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Liz Lemon Swindle's painting, "The Prodigal Son," depicting the father hugging the prodigal son.
Come Follow Me 2023: Luke 12, 14-17; John 11
Scripture Block

Luke 12, 14-17; John 11

May 1-7
“Rejoice with Me; for I Have Found My Sheep Which Was Lost”

Scripture Central Videos

Watch videos from Gospel scholars and teachers to learn more about these New Testament passages. Scripture Central produces weekly videos from Tyler Griffin, Taylor Halverson, Clint Mortenson, John Hilton III, and Lynne Hilton Wilson.

Other Creator Videos

Commentary

The New Testament Minute is a commentary series made especially for the free ScripturePlus app, which features insights from New Testament scholars. many of the insights in the New Testament Minute are gleaned from the BYU New Testament Commentary series. Lynne Hilton Wilson has written a commentary to supplement her New Testament video series.

cover of New Testament Minute: Luke
S. Kent Brown
John W. Welch, General Editor
cover of New Testament Minute: John
Jackson Abhau
John W. Welch, General Editor

Reading Plan

Structure your personal scripture study by following a 15-minute, day-by-day plan. Each day's assignment includes the required scripture passages from the Come, Follow Me curriculum, as well as suggestions for additional resources to bring context and understanding to your study. For the best experience, use our Reading Plan in the free ScripturePlus app! You can track your progress and have access to the best resources.

Monday

  • Verse of the Day: Luke 12:27-28
  • Scripture: Luke 12:1-34
  • Video: Seeking Jesus - The Rich Man and the Bigger Barn
  • Commentary: Luke 12:1–12. God’s Influence
  • Commentary: Luke 12:13–21. On Earthly Treasures
  • Commentary: Luke 12:22–34. On God as Provider
  • Additional Study:
    • Quote: “Those who teach after the manner of the Spirit understand they teach people, not lessons. As such, they overcome the urge to cover everything in a manual or teach all they have learned on the subject and focus instead on those things that their family or class members need to know and do. Parents, leaders, and teachers who mirror how the Spirit teaches learn quickly that real teaching involves much more than just talking and telling. As a result, they intentionally pause to listen, carefully observe, and then discern what to do next. [David A. Bednar, ‘Seek Learning by Faith,’ Liahona, Sept. 2007, 16–24; Ensign, Sept. 2007, 60–68.] When they do this, the Holy Ghost is in a position to teach both learners and teachers what they should do and say. (Luke 12:12)” (Matthew O. Richardson, “Teaching after the Manner of the Spirit,” October 2011 General Conference)
    • Quote: “As regards property, Jesus taught that ‘a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth’ (Luke 12:15) Consequently, we should not lay up for ourselves ‘treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal’ (Matt. 6:19) In other words, the treasures of our hearts—our priorities—should not be what the scriptures call ‘riches [and] the vain things of this world’ (Alma 39:14) The ‘vain things of [the] world’ include every combination of that worldly quartet of property, pride, prominence, and power. As to all of these, the scriptures remind us that ‘you cannot carry them with you’ (Alma 39:14) We should be seeking the kind of treasures the scriptures promise the faithful: ‘great treasures of knowledge, even hidden treasures’ (Doctrine and Covenants 89:19)” (Dallin H. Oaks, “Focus and Priorities,” April 2001 General Conference)
    • Quote: “Fifth, obeying the law of tithing is an essential element of faith and family unity. Because Satan uses greed and the pursuit of possessions to sweep families off the celestial highway, Jesus advised, ‘Beware of covetousness.’ (Luke 12:15; Doctrine and Covenants 38:39) Covetousness is restrained as we project our income, pay an honest tithe and generous fast offering, budget needed expenses, avoid unnecessary debt, save for future needs, and become temporally self-reliant. God’s promise to us is, ‘Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.’ (Matthew 6:33; 3 Nephi 13:33)”
    • Quote: “Many were healed physically from ailments and suffering during the Savior’s ministry, but real joy and happiness were not always realized. People may be healed but not lifted. Happiness does not come from physical, social, or economic success. ‘… a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.’ (Luke 12:15)” (Marvin J. Ashton, “He Took Him by His Hand,” October 1973 General Conference)

