Take heed therefore how you hear. For whosoever hath, to him shall be given: and whosoever hath not, that also which he thinketh he hath shall be taken away from him.
βλεπετε ουν πως ακουετε ος γαρ εαν εχη δοθησεται 1325 αυτω και ος εαν μη εχη και ο δοκει εχειν αρθησεται απ αυτου
15 Church Fathers comment on this verse · 16 commentaries
By these words he leads them to diligence of life, teaching them to be strong as exposed to the view of all men, and fighting in the world as on a stage. As if he said, Think not that we dwell in a small part of the world, for ye will be known of all men, since it cannot be that so great virtue should lie hid.
If you, as followers, exercise caution and commitment, the Lord will bestow upon you abundant grace; however, one who lacks vigilance and dedication will, through their carelessness, extinguish and ruin the gift from God that they appear to possess.
Or else in these words He typically sets forth the boldness of preaching, that no one should, through fear of fleshly ills, conceal the light of knowledge. For under the names of vessel and bed, he represents the flesh, but of that of lantern, the word, which whosoever keeps hid through fear of the troubles of the flesh, sets the flesh itself before the manifestation of the truth, and by it he as it were covers the word, who fears to preach it. But he places a candle upon a candlestick who so submits his body to the service of God, that the preaching of the truth stands highest in his estimation, the service of the body lowest.
"To him who possesses, more will be added, and from him who lacks, even what he believes he has will be taken away. Likewise, 'Let those who have ears to hear, listen' (Matt. 13:9; etc.). This refers to individuals with spiritual discernment in addition to their physical senses who receive His profound teachings and guidance in greater abundance than previously. Conversely, from those who assume they have understanding, what they believe they possess is also removed, as it is written, 'They shall see with their eyes, but they shall not perceive' (cf. Matt. 13:14, Is. 6:9-10, Mk. 4:12, Lk. 8:10; etc.). 'To the one who has, more will be given, and from the one who does not have, even what they think they possess will be taken away' (cf. Lk. 8:18).
How can one expect to receive what they do not possess if they are unworthy of what they do have? Thus, one who is deserving of their possessions will also receive what they lack; while the unworthy will lose even what they own. The extent of what a person may receive is granted to them by grace, which, along with the promise of further grace of the same nature, comes upon and rests in the recipient. For the one who has, it shall be given, allowing them to be enriched by grace within themselves. At present, what is rightly ours is bestowed, otherwise, it would not be granted, as the Scripture affirms. Hence, the spirit of wisdom is not imparted to those lacking wisdom, to prevent harm from such a guiding light. Yet the Holy Spirit, who reveals divine truths, is given to the wise and discerning, enabling wisdom to thrive within them, a source of delight, accompanied by words of joy. We have received these blessings as a stewardship, and we must return them. Therefore, if we acknowledge the One who lent to us, He will increase what we have received; but if we turn away from Him, we should have no doubt that He retains what has been given. Although we may seem to possess these gifts, if we reject them, they are ultimately with Him; however, if we express gratitude and have faith, all that is His also belongs to us. 'To him who has, more will be given' (Lk. 8:18). To the Apostle Paul, who had attained the righteousness of the law, was granted the life-giving faith; yet for those lacking this righteousness necessary to fulfill the law, even what they do possess will be taken from them, for the path of the law reaches even to John the Baptist. This equally applies to those who believe they are free from their sins."
Or perhaps the Lord calls Himself a light shining to all who inhabit the house, that is, the world, since He is by nature God, but by the dispensation made flesh. And so like the light of the lamp He abides in the vessel of the flesh by means of the soul as the light in the vessel of the lamp by means of the flame. But by the candlestick he describes the Church over which the divine word shines, illuminating the house as it were by the rays of truth. But under the similitude of a vessel or bed he referred to the observance of the law, under which the word will not be contained.
Pay close attention to how you receive the message. Be mindful in your hearing, as it requires earnest effort and diligence; the truths conveyed are profound and elevated, not merely recited as you might expect. For the one who possesses, more will be granted to him. To him who shows earnestness and diligence will be bestowed the insight he seeks. Conversely, the one who lacks substance will find that even what he believes he possesses will be taken away. In Mark chapter nine it is stated, "For whoever has, to him it will be given, and whoever does not have, from him also what he has will be taken away," and there you will find further explanation of these words.
