September 2, 2016
JESUS' SORROW FOR JERUSALEM
Luke 13:31–35
JW Doss
Central Truth
Jesus was on a mission from God, and He would not be deterred.
Key Verse | Luke 13:34
"O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often would I have gathered your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing! (Luke 13:34)
Luke 13:31–35
Lament over Jerusalem
31 At that very hour some Pharisees came and said to him, “Get away from here, for Herod wants to kill you.” 32 And he said to them, “Go and tell that fox, ‘Behold, I cast out demons and perform cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I finish my course. 33 Nevertheless, I must go on my way today and tomorrow and the day following, for it cannot be that a prophet should perish away from Jerusalem.’ 34 O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often would I have gathered your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing! 35 Behold, your house is forsaken. And I tell you, you will not see me until you say, ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!’”
Dive Deeper | Luke 13:31–35
Jesus traveled through towns and villages speaking to large crowds on His way to Jerusalem. He spoke the Word of God and performed miracles. He proclaimed that Jews would not enter the Kingdom of Heaven while Gentiles would. This angered the Pharisees, and they vented this anger on Him. They warned Jesus of the impending doom waiting at the hands of Herod. Even so, Jesus was not concerned with the threats of the Pharisees. They were mere messengers from Herod. Herod actually wanted to see Jesus and wanted Him to perform a miracle. However, he mocked Jesus and treated Him with contempt. Jesus did not fear Herod and continued on His journey to Jerusalem. Jesus spoke of Jerusalem and His goal—it was His destiny. There, Israel's leadership and ultimately the Jewish people will reject Him.
For many years, I rejected Jesus and attempted to live my life without Him. Despite this, He was forever faithful and protected me from myself and my sinful ways. I dealt with problems in my life by getting angry, abusing alcohol, and committing infidelity. Ever since I accepted the gift of salvation from Jesus Christ, I have become a better husband, father, and grandfather. I still struggle with sin daily, but am better equipped to cope with it after going through Watermark’s recovery ministry, re:generation.
Jesus Christ died on the cross for the sins of the world—past, present, and future. The free gift of salvation is available to all who will accept it.
Discussion Questions
1. Jesus died for your sins and mine. Are you willing to accept His free gift of salvation?
2. Jesus came to serve, not be served. Will you serve Him by spreading His message to others?
3. Do you have godly people in your life who can give you wise counsel?
4. What will you do today to further the Kingdom?