Tuesday

  • Verse of the Day: Luke 12:40
  • Scripture: Luke 12:35-59
  • Scripture: Luke 14:1-6
  • Commentary: Luke 12:35–40. Parable of the Prepared Servants
  • Commentary: Luke 12:41–48. Parable of the Unfaithful Servant
  • Commentary: Luke 14:1–6. Healing a Man with Dropsy during a Meal
  • Additional Study: 
    • Quote: “Furthermore, envy is a mistake that just keeps on giving. Obviously we suffer a little when some misfortune befalls us, but envy requires us to suffer all good fortune that befalls everyone we know! What a bright prospect that is—downing another quart of pickle juice every time anyone around you has a happy moment! To say nothing of the chagrin in the end, when we find that God really is both just and merciful, giving to all who stand with Him ‘all that he hath,’ (Luke 12:44) as the scripture says. So lesson number one from the Lord’s vineyard: coveting, pouting, or tearing others down does not elevate your standing, nor does demeaning someone else improve your self-image. So be kind, and be grateful that God is kind. It is a happy way to live.” (Jeffrey R. Holland, “The Laborers in the Vineyard,” April 2012 General Conference)
    • Quote: “Every member can give his time and talents freely to the building up of the kingdom of God upon the earth. No member of the Church should miss this opportunity to exercise his faith and feel the spirit that comes from humble sacrifice. Seeing the great good that the Saints in South America do with their meager means helps me realize how much more many of us in other parts of the world could do. We should never forget the Savior’s teaching: ‘Unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required’ (Luke 12:48) He has blessed us abundantly.” (M. Russell Ballard, “Sacrifice and Self-Sufficiency,” October 1987 General Conference)
    • Quote: “These comments are interesting and challenging to both church members and nonmembers alike. It should give all of us a real pride of belonging to the Church we testify to the world in all sincerity and solemnity as being the only true Church of Christ on earth today. Although church members have in the gospel the pearl of great price, yet complacency, inactivity, failure to keep the commandments will never save them. We must be doers of the word and not hearers only (James 1:22) Where much is given, much is expected (Luke 12:48) If we are true to the faith of our Lord, God will prosper his work and kingdom. The kingdom of God is the only hope of the world for understanding and peace. The menacing conflicts and threat of more and greater conflicts but presages the holocausts to follow. Man’s ways are failing. Perhaps it is time for God’s ways to take over now that all else seemingly is falling apart. The world needs the pearl of great price, which is God’s kingdom, and it needs it today as never before.” (Delbert L. Stapley, “This Pearl Beyond Price,” October 1965 General Conference)
    • Quote: “The sinner should make restitution. It is obvious that the murderer cannot give back a life he has taken; the libertine cannot restore the virtue he has violated; the gossip may be unable to nullify and overcome the evils done by a loose tongue; but, so far as is possible, one must restore and make good the damage done. Perhaps the warning of the Redeemer ‘. . . thou shalt not depart thence, till thou hast paid the very last mite’ (Luke 12:59) may have reference to restitution as well as to the suffering of the sinner. Again the Lord says: ‘. . . and they [the sins] shall not be blotted out until he repent and reward the four-fold in all things wherewith he has trespassed against thee’ (Doctrine and Covenants 98:44)” (Spencer W. Kimball, “‘Except Ye Repent...’”, October 1949 General Conference)

Wednesday

Thursday

  • Verse of the Day: Luke 15:32
  • Scripture: Luke 15:8-32
  • Scripture: Luke 16:1-12
  • Video: BibleProject - The Prodigal Son: Luke 9-19
  • Video: Seeking Jesus - The Parable of the Prodigal Son
  • Additional Study:
    • Commentary: Luke 15:8–10. Parable of the Lost Coin
    • Commentary: Luke 15:11–32. Parable of the Prodigal Son
    • Commentary: Luke 16:1–12. Parable of the Unjust Steward
    • Quote: “When we strive to keep God’s commandments, ‘the inward man is renewed day by day’ (2 Cor. 4:16) Then, even on bad days, we will still ‘keep our own soul’ regardless of external conditions (Prov. 19:16) Granted, some inward decisions to ‘care … for’ and ‘keep’ our souls occur in otherwise uneventful times, as with the prodigal son. He had fed the swine day by day, finally experiencing a special day when he ‘came to himself’ (Luke 15:17) Whatever else happened on that particular day in that ‘far country’ (Luke 15:13) the prodigal son had ‘thought on [his] ways’ (Ps. 119:59) and firmly concluded that ‘I will arise and go to my father’ (Luke 15:18) Transformation followed introspection. Even so, one homeward-bound swineherd would scarcely have been noticed by the passersby, though things of eternal significance had happened to him.” (Neal A. Maxwell, “Care for the Life of the Soul,” April 2003 General Conference)
    • Quote: “God is our Father, and we are his children. From father to child there exists that same natural parental love that is expressed by our Heavenly Father for His children. When the prodigal boy, in that parable which most perfectly tells the story of the sinning, and repentant life, ‘came to himself,’ his first words were, ‘I will arise and go to my father’ (Luke 15:18) While he is yet afar off the waiting father sees him coming and is moved with compassion. Repentance is but the homesickness of the soul, and the uninterrupted and watchful care of the parent is the fairest earthly type of the unfailing forgiveness of God. The family is, to the mind of Jesus, the nearest of human analogies to that divine order which it was His mission to reveal.”

