1 Meanwhile, when a multitude of many thousands had gathered together, so much so that they trampled on each other, Jesus began to tell his disciples first of all, “Beware of the yeast of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. 2 But there is nothing covered up, that will not be revealed, nor hidden, that will not be known. 3 Therefore whatever you have said in the darkness will be heard in the light. What you have spoken in the ear in the inner rooms will be proclaimed on the housetops.

4 “I tell you, my friends, don’t be afraid of those who kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. 5 But I will warn you whom you should fear. Fear him, who after he has killed, has power to cast into Gehenna. Yes, I tell you, fear him.

6 “Aren’t five sparrows sold for two assaria coins? Not one of them is forgotten by God. 7 But the very hairs of your head are all counted. Therefore don’t be afraid. You are of more value than many sparrows.”

Luke 12:1-7 - World English Bible

Even in the midst of the crowd, Jesus warned his disciples about the Pharisees and encouraged them to evangelize despite their opponents. He urged his followers to declare the Good News openly, despite the dubious character of the Pharisees. What he shared with them in private, they had the duty to proclaim in the marketplaces, without concern of persecution. In fact, they should fear only God, who controlled all things. YHWH measured the worth of the disciples far more than five sparrows that a poor Jewish pilgrim would buy for two small Greek coins, so he could offer a meager sacrifice in the Temple.

Notice the implicit choice the disciple had to make. Spread the Good News or face punishment of Gehenna, symbol of eternal punishment by fire. Like the other gospel writers, Luke might have painted the urgency of evangelization in broad strokes and extreme language, but he portrayed the need of ministry. Jesus willingly put his life on the line for his message; his disciples should do likewise.

How have you shared the Good News today?