October 6, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Luke Chapter 24

¹ Now upon the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they came unto the sepulchre, bringing the spices which they had prepared, and certain others with them.

² And they found the stone rolled away from the sepulchre.

³ And they entered in, and found not the body of the Lord Jesus.

⁴ And it came to pass, as they were much perplexed thereabout, behold, two men stood by them in shining garments:

⁵ And as they were afraid, and bowed down their faces to the earth, they said unto them, Why seek ye the living among the dead?

⁶ He is not here, but is risen: remember how he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee,

⁷ Saying, The Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again.

⁸ And they remembered his words,

⁹ And returned from the sepulchre, and told all these things unto the eleven, and to all the rest.

¹⁰ It was Mary Magdalene and Joanna, and Mary the mother of James, and other women that were with them, which told these things unto the apostles.

¹¹ And their words seemed to them as idle tales, and they believed them not.

¹² Then arose Peter, and ran unto the sepulchre; and stooping down, he beheld the linen clothes laid by themselves, and departed, wondering in himself at that which was come to pass.

¹³ And, behold, two of them went that same day to a village called Emmaus, which was from Jerusalem about threescore furlongs.

¹⁴ And they talked together of all these things which had happened.

¹⁵ And it came to pass, that, while they communed together and reasoned, Jesus himself drew near, and went with them.

¹⁶ But their eyes were holden that they should not know him.

¹⁷ And he said unto them, What manner of communications are these that ye have one to another, as ye walk, and are sad?

¹⁸ And the one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answering said unto him, Art thou only a stranger in Jerusalem, and hast not known the things which are come to pass there in these days?

¹⁹ And he said unto them, What things? And they said unto him, Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, which was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people:

²⁰ And how the chief priests and our rulers delivered him to be condemned to death, and have crucified him.

²¹ But we trusted that it had been he which should have redeemed Israel: and beside all this, to day is the third day since these things were done.

²² Yea, and certain women also of our company made us astonished, which were early at the sepulchre;

²³ And when they found not his body, they came, saying, that they had also seen a vision of angels, which said that he was alive.

²⁴ And certain of them which were with us went to the sepulchre, and found it even so as the women had said: but him they saw not.

²⁵ Then he said unto them, O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken:

²⁶ Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into his glory?

²⁷ And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.

²⁸ And they drew nigh unto the village, whither they went: and he made as though he would have gone further.

²⁹ But they constrained him, saying, Abide with us: for it is toward evening, and the day is far spent. And he went in to tarry with them.

³⁰ And it came to pass, as he sat at meat with them, he took bread, and blessed it, and brake, and gave to them.

³¹ And their eyes were opened, and they knew him; and he vanished out of their sight.

³² And they said one to another, Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the scriptures?

³³ And they rose up the same hour, and returned to Jerusalem, and found the eleven gathered together, and them that were with them,

³⁴ Saying, The Lord is risen indeed, and hath appeared to Simon.

³⁵ And they told what things were done in the way, and how he was known of them in breaking of bread.

³⁶ And as they thus spake, Jesus himself stood in the midst of them, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you.

³⁷ But they were terrified and affrighted, and supposed that they had seen a spirit.

³⁸ And he said unto them, Why are ye troubled? and why do thoughts arise in your hearts?

³⁹ Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself: handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have.

⁴⁰ And when he had thus spoken, he shewed them his hands and his feet.

⁴¹ And while they yet believed not for joy, and wondered, he said unto them, Have ye here any meat?

⁴² And they gave him a piece of a broiled fish, and of an honeycomb.

⁴³ And he took it, and did eat before them.

⁴⁴ And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me.

⁴⁵ Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures,

⁴⁶ And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behooved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day:

⁴⁷ And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.

⁴⁸ And ye are witnesses of these things.

⁴⁹ And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.

⁵⁰ And he led them out as far as to Bethany, and he lifted up his hands, and blessed them.

⁵¹ And it came to pass, while he blessed them, he was parted from them, and carried up into heaven.

⁵² And they worshipped him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy:

⁵³ And were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God. Amen.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

Luke Chapter 24 describes the events following Jesus’ resurrection and includes some of the most significant moments in the Christian faith. This chapter highlights the revelation of Jesus’ resurrection first to the women at the tomb, then to the disciples on the road to Emmaus, and finally to the entire group of disciples. Through these appearances and conversations, Jesus opens the disciples’ understanding of the fulfillment of Scripture and confirms his resurrection as a central truth of faith.

