29And when all the people heard Him, even the tax collectors justified God, having been baptized with the baptism of John. 30But the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the will of God for themselves, not having been baptized by him.
Luke 7:29-30
Jesus is our Example
Luke 7 goes on to describe how Jesus interacted with various groups of people, including tax collectors and sinners. This aspect of His ministry often drew criticism from religious leaders, but it exemplifies a crucial truth: Jesus meets people where they are while calling them to something higher.
We see Jesus willing to associate with those considered outcasts by society, showing love and compassion without compromising truth. He didn’t condone sin, but He also didn’t let it be a barrier to reaching people with the good news of God’s kingdom.
This challenges us to examine our own attitudes and actions. Are we willing to step out of our comfort zones to reach those who are different from us? Can we love unconditionally while still holding fast to the truth of God’s Word? Jesus shows us it’s possible to do both.
28For I say to you, among those born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist; but he who is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he.”
Luke 7:28
Jesus is the Standard
As we continue reading, we see Jesus speaking about John the Baptist, praising his character and role. But then He makes a startling statement: “I tell you, among those born of women there is no one greater than John; yet the one who is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he” (Luke 7:28).
This declaration underscores a fundamental truth: Jesus Himself is the ultimate standard by which we are measured. It’s not about comparing ourselves to others or trying to achieve a certain level of goodness. The bar is set at perfection – the perfection of Christ.
This realization can be both humbling and liberating. We can stop trying to measure up to impossible human standards and instead rest in the righteousness of Christ imputed to us through faith. Our standing before God is not based on our own merits but on the finished work of Jesus.
18Then the disciples of John reported to him concerning all these things. 19And John, calling two of his disciples to him, sent them to Jesus, saying, “Are You the Coming One, or do we look for another?” 20When the men had come to Him, they said, “John the Baptist has sent us to You, saying, ‘Are You the Coming One, or do we look for another?’ ” 21And that very hour He cured many of infirmities, afflictions, and evil spirits; and to many blind He gave sight. 22Jesus answered and said to them, “Go and tell John the things you have seen and heard: that the blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, the poor have the gospel preached to them. 23And blessed is he who is not offended because of Me.”
Luke 7:18-23
In a world filled with uncertainty and confusion, we often find ourselves searching for answers, direction, and hope. The Gospel of Luke offers us a powerful glimpse into the life and ministry of Jesus Christ, the long-awaited One who came to fulfill ancient prophecies and bring salvation to humanity. Let’s explore a crucial aspect of Jesus’ identity and mission that can transform our understanding and deepen our faith.
Jesus is the Messiah
From the very beginning, God promised a Savior who would come to redeem His people. Throughout the Old Testament, prophets spoke of this coming Messiah, building anticipation for generations. In Luke 7:18-23, we see an intriguing exchange between Jesus and the disciples of John the Baptist. John, imprisoned and perhaps experiencing a moment of doubt, sends his followers to ask Jesus, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?”
Jesus’ response is both profound and practical. Instead of a simple yes or no, He points to the evidence of His ministry: “Go back and report to John what you have seen and heard: The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is proclaimed to the poor.” These miracles and acts of compassion were not random acts of kindness but the fulfillment of messianic prophecies.
In our own lives, we may sometimes question God’s plans or presence. Like John the Baptist, we might need reassurance. The lesson here is to look at the evidence of God’s work in and around us. Where have we seen His hand moving? How has He fulfilled His promises in our lives and in the world?
14 I have given them Your word; and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. 15 I do not pray that You should take them out of the world, but that You should keep them from the evil one. 16 They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world.
John 17:14-16
As followers of Christ, we’re called to be “in the world but not of the world” (John 17:14-16). This means engaging with our culture and society while holding fast to the values and truths of God’s Kingdom. It’s a delicate balance, but one that leads to a life of purpose, impact, and eternal significance.
So how do we navigate this tension? Here are a few practical suggestions:
Cultivate gratitude for God’s provision, recognizing that everything we have is a gift from Him.
Seek satisfaction in Christ above all else, making time for prayer, worship, and studying God’s Word.
Find joy in serving others and building God’s Kingdom, rather than pursuing selfish pleasures.
Prioritize pleasing God over gaining human approval, even when it means standing alone.
Remember, the path of following Christ may not always be easy, but it leads to true life, both now and in eternity. As Moses challenged the Israelites, “I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. Therefore choose life” (Deuteronomy 30:19).
Today, we face a similar choice. Will we chase after the fleeting promises of this world, or will we embrace the abundant life found in Christ? The decision is ours, but the invitation is clear: Choose life. Choose Christ. For in Him, we find a joy, peace, and fulfillment that the world can never match.
As we go about our daily lives, let’s keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, “the founder and perfecter of our faith” (Hebrews 12:2). Let us strive to focus on long-term values and priorities rather than material possessions. For where our treasure is, there our hearts will be also (Matthew 6:21).
God is righteous. This fact is learned very early in the cycle of Christian maturity. Righteousness is an attribute of God that is unchanging and perpetual.
What do we mean when we say God is righteous? The dictionary defines righteous as “characterized by uprightness or moral character.” God’s righteousness is not simply something He does, it is who He is. Righteousness is a component of God’s character.
