Luke 12:32
Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom.
Original Language Analysis
Μὴ
not
G3361
Μὴ
not
Strong's:
G3361
Word #:
1 of 14
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
φοβοῦ
Fear
G5399
φοβοῦ
Fear
Strong's:
G5399
Word #:
2 of 14
to frighten, i.e., (passively) to be alarmed; by analogy, to be in awe of, i.e., revere
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 14
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
μικρὸν
little
G3398
μικρὸν
little
Strong's:
G3398
Word #:
4 of 14
small (in size, quantity, number or (figuratively) dignity)
ὅτι
for
G3754
ὅτι
for
Strong's:
G3754
Word #:
6 of 14
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
εὐδόκησεν
good pleasure
G2106
εὐδόκησεν
good pleasure
Strong's:
G2106
Word #:
7 of 14
to think well of, i.e., approve (an act); specially, to approbate (a person or thing)
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
8 of 14
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
πατὴρ
Father's
G3962
πατὴρ
Father's
Strong's:
G3962
Word #:
9 of 14
a "father" (literally or figuratively, near or more remote)
δοῦναι
to give
G1325
δοῦναι
to give
Strong's:
G1325
Word #:
11 of 14
to give (used in a very wide application, properly, or by implication, literally or figuratively; greatly modified by the connection)
Cross References
Hebrews 12:28Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear:Revelation 1:6And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.Philippians 2:13For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.Luke 10:21In that hour Jesus rejoiced in spirit, and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes: even so, Father; for so it seemed good in thy sight.Matthew 25:34Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:Isaiah 40:11He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young.2 Thessalonians 1:11Wherefore also we pray always for you, that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfil all the good pleasure of his goodness, and the work of faith with power:Matthew 14:27But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.2 Peter 1:11For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.Jeremiah 3:19But I said, How shall I put thee among the children, and give thee a pleasant land, a goodly heritage of the hosts of nations? and I said, Thou shalt call me, My father; and shalt not turn away from me.
Historical Context
This came during Jesus' teaching about anxiety and trusting God's provision (vv. 22-31). First-century disciples were indeed a 'little flock'—a tiny minority in the Roman Empire, facing opposition from religious and political powers. The kingdom promise sustained them through persecution. 'Kingdom' (Greek 'basileia,' βασιλεία) means both God's reign and the realm where He reigns—present spiritual reality and future eternal inheritance. The Father's 'good pleasure' to give it reveals grace's heart—God delights in blessing His children. Early Christians clung to this promise during persecution, knowing their inheritance was secure.
Questions for Reflection
- How does understanding that it's the Father's 'good pleasure' to give the kingdom transform our approach to spiritual life and discipleship?
- What does calling disciples 'little flock' teach about the church's size and vulnerability, yet also God's care and ultimate victory?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Jesus comforts disciples: 'Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom.' The address 'little flock' acknowledges their small number and vulnerability yet assures divine care. The phrase 'your Father' emphasizes relationship—God is not distant ruler but loving Father. 'Good pleasure' (Greek 'eudokēsen,' εὐδόκησεν) indicates God's delight in giving the kingdom—He wants to give it, not reluctantly grants it. This promise transforms perspective—the kingdom comes by grace, not works. Fear dissolves when we understand the Father's generous heart toward His children.