Commentary

The chapter begins with the discovery of the empty tomb on the first day of the week. The women who came to anoint Jesus found the stone rolled away and encountered two angels who announced Jesus’ resurrection. This message was met with disbelief by the apostles, but Peter ran to the tomb to confirm the truth. In the story of the disciples on the road to Emmaus, Jesus initially reveals himself in disguise and explains the Scriptures to them. When breaking bread, they recognize him, and their hearts are filled with joy and understanding. Finally, Jesus appears to his gathered disciples, proving his identity through his wounds and explaining the necessity of his suffering and resurrection. The chapter culminates in Jesus’ ascension, which ends with a blessing and leaves the disciples with great joy and hope.

Summary

Luke 24 narrates the resurrection of Jesus, his encounters with the disciples, and his ascension. It begins with the discovery of the empty tomb, leads to Jesus’ appearance to the disciples on the road to Emmaus, and culminates in his final revelation to the gathered disciples. This chapter emphasizes the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies through Jesus’ suffering and resurrection, and it concludes with the promise of the Holy Spirit and the ascension.

 

 

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/6-10-2024-luke-chapter-24-believe-his-prophets/

1.Reflect on this week’s study guide. Faith was the key that made these healings possible. In contrast, the leaders demonstrated the dangers of doubt and unbelief. Why should we not confuse questions (which we all have) with doubts? Why are they not the same, and why is it important to know the difference between the two?

In this week’s study guide, it is clear that faith was the crucial key that made Jesus’ healings possible. People like the royal official whose son was healed or the paralyzed man at the Pool of Bethesda experienced miracles through their faith in Jesus’ words. In contrast, the religious leaders who rejected Jesus despite His clear signs demonstrated the dangers of doubt and unbelief.

Why Should We Not Confuse Questions with Doubts?

Questions are a natural part of the faith life. They arise when we do not immediately understand things or when we are confronted with difficult situations. Questions can lead us to search deeper, pray, and seek God’s guidance. In the Bible, we see many examples of believers who asked questions—from Abraham to Jesus’ disciples. These questions are part of a living and growing faith.

Doubts, on the other hand, are often a form of mistrust or rejection of God’s actions or His word. Doubts can paralyze faith because they undermine trust in God’s character and promises. Doubting means questioning God’s ability or willingness to work in our lives.

Why Is It Important to Know the Difference?

The difference between questions and doubts is crucial because questions can strengthen faith, while doubts can weaken it. Questions lead to growth because they prompt us to seek answers, trust God, and get to know Him better. Doubts, however, can weaken faith by distancing us from God and preventing us from fully trusting Him.

The religious leaders of Jesus’ time had studied the Scriptures and seen many signs, yet they rejected Jesus. Their unbelief prevented them from recognizing the truth and caused them to ignore even the most obvious signs. This serves as a warning for us: we must remain open to God’s answers and trust Him, even when we do not understand everything immediately.

Conclusion: Questions are part of a living faith, while doubts can stifle it. It is important to recognize the difference so that we can trust God’s promises and be willing to seek His answers. The religious leaders of Jesus’ time studied the Scriptures and saw signs but still rejected Him. Their unbelief hindered them from recognizing the truth and led them to dismiss even the most obvious signs. This is a warning for us: we must remain open to God’s answers and trust Him, even when we do not understand everything immediately.

2.Look at the last question in the Thursday section. Why must we, as Seventh-day Adventists, be especially cautious about this danger? As important as it is, for example, to know and keep the correct Sabbath day or to understand something about the state of the dead—why does this knowledge not save us? What saves us and how?

The question of how to guard against believing in God and upholding correct teachings without fully submitting to Christ is central to our faith life. Faith and scholarship are not the same, and mere knowledge of biblical truths is not sufficient for our salvation. As Seventh-day Adventists, we must be especially cautious because we place great emphasis on understanding biblical teachings. However, even though knowledge of the truth is important, it is not what ultimately saves us.

1. Why Must We, as Seventh-day Adventists, Be Especially Cautious?

As Seventh-day Adventists, we place great importance on biblical teachings such as the Sabbath, the Second Coming of Christ, the state of the dead, and other prophetic insights. These truths are crucial and valuable, but they are not a substitute for a living relationship with Jesus. There is a danger that we may rely on our knowledge or adherence to certain rules and teachings and thereby forget that salvation comes solely through grace and faith in Jesus Christ.

