Luke 18:12
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 18:12
12 I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess.
Chapter Context
Luke 18 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of worship, discipleship, creation. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christians needed to understand their place in the Roman world.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-43: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Luke and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Luke 18:12
12 I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess.
Analysis
I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess—the Pharisee's resume of religious performance. Nēsteuō dis tou sabbatou (νηστεύω δὶς τοῦ σαββάτου) means 'I fast twice per week'—Mondays and Thursdays, beyond the single required annual fast (Day of Atonement). Apodekatoō panta hosa ktōmai (ἀποδεκατῶ πάντα ὅσα κτῶμαι)—'I tithe all that I acquire,' even herbs and spices beyond the law's requirements (Matthew 23:23).
These works aren't inherently wrong—fasting and tithing are biblical. The problem is using them as grounds for self-justification. He trusts his performance, not God's mercy. Paul later confessed similar credentials (Philippians 3:4-6) but counted them as loss compared to knowing Christ. Religion without grace produces pride; grace produces humility.
Historical Context
Jewish law required one fast annually—Yom Kippur (Leviticus 16). Pharisees added voluntary fasts twice weekly as piety displays. Tithing was required on grain, wine, and oil (Deuteronomy 14:22-23), but Pharisees extended it to garden herbs like mint, dill, and cumin. These 'fence around the law' practices aimed to prevent accidentally breaking God's commands, but became badges of superiority rather than expressions of love for God.
Reflection
- What makes religious disciplines like fasting and tithing dangerous when used as grounds for self-righteousness?
- How can you practice spiritual disciplines as responses to grace rather than attempts to earn God's favor?
- What warning does this verse give about going 'beyond requirements' while missing the heart of true righteousness?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Luke 11:42, 17:10, Malachi 3:8, Matthew 6:1, 9:14, 1 Timothy 4:8