But he who would adapt his lantern to the more perfect disciples of Christ, must persuade us by those things which were spoken of John, for he was a burning and a shining light. (John 5:35.) It becomes not him then who lights the light of reason in his soul to hide it under a bed where men sleep, nor under any vessel, for he who does this provides not for those who enter the house for whom the candle is prepared, but they must set it upon a candlestick, that is, the whole Church.
As if He said, As a lantern is lighted that it should give light, not that it should be covered under a bushel or a bed, so also the secrets of the kingdom of heaven when uttered in parables, although hid from those who are strangers to the faith, will not however to all men appear obscure. Hence he adds, For nothing is secret that shall not be made manifest, neither any thing hid that shall not be known, and come abroad. As if He said, Though many things are spoken in parables, that seeing they might not see, and hearing they might not understand, because of their unbelief, yet the whole matter shall be revealed.
Having before said to His Apostles, Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God, but to others in parables; He now shews that by them at length must the same mystery be revealed also to others, saying, No man when he hath lighted a candle covereth it with a vessel, or putteth it tender a bed.
But the Lord ceases not to teach us to hearken to His word, that we may be able both to constantly meditate on it in our own minds, and to bring it forth for the instruction of others. Hence it follows, Take heed therefore how ye hear; for whosoever hath, to him shall be given. As if he says, Give heed with all your mind to the word which ye hear, for to him who has a love of the word, shall be given also the sense of understanding what he loves; but whoso hath no love of hearing the word, though he deems himself skilful either from natural genius, or the exercise of learning, will have no d
elight in the sweetness of wisdom; for oftentimes the slothful man is gifted with capacities, that if he neglect them he may be the more justly punished for his negligence, since that which he can obtain without labour he disdains to know, and sometimes the studious man is oppressed with slowness of apprehension, in order that the more he labours in his inquiries, the greater may be the recompense of his reward.
Pay attention to what you hear (Luke 8:18). Observe diligently and carefully how you receive what reaches your ears, and how you ought to accept it. This is the counsel that Christ the Saviour imparted to His followers. His most pure Mother, the blessed Virgin Mary, embodied this guidance even before it was uttered. Believers, this teaching of Christ extends to us as we are also His disciples. The example set by His pure Mother deepens our understanding of His instruction.
Our first mother, Eve, did not establish a safeguard: when the serpent tempted her, the uniqueness of this encounter should have prompted caution. Through the ear, lured by curiosity, the poison of words infiltrated her heart and corrupted her soul with sin before the act of eating the forbidden fruit contaminated her body. Similarly, Adam failed to shield his ear from the sinful words of his wife, and through his careless listening, he allowed death to infect all humanity. In contrast, the Blessed Virgin Mary, destined to fulfill the sacred role of healing humanity from the deadly infection of sin, rectifies the original transgression of her predecessors as she embarks on this mission. When she hears the angel’s welcoming voice, which she had partially recognized during her upbringing in the Temple of Jerusalem, she simultaneously “watches… how she hears...” She does not hastily accept the exalted address but rather pauses for thoughtful contemplation. “She was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of salutation this should be” (Luke 1:29).
What is this message that induces confusion in a pure and tranquil soul? It is the angel's proclamation, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women” (Luke 1:28). Yet, what could possibly cause this disquiet? Typically, confusion arises from words that are sorrowful, harsh, demeaning, offensive, or menacing. The words of the angel, however, contain none of these elements; they express joy, reverence for the Blessed Virgin, her esteemed position, and divine favor. Engage with this matter from a spiritual perspective. A word that brings sadness, harshness, or offense can provoke our impatience and pride. These traits were absent in the Blessed Virgin, so even stern words would not disturb her. Instead, deep humility resides within her, rendering any words that elevate her unacceptable. Humility resists the spotlight of praise; it recoils from it, fearing potential harm. Therefore, in response to flattery, it silently questions: Are you truly an angel of light? This encapsulates the essence of the confusion that arose in the heart of the Blessed Virgin at the greeting of the heavenly messenger.