The religious leaders of Jesus’ time upheld the correct teachings regarding the law and the Sabbath, but they missed the central truth—the relationship with God. They were proud of their knowledge, but this pride prevented them from recognizing Jesus as the Savior. Similarly, we could fall into the trap of emphasizing our knowledge of teachings without fully surrendering our hearts to Christ.

2. Why Does Knowledge of the Truth Not Save Us?

Knowledge of biblical teachings, as important as it is, cannot save us because salvation is not obtained through knowledge or works. The Bible clearly states that we are saved by grace through faith—by believing in the completed work of Jesus Christ on the cross (Ephesians 2:8-9). Our understanding of truths like the Sabbath or the state of the dead is important because it helps us better comprehend God’s will, but it is not the knowledge itself that saves us.

What saves us is faith in Jesus Christ and accepting His sacrifice. This faith means more than just agreeing with certain teachings—it involves fully submitting our lives to Christ’s authority. We are called to surrender our hearts and wills to Him, live daily in His grace, and trust in His guidance.

3. What Saves Us and How?

Salvation comes through grace, which we receive by faith in Jesus Christ. This means:

• Recognizing that we are sinners and cannot save ourselves.

• Believing in Jesus’ sacrifice, which paid the price for our sins.

• Accepting Him not only as Savior but also as Lord of our lives and allowing Him to guide us in all areas.

Jesus’ saving work encompasses more than merely following rules or knowing certain teachings. It involves our entire lives being permeated by His grace and love. When we fully submit to Jesus, our knowledge of the truth becomes alive because it is rooted in our relationship with Him.

Conclusion: As Seventh-day Adventists, we must be particularly careful to ensure that our focus is not solely on knowing the correct teachings but on fully submitting our lives to Christ. It is essential to recognize that our knowledge of biblical truths does not save us—only God’s grace and Jesus’ sacrifice can do that. When we surrender our hearts and lives to Him, we can be confident that we not only know the truth but also live in that truth and are redeemed through it.

3.Examine John 5:47 closely. In what way do those who today, for example, deny the universality of the Flood or the literal six-day creation, do exactly what Jesus warned against?

In John 5:47, Jesus warns the religious leaders that their unbelief in the testimony of the Scriptures, especially the testimony of Moses, prevents them from believing in Him: “If you do not believe his testimony, how are you going to believe anyone else’s?” This warning is significant because it highlights that faith in the Old Testament Scriptures is closely tied to faith in Jesus and His teachings. Jesus refers to Moses because Moses’ writings prophesied the coming Messiah.

Relation to Today: Denying the Biblical Account of the Flood or the Literal Six-Day Creation

When people today deny the universality of the Flood or the literal six-day creation, they are doing exactly what Jesus warned against in John 5:47. They are doubting the fundamental accounts that God revealed through Moses and other prophets. This has far-reaching implications for their faith and ability to accept the entirety of Scripture and its claims, including the testimony of Jesus.

Why Is This Problematic?

1. Doubt in the Reliability of Scripture: When people interpret parts of the Bible, such as the creation account or the Flood, as non-literal or symbolic, they question the credibility of the entire Scripture. The Bible teaches in Genesis that God created the world in six days and that the Flood was a universal event. These accounts are not merely symbolic but form the foundation for understanding God’s intervention in human history. Denying these fundamental narratives makes it difficult to fully trust other biblical teachings.

2. The Bible as a Whole: The Bible forms a unified whole, spanning from creation to redemption through Jesus Christ. Denying the literal meaning of Genesis undermines the foundation on which many other biblical doctrines rest. If the creation and Flood accounts are viewed as mythological or symbolic, the belief in God’s sovereign action in human history and His power to guide the world is weakened.

3. Contradiction to Jesus’ Teachings: Jesus Himself referred to the creation account and the Flood as historical events. In Matthew 19:4–6, He spoke of the creation of man as male and female, and in Matthew 24:37–39, He compared the time of His return to the days of Noah. Denying these accounts contradicts not only the Old Testament but also Jesus’ own words.

Connection to John 5:47:

In John 5:47, Jesus warns that those who do not believe in the Scriptures of the Old Testament cannot believe in His words either. The principle applies today: if we dismiss fundamental accounts like creation or the Flood as untrue or symbolic, we undermine the trustworthiness of the entire Bible—including Jesus’ words. This shows that faith in the Bible’s revelation from the first to the last page is crucial for maintaining faith in Jesus Christ and His redemption.

