True discipleship

 33“So then, none of you can be My disciple who does not [carefully consider the cost and then for My sake] give up all his own possessions. Luke 14:33 Zondervan. The Amplified Study Bible . Zondervan. Kindle Edition.

Jesus made it very clear to the Pharisees as well as his disciples that there was an extreme cost in following him. To be a follower of Jesus demanded that nothing could take priority over him. Everything and every relationship must take a back seat to following Jesus. He demands complete devotion if you truly want to be his disciple. Many things in life can usurp the place that Jesus alone should have in our life. Possessions, positions, relationship, hobbies, sports and the list can go on are all things that compete for our time and devotion. None of these can be considered evil but each of these can take a priority in our life that relegates Jesus to second place. He must be Lord of all or he is not Lord at all. To be a follower of Jesus is to be one who is listening to him and obeying what he calls us to do. If we have ears to hear we must listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit directing us and respond in obedience. Nothing can be more important than hearing and obeying if we truly want to be a disciple of Jesus.

The narrow door

 24“Strive to enter through the narrow door [force aside unbelief and the attractions of sin]; for many, I tell you, will try to enter [by their own works] and will not be able. Luke 13:24 Zondervan. The Amplified Study Bible . Zondervan. Kindle Edition.

One of the greatest lies of Satan is that all roads lead to heaven. Many people think that entering heaven is based on whether they have been a good person in this life. If they have done enough good works, God will be obligated to allow them to enter heaven. This philosophy was rejected by Jesus to the point that he said he did not know these people and they were not given access to heaven. If good works were the litmus test for salvation there would be no need for Jesus to come to earth. Good works can never erase the sins committed. Only the blood of Jesus can atone for the sins of mankind. The door to heaven is narrow and few will enter. This a sobering thought that should cause people to examine their lives to determine if they are truly relying on the way of salvation that Jesus has provided or if they are depending on some other way that they believe will give them access to heaven.

Division

 51“Do you suppose that I came to grant peace on earth? No, I tell you, but rather division [between believers and unbelievers] Luke 12:51 Zondervan. The Amplified Study Bible . Zondervan. Kindle Edition.

There really are only 2 kinds of people. Those who believe in Jesus and become followers of him and those who do not believe in him. There will always be this division among people which will cause unrest and at times violence. Persecution of believers began with the Roman Empire that mistreated and killed Christians. When Constantine made Christianity the religion of his empire there was a time of peace until the Muslims began to invade other countries and persecute the Christians. The persecution continues today as the Muslims seek to dominate the world and use violence to try to force Christians to recant their believes and accept Islam. There will never be peace on earth until Jesus rules over every person and nation. We as believers look forward to the day of his return to rule for 1000 years and bring peace. He is the Prince of Peace and his kingdom rule will never end.

Greed

 15Then He said to them, “Watch out and guard yourselves against every form of greed; for not even when one has an overflowing abundance does his life consist of nor is it derived from his possessions.” Luke 12:15 Zondervan. The Amplified Study Bible . Zondervan. Kindle Edition.

Greed is desiring more than you need to benefit yourself. Greed comes in many forms such as gaining money in any way that you can. One of the tragic stories of recent times in that of Bernie Maddow. He contrived a plan that deceived many people and made him rich. His greed for more wealth became the driving force of his life. But it all came to an end when his actions of deceit were brought to light, and he was convicted of his crimes and sent to prison. None of his wealth did anything for him as he sat in his prison cell separated from his family and all of his possessions. He managed to deceive many people who also had an issue with greed when they believed that their investments with him could produce results that were too good to believe. Their greed resulted in losing all the money they thought was being invested in companies that did not exist. Jesus warned his disciples as well as the people who were listening to him that they must always guard their hearts against greed. God wants us to trust in him to meet every need we have because he cares for us. He will never fail us when we seek to live by his standards and pursue his kingdom rather than the riches of the world.

Misinterpretation

 52“Woe to you lawyers, because you have taken away the key to knowledge (scriptural truth). You yourselves did not enter, and you held back those who were entering [by your flawed interpretation of God’s word and your man-made tradition].” Luke 11:52 Zondervan. The Amplified Study Bible . Zondervan. Kindle Edition.