However, this pure bafflement is not a natural condition. A soul that experiences it instinctively seeks an escape. How did the Blessed Virgin navigate this? Through quiet contemplation. “Pay close attention to the silence of the Blessed Virgin in the presence of the preaching angel: you will discover that this silence possesses a wisdom equal to that of the spoken word. Had Mary rushed to respond to the angel’s praise without denying it, she would have affirmed and accepted the honor, which could have compromised her humility. Conversely, if she had reacted with denial, it might have insulted the heavenly messenger. By remaining silent, she skillfully sidestepped both pitfalls and used the moment for reflection, pondering: ‘What might this greeting signify?’ What is the significance of such an extraordinary salutation? How do we respond to a greeting that feels both daunting and unsettling to accept or reject? If a word emanates from God, will He not reveal a sign to dispel confusion and trepidation? Indeed, a sign appeared: in response to the profound silence of the Blessed Virgin, almost as to an intelligible word, the angel replied, “Do not be afraid, Mary” (Luke 1:30). Through this, she realized that God had disclosed her inner state to the angel and issued a word of comfort, enabling her to calmly and faithfully receive the angel’s further tidings. Thus, she was prepared to embrace the joyous message of the Incarnation of the Son of God, the Saviour of the world, and from her immeasurable depth of humility, she was able to sustain immeasurably high faith.
Do you recognize, Christian soul, at least in part, the essence of the Blessed Virgin's soul, her inner serenity, and her vigilant self-preservation? Learn from her wisdom, emulate her watchfulness in discourse. “Pay attention... to how you hear.” Do not be disheartened by the grandeur of her path, for your own may differ. Should you be complacent and uninterested in following the Blessed Virgin even from a distance on the upward journey, you risk sliding into the downward path of Eve, leading to ruin. It is all too easy for a crafty “serpent, the most cunning of all the creatures” (Gen. 3:1), lacking true wisdom—far removed from even the wisdom of mankind and even further from heavenly understanding—to appear as a resident of paradise while secretly belonging to the realm of darkness. Such a one may shower you with alluring and flattering words while secretly infecting you with slander and blasphemy against God, offering you enticing fruit that ultimately leads to sin and death.
The Blessed Virgin’s example illustrates that even angelic messages should be received with discernment. If such vigilance was necessary for her, it is even more crucial for us, as the Apostle cautions: “And no marvel, for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light” (2 Corinthians 11:14). Therefore, the careless may mistake gleaming brass for genuine gold—deceptive words for ultimate truth. If you encounter an extraordinary message in your external or internal hearing that seems heavenly, do not hastily accept it; reflect in silence and determine whether it aligns with the authentic word of God and the teachings of Christ. Guard yourself with humility and prayer, alongside the guidance of those with spiritual wisdom. Truth will not resent your caution; untruths and deceptions will have a harder time ensnaring you.
If even an angel must “take heed… how he hears,” what can be said of human conversations? There are countless false and wicked thoughts among people, numerous passions and vices—all capable of infecting others, visibly or imperceptibly, through speech. Many dangers exist, both evident and concealed, requiring great prudence and carefulness.
When you hear words that extol you, proceed with caution. Praise often masks flattery; it can lead you to become self-congratulatory if you fall under its spell, stripping you of humility and prompting negligence in furthering your own development and deeds. Upon hearing praise, consider what you must become, recall your shortcomings, and strive toward praiseworthy thoughts, intentions, and actions, rather than being enticed by the fleeting sound of accolades.
If you encounter words that offend or humiliate you, be on guard against succumbing to “wrath,” which “works not the righteousness of God” (James 1:20). Remind yourself, “This is an opportunity to cultivate patience and humility,” responding to insults with either silence or, when necessary, with a gentle and truthful reply.
Should you hear words that condemn or criticize your neighbor, exercise caution so you do not partake in the sin spoken. Do not focus your heart on words that can do more harm to the speaker than to the one being criticized.
When faced with words that evoke sadness from present or impending calamities, be wary lest your grief overtake your reason and will. “Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him out of them all” (Psalm 34:19). Alleviate your sorrow through prayer, calming yourself by surrendering to God’s will and nurturing faith in His mercy.
What if you encounter words or notions of ungodliness, unthankfulness, or unbelief through reading? Quickly close your ears and shut your eyes to the evils that may tempt you. Do not engage your curiosity or seek entertainment in them. Avoid touching the filth; do not play with fire. Do not wish to discover the taste of poison.
Is it not vital, asks someone, to exercise caution when listening to spiritual and moral teachings? Indeed, caution is essential so that one is not, as the Apostle James describes, “a forgetful hearer” who glances in the mirror, departs, and forgets his appearance. For it is not the one who hears who is blessed, but “the doer of the work, the same shall be blessed in his deed” (James 1:22-25). Amen.
These are the profound truths of the kingdom, presented to the masses through parables and without elaboration; understanding is reserved for the disciples alone and initially, only for two of them. When the disciples inquired of the Lord regarding the interpretation of this parable concerning the seed, He provided them with clarity and also gave specific guidance for their mission through familiar parables (Mk. 4:21-25; Lk. 8:16-18). The results of the Word within them should manifest in their own preaching, where the extent of each individual’s fervor will determine the effectiveness of the message they convey.