Conclusion: Denying the universality of the Flood or the literal six-day creation is an expression of doubt in the authority and credibility of the Bible. Jesus warned in John 5:47 against not taking the Scriptures seriously, as this leads to rejecting His words as well. As believers, we are called to accept the entire Bible as God’s inspired revelation, as it not only teaches us the truth about the past but also points the way to redemption through Christ.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-1-signs-that-point-the-way-1-7-questions-themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-living-faith/

October 5, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Luke Chapter 23

¹ And the whole multitude of them arose, and led him unto Pilate.

² And they began to accuse him, saying, We found this fellow perverting the nation, and forbidding to give tribute to Caesar, saying that he himself is Christ a King.

³ And Pilate asked him, saying, Art thou the King of the Jews? And he answered him and said, Thou sayest it.

⁴ Then said Pilate to the chief priests and to the people, I find no fault in this man.

⁵ And they were the more fierce, saying, He stirreth up the people, teaching throughout all Jewry, beginning from Galilee to this place.

⁶ When Pilate heard of Galilee, he asked whether the man were a Galilaean.

⁷ And as soon as he knew that he belonged unto Herod’s jurisdiction, he sent him to Herod, who himself also was at Jerusalem at that time.

⁸ And when Herod saw Jesus, he was exceeding glad: for he was desirous to see him of a long season, because he had heard many things of him; and he hoped to have seen some miracle done by him.

⁹ Then he questioned with him in many words; but he answered him nothing.

¹⁰ And the chief priests and scribes stood and vehemently accused him.

¹¹ And Herod with his men of war set him at nought, and mocked him, and arrayed him in a gorgeous robe, and sent him again to Pilate.

¹² And the same day Pilate and Herod were made friends together: for before they were at enmity between themselves.

¹³ And Pilate, when he had called together the chief priests and the rulers and the people,

¹⁴ Said unto them, Ye have brought this man unto me, as one that perverteth the people: and, behold, I, having examined him before you, have found no fault in this man touching those things whereof ye accuse him:

¹⁵ No, nor yet Herod: for I sent you to him; and, lo, nothing worthy of death is done unto him.

¹⁶ I will therefore chastise him, and release him.

¹⁷ (For of necessity he must release one unto them at the feast.)

¹⁸ And they cried out all at once, saying, Away with this man, and release unto us Barabbas:

¹⁹ (Who for a certain sedition made in the city, and for murder, was cast into prison.)

²⁰ Pilate therefore, willing to release Jesus, spake again to them.

²¹ But they cried, saying, Crucify him, crucify him.

²² And he said unto them the third time, Why, what evil hath he done? I have found no cause of death in him: I will therefore chastise him, and let him go.

²³ And they were instant with loud voices, requiring that he might be crucified. And the voices of them and of the chief priests prevailed.

²⁴ And Pilate gave sentence that it should be as they required.

²⁵ And he released unto them him that for sedition and murder was cast into prison, whom they had desired; but he delivered Jesus to their will.

²⁶ And as they led him away, they laid hold upon one Simon, a Cyrenian, coming out of the country, and on him they laid the cross, that he might bear it after Jesus.

²⁷ And there followed him a great company of people, and of women, which also bewailed and lamented him.

²⁸ But Jesus turning unto them said, Daughters of Jerusalem, weep not for me, but weep for yourselves, and for your children.

²⁹ For, behold, the days are coming, in the which they shall say, Blessed are the barren, and the wombs that never bare, and the paps which never gave suck.

³⁰ Then shall they begin to say to the mountains, Fall on us; and to the hills, Cover us.

³¹ For if they do these things in a green tree, what shall be done in the dry?

³² And there were also two other, malefactors, led with him to be put to death.

³³ And when they were come to the place, which is called Calvary, there they crucified him, and the malefactors, one on the right hand, and the other on the left.

³⁴ Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.

³⁵ And the people stood beholding. And the rulers also with them derided him, saying, He saved others; let him save himself, if he be Christ, the chosen of God.

³⁶ And the soldiers also mocked him, coming to him, and offering him vinegar,

³⁷ And saying, If thou be the king of the Jews, save thyself.

³⁸ And a superscription also was written over him in letters of Greek, and Latin, and Hebrew, This Is The King Of The Jews.

³⁹ And one of the malefactors which were hanged railed on him, saying, If thou be Christ, save thyself and us.

⁴⁰ But the other answering rebuked him, saying, Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation?