Misinterpretation of the Scriptures was common among the scribes and Pharisees. They claimed to be experts in knowing what the Scriptures meant and their interpretation was to be followed by the people. They were full of pride and arrogance and expected special honor from the people. Jesus called them out on their false interpretation and pointed out that they did not follow the interpretation they concocted themselves. They were hypocrites to say the least and Jesus would have none of it. Instead of leading people to know God, they drove them away by their false interpretations and expectations that were beyond human reasoning to follow. They became legalists and had lost the true meaning of the Scriptures. Their relationship with God became mechanical and not personal. They lost touch with God and with the people they were to serve. False interpretation of the Scriptures continues to be a problem in the church today and has led to many heresies that turn people away from the true knowledge of God.

Obedience

 27Now while Jesus was saying these things, one of the women in the crowd raised her voice and said to Him, “Blessed (happy, favored by God) is the womb that gave birth to You and the breasts at which You nursed!” 28But He said, “On the contrary, blessed (happy, favored by God) are those who hear the word of God and continually observe it.” Luke 11:27-28 Zondervan. The Amplified Study Bible . Zondervan. Kindle Edition.

Motherhood was an honor every woman desired. To be childless was to be cursed and to have children was to be blessed. Mary certainly had a special honor in giving birth to Jesus and raising him. She was blessed among all women with the privilege of bearing the Son of God. Yet Jesus elevated obedience above the honor of being his mother. This does not put Mary in an inferior place but stresses the importance of following the word of God in obedience on a daily basis. A life of obedience is a life that is honored by the Lord above any status one may receive. This was the challenge Jesus gave to the people to place obedience above any other thing that brought honor to a person. Our obedience to the Lord on a daily basis is his desire for every believer. To claim one is a Christian but fail to obey the commands and teaching of the Lord is hypocritical and damaging to the understanding of what it means to be a Christian. Obedience will always bring a blessing

Self justification

 29But he, wishing to justify and vindicate himself, asked Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?” Luke 10:29 Zondervan. The Amplified Study Bible . Zondervan. Kindle Edition.

The problem this man faced is the same problem many people face. They try to justify their actions and lifestyle based on their perception of what is right and wrong and whether they are living in a manner that will be acceptable to the Lord or to other people in authority. People judge their worthiness to be able to enter heaven based on their works or on how they treat people. If I am a good person according to their standards of goodness, then God will accept me into heaven. Good works are not the criteria that God uses to allow access to heaven. We are to live in a manner that pleases him and obeys his commands but that is not the determining factor for our entering heaven. No matter how good we think we are or how many good works we have done, it will never erase the sinful things we have committed. We are imperfect people and the only way for our lives to be justified before God is through the justification we receive through Jesus. His blood shed on the cross made possible our forgiveness and justification before God that allows us access to heaven when we die.

A different spirit

 54When His disciples James and John saw this, they said, “Lord, do You want us to command fire to come down from heaven and destroy them?” 55But He turned and rebuked them [and He said, “You do not know what kind of spirit you are;56for the Son of Man did not come to destroy men’s lives, but to save them.”] And they journeyed on to another village. Luke 9:54-55 Zondervan. The Amplified Study Bible . Zondervan. Kindle Edition.

James and John wanted Jesus to call down fire from heaven to destroy the Samaritans who were considered enemies of the Jews that lived in other parts of Israel. They did not worship in Jerusalem but created their own customs in their land of Samaria. They were considered rebels and were to be avoided. Yet Jesus saw them through the eyes of love and not rejection. He chose to go through their land in spite of potential conflict and harm. Killing our enemies or people who think differently than we do will never win any battle. Violence is not the way of the Master Jesus. He was of a different spirit, the Spirit of God dwelling in him. When God’s Spirit is in our lives, we respond differently to others and seek to lead them to the knowledge of the truth in an atmosphere of love. Love is the most powerful force in the world and can accomplish what violence and destruction can never accomplish. Islam is not a religion of peace but one of submission to Allah. It has been propagated through violence and using the sword instead of the spirit of love. It forces people to convert or be killed. This the same spirit that James and John wanted to see the destruction of people who opposed them. Jesus immediately rebuked them and reminded them that this was not the way of God to treat people who oppose them

Who is Jesus to you?

 20And He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter replied, “The Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed) of God!” Luke 9:20 Zondervan. The Amplified Study Bible . Zondervan. Kindle Edition.

