Luke 12:30

30 For it is the nations of the world that strive after all these things, and your Father knows that you need them.

Luke 12:30 Meaning and Commentary

Luke 12:30

For all these things do the nations of the world seek
after
That is, the Gentiles, as in ( Matthew 6:32 ) who are frequently, in the Jewish writings, called, in distinction from the Jews, (Mlweh twmwa) , "the nations of the world" F19. This is an argument used to dissuade from an immediate and anxious concern for food and raiment, because it is Heathenish, and therefore very unbecoming the disciples and followers of Christ: it need not be wondered at in those that know not God, and do not acknowledge his providence, and are strangers to his covenant and promises; but must be very unsuitable to the characters of such who know that godliness has the promise of this life, and of that which is to come:

and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things;
and therefore it is needless to be so anxious about them: the Persic version reads, "all these things", and so some copies; that is, meat, drink, and clothing, all the necessaries of life; (See Gill on Matthew 6:32).


FOOTNOTES:

F19 Vid. T. Bab. Gittin, fol. 28. 2. & 29.

Luke 12:30 In-Context

28 But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, how much more will he clothe you—you of little faith!
29 And do not keep striving for what you are to eat and what you are to drink, and do not keep worrying.
30 For it is the nations of the world that strive after all these things, and your Father knows that you need them.
31 Instead, strive for his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well.
32 "Do not be afraid, little flock, for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom.
New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.