⁴¹ And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds: but this man hath done nothing amiss.

⁴² And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom.

⁴³ And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, Today shalt thou be with me in paradise.

⁴⁴ And it was about the sixth hour, and there was a darkness over all the earth until the ninth hour.

⁴⁵ And the sun was darkened, and the veil of the temple was rent in the midst.

⁴⁶ And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit: and having said thus, he gave up the ghost.

⁴⁷ Now when the centurion saw what was done, he glorified God, saying, Certainly this was a righteous man.

⁴⁸ And all the people that came together to that sight, beholding the things which were done, smote their breasts, and returned.

⁴⁹ And all his acquaintance, and the women that followed him from Galilee, stood afar off, beholding these things.

⁵⁰ And, behold, there was a man named Joseph, a counsellor; and he was a good man, and a just:

⁵¹ (The same had not consented to the counsel and deed of them;) he was of Arimathaea, a city of the Jews: who also himself waited for the kingdom of God.

⁵² This man went unto Pilate, and begged the body of Jesus.

⁵³ And he took it down, and wrapped it in linen, and laid it in a sepulchre that was hewn in stone, wherein never man before was laid.

⁵⁴ And that day was the preparation, and the sabbath drew on.

⁵⁵ And the women also, which came with him from Galilee, followed after, and beheld the sepulchre, and how his body was laid.

⁵⁶ And they returned, and prepared spices and ointments; and rested the sabbath day according to the commandment.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction:

Luke Chapter 23 depicts the dramatic and decisive events that lead to the crucifixion of Jesus, as well as His death and burial. The chapter begins with the accusation of Jesus before Pilate, a Roman governor, and His condemnation despite multiple declarations of His innocence. It concludes with the death of Jesus on the cross and His burial. This narrative is a central part of the Passion story, describing the final moments in Jesus’ life and the completion of His earthly mission as the ultimate sacrifice for humanity. The significance of this chapter lies in its portrayal of justice, injustice, mercy, and the fulfillment of divine promises.

Commentary:

The chapter begins with the presentation of Jesus before Pilate, where He is accused of inciting the people and leading a rebellion against Rome. The religious leaders attempt to persuade Pilate to execute Jesus by portraying Him as a threat to Roman authority, particularly by claiming that Jesus has declared Himself to be the “King of the Jews” (Luke 23:2-3). Pilate, who plays a central role as the judge in this story, questions these charges and repeatedly concludes that Jesus has no fault deserving of the death penalty (Luke 23:4, 14-15). This highlights Jesus’ innocence and the injustice of the entire process.

Pilate tries to transfer the responsibility to Herod when he learns that Jesus is from Galilee (Luke 23:6-7). Herod is pleased to see Jesus because he has heard about His miraculous deeds and expects a sign from Him. However, Jesus remains silent before Herod and does not respond to his questions. Herod mocks Jesus, dresses Him in a splendid robe, and sends Him back to Pilate (Luke 23:8-11). This episode emphasizes the inability of worldly power to grasp the true significance of Jesus. Herod is more interested in sensationalism than in justice or truth. The mocking of Jesus by Herod and his soldiers symbolizes the rejection of the Messiah by the people, both Jewish and Roman.

Pilate faces a moral dilemma. He recognizes that Jesus is innocent and attempts multiple times to release Him. However, the pressure from the religious leaders and the agitated crowd, who demand the release of Barabbas, a convicted murderer and insurrectionist, ultimately forces him to act against his better judgment (Luke 23:18-25). The exchange between Jesus and Barabbas holds deeper theological significance: Jesus, the innocent one, takes the place of the guilty. This is seen as a symbol of Jesus’ substitute sacrifice for the sins of humanity. Pilate’s weakness and capitulation to the will of the people starkly contrast with the strength and moral integrity of Jesus, who accepts His fate silently.

On the way to Golgotha, Simon of Cyrene is compelled to carry the cross for Jesus (Luke 23:26). This episode demonstrates Jesus’ physical weakness after the mistreatment but also the willingness of others to participate in His suffering. During the march, Jesus encounters the weeping women of Jerusalem, to whom He prophesies that greater suffering is to come upon them (Luke 23:27-31). These words allude to the impending judgment over Jerusalem and the city’s destruction in 70 A.D. Jesus urges people to reflect on their own situation rather than mourning His suffering. This shows that despite His own pain, Jesus continues to act as a prophetic teacher.

