Albert Barnes Commentary Luke 12:15

"And he said unto them, Take heed, and keep yourselves from all covetousness: for a man`s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth." — Luke 12:15 (ASV)

Beware of covetousness. One of these brothers, no doubt, was guilty of this sin; and our Saviour, as was his custom, took occasion to warn his disciples of its danger.

Covetousness. An unlawful desire for the property of another; also, a desire for gain or riches beyond what is necessary for our wants. It is a violation of the tenth commandment (Exodus 20:17) and is expressly called idolatry (Colossians 3:5). Compare also to Ephesians 5:3 and Hebrews 13:5.

A man's life. The word life is sometimes understood in the sense of happiness or felicity. Some have supposed this to be the meaning here, believing that Jesus meant to say that a man's comfort does not depend on affluence—that is, on more than is necessary for his daily wants. However, this interpretation does not suit the following parable, which is designed to show that property will not prolong a man's life and, therefore, should not be sought too ardently and is of little value. The word life, therefore, is to be taken literally.

Consisteth not. Rather, it does not depend on his possessions. His possessions will not prolong it. The passage, then, means: Do not be anxious about obtaining wealth, for, however much you may obtain, it will not prolong your life. That depends on the will of God, and it requires something besides wealth to make us ready to meet Him. He proceeds to illustrate this sentiment with a beautiful parable.