Jesus heals a woman on the Sabbath and upsets the synagogue leader. There seems to be no surprise that Jesus could effect the healing of this woman, only that it was done on the Sabbath. The leader actually suggests anyone who wants to be healed should come back on a day other than the Sabbath. Jesus immediately responds to reveal his hypocrisy. Here’s the cool part in verse 17: “all his opponents were humiliated, but the people were delighted with all the wonderful things he was doing.”
Luke 13:10-17Repent or Perish — It’s That Simple
Sometimes the Bible seems to avoid being direct, other times it’s quite clear. Here’s a mix: Pilate mixed blood with sacrifices. In other words, he had Galileans slaughtered along with their sacrifices. What was that about? Jesus doesn’t miss a beat, “unless you repent, you too will perish.” Not that he isn’t saddened by Pilate’s actions, but his focus is on the coming weeks when he will enter Jerusalem for the ultimate sacrifice.
The parable that follows is one of my favorites. The fig tree that produces no fruit gets one more year, another season, one more chance. The farmer appears to graciously allow for another chance, though the story is left open-ended.
Luke 13:1-9Interpreting the Times
Unable to see the turbulent spiritual battles in front of them, Jesus tells us (“he said to the crowd”) to look at the evidence in front of us. The NIV Study Bible notes provide this insight:
Luke 12:54-59Despite the insistence of the Pharisees, despite the Roman system and even despite the pressure of family, a person must accept God on his terms. The signs of the times called for immediate decision–before judgment came on the Jewish nation. NIV Study Bible, Zondervan, p.1732
Not Peace but Division
The peace that Jesus brings is Peace with the Father. This will result in conflict as Satan will not be satisfied with anything the draws people to Christ–expect problems! Families will be divided. It’s interesting to read how Jesus expresses his desire to be beyond this baptism, these constraints.
I have a baptism to undergo, and what constraint I am under until it is completed!
Matthew 10:34-36, Luke 12:49-53
Watchfulness. Much will be required.
Matthew, Mark and Luke all include warnings to be watchful, to be ready at all times–for all to be on guard. In this passage, Jesus provides a parable to underscore the importance of being alert by prepared for the master’s return–any time.
Luke 12:35-48From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.
Do Not Worry – Seek His Kingdom First
I should have included this passage when I covered Matthew 6:25-34 (see post here), but it’s ok to visit this twice, if not providential! Instead of focusing on the first half, “do not worry,” let’s focus on the second part, “But seek his kingdom…where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
Luke 12:22-34Parable of the Rich Fool
Jesus responds to someone in the crowd with a quick response: “Man, who appointed me a judge or an arbiter between you?” then tells the parable of the rich fool to warn us about all kinds of greed.
…life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.
We are not judged for having wealth, we are judged when such blessings take priority over our love of God.
Luke 12:13-21Warnings and Encouragements
The crowds have gathered again and Jesus teaches on several key concepts in these 12 verses:
- hypocrisy of the Pharisees
- fear him who has authority to throw you into hell
- good or bad news for those who publicly acknowledge or disown Jesus
- blasphemy against the Holy Spirit
- support from the Holy Spirit
That’s a lot of ground to cover! Jesus provides theological details within the context of loving God above all others while giving us a peek into the triune nature of God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
Luke 12:1-12Woes on the Pharisees and the Experts in the Law
Woe to those who held positions of leadership, the ones who were directing God’s chosen ones down a path that would lead to destruction. The timing of Jesus ministry is wrapped up in the history of our Jewish ancestors: their system was broken. God provided laws to create order and discipline; the Pharisees added layer upon layer, ultimately to create an exclusive society that was removed from serving God. Read these words carefully and look insightfully as we consider our own systems.
Matthew 23:13-32, Luke 11:37-54Our Eyes — The Light of the Body
In these few verses we find some deep meaning. Matthew and Luke record these key points of an important sermon that Jesus preached by recalling words that challenge us in many ways: “if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness.” This isn’t about physical blindness! Take a moment and consider the text and pray for healthy eyes.
Matthew 6:22-23, Luke 11:33-36