Luke 12 27

Luke 12:27 kjv

Consider the lilies how they grow: they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.

Luke 12:27 nkjv

Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; and yet I say to you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.

Luke 12:27 niv

"Consider how the wild flowers grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these.

Luke 12:27 esv

Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.

Luke 12:27 nlt

"Look at the lilies and how they grow. They don't work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are.

Luke 12 verses

Luke 12 27 Meaning

Jesus teaches His followers to observe the lilies of the field and learn from their effortless growth and exquisite beauty, contrasting this with their own anxious toil. He emphasizes that God, who so perfectly clothes these flowers, will also provide for those who seek His kingdom first. The verse highlights the Father's attentive care for creation and His profound love for His children, assuring them of His provision when their focus is rightly placed on His will.

Luke 12 27 Context

This verse is part of Jesus' discourse to His disciples, found in Luke 12. The immediate preceding context involves Jesus addressing the disciples' anxieties about material needs and warning against greed and the love of money. He has just told the parable of the rich fool who amassed wealth but was then called to give account for his soul, emphasizing that one's life does not consist in the abundance of possessions. Following this, Jesus urges them not to worry about what they will eat or wear, likening them to birds who are fed by God. This verse, "Consider the lilies, how they grow," serves as a beautiful, practical illustration of this point. Historically and culturally, lilies were common in the region and renowned for their vibrant colors and elegant form, easily observed by the people of that time. The lesson is framed within a teaching style that uses the created order to reveal truths about God's character and will.

Luke 12 27 Word Analysis

• Consider (θεωρεῖτε - theōreite): Present imperative, plural. It means to look at attentively, to observe carefully, to contemplate, to regard. It implies more than a passing glance; it requires thoughtful observation.
• the lilies (rà κρίνa - ta krina): Neuter plural. Refers to wildflowers, commonly understood as lilies or similar blooming plants. The beauty and simplicity of these flowers are the focus.
• how (πῶς - pōs): Interrogative adverb, indicating the manner or way. Jesus wants them to observe how they grow.
• they grow (αὐξάνουσιν - auxanousin): Present active indicative. It signifies growth, increase, becoming larger, developing. The emphasis is on their natural, inherent process of growth.
• They neither toil (οὐ κοπιῶσιν - ou kopiousin): Present active indicative. "Kopiao" means to labor, to work hard, to grow weary from toil, to exert oneself with effort. The negation "ou" (not) emphatically states they do not engage in such labor.
• nor spin (οὐδὲ νήθουσιν - oude nēthousin): Present active indicative. "Nēthō" specifically refers to spinning thread or yarn, a task of diligent human labor, particularly associated with making clothes. The conjunction "oude" means "not even" or "nor."
• And yet (Ὃμως δὲ - Homōs de): "Homos" means "still" or "nevertheless," "de" is a conjunction often translated as "but" or "and." It creates a strong contrast.
• I tell you (λέγω ὑμῖν - legō umin): "Legō" is "to say" or "to tell." "Umin" is the plural dative of "you." This is a common authoritative phrase Jesus uses.
• even (καί - kai): "Kai" can mean "and," "even," "also." Here, it intensifies the following phrase, emphasizing the unparalleled nature of the lilies' attire.
• Solomon (Σολομὼν - Solomon): Refers to King Solomon, known for his immense wealth, wisdom, and grandeur.
• in all his glory (ἐν πάσῃ τῇ δόξῃ αὐτοῦ - en pasē tē doxē autou): "Pasē" means "all" or "every." "Doxē" means glory, splendor, magnificence, majesty. This refers to Solomon's resplendent royal attire and magnificent lifestyle.
• was not arrayed (οὐκ ἐνεχράσθη - ouk enechrasthe): Aorist passive indicative of "enkrāsynō," which can mean "to blend" or "to be adorned." In the passive, it means "was not clothed" or "was not adorned." The implication is that the lilies surpassed even the grandest human sartorial splendor.
• like one of these (ὡς ἓν τούτων - hōs hen toutōn): "Hōs" means "as" or "like." "Hen" means "one." "Toutōn" is the genitive plural of "houtos," meaning "these." The comparison highlights the supreme, natural beauty and splendor God has bestowed upon the lilies.

Group of Words Analysis:

• "Consider the lilies, how they grow.": This is a direct imperative to active, discerning observation of the natural world, urging a lesson from creation's ordinariness and beauty.
• "They neither toil nor spin.": This phrase encapsulates a state of effortless being and divinely ordained sustenance, free from the anxiety-ridden labor of human provision. It stands in stark contrast to the human struggle for material security.
• "And yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.": This is a hyperbolic statement designed to elevate the perceived worth and beauty of God's creation over the pinnacle of human magnificence and wealth. It underscores God's inherent capacity to adorn His creation in a way that exceeds human achievement, even that of a king famed for splendor.

Luke 12 27 Bonus Section

The reference to Solomon in all his glory is particularly significant. Solomon was renowned throughout the ancient world not only for his wisdom but also for his opulent lifestyle and the magnificence of his kingdom, including the Temple he built and his personal wealth. To say that a simple field lily surpasses him in splendor highlights the incredible artistry and provision of God. This imagery contrasts the temporary, external splendor of human royalty with the enduring, intrinsic beauty God creates. It subtly rebukes a focus on outward appearance or material wealth as the source of security or status, redirecting focus to the Creator who imbues even the simplest flower with surpassing beauty, as an assurance of His care for those who belong to Him. The lilies represent a pure, unadulterated form of divine artistry that human hands, no matter how skillful or wealthy, cannot replicate.

Luke 12 27 Commentary

Jesus employs a vivid illustration from nature to underscore His message about not worrying about daily needs. The lilies are presented not as idly existing, but as growing, living entities perfectly clothed by God. This perfect attire, exceeding even King Solomon's regal splendor, emphasizes God's attention to His creation and His capability to provide. The lilies' effortless growth and adornment are models for believers; they are to trust God for provision while actively pursuing His kingdom, not becoming consumed by anxious labor for material gain. The teaching challenges reliance on human effort alone and points to a reliance on divine enablement and provision when the heart is oriented toward God.

• Practical Observation: Take time to notice the intricate details and beauty in common flowers or plants around you, reflecting on God's provision for them.
• Attitude Check: When feeling anxious about material needs, remember the lilies and ask if your worry is misplaced, compared to misplaced trust in your own strength.
• Priorities Alignment: Ensure your efforts and concerns are primarily focused on seeking God’s kingdom, trusting Him to handle the rest, as promised.