Luke 7, Part 3

Scripture: Luke 7:18-35

Observation: John the Baptist asks Jesus if He is the Messiah. Jesus was doing all kinds of miracles, but He was not being the conquering Messiah the Jews were expecting. Jesus let John know that He was the One because of he miracles He'd done. Jesus then turns to the people and tells them John the Baptist is the Elijah they are awaiting. The crowds who'd been baptized by John accepted this, but the Pharisees did not. Jesus then pointed out their hard heartedness - they didn't accept John because he ate no bread nor drank wine, but neither did they accept Jesus who did eat bread and drink wine. But God's wisdom would be vindicated by those who respond to it.

Application: Those less educated in the law were able to see the truth because their hearts were open to receive it. The Pharisees couldn't see what was right in front of their faces because of their pride. Do I allow my pride to blind me to the truth?

Prayer: Father, there are moments when I read Your Word or hear a sermon, and I don't really want to read or hear those things that convict me, but I can't let my pride get in the way of doing what pleases You. Teach me humility everyday, Lord, so that I will be willing to accept responsibility for my actions and be willing to turn away from sin. May I seek Your wisdom in everything so that I can live a life that glorifies You. In Jesus' name, Amen.