The question Jesus posed to his disciples is the question that every person must give a response. Who is Jesus to you? Is he simply a prophet, teacher, worker of miracles or historical figure? Jesus was all of these, but the most important aspect of his life is that he came to be the Messiah, the Savior of the world who would give his life as payment for the sins of mankind. He came to show the world what God was like. He was the exact representation of God and was equal to God. He wants every person to know him in a personal way and be able to receive him as the Messiah promised throughout the Old Testament. He came to the earth to give his life as a ransom for all of humanities sins. The Jews were hoping for a Messiah who would be their leader and conquer the Roman rule over them, but Jesus never had any political ambitions to be their earthly ruler. His kingdom was much greater than just Israel. His kingdom he came to establish was a spiritual kingdom that would spread throughout the entire world and who never end. Those who receive him as the Lord and Savior become a part of an eternal kingdom that knows no end.

Power over the impossible

 53Then they began laughing scornfully at Him and ridiculing Him, knowing [without any doubt] that she was dead. 54But Jesus took hold of her hand and spoke, saying, “Child, arise!” 55And her spirit returned, and she got up immediately; and He ordered that she be given something to eat. Luke 8:53-55 Zondervan. The Amplified Study Bible . Zondervan. Kindle Edition.

Jesus demonstrated the power of God over every human and natural condition. Nothing was impossible and his disciples needed to learn that faith in God was all they needed to overcome any adversity. The daughter of Jairus was dead, her spirit had left her but Jesus seeing the same thing that her family and others saw interpreted her condition differently. She was asleep, her soul was a rest from the sickness that had taken control of her life. Jesus spoke life into her body by declaring she should arise. He was speaking to a dead body, but her spirit could hear his words and return to her body to bring her back to life. No situation in life is beyond God’s ability to change. We serve a God who delights in doing the impossible to show his power and love to his people. Jesus understood the tremendous loss of the family, and he did what no other person could do to raise her back to life. We serve a God of great compassion and when we exercise faith in him, nothing is impossible.

Honor and respect

 37Now there was a woman in the city who was [known as] a sinner; and when she found out that He was reclining at the table in the Pharisee’s house, she brought an alabaster vial of perfume; 38and standing behind Him at His feet, weeping, she began wetting His feet with her tears, and wiped them with the hair of her head, and [respectfully] kissed His feet [as an act signifying both affection and submission] and anointed them with the perfume. Luke 7:37-38 Zondervan. The Amplified Study Bible . Zondervan. Kindle Edition.

This woman who came to the home of the Pharisee knew who Jesus was and was willing to be put to shame in order to be with Jesus and express her admiration of him. She was a sinner and she knew it. Her tears were tears of sorrow for her lifestyle. The amount of tears she shed were an incredible amount that enabled her to wash the feet of Jesus. How deep was her sorrow for her lifestyle that she wept such a great amount of tears. She honored Jesus by cleaning his dirty feet and then anointing them with the perfume that was costly. She used her hair as a towel to wipe his feet an act of great humility as the hair of a woman was her source of pride and beauty. Nothing was too good for Jesus, and she gave all she had to honor him. As a result, Jesus forgave her of her sins and sent her away in peace. The Pharisees were shocked at the behavior of Jesus and the fact that he forgave her instead of reprimand her for her lifestyle. Jesus was more interested in demonstrating love and compassion than criticism and judgment. He saw her sorrow and knew that she was sincere in her actions of honoring him.

Contrariness

 35“But love [that is, unselfishly seek the best or higher good for] your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return; for your reward will be great (rich, abundant), and you will be sons of the Most High; because He Himself is kind and gracious and good to the ungrateful and the wicked. Luke 6:35 The Amplified Study Bible . Zondervan. Kindle Edition.

The teachings of Jesus are contrary to the way most people think and act. Most people seek to do what is best for themselves, what will benefit them and make their life more comfortable. How they treat other people is based on how other people treat them. If they are your enemy there is no advantage to treat them well and do anything good for them as it will only reinforce their way of doing whatever they think is right. Jesus taught that our motivation must always be based in true love, like his love, that always did what was best for the other person regardless of what the other person had done to you. Grace is giving what other people do not deserve and this is how God operates with all of mankind. He is gracious and always acts in the best interests of the people. When we treat people as God treats them with love and grace, we will be rewarded by God. We must always live in a way that is pleasing to God and responds as God would respond in every situation we encounter.

Change and growth

 37“And no one puts new wine into old wineskins; otherwise the new [fermenting] wine will [expand and] burst the skins and it will be spilled out, and the skins will be ruined. 38“But new wine must be put into fresh wineskins. 39“And no one, after drinking old wine, wishes for new; for he says, ‘The old is fine.’ ” Luke 5:37-39 Zondervan. The Amplified Study Bible . Zondervan. Kindle Edition.