The statement "Whoever has, to him shall be given and increased, and whoever does not have, from him shall be taken away even that which he has" may seem perplexing when considered in isolation. However, when viewed in the context of the preceding and following verses, it becomes evident that these words address how the divine message regarding the Kingdom of Heaven is grasped and accepted primarily by those whose hearts and minds are open to it. This suggests that the passage does not pertain to the literal accumulation of material wealth for the affluent and the loss of resources for the impoverished. Instead, it speaks to the enrichment of a person’s spiritual life through the acquisition of genuine knowledge of God.
People may wonder why those lacking receptivity to God's word are deprived of what little understanding they possess. The answer lies in the fact that the inclination toward divine knowledge is a fundamental aspect of human nature, as rational beings. Yet, many allow their minds to become muddled by various misleading doctrines and harden their hearts, leading them to turn away from the word of God. They may regurgitate empty arguments, claiming the Gospel is filled with perplexing ideas, which leads them to avoid engaging with it. This unwillingness is their failing, and as a result, their understanding fades.
However, if those same individuals approach the word of God without prejudice and read it with genuine faith and a sincere wish to comprehend, they will undoubtedly gain understanding. This insight will be granted to them; and as they become increasingly attuned to the profound nature of this message, their comprehension will grow, illuminating the divine truth for them. Blessed are their eyes, for they see; and blessed are their ears, for they hear (Mt. 13:16).
This encapsulates the entirety of grace's profound mystery, a gift that God abundantly bestows upon the souls of the faithful, while it is bestowed to a lesser degree upon those who remain indifferent.
The references regarding the lamp, the hidden and the revealed, the lack and the abundance, are expressed similarly to those found in the Gospel of Mark (Mark 4:21-25 and Notes). In the Gospel of Matthew, there exists only one reference regarding the lack and abundance in this context, while the others are addressed elsewhere (Matt. 5:15 and Matt. 10:26). It is likely that the Lord reiterated certain teachings multiple times (cf. Matt. 13 and Matt. 25:29), and the Gospel writers chose to record them in various locations at their discretion.
The key aspect is not the timing of the sayings, but the essence and manner of their delivery; if the phrases are articulated in a consistent manner, there is little necessity to pinpoint when a particular saying occurred, and attempts to do so may prove futile if precision is unattainable. Luke 8:19-21. The account in the Gospel of Luke regarding the approach of His holy Mother and brothers to the Lord is more concise than those in the first two Gospels (cf. Mt. 12:46-50, Mk. 3:31-35 and Notes), yet it aligns perfectly with their narratives.
The Lord Jesus Christ indicated to His disciples that, through gaining insight from Him, they were to exemplify this understanding to others and not keep these teachings hidden: “When they light a lamp, shall they put it under a vessel or under a bed, or shall they put it on the candlestick? For no man hath burnt the candlestick, and covereth it with a vessel, or putteth it under a bier, but layeth it upon the candlestick, that they which enter in may see the light. There is no secret, which shall not be revealed, nor hidden, which shall not be known, nor shall it be revealed.
Be careful what you hear: in this measure you measure, it will be measured to you and added to you who hear; and whoever has, it will be given to him, and whoever does not have, and what he thinks he has, it will be taken away from him.” Blessed Theophylact suggests that knowledge is granted and increased to the diligent, while the lack of diligence will result in the loss of what one believes to possess.
At the end of their discussion, wanting to ensure clarity, the Lord asked His disciples, “Do you understand all these things?” to which they replied, “Yes, Lord!” He then shared a brief parable about utilizing the knowledge of the Kingdom of God in their ministry, comparing them to a homemaker who brings out both old and new items as needed: every scribe trained in the kingdom of heaven resembles a homemaker who draws from their treasure both new and old. By grasping the mysteries of the Kingdom of God, the Apostles emerged as scribes in a renewed and superior manner compared to the Jewish scribes, capable of imparting the teachings of Christ. As Blessed Theophylact notes, they were able to integrate the old with the new law: by affirming the old through the new and by clarifying and enriching the old, their mission aimed towards one purpose—the propagation and establishment of the gracious Kingdom of Christ on earth.
Passages read together with this verse.
Greek text, 22 words with lemma, transliteration and Strong’s number. Tap to expand.
THEOSIS