Friday

Saturday

  • Verse of the Day: Luke 17:33
  • Scripture: Luke 17:20-37
  • Scripture: John 11:1-16
  • Video: Seeking Jesus - Raising Lazarus from the Dead
  • Commentary: John 11:1–6. Introduction: Mary, Martha, and Lazarus
  • Commentary: John 11:7–16. Jesus Decides to Return to Judea
  • Additional Study:
    • Commentary: Luke 17:20–37. Second Coming
    • Quote: “The Lord’s kingdom encompasses not only Church and family, but also the hearts and minds of His people. As the Savior taught during His mortal ministry, ‘The kingdom of God is within you’ (Luke 17:21) If we truly desire to contribute to the great latter-day work, our eyes will be single to the glory of God, our minds enlightened by ‘the testimony of Jesus’ (Rev. 19:10) our hearts pure and consecrated. Personal prayer, study, and pondering are vital to the building up of the kingdom within our own souls. It is in quiet moments of contemplation and communion with the Almighty that we come to know and love Him as our Father.” (Bruce D. Porter, “Building the Kingdom,” April 2001 General Conference)
    • Quote: “Of those who sought the kingdom of God, Christ required complete conversion, or the second birth as explained by him to Nicodemus (John 3:1-7) ‘The kingdom of God is within you’ (Luke 17:21) therefore, conversion must needs come from within. And by conversion the kingdom of God within man impels him to reach out for the guidance and tuition of the organized kingdom of God with which he will seek affiliation.” (Matthew Cowley, “‘Seek Ye First the Kingdom of God,’” October 1946 General Conference)

Sunday

Joseph Smith Translation Variants

Explore Joseph Smith's inspired translation of the bible by comparing his changes to the King James Version of the New Testament. To learn more, see Joseph Smith's Translation of the Bible: The Joseph Smith Translation and the King James Translation in Parallel Columns.

Luke 12 JST Variants

KJV

JST

(2) For there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; neither hid, that shall not be known.

(2) For there is nothing covered which shall not be revealed; neither hid which shall not be known.

(4) And I say unto you my friends, Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do.

(4) And I say unto you my friends, be not afraid of them who kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do.

(5) But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him.

(5) But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: fear him who after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him.

(9) But he that denieth me before men shall be denied before the angels of God.

(9) But he who denieth me before men shall be denied before the angels of God.

Now his disciples knew that he said this because they had spoken evil against him before the people, for they were afraid to confess him before men. And they reasoned among themselves, saying, He knoweth our hearts and he speaketh to our condemnation, and we shall not be forgiven.

(10) And whosoever shall speak a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but unto him that blasphemeth against the Holy Ghost it shall not be forgiven.

(10) But he answered them and said unto them, Whosoever shall speak a word against the Son of Man and repenteth, it shall be forgiven him: but unto him who blasphemeth against the Holy Ghost it shall not be forgiven him.

(11) And when they bring you unto the synagogues, and unto magistrates, and powers, take ye no thought how or what thing ye shall answer, or what ye shall say:

(11) And again I say unto you, they shall bring you unto the synagogues, and before magistrates and powers. When they do this, take ye no thought how or what thing ye shall answer, or what ye shall say:

(21) So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.

(21) So shall it be with him who layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.

(23) The life is more than meat, and the body is more than raiment.

(23) For the life is more than meat, and the body is more than raiment.

(24) Consider the ravens: for they neither sow nor reap; which neither have storehouse nor barn; and God feedeth them: how much more are ye better than the fowls?

(24) Consider the ravens: for they neither sow nor reap; which neither have storehouse nor barn, nevertheless God feedeth them. Are ye not better than the fowls?

(25) And which of you with taking thought can add to his stature one cubit?

(25) And who of you by taking thought can add to his stature one cubit?

(26) If ye then be not able to do that thing which is least, why take ye thought for the rest?

(26) If ye then be not able to do that thing which is least, why take ye thought for the rest?

(28) If then God so clothe the grass, which is to day in the field, and to morrow is cast into the oven; how much more will he clothe you, O ye of little faith?

(28) If then God so clothe the grass, which is to day in the field, and to morrow is cast into the oven; how much more will he provide for you, if ye are not of little faith?

(29) And seek not ye what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, neither be ye of doubtful mind.

(29) Therefore, seek not ye what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, neither be ye of doubtful mind.

(30) For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things.

(30) For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father who is in heaven knoweth that ye have need of these things. And ye are sent unto them to be their ministers, and the labourer is worthy of his hire. For the law saith that a man shall not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn.

(31) But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you.

(31) Therefore, seek ye to bring forth the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you.

(33) Sell that ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth.

(33) Sell that you have, and give alms. Provide not for yourselves bags which wax old but rather provide a treasure in the heavens that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth.

(35) Let your loins be girded about, and your lights burning;

(35) Let your loins be girded about, and have your lights burning,

(36) And ye yourselves like unto men that wait for their lord, when he will return from the wedding; that when he cometh and knocketh, they may open unto him immediately.

(36) That ye yourselves may be like unto men who wait for their lord, when he will return from the wedding; that when he cometh and knocketh, they may open unto him immediately.

(37) Blessed are those servants, whom the lord when he cometh shall find watching: verily I say unto you, that he shall gird himself, and make them to sit down to meat, and will come forth and serve them.

(37) Verily I say unto you, blessed are those servants, whom the lord when he cometh shall find watching. For he shall gird himself, and make them to sit down to meat, and will come forth and serve them.

(38) And if he shall come in the second watch, or come in the third watch, and find them so, blessed are those servants.

(38) For behold, he cometh in the first watch of the night, and he shall also come in the second watch, and again he shall come in the third watch. And verily I say unto you, he hath already come, as it is written of him. And again when he shall come in the second watch or come in the third watch, blessed are those servants when he cometh that he shall find so doing. For the lord of those servants shall gird himself and make them to sit down to meat and will come forth and serve them.

