historical context of this passage?

Definition: Saying, This man began to build, and was not able to finish.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this passage from Luke 14:30. It’s a really important idea about priorities and what truly matters. Here’s the explanation in simple terms: The Core Idea: This verse is saying that focusing too much on things that seem important now can actually hinder your future happiness and success. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “This man began to build…” – Think of this as someone starting a project, like building a house or creating something. This person was putting effort into something. “…and was not able to finish.” - This is the key part. They started, but they couldn’t see it through to completion. They didn't reach the end goal. What does this mean practically? It suggests that if we get so caught up in activities or pursuits that seem important at the moment – like building a big project, a complicated task, or even just trying to impress someone – we might not be able to fully enjoy or achieve what we've started. We might lose sight of the bigger picture and the things that truly bring us joy and fulfillment in the long run. The Bigger Picture (Jesus’s Teaching): Jesus is teaching us a valuable lesson about true priorities . He’s saying that true success and happiness come from focusing on things that are more important – like serving God, pursuing righteousness, and living a life of love and compassion. In essence, the verse encourages us to: Don't get bogged down in trivial pursuits. Focus on what’s truly meaningful and valuable. Make time for bigger things – those that will bring lasting fulfillment. Does this apply to you ? Maybe you’re feeling overwhelmed with tasks and struggling to find your focus. Sometimes, taking a step back and re-evaluating where you're spending your energy can be incredibly beneficial. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from Luke 14? Discuss the broader meaning of this passage in more detail?

Definition: Or what king, going to make war against another king, sitteth not down first, and consulteth whether he be able with ten thousand to meet him that cometh against him with twenty thousand?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Luke 14:31. It’s a really important idea about prioritizing and how we should live our lives. Here’s the explanation in simple terms: What it means: This verse is talking about a king who’s facing a serious challenge – someone coming to attack him with a much larger army than his own. The question isn’t if he can win, but how he should spend his time and resources. Let's unpack it: “What king…” : We’re talking about a leader who is facing conflict. “…going to make war against another king…” : This means the king is defending himself against an enemy. It’s a battle! “…sitth not down first…” : The king isn't going to start the war right away, and he’s not going to focus on immediate defense. "...and consulteth whether he be able with ten thousand to meet him that cometh against him with twenty thousand?” : This is the crucial part. He’s asking himself: “Can I really win this battle if I only have ten thousand soldiers? Or will a much larger army overwhelm me?” What it's teaching us: The verse is about prioritizing what’s truly important. It means: Focus on your most valuable resources: Don’t waste time or effort on things that are less important. Protect what matters most: When facing a difficult situation, you should concentrate your energy and efforts on the things that will have the biggest impact – protecting yourself, your family, and your values. It's better to decline a battle when you don’t have an advantage: Sometimes, it’s wiser not to fight a war if you’re not prepared to win. It's more wise to retreat or make concessions. In short, the verse is a reminder that true strength comes from focusing on what truly matters and being strategic about your resources. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in a different way? Give you some examples of situations where this principle applies?

Definition: Or else, while the other is yet a great way off, he sendeth an ambassage, and desireth conditions of peace.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Luke 14:32. It’s a really important one about prioritizing and looking ahead. Here’s a simple explanation: The Core Idea: This verse is teaching us to be thoughtful about our plans and priorities. It suggests that we shouldn't rush into things without considering the long-term consequences or the overall picture. Let’s unpack it word by word: “Or else…” – This sets up a consequence, like a warning. “…while the other is yet a great way off…” - This means that there's still time for things to develop and progress. The "other" person isn’t fully committed or ready yet. It suggests a chance for things to change. “he sendeth an ambassage…” – “An ambassage” is a fancy word for a messenger or representative. This person is sent out to talk and explore . “…and desireth conditions of peace.” – This is the key part! The person sending the ambassador isn’t just interested in getting things done quickly. They're focused on establishing good relationships and ensuring a peaceful, stable future. What it means practically: It’s saying that we should be cautious about pursuing something important without considering whether it will lead to a positive outcome – both for ourselves and for others. We shouldn't just focus on the immediate goal and forget about building a foundation for long-term success or harmony. In short, it’s about being strategic and thoughtful in our actions. It encourages us to plan ahead, consider the impact of our choices, and prioritize relationships and stability over speed. Analogy: Think of planting a tree. You don't just plant it and expect it to grow instantly. You need to nurture it, protect it from harm, and consider its future growth – that’s like being thoughtful before rushing into something important. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you a more detailed example of how this principle applies in a specific situation?

