SATURDAY, MARCH 17
Luke 20:1-18
John 5:31-47

“But I receive not testimony from man:
but these things I say, that ye might be saved.”

THE ADMINISTRATION OF CHRIST

The religious leaders questioned Jesus’ authority while the ordinary people were listening to His teachings. These leaders were supposed to be knowledgeable of God’s Word, but instead of believing they sought to find fault with Jesus. These did not believe Jesus to be the Son of God and that His authority was from heaven. The people too instead of believing looked for wonders and miracles.

Jesus of course knew the evil intentions of the Pharisees. He responded to them by asking what they believed about the baptism of John. The religious leaders were caught by their own trap. Jesus wanted to prove here that He was greater than John the Baptist. These leaders knew this but, because of their pride, refused to admit the truth that Jesus was the Christ, the Son of the Living God.

Although Jesus left the question without an answer, it was obvious to all the people there what He meant. God’s Word is not to confuse man but to give wisdom. The problem lies in the pride of man elevating his own understanding rather than submitting to the Bible.

Jesus gave a parable of the vineyard owner and his workers. The owner entrusted his vineyard to the workers. At harvest time, the owner sent servants (in three successions) but the workers maltreated them and cast them out. The last person to be sent was his son, but the workers killed him. Surely, great judgment was looming for the workers who rebelled.

Jesus plainly said that the owner would come and destroy the evil workers. The vineyard shall be given to other workers who will faithfully take care of it. Jesus warned His enemies and all who attack Christ and His Word that they will be “broken” (Luke 20:18). They will only hurt themselves when they fight against Christ. This includes those who say that the Bible has mistakes. This is attacking Christ. They will be “broken”!

THOUGHT: Am I submissive to the sovereignty of the Lord?
PRAYER: Our Master and our King, unite our hearts to worship and honour Thee.