Luke 12:27

Luke 12:27, in plain English

Look at the wildflowers, Jesus says. They don't work or worry about what to wear. But even Solomon, the richest king ever, wasn't dressed as beautifully as one of them.

Why it's here

Solomon had everything -- gold, jewels, the finest robes. And Jesus says a simple flower in a field is more beautiful. That's God's artistry, and it's effortless for Him.

Who's speaking

Jesus paints a breathtaking picture from nature to cure your anxiety about provision.

Where it sits in the story

Jesus wants you to stop and look at a flower. Really look at it. If God makes something that temporary that beautiful, imagine what He has planned for you.

The scholarly reading

The lilies (ta krina) neither labor (kopiasin) nor spin (nēthei), yet surpass Solomon's royal glory (doxē). The comparison with Israel's wealthiest, most splendidly dressed king underscores that God's natural artistry exceeds the greatest human achievement.

Language and setting

Solomon's glory was legendary in Jewish tradition -- his wealth, wisdom, and royal splendor were unmatched. Yet a common field flower outshines him, demonstrating God's effortless creative abundance.

Voice

Jesus points to wildflowers as a second nature illustration, this time addressing worry about clothing.

Significance

From ravens to lilies, Jesus builds His case from creation. God's artistry in a flower exceeds the greatest human wealth. If He dresses flowers this beautifully, He will certainly clothe you.

25Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?

26So if you cannot do such a small thing, why do you worry about the rest?

27Consider how the lilies grow: They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his glory was adorned like one of these.

28If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the furnace, how much more will He clothe you, O you of little faith!

29And do not be concerned about what you will eat or drink. Do not worry about it.

Read all of Luke 12 — Sparrows, barns, and a thief in the night — Jesus teaches his followers to stop hoarding and start trusting. Worry is the opposite of faith.