(39) And this know, that if the goodman of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched, and not have suffered his house to be broken through.

(39) And now verily I say these things unto you that ye may know this, that the coming of the Lord is as a thief in the night. And it is like unto a man who is an householder who, if he watcheth not his goods, the thief cometh in an hour of which he is not aware and taketh his goods and divideth them among his fellows. And they said among themselves, If the goodman of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched, and not have suffered his house to be broken through and the loss of his goods.

(40) Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not.

(40) And he saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of Man cometh at an hour when ye think not.

(41) Then Peter said unto him, Lord, speakest thou this parable unto us, or even to all?

(41) Then Peter said unto him, Lord, speakest thou this parable unto us, or unto all?

(42) And the Lord said, Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his lord shall make ruler over his household, to give them their portion of meat in due season?

(42) And the Lord said, I speak unto those whom the Lord shall make rulers over his household to give his children their portion of meat in due season. And they said, Who then is that faithful and wise servant? And the Lord said unto them, It is that servant who watcheth to impart his portion of meat in due season.

(43) Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing.

(43) Blessed be that servant, whom his lord shall find when he cometh so doing.

(45) But and if that servant say in his heart, My lord delayeth his coming; and shall begin to beat the menservants and maidens, and to eat and drink, and to be drunken;

(45) But the evil servant is he who is not found watching. And if that servant is not found watching, he will say in his heart, My lord delayeth his coming; and shall begin to beat the manservants and the maidens, and to eat and drink, and to be drunken;

(46) The lord of that servant will come in a day when he looketh not for him, and at an hour when he is not aware, and will cut him in sunder, and will appoint him his portion with the unbelievers.

(46) The lord of that servant will come in a day when he looketh not for, him and at an hour when he is not aware, and will cut him down and will appoint him his portion with the unbelievers.

(47) And that servant, which knew his lord’s will, and prepared not himself, neither did according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes.

(47) And that servant who knew his lord’s will, and prepared not for his lord’s coming, neither did according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes.

(48) But he that knew not, and did commit things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few stripes. For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more.

(48) But he that knew not his lord’s will, and did commit things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few. stripes For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom the Lord has committed much, of him men will ask the more, for they are not well pleased with the Lord’s doings.

(49) I am come to send fire on the earth; and what will I, if it be already kindled?

(49) Therefore, I am come to send fire on the earth; and what is it to you if I will that it be already kindled?

(50) But I have a baptism to be baptized with; and how am I straitened till it be accomplished!

(50) But I have a baptism to be baptized with; and how am I straitened until it be accomplished!

(53) The father shall be divided against the son, and the son against the father; the mother against the daughter, and the daughter against the mother; the mother in law against her daughter in law, and the daughter in law against her mother in law.

(53) The father shall be divided against the son, and the son against the father, the mother against the daughter, and the daughter against the mother; the mother in law against her daughter in law, and the daughter in law against her mother in law.

(54) And he said also to the people, When ye see a cloud rise out of the west, straightway ye say, There cometh a shower; and so it is.

(54) And he said also unto the people, When ye see a cloud rise out of the west, ye say straightway, There cometh a shower; and so it is.

(55) And when ye see the south wind blow, ye say, There will be heat; and it cometh to pass.

(55) And when ye see the south wind blows, ye say, There will be heat; and it cometh to pass.

(56) Ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky and of the earth; but how is it that ye do not discern this time?

(56) O hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky and of the earth; but how is it that you do not discern this time?

(58) When thou goest with thine adversary to the magistrate, as thou art in the way, give diligence that thou mayest be delivered from him; lest he hale thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and the officer cast thee into prison.

(58) Why goest thou to thine adversary for a magistrate when thou art in the way with thine enemy? Why not give diligence that thou mayest be delivered from him; lest he hale thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and the officer cast thee into prison?

Luke 14 JST Variants

KJV

JST

(2) And, behold, there was a certain man before him which had the dropsy.

(2) And, behold, there was a certain man before him who had the dropsy.

(3) And Jesus answering spake unto the lawyers and Pharisees, saying, Is it lawful to heal on the sabbath day?

(3) And Jesus answering spake unto the lawyers and Pharisees, saying, Is it lawful to heal on the sabbath day?

(4) And they held their peace. And he took him, and healed him, and let him go;

(4) And they held their peace. And he took the man and healed him, and let him go;

(5) And answered them, saying, Which of you shall have an ass or an ox fallen into a pit, and will not straightway pull him out on the sabbath day?

(5) And spake again unto them, saying, Which of you shall have an ass or an ox fallen into a pit, and will not straightway pull him out on the sabbath day?

(6) And they could not answer him again to these things.

(6) And they could not answer him again to these things.

(7) And he put forth a parable to those which were bidden, when he marked how they chose out the chief rooms; saying unto them,

(7) And he put forth a parable unto them concerning those who were bidden to a wedding, for he knew they chose out the chief rooms and exalted themselves one above another. Wherefore he spake unto them, saying,

(8) When thou art bidden of any man to a wedding, sit not down in the highest room; lest a more honourable man than thou be bidden of him;

(8) When thou art bidden of any man to a wedding, sit not down in a highest room; lest a more honourable man than thou be bidden of him;

(9) And he that bade thee and him come and say to thee, Give this man place; and thou begin with shame to take the lowest room.