The Pharisee were not open to new ideas nor were they willing to make changes to the systems they had invented to keep the many new laws they created. When Jesus taught, he presented new ideas that opposed their ideas and he was rejected by them. He challenged the false doctrines and practices of the Pharisee and introduced them to the correct interpretation of the Scriptures. The old ways were considered better and the new teachings of Jesus were considered in error and his claims to forgive sins was blasphemous. Tradition and routine can often suck the life out of a church. Doing things, the way they have always been done brings security to some people who are resistant to change. A church that is unwilling to make changes is a church that will soon fail to reach a new generation of people who have different ideas on how things can be done. There must be an openness to change to provide growth of the church.

Rebuking demons

 41Demons also were coming out of many people, shouting, “You are the Son of God!” But He rebuked them and would not allow them to speak, because they knew that He was the Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed). Luke 4:41 Zondervan. The Amplified Study Bible . Zondervan. Kindle Edition.

The demons knew who Jesus was and that his mission was to destroy the works of Satan. The Jews were looking for a Messiah that would destroy the Roman rule over the nation, but Jesus did not come for that purpose. His kingdom was not of this world; it was a spiritual kingdom where God’s love ruled the hearts of people. The demons accepted the fact that Jesus was the Son of God but the people for the most part rejected this and saw Jesus as only the son of Joseph and Mary. The demons sought to stir up controversy and cause confusion among the people to make the ministry of Jesus more difficult. They were willing to promote him because they knew it would cause trouble for him to advance his ministry. God’s timing is always perfect, and the demonic forces will attempt to do everything they can to minimize the effectiveness of God’s plan in our lives. Jesus knew that God was ordering his steps and he recognized the work of the demonic powers that were against him and he rebuked them and made them be silent. We too must always be aware of the work of the enemy, the demonic forces that will try to disrupt the ministry God had given us. We have authority to rebuke them in the name of Jesus who has authority over all.

Good news, bad news

 Luke 3:18–20 (NRSV)

18 So, with many other exhortations, he proclaimed the good news to the people. 19 But Herod the ruler, who had been rebuked by him because of Herodias, his brother’s wife, and because of all the evil things that Herod had done, 20 added to them all by shutting up John in prison.

John was the bearer of good news and bad news. He spoke the truth that either drew people to God or angered people because he identified their sins. The gospel message we share accomplished the same things. It is good news because it proclaims that our sins can be forgiven through the death of Jesus on the cross where his blood was shed for the remission of sins. The good news is that we can be forgiven and restored in our broken relationship with God the Father. The bad news is that unless there is confession of sin and the need for a Savior, we will never enter into right relationship with God, and the consequence is eternal separation and condemnation to hell. Both messages must be preached in order for people to truly understand the consequences of their decision to accept or reject the message of the gospel. John was sent to prison and later was decapitated for his stand for truth and uncompromisingly confronting sinful behavior. His message was welcomed by people who knew their spiritual condition but was rejected by those who did not want to hear the truth.

The revelation of the Angels

 In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. Luke 2:8-11

The angels revealed to the shepherds the identity and mission of Jesus. Jesus came to earth to bring great news and great joy to ALL people. It was not exclusively for the Jewish people but for everyone who had ever lived and would ever live on the earth. The joy is found in knowing Jesus and understanding his purpose and mission for his time on earth. The angels also confirmed the prophecy given about the birthplace of Jesus which was Bethlehem. For those who knew the Scriptures, it was foretold the exact birthplace of Jesus. They revealed that the Savior, the only one God would send to save them from their sin was born. The time of waiting for the fulfillment of the prophesies was completed. They did not need to wait for another person to be the Savior. The title Messiah was also conferred upon Jesus. He was the anointed one God sent into the world. He alone would accomplish the redemption of both the Israelites and the gentiles. Finally, the angels identified Jesus as the Lord. He was the supreme Lord over all creation, and everyone will one day acknowledge that he is Lord to the glory of God. The Lordship of Jesus is a choice every person must decide for themselves. Either Jesus is Lord of all or not Lord at all.

Orderly, personal account

Luke 1:1–4 (NRSV)
1Since many have undertaken to set down an orderly account of the events that have been fulfilled among us,
2just as they were handed on to us by those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and servants of the word,
3I too decided, after investigating everything carefully from the very first, to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus,

4so that you may know the truth concerning the things about which you have been instructed. Luke had the privilege of being with Jesus and was inspired to give an account of what he saw and heard when he was with Jesus as well as what he learned when consulting others who also were with Jesus. He wanted his account to be based on true, factual experiences that could not be denied. His personal experiences and the knowledge he gained were based in truth that he wanted to communicate to everyone who read his account.

