Luke 16:14 (KJV)

What does Luke 16:14 mean?

Luke 16:14 describes how the Pharisees, who are described as being greedy or lovers of money, listened to what Jesus was saying and responded by mocking or ridiculing him. The verse shows their negative reaction to Jesus’ teachings, especially those about money and values.

In this scene, Jesus has just been teaching about the dangers of loving wealth and the importance of faithfulness with money. The Pharisees, a group of religious leaders, are present and hear his words. Instead of taking his message seriously, they react with scorn, revealing their own attachment to wealth and their resistance to Jesus’ criticism.

The Greek behind Luke 16:14

• The word translated “covetous” is φιλάργυρος (philargyros), which means “lovers of money” or “greedy.” This word highlights that the Pharisees’ values were at odds with Jesus’ teaching about money.
• The verb ἐξεμυκτήριζον (exemuktērizon), translated “derided,” literally means “to turn up the nose at” or “to sneer.” The Greek here carries the sense of open contempt or ridicule, showing the Pharisees’ dismissive attitude toward Jesus.

Why Luke 16:14 matters

• Luke 16:14 clarifies that the Pharisees’ rejection of Jesus was not just about theology but was tied to their love of wealth, which Jesus had just challenged.
• The verse sets up the following discussion, where Jesus directly addresses the Pharisees’ values and hypocrisy, making it clear why his message was so controversial to them.
• This reaction from the Pharisees helps the reader understand the growing tension between Jesus and the religious leaders, which is a key theme throughout Luke’s Gospel.