(9) And he who bade thee with him who is more honourable come and say to thee, Give this man place; and thou begin with shame to take the lowest room.

(10) But when thou art bidden, go and sit down in the lowest room; that when he that bade thee cometh, he may say unto thee, Friend, go up higher: then shalt thou have worship in the presence of them that sit at meat with thee.

(10) But when thou art bidden, go and sit down in the lowest room; that when he who bade thee cometh, he may say unto thee, Friend, go up higher: then shalt thou have honour of God in the presence of them who sit at meat with thee.

(11) For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.

(11) For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he who humbleth himself shall be exalted.

(12) Then said he also to him that bade him, When thou makest a dinner or a supper, call not thy friends, nor thy brethren, neither thy kinsmen, nor thy rich neighbours; lest they also bid thee again, and a recompence be made thee.

(12) Then said he also concerning him who bade to the wedding, When thou makest a dinner or a supper, call not thy friends, nor thy brethren, neither thy kinsmen, nor thy rich neighbours; lest they also bid thee again, and a recompence be made thee.

(15) And when one of them that sat at meat with him heard these things, he said unto him, Blessed is he that shall eat bread in the kingdom of God.

(15) And when one of them who sat at meat with him heard these things, he said unto him, Blessed is he who shall eat bread in the kingdom of God.

(17) And sent his servant at supper time to say to them that were bidden, Come; for all things are now ready.

(17) And sent his servants at supper time to say to them who were bidden, Come; for all things are now ready.

(20) And another said, I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come.

(20) And another said, I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come.

(21) So that servant came, and shewed his lord these things. Then the master of the house being angry said to his servant, Go out quickly into the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in hither the poor, and the maimed, and the halt, and the blind.

(21) So that servant came, and showed his lord these things. Then the master of the house being angry said to his servants, Go out quickly into the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in hither the poor, and the maimed, and the halt, and the blind.

(23) And the lord said unto the servant, Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled.

(23) And The lord said unto the servant, Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel men to come in, that my house may be filled.

(24) For I say unto you, That none of those men which were bidden shall taste of my supper.

(24) For I say unto you, That none of those men who were bidden shall taste of my supper.

(25) And there went great multitudes with him: and he turned, and said unto them,

(25) And when he had finished these sayings he departed thence, and there went great multitudes with him: and he turned, and said unto them,

(26) If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple.

(26) If anyone come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters or husband, yea, and their own life also, or in other words is afraid to lay down their life for my sake, [he] cannot be my disciple.

(27) And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple.

(27) And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple. Wherefore settle this in your hearts, that ye will do the things which I shall teach and command you.

(28) For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it?

(28) For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he has money to finish his work?

(29) Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him,

(29) Lest unhappily after he has laid the foundation, and is not able to finish his work, all who behold it begin to mock him,

(31) Or what king, going to make war against another king, sitteth not down first, and consulteth whether he be able with ten thousand to meet him that cometh against him with twenty thousand?

(31) And this he said signifying there should not any man follow him unless he was able to continue, saying, Or what king, going to make war against another king, sitteth not down first, and consulteth whether he be able with ten thousand to meet him who cometh against him with twenty thousand?

(33) So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple.

(33) So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple.

(34) Salt is good: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be seasoned?

(34) Then certain of them came to him, saying, Good master, we have Moses and the prophets, and whosoever shall live by them, shall he not have life? And Jesus answered saying, Ye know not Moses, neither the prophets. For if ye had known them, ye would have believed on me, for to this intent they were written. For I am sent that ye might have life. Therefore I will liken it unto salt which is good. But if the salt has lost its savour, wherewith shall it be seasoned?

(35) It is neither fit for the land, nor yet for the dunghill; but men cast it out. He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.

(35) It is neither fit for the land, nor yet for the dunghill; but men cast it out. He who hath ears to hear, let him hear. These things he said, signifying that which was written verily must all be fulfilled.

Luke 15 JST Variants

KJV

JST

(1) Then drew near unto him all the publicans and sinners for to hear him.

(1) Then drew near unto him many of the publicans and sinners for to hear him.

(4) What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it?

(4) What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine and go into the wilderness after that which is lost, until he find it?

(6) And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbours, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost.

(6) And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbors, and saith unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost.

(7) I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.

(7) I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons who need no repentance.

(9) And when she hath found it, she calleth her friends and her neighbours together, saying, Rejoice with me; for I have found the piece which I had lost.

(9) And when she hath found it, she calleth her friends and her neighbors together, saying, Rejoice with me; for I have found the piece which I had lost.

(10) Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.

(10) Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repenteth.

(12) And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided unto them his living.

(12) And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods which falleth to me. And he divided unto him his living.

(16) And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him.

(16) And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks which the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him.

(20) And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.

(20) And he arose, and came to his father. And when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.