The Bible speaks often of God’s righteousness. Psalm 7:11 declares “God is a righteous Judge.” Psalm 33:5 relates the truth that God loves righteousness and justice. These examples are only two of many throughout the entirety of the Bible that speak to this attribute of God.
May we consider the implications of this truth? God is righteous all the time. He is in a perpetual state of being “right.” Such a truth is impossible for us to comprehend in our limited, sinful state and yet we know it is true.
God is righteous when things don’t go well in this life. He is righteous when my prayers are answered in the way I desire and when they are not answered as I had hoped. God’s righteousness in not contingent upon the circumstances of our life even when do not understand His ways or His will.
Ultimately, God is righteous in saving sinners. What is the reason for this? God punished Jesus in our place. (2nd Corinthians 5:21) Jesus was condemned so that we could go free. (Romans 8:1) We are justified in God’s sight and given the righteousness of Christ through salvation. (Titus 3:7)
May we give thanks today to the God is always righteous and just!
As Believers, the one constant in our life is our relationship with God. God never changes. God is constant in a world that changes rapidly from day to day.
The attribute that describes God’s unchanging nature is called “immutability.” The Scriptures teach this important principle about God’s character. Malachi 3:6 says For I, the Lord, do not change; therefore you, O sons of Jacob, are not consumed. Hebrews 13:8 tells us Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. This truth is taught consistently through the witness of the Bible.
Immutability does not mean that God does the same thing exactly the same way every time. No, God is creative in how He works and wills His sovereign plan for the universe. Immutability does mean that God always acts in ways that are consistent with His character. That is something fallible, sinful human beings cannot truthfully say about themselves.
Let us give thanks today for God’s unchanging nature. Let us give thanks that God is always consistent in this world that constantly changes.
“Woe to you who are full now, for you shall be hungry.”
Luke 6:25
The world offers many ways to fill our lives – career success, relationships, entertainment, and more. While these things aren’t inherently bad, they can never truly satisfy the deepest longings of our souls. Jesus, the Bread of Life and Living Water, is the only one who can fill the God-shaped void in our hearts.
We’re reminded of Solomon’s words in Ecclesiastes, where he pursued every worldly pleasure and achievement, only to find it all “meaningless, a chasing after the wind” (Ecclesiastes 1:14). True fulfillment comes from seeking first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness (Matthew 6:33).
Seek to be filled with the righteousness of God. It will bring peace and comfort to your soul.
“We love Him, because He first loved us.” (1 John 4:19) This verse is one of the most beautiful and striking verses in all of Scripture. The Bible instructs us that our love for God is a response to His love for us. He loved us before we ever loved Him.
How much does God love us? How can describe God’s love?
God’s love for us is undeterred. He loves us no matter where we born. He loves us no matter our station in life. Our financial status, our skin color, and our background do not deter the love of God. God does not love our sin and He does not love all of our choices. But, He loves us, oftentimes, in spite of ourselves.
God’s love for us is undeserved. In Romans 5:8, Paul says “But God commended His love toward us in that even while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Isn’t that amazing? God loved us not when we were good. He loved us at our absolute worst. He even loved us enough to die for us. The undeserved love of Christ is wonderful indeed.
Finally, God’s love for us is unmatched. Others may love and care for us. However, their love will never be able to match the love of God. He loves us more than anyone.
The Bible commands Believers to “walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us.” (Ephesians 5:2) We are to love Him and love others in response to His love expressed to us. If we have been given such a great gift of love, how can we withhold this gift from others?
The New Year always begins with much promise. It seems like a chance to start over and try to do better. At times, we are able to improve and strengthen our lives. At other times, it feels as if we waste our new beginnings and revert to old patterns.
While our improvement is hit and miss, God’s new beginnings are always perfect. We, as humans, sometimes fail to meet our goals and hit the marks we establish. God always accomplishes and completes what He starts.
Let us perceive a simple truth from God’s Word as we begin this New Year. As Believers, we have been made into new creations. 2nd Corinthians 5:17 reveals this truth when Paul says “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” Through the power of forgiveness and the gift of salvation, we have been made into brand new persons in the sight of God.
We are now forgiven where once we were condemned. We are now found where once we were lost. We are now alive where once we were dead. We are now justified where once we were guilty. We have been made new through the blood of Jesus!
Certainly, we still struggle with sin. And this truth does not mean that we are perfect in this life. It means that we are being made perfect and that one day we will be complete when we are with Jesus forever.
Have you been made into a new creation through the forgiveness of your sins? Have you trusted Christ for your salvation? New Year’s resolutions are fine. But, having a relationship with God through Jesus Christ is infinitely better. Believe in Him and trust Him through faith today!
And she gave birth to her firstborn son; and she wrapped Him in cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. Luke 2:7
The Savior has come. Sing hallelujah!
The Savior has arrived. Let us give thanks to the Lord.
The Savior is here. There is now hope for the hopeless.
The Savior has come. There is help for the helpless.
The Savior has appeared. The forgiveness of sins is possible.
The Savior has entered. Jesus takes away our guilt and gives us His righteousness.
The Savior is with us. And He is with us forevermore!
May God bless you all with a glorious Christmas Season.
mrtonyfrench 