
Footnote 1
This interpretation overlooks the Father's provision for the unjust (Matthew 5:45; Luke 6:35-36; Acts 14:17). A more solid exposition distinguishes how to overcome anxiety—believe the Father will feed and clothe you (Luke 12:22-24, 27-30)—from why to overcome anxiety—it serves no purpose (vv. 25-26) and distracts you from seeking the treasure of the kingdom (vv. 31-34). The unconditional promise that your compassionate Father will satisfy your needs frees you to seek with abandon what is truly valuable (vv. 30-31; 10:38-42).
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Footnote 2
Nonetheless, the Triune God sincerely offers salvation to those who will ultimately refuse it (Luke 13:33-34; Acts 7:51).
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Gloria Patri
Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Ghost; as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
About this site
Dawning Realm proclaims the good news of the kingdom as confessed at Caesarea Philippi, Nicaea, and Augsburg.
† This cross symbol, when appearing to the left of a topic, designates a category in Theology of the Cross, a directory of Lutheran articles.
Last modified:
January 16, 2016 9:25 AM
Author information. David Bickel confesses the Nicene Creed, the Athanasian Creed, the Augsburg Confession, and the other documents of the Book of Concord because they faithfully summarize the sacred writings of the prophets and apostles. As a layman, he lacks the call needed to publicly teach in the church. | professional web page

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"The good portion"
Now as they went on their way, Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to his teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, "Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me." But the Lord answered her, "Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her."
Luke 10:38-42 (ESV)