(22) But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet:

(22) But the father said unto his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his finger, and shoes on his feet:

(29) And he answering said to his father, Lo, these many years do I serve thee, neither transgressed I at any time thy commandment: and yet thou never gavest me a kid, that I might make merry with my friends:

(29) And he answering said to his father, Lo, these many years do I serve thee, neither transgressed I at any time thy commandment: and yet thou never gavest me a kid, that I might make merry with my friends:

(30) But as soon as this thy son was come, which hath devoured thy living with harlots, thou hast killed for him the fatted calf.

(30) But as soon as this thy son was come, who hath devoured thy living with harlots, thou hast killed for him the fatted calf.

(31) And he said unto him, Son, thou art ever with me, and all that I have is thine.

(31) And he said unto him, Son, thou art ever with me, and all that I have is thine.

(32) It was meet that we should make merry, and be glad: for this thy brother was dead, and is alive again; and was lost, and is found.

(32) It was meet that we should make merry, and be glad for this thy brother was dead, and is alive again, and was lost and is found.

Luke 16 JST Variants

KJV

JST

(1) And he said also unto his disciples, There was a certain rich man, which had a steward; and the same was accused unto him that he had wasted his goods.

(1) And he said also unto his disciples, There was a certain rich man who had a steward; and the same was accused unto him that he had wasted his goods.

(5) So he called every one of his lord’s debtors unto him, and said unto the first, How much owest thou unto my lord?

(5) So he called every one of his lord’s debtors unto him and said unto the first, How much owest thou unto my lord?

(6) And he said, An hundred measures of oil. And he said unto him, Take thy bill, and sit down quickly, and write fifty.

(6) And he said, A hundred measures of oil. And he said unto him, Take thy bill, and sit down quickly, and write fifty.

(7) Then said he to another, And how much owest thou? And he said, An hundred measures of wheat. And he said unto him, Take thy bill, and write fourscore.

(7) Then said he to another, And how much owest thou? And he said, A hundred measures of wheat. And he said unto him, Take thy bill, and write fourscore.

(8) And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light.

(8) And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are wiser in their generation than the children of light.

(10) He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much.

(10) He who is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is also unjust in much.

(12) And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another man’s, who shall give you that which is your own?

(12) And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another man’s, who shall give unto you that which is your own?

(15) And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God.

(15) And he said unto them, Ye are they who justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is an abomination in the sight of God. And they said unto him, We have the law and the prophets, but as for this man, we will not receive him to be our ruler, for he maketh himself to be a judge over us.

(16) The law and the prophets were until John: since that time the kingdom of God is preached, and every man presseth into it.

(16) Then said Jesus unto them, The law and the prophets testify of me. Yea, and all the prophets who have written, even until John, have foretold of these days. Since that time the kingdom of God is preached, and every man who seeketh truth presseth into it.

(17) And it is easier for heaven and earth to pass, than one tittle of the law to fail.

(17) And it is easier for heaven and earth to pass, than for one of the law to fail. And why teach ye the law and deny that which is written and condemn him whom the Father hath sent to fulfill the law that you might all be redeemed? O fools! For you have said in your hearts, There is no God, and you pervert the right way, and the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence of you. And you persecute the meek, and in your violence you seek to destroy the kingdom and ye take the children of the kingdom by force. Woe unto you, ye adulterers! And they reviled him again, being angry for the saying that they were adulterers.

(18) Whosoever putteth away his wife, and marrieth another, committeth adultery: and whosoever marrieth her that is put away from her husband committeth adultery.

(18) But he continued, saying, Whosoever putteth away his wife, and marrieth another, committeth adultery: and whosoever marrieth her who is put away from her husband committeth adultery.

(19) There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day:

(19) Verily I say unto you, I will liken you unto the rich man. For there was a certain rich man who was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day:

(20) And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores,

(20) And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus who was laid at his gate, full of sores,

(22) And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham’s bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried;

(22) And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried of the angels into Abraham’s bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried;

(23) And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.

(23) And in hell he lifted up his eyes, being in torments, and saw Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.

(26) And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence.

(26) And besides all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they who would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence.

(31) And he said unto him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead.

(31) And he said unto him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one should rise from the dead.

Luke 17 JST Variants

KJV

JST

(1) Then said he unto the disciples, It is impossible but that offences will come: but woe unto him, through whom they come!

(1) Then said he unto the disciples, It is impossible but that offences will come: but woe to him, through whom they come!

(3) Take heed to yourselves: If thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him; and if he repent, forgive him.

(3) Take heed to yourselves: If your brother trespass against you, rebuke him; and if he repent, forgive him.

(4) And if he trespass against thee seven times in a day, and seven times in a day turn again to thee, saying, I repent; thou shalt forgive him.

(4) And if he trespass against you seven times in a day, and seven times in a day turn again to you, saying, I repent, you shall forgive him.

(5) And the apostles said unto the Lord, Increase our faith.

(5) And the apostles said unto him, Lord, increase our faith.

(6) And the Lord said, If ye had faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye might say unto this sycamine tree, Be thou plucked up by the root, and be thou planted in the sea; and it should obey you.