Like Luke, we too need to have a personal relationship with Jesus and be able to give an account for the knowledge of the truth that has been shared with us. Our relationship with the Lord is a powerful testimony to the validity of our beliefs. Our faith in the Lord is based on factual evidence that has been faithfully recorded by the people who walked and lived with Jesus during his time on earth. Historical records give credence as well to our belief that Jesus was who he said he was and did what was recorded about his life. Our mission is to communicate the truths we have been given to those who have no knowledge of the Savior or who have errant knowledge that needs to be corrected. God wants the world to know him, to have a personal relationship with him and enjoy an eternity with him that is made possible through his Son who is the Savior of the world.

Testifying to the Light

 John 1:6–9 (NRSV)

6There was a man sent from God, whose name was John.
7He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him.
8He himself was not the light, but he came to testify to the light.
9The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world.

Light and darkness are contrasted throughout the Scriptures. Light is a powerful source of energy and brings life to the plants God created. But it also reveals the truth as the Holy Spirit brings the Word of God to life. Jesus declared that he was the Light of the World and John confirmed that the Light was not overcome by the darkness which symbolizes the work of the devil to blind the minds and hearts of people from receiving the truth. Like John, believers are to testify to the light and communicate to a world in darkness that Jesus is the Messiah who came to the world to bring salvation to all who believe in him. There are many false prophets and belief systems in the world today but none of them can compare to the message we have received through Jesus. He came into the world as an infant yet was truly God. He was the God Man sent to reveal the truth of who God is and how we as fallen human beings can be restored in our relationship with God. We testify to the truth through our lives that embrace the truth and live according to the truth we receive through the word of God.

Preparing the Way

Mark 1:1–4 (NRSV)
1The beginning of the good news of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.

2As it is written in the prophet Isaiah, “See, I am sending my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way; 3the voice of one crying out in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight,’ ”

4John the baptizer appeared in the wilderness, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.

Mark bypasses the miraculous story of the birth of Jesus and the miraculous birth of John whose parents were beyond the years of physically being able to have a child. Mark begins with the words of the prophet Isaiah that foretell the proclamation of the coming ministry of Jesus Christ the Son of God. John’s focus was to prepare the hearts of the people to receive Jesus as the Messiah for whom they had been waiting. At the baptism of Jesus, the voice of God was heard proclaiming him to be the very Son of God. His identity was never to be questioned by the people, and it would be confirmed through the works he performed. Mark’s gospel proceeds with the miraculous works of Jesus empowered the Holy Spirit to destroy the works of the devil and render him powerless. The devasting effects of sin that included sickness, disease, and demonic possession were overcome by the anointed words of Jesus and his compassionate touch. Jesus was announcing a new Kingdom of God was now present among the people and invited them to be a part of it. The same invitation is extended to all of mankind today and those whose hearts are prepared to admit the sin that has devasted their lives and the need for salvation is their utmost desire can by faith receive Jesus as their Savior.

Joseph did not know

Matthew 1:18–21 (NRSV)

18Now the birth of Jesus the Messiah took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been engaged to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit 19Her husband Joseph, being a righteous man and unwilling to expose her to public disgrace, planned to dismiss her quietly.

20But just when he had resolved to do this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.
21She will bear a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.”

Joseph was a righteous man, and he knew the law forbade sexual relations outside of marriage. The news of Mary’s pregnancy was a shock to him, and he was willing to break the engagement to protect her from public disgrace. He had his best intentions for her and had to make a difficult decision about the future of their relationship. But God had other plans that he did not know until an angel was sent to reveal to him in dream that God was in control of the situation. He believed the words the angel spoke to him and in obedience took Mary to be his wife. He like Mary was privileged beyond any other person to be given the responsibility to raise the long-awaited Messiah who would be the Savior of the world. He was a man God could trust to raise Jesus in a God-fearing home where the Word of God was taught and practiced. He would be an example to Jesus that would be instrumental in forming his life.

A humble beginning

 Luke 2:3–7 (NRSV)

3All went to their own towns to be registered.

4Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David.5He went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child.

6While they were there, the time came for her to deliver her child.
7And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.

Even though Mary was close to the day of giving birth to Jesus, she and Joseph made the 90-mile journey to Bethlehem that probably took 5 to 7 days. They were subject to the laws of the land and when the census was taken, they faithfully made the journey that had to have been a challenge for Mary. God gave them the strength for the journey but when arriving in Bethlehem