The crucifixion itself, which takes place at the Skull Place (Golgotha), is the climax of the narrative (Luke 23:33-49). Jesus is crucified between two criminals, emphasizing His humiliation and identification with the guilty. Yet, even in this extreme situation, Jesus demonstrates mercy and forgiveness by praying for His tormentors: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing!” (Luke 23:34). This act of forgiveness is central to understanding the Christian message: Jesus forgives even those who crucify Him, showcasing the depth of His love and mercy.

The scene with the two criminals crucified alongside Jesus further illustrates the theme of grace and forgiveness (Luke 23:39-43). One of the criminals mocks Jesus, while the other acknowledges his guilt and asks Jesus for mercy. Jesus responds to him with the words, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.” This statement demonstrates that redemption is available to all who turn to Jesus in faith, regardless of their past actions. The repentant criminal thus becomes an example of the path to redemption through repentance and trust in Jesus.

The supernatural signs accompanying Jesus’ death—the darkness over the land and the tearing of the temple veil (Luke 23:44-45)—symbolize the cosmic and redemptive-historical event taking place. The temple veil, which separated the Holy of Holies, is torn, opening access to God for all people through Jesus’ death. This moment marks the end of the old covenant and the beginning of a new covenant, where direct access to God is possible for all believers.

Jesus’ death is ultimately acknowledged as just by a Roman centurion, a pagan soldier: “Surely this man was innocent!” (Luke 23:47). This confession from an outsider shows that the truth about Jesus is recognized even by those who are not part of the Jewish people. It is an indication that the message of the Gospel extends beyond Israel to the nations.

Jesus’ burial is carried out by Joseph of Arimathea, a secret disciple of Jesus (Luke 23:50-53). The role of the women who observe Jesus’ tomb and later become the first witnesses of His resurrection demonstrates their faithfulness and dedication. This event sets the stage for the forthcoming resurrection events, which are the cornerstone of the Christian faith.

Summary:

Luke Chapter 23 describes the accusation, condemnation, crucifixion, and death of Jesus. Despite multiple declarations of His innocence, Jesus is condemned to death under pressure from the crowd and the religious leaders, while the murderer Barabbas is released. On the way to the crucifixion, Jesus speaks prophetic words to the women of Jerusalem and forgives His tormentors on the cross. His crucifixion is accompanied by supernatural events that highlight the significance of His sacrifice. The Roman centurion acknowledges Jesus’ innocence, and Joseph of Arimathea ensures His honorable burial. Luke 23 emphasizes themes of injustice, grace, and forgiveness, setting the foundation for the upcoming resurrection.

 

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages
Chapter 67—Woes on the Pharisees
This chapter is based on Matthew 23; Mark 12:41-44; Luke 20:45-47; Luke 21:1-4.
Read online here

 

Commentary

Introduction:

Chapter 67 describes Jesus’ final day, during which He teaches in the temple and delivers a powerful condemnation of the hypocrisy and sanctimony of the religious leaders. Jesus speaks bold words, denouncing the Pharisees and scribes for their false, selfish way of life in faith while simultaneously praising humility and true piety. The crowd observing Him is moved by His words, while the religious leaders are exposed and humiliated.

Commentary:

Jesus’ sharp words against the Pharisees and scribes emphasize their hypocrisy, abuse of power, and selfish motives. Although they appear outwardly pious and emphasize religious duties, they do not adhere to these rules themselves. Jesus condemns their love for titles, honors, and external recognition, highlighting true piety, which is demonstrated through humility, mercy, and service.

The episode of the poor widow who throws her last coins into the temple underscores the importance of selfless sacrifice. While the rich give out of their abundance, the widow gives all she has. This shows that God does not evaluate the material value of a sacrifice but the heart and intention behind it.

At the end, Jesus warns of the spiritual decline of the religious leadership, which will lead to the destruction of Jerusalem. His lament over Jerusalem reflects God’s deep sorrow over the obstinacy of His people, who reject His prophets and ultimately His Messiah.

Summary:

Chapter 67 reveals Jesus’ sharp criticism of the religious leaders of His time. He condemns their hypocrisy and abuse of power, making it clear that true greatness lies in serving and humility. The story of the poor widow demonstrates that God values the heart and willingness to sacrifice of His followers, while Jesus prophesies the impending judgment on Jerusalem. This chapter is a poignant call to inner repentance, genuine piety, and the fulfillment of God’s commandments with love and mercy.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/5-10-2024-luke-chapter-23-believe-his-prophets/