Gospel
1 At that time: So many people were crowding together that they were trampling one another underfoot. Jesus began to speak, first to his disciples, “Beware of the leaven—that is, the hypocrisy—of the Pharisees. 2“There is nothing concealed that will not be revealed, nor secret that will not be known. 3 Therefore whatever you have said in the darkness will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered behind closed doors will be proclaimed on the housetops. 4 I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body but after that can do no more. 5 I shall show you whom to fear. Be afraid of the one who after killing has the power to cast into Gehenna; yes, I tell you, be afraid of that one. 6 Are not five sparrows sold for two small coins? Yet not one of them has escaped the notice of God. 7 Even the hairs of your head have all been counted. Do not be afraid. You are worth more than many sparrows.”
Historical Background
Jesus is speaking to a massive crowd—so large they were “trampling one another.” This signals His growing popularity but also rising tension with religious authorities.
Roman occupation loomed over Judea. Fear of persecution was real, especially for those who followed Jesus. The Pharisees held religious power, often using it to maintain control.
“Leaven” was a common metaphor for corruption. In Jewish tradition, unleavened bread symbolized purity—so Jesus’ warning about the “leaven of the Pharisees” was a sharp critique of hidden sin and hypocrisy.
Theological Context
Jesus exposes the danger of religious pretense. He teaches that all hidden things will be revealed—pointing to divine justice and transparency.
He distinguishes between fearing human threats and revering God, who holds eternal authority. This is not terror but “filial fear”—a reverent awe that leads to obedience.
The mention of sparrows and numbered hairs reveals God’s intimate care. Even the smallest creature is known and valued—how much more His children.
Learning Lessons
Faith must be genuine, not performative. Hypocrisy corrodes community and personal integrity. Earthly threats are temporary. Eternal perspective brings courage and peace.
God’s knowledge of you is complete—your worth is immeasurable in His eyes. What’s whispered in secret will be proclaimed. Let your words and life reflect the light.
In crowds that press and voices swell,
You speak where hidden motives dwell.
“Beware the leaven,” You declare,
Of hearts that mask what’s truly there.
No whisper hides, no shadow stays,
When Light unveils our secret ways.
Yet in this truth, You gently show,
How deep Your love and care still flow.
Five sparrows sold for coins so small,
Yet not one slips Your gaze at all.
And we—more precious, counted, known—
Are held within Your heart alone.
So let me walk with honest grace,
Unmasked before Your holy face.
Not fearing man, but fearing You,
In awe that shapes my soul anew.
Lord Jesus,
You see through every mask and motive. You know the words I whisper and the fears I hide. Teach me to live with integrity— to speak truth in love, to walk humbly in Your light, and to fear You above all else.
Thank You for valuing me beyond measure, for counting every hair on my head, and for watching over me like the sparrows You cherish. Help me rest in Your care, stand firm in Your truth, and live boldly for Your glory.
Amen.
May your kindness, O Lord, be upon us; who have put our hope in you.
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