(6) And the Lord said, If you had faith as a grain of mustard seed you might say unto this sycamore tree, Be thou plucked up by the roots and be thou planted in the sea; and it should obey you.

(7) But which of you, having a servant plowing or feeding cattle, will say unto him by and by, when he is come from the field, Go and sit down to meat?

(7) But who of you, having a servant plowing or feeding cattle, will say unto him by and by when he is come from the field, Go and sit down to meat?

(8) And will not rather say unto him, Make ready wherewith I may sup, and gird thyself, and serve me, till I have eaten and drunken; and afterward thou shalt eat and drink?

(8) Will he not rather say unto him, Make ready wherewith I may sup, and gird yourself and serve me, till I have eaten and drunken; and afterward you shall eat and drink?

(9) Doth he thank that servant because he did the things that were commanded him? I trow not.

(9) Doth he thank that servant because he did the things which were commanded him? I say unto you, nay.

(10) So likewise ye, when ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants: we have done that which was our duty to do.

(10) So likewise ye, when ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants: we have done that which was no more than our duty to do.

(11) And it came to pass, as he went to Jerusalem, that he passed through the midst of Samaria and Galilee.

(11) And It came to pass, as he went to Jerusalem, that he passed through the midst of Galillee and Samaria.

(12) And as he entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers, which stood afar off:

(12) And as he entered into a certain village, there met him ten men who were lepers, who stood afar off.

(14) And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go shew yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed.

(14) And when he saw them he said unto them, Go show yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that as they went, they were cleansed.

(15) And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God,

(15) And One of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God,

(16) And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan.

(16) And fell down on his face at Jesus’s feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan.

(18) There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger.

(18) There are not found that return to give glory to God, save this stranger.

(21) Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you.

(21) Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God has already come to you.

(22) And he said unto the disciples, The days will come, when ye shall desire to see one of the days of the Son of man, and ye shall not see it.

(22) And he said unto his disciples, The days will come, when they will desire to see one of the days of the Son of Man, and they shall not see it.

(23) And they shall say to you, See here; or, see there: go not after them, nor follow them.

(23) And if they say to you, See here; or, see there: go not after them, nor follow them.

(24) For as the lightning, that lighteneth out of the one part under heaven, shineth unto the other part under heaven; so shall also the Son of man be in his day.

(24) For as the light of the morning that shineth out of the one part under heaven, and lighteth to the other part under heaven; so shall also the Son of man be in his day.

(25) But first must he suffer many things, and be rejected of this generation.

(25) But first he must suffer many things, and be rejected of this generation.

(31) In that day, he which shall be upon the housetop, and his stuff in the house, let him not come down to take it away: and he that is in the field, let him likewise not return back.

(31) In that day the disciple who shall be upon the housetop, and his stuff in the house, let him not come down to take it away: and he who is in the field, let him likewise not return back.

(34) I tell you, in that night there shall be two men in one bed; the one shall be taken, and the other shall be left.

(34) I tell you, in that night there shall be two men in one bed; the one shall be taken, and the other shall be left.

(35) Two women shall be grinding together; the one shall be taken, and the other left.

(35) Two women shall be grinding together; the one shall be taken, and the other left.

(36) Two men shall be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left.

(36) Two men shall be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left.

(37) And they answered and said unto him, Where, Lord? And he said unto them, Wheresoever the body is, thither will the eagles be gathered together.

(37) And they answered and said unto him, Where, Lord, shall they be taken? And he said unto them, Wheresoever the body is gathered, or in other words, withersoever the saints are gathered, thither will the eagles be gathered together. This he spake signifying the gathering of his saints and of angels descending and gathering the remainder unto them—the one from the bed, the other from the grinding, and the other from the field, whithersoever he listeth. For verily there shall be new heavens and a new earth wherein dwelleth righteousness , and there shall be no unclean thing. For the earth becoming old, even as a garment having waxed in corruption, wherefore it vanisheth away, and the footstool remaineth sanctified, cleansed from all sin.

John 11 JST Variants

KJV

JST

(1–2) Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus, of Bethany, the town of Mary and her sister Martha.

(It was that Mary which anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was sick.)

(1–2) Now a certain man was sick whose name was Lazarus of the town Bethany. And Mary, his sister who anointed the Lord with ointment and wiped his feet with her hair, lived with her sister Martha, in whose house her brother Lazarus was sick.

(4) When Jesus heard that, he said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby.

(4) When Jesus heard he was sick, he said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby.

(6) When he had heard therefore that he was sick, he abode two days still in the same place where he was.

(6) And Jesus tarried two days after he heard that Lazarus was sick.

(7) Then after that saith he to his disciples, Let us go into Judæa again.

(7) Then After that he saith unto his disciples, Let us go into Judea again.

(8) His disciples say unto him, Master, the Jews of late sought to stone thee; and goest thou thither again?

(8) But his disciples said unto him, Master, the Jews of late sought to stone thee; and goest thou thither again?

(16) Then said Thomas, which is called Didymus, unto his fellow disciples, Let us also go, that we may die with him.

(16) Then said Thomas, which is called Didymus, unto his fellow disciples, Let us also go, that we may die with him. For they feared lest the Jews should take Jesus and put him to death, for as yet they did not understand the power of God.

