---

I. A RUDE INTERRUPTION.

1. This suggests a sad but common occurrence. Worldly thoughts obtruding themselves at unseasonable times.

2. This suggests a constantly-needed but oft-neglected duty. To take heed how we hear.

II. A FITTING REBUKE.

1. It rebuked the man for his gross view of our Lord's mission.

2. It rebuked the man for the worldliness of his spirit.

III. A MORAL LESSON.

1. The subject — covetousness.

(1)  Covetousness is "an inordinate desire for gain"; "an avaricious disposition"; "a disposition to have more than others."

(2)  Covetousness is foolishness.

(a)  For after it has attained its object there is no satisfaction.

(b)  It unfits the soul to enjoy spiritual things.

2. The elucidation of the subject.

(1)  A parable.

(2)  A very instructive parable.

(a)  It shows God's goodness to the wicked (ver. 16).

(b)  It shows the inadequacy of worldly prosperity to inspire gratitude (ver. 18).

(c)  It shows the degrading influence of worldly thoughts:

(d)  It shows the shortsightedness of worldliness.

(e)  It shows that God's eye is on all.

(f)  It shows the uncertainty of life.

(g)  It shows the relation of time to eternity.

3. The Divine application.

(1)  Selfishness and godliness incompatible (ver. 21).

(2)  Anxiety a sin (ver. 22).

(3)  The great duty. To be "rich toward God."

(D. C. Hughes, M. A.)

---

---

KJV: And one of the company said unto him, Master, speak to my brother, that he divide the inheritance with me.

WEB: One of the multitude said to him, "Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me."