Definition: So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Luke 14:33. It’s a really important and somewhat challenging one, and it speaks to the idea of true faith and commitment. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that only people who are truly dedicated and committed to their beliefs will be considered your true disciples. It’s not about being a good person – it’s about being completely devoted to the belief system. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “So likewise, whosoever he be of you…” - This is saying "Likewise, whoever you are..." It's inviting everyone to consider what they hold dear. "...that forsaketh not all that he hath…" – “Forsaketh not” means to leave behind or abandon something. “All that he has” refers to possessions, money, status, or whatever someone holds valuable. "...he cannot be my disciple." - This is the core of the message. "Disciples" are people who follow and trust in a leader or system. If you leave behind everything you have, you can’t truly be with someone who believes and follows them. What it means practically: It's saying that if you aren’t completely committed to your faith – if you’re not willing to give up things you value, possessions, or even a certain way of life – you won’t be considered a true disciple. You might appear good on the surface but are ultimately lacking the deep commitment needed for real spiritual growth and connection. Why is this important? Jesus uses this image to emphasize that true faith isn't just about belief; it’s about action and dedication. It’s about putting your whole self into something, rather than just a part of yourself. It speaks to the importance of honesty and genuine commitment in our relationship with God. In short, it's a warning against superficial faith – focusing solely on outward appearances without a deep, unwavering commitment. --- Would you like me to: Explain this verse further? Give an example of what that "all that he has" might represent?

Definition: Salt [is] good: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be seasoned?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this Bible verse together! It’s a really interesting and layered idea. Here's what it means in simple terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about importance and value . It’s saying that salt isn’t just present , it needs to have its best qualities to be truly useful. If the salt loses its flavor – its distinct taste – then it can't effectively add flavor to something else. Let’s unpack it word by word: “Salt is good” : Salt has a natural ability to make things better, to enhance flavors and aromas. It’s a valuable ingredient. “…but if the salt have lost his savour…” : This is where it gets deeper. "Savour" means a pleasant taste or smell – a real, delicious quality. The salt has lost its flavor. "...wherewith shall it be seasoned?" : This is the key question. “Seasoned” implies something needs to be added to make it complete and worthwhile. It’s asking, "How can we make this salt still valuable?" Putting it all together – a simple explanation: Jesus is saying that true value comes from being well-seasoned. Salt isn't just there ; it needs to have the right qualities—a strong, pleasant flavor—to be effective. If that flavor disappears, it’s no longer useful. What does this mean in a real-life situation? This verse is often used as a reminder to: Focus on quality: Don't just be busy; make sure you’re doing things well and with care. Be mindful of details: Small things matter! It’s not enough to simply be good – you need to have the qualities that make it truly excellent. In short, Jesus is saying that true value isn't just about being present, but also about having the best possible quality. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss this verse in a specific context (like its meaning in the parable of the lost sheep)?

Definition: It is neither fit for the land, nor yet for the dunghill; [but] men cast it out. He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Luke 14:35. It’s a really important and slightly complex message about priorities and how we should live our lives. Here’s the explanation in simple terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that we shouldn’t focus on things that are unpleasant, worthless, or out of place. It's urging us to be mindful of what we do with our time and energy. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: "It is neither fit for the land, nor yet for the dunghill…" – This compares something to a very dirty, unwanted place – think a dirt floor or a garbage bin. It's not suitable for where it belongs. “…[but] men cast it out.” – This means that people, often in a group or community, reject this thing (the verse). They simply ignore it and throw it away. “He who hath ears to hear, let him hear.” – This is the key part. It’s a call to action for those who can listen. It means we should actively listen to God's word, his guidance, and the truth of His message. What does it mean practically? The verse is essentially saying: Don’t waste your time or energy on things that are not valuable or righteous. It’s about prioritizing what’s important – spiritual growth, good deeds, and living a life pleasing to God. It encourages us to be mindful of our actions and intentions. In essence, it's a reminder to: Be thoughtful about your choices. Focus on things that are worthwhile. Listen to the voice of God (or whatever higher power you believe in). Why is this important? Jesus frequently uses metaphors like this throughout the Bible. It’s about aligning our lives with His will, which involves seeking a life of purpose and righteousness. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from Luke 14? Discuss the meaning of the concept of "hearing" in the context of the verse?