(17) Then when Jesus came, he found that he had lain in the grave four days already.

(17) And when Jesus came to Bethany to Martha’s house, Lazarus had already been in the grave four days.

(29) As soon as she heard that, she arose quickly, and came unto him.

(29) As soon as Mary heard that Jesus was come, she arose quickly, and came unto him.

(30) Now Jesus was not yet come into the town, but was in that place where Martha met him.

(30) Now Jesus was not yet come into the town, but was in the place where Martha met him.

(47) Then gathered the chief priests and the Pharisees a council, and said, What do we? for this man doeth many miracles.

(47) Then gathered the chief priests and the Pharisees a council, and said, What shall we do? For this man doeth many miracles.

(56) Then sought they for Jesus, and spake among themselves, as they stood in the temple, What think ye, that he will not come to the feast?

(56) Then sought they for Jesus, and spake among themselves, as they stood in the temple, What think ye of Jesus? Will he not come to the feast?

(57) Now both the chief priests and the Pharisees had given a commandment, that, if any man knew where he were, he should shew it, that they might take him.

(57) Now both the chief priests and the Pharisees had given a commandment, that, if any man knew where he was he should show them, that they might take him.

Reading Resources

Luke 12

Lynne Hilton Wilson, “Luke 12–17; John 11,” Come Follow Me: The New Testament, 2019.

Thomas A. Wayment, “Names of the Parables,” Religious Educator 4, no. 1 (2003): 97–106.

John and Jeannie Welch, The Parables of Jesus: Revealing the Plan of Salvation (American Fork, Utah: Covenant Communications, 2019).

Luke 14

Lynne Hilton Wilson, “Luke 12–17; John 11,” Come Follow Me: The New Testament, 2019.

Taylor Halverson, “He Was Lost, and is Found Luke 15, 17,” The Interpreter Foundation Blog (July 7, 2013).

Thomas A. Wayment, “Names of the Parables,” Religious Educator 4, no. 1 (2003): 97–106.

John and Jeannie Welch, The Parables of Jesus: Revealing the Plan of Salvation (American Fork, Utah: Covenant Communications, 2019).

Luke 15

Lynne Hilton Wilson, “Luke 12–17; John 11,” Come Follow Me: The New Testament, 2019.

Gary E. Stevenson, “Shepherding Souls,” General Conference October 2018.

Jeffrey R. Holland, “The Other Prodigal,” General Conference April 2002.

Jeffrey R. Holland, “A Robe, a Ring, and a Fatted Calf,” BYU Devotional January 31, 1984

Taylor Halverson, “He Was Lost, and is Found Luke 15, 17,” The Interpreter Foundation Blog (July 7, 2013).

Richard Neitzel Holzapfel and Kent P. Jackson, “To the Least, the Last, and the Lost,” in To Save the Lost, ed. Richard Neitzel Holzapfel and Kent P. Jackson (Provo, UT: Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University, 2009), vii–xi.

Matthew R. Linford, “The Parable of the Benevolent Father and Son,” Interpreter: A Journal of Latter-day Saint Faith and Scholarship 22 (2016): 149-178.

Jay E. Jensen, “The Parable of the Two Sons: A Revelation about God,” in Sperry Symposium Classics: The New Testament, ed. Frank F. Judd Jr. and Gaye Strathearn (Provo, UT: Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University; Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 2006), 25–35.

Thomas A. Wayment, “Names of the Parables,” Religious Educator 4, no. 1 (2003): 97–106.

John and Jeannie Welch, The Parables of Jesus: Revealing the Plan of Salvation (American Fork, Utah: Covenant Communications, 2019).

Luke 16

Lynne Hilton Wilson, “Luke 12–17; John 11,” Come Follow Me: The New Testament, 2019.

Taylor Halverson, “He Was Lost, and is Found Luke 15, 17,” The Interpreter Foundation Blog (July 7, 2013).

Thomas A. Wayment, “Names of the Parables,” Religious Educator 4, no. 1 (2003): 97–106.

John and Jeannie Welch, The Parables of Jesus: Revealing the Plan of Salvation (American Fork, Utah: Covenant Communications, 2019).

Luke 17

Lynne Hilton Wilson, “Luke 12–17; John 11,” Come Follow Me: The New Testament, 2019.

Taylor Halverson, “He Was Lost, and is Found Luke 15, 17,” The Interpreter Foundation Blog (July 7, 2013).

Thomas A. Wayment, “Names of the Parables,” Religious Educator 4, no. 1 (2003): 97–106.

John and Jeannie Welch, The Parables of Jesus: Revealing the Plan of Salvation (American Fork, Utah: Covenant Communications, 2019).

John 11

Lynne Hilton Wilson, “Luke 12–17; John 11,” Come Follow Me: The New Testament, 2019.

Russell M. Nelson, “Doors of Death,” General Conference April 1992

Dallin H. Oaks, “Resurrection,” General Conference April 2000.

John and Jeannie Welch, The Parables of Jesus: Revealing the Plan of Salvation (American Fork, Utah: Covenant Communications, 2019).