Definition: Which devour widows’ houses, and for a pretence make long prayers: these shall receive greater damnation.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Mark 12:40. It's a really important message about how we should treat others and our conscience. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse is warning us against being overly concerned with pretending to be helpful or pious – focusing on long prayers and offering help when we don't truly need it. It suggests that if we’re not genuinely helping others, we might face a greater consequence in the afterlife. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: "Which devour widows’ houses..." : This refers to people who are struggling and desperately need help – like widows or those facing hardship. It's about recognizing those who truly need support. "...and for a pretence make long prayers:" This means they’re not praying actually for help, but rather making prayers that seem important and lengthy, perhaps to gain attention or feel better about themselves. They’re putting on a show of piety without real need. "These shall receive greater damnation." : This is the crucial part. "Darnation" means eternal punishment in the afterlife – being separated from God. This verse suggests that those who are truly neglecting their responsibilities to others and focusing on self-importance will be punished more severely than those who are genuinely helping. What’s the message? The verse is a warning against hypocrisy and vanity. It encourages us to: Focus on genuine acts of kindness: Help those who need it, truly and without seeking recognition or praise. Don't be overly concerned with appearances: We should not obsess over how we seem pious or helpful – true faith comes from a place of love and compassion, not just outward displays. In short, the verse is saying that genuine help and compassion are more valuable than empty gestures. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in a different way? Give you some examples of how to show genuine kindness? Discuss the historical context of this passage?