Albert Barnes Commentary Luke 12:1

"In the mean time, when the many thousands of the multitude were gathered together, insomuch that they trod one upon another, he began to say unto his disciples first of all, Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy." — Luke 12:1 (ASV)

In the meantime. While he was speaking with the scribes and Pharisees, as recorded in the last chapter.

An innumerable multitude. The original word is myriads, or ten thousands. It is used here to signify that there was a great crowd or collection of people, who were eager to hear him.

Multitudes were attracted to the Savior's ministry. It is noteworthy that he never had more people listening to him than when he was most faithful and severe in his reproofs of sinners.

People's consciences are on the side of the faithful reprover of their sins; and though they deeply feel the reproof, they will still respect and hear him who reproves.

To his disciples, first of all. This does not mean that his disciples were, before all others, to avoid hypocrisy, but that this was the first or chief thing that they should beware of. The meaning is this:

"He said to his disciples, Above all things beware," etc.

The leaven. See Barnes on Matthew 16:6.

Which is hypocrisy. See Barnes on Matthew 7:5.

Hypocrisy is like leaven or yeast, because:

1. It may exist without being immediately detected. Leaven mixed in flour is not known until it produces its effects.
2. It is insinuating. Leaven will soon pervade the whole mass. So hypocrisy will, if undetected and unremoved, soon pervade all our spiritual activities and feelings.
3. It is swelling. It puffs us up and fills us with pride and vanity. No one is more proud than the hypocrite, and none is more odious to God. When Jesus cautions them to beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, he means that they should be cautious about adopting their spirit and becoming like them. The religion of Jesus is one of sincerity, humility, and a complete lack of disguise. The humblest person is the best Christian, and the one who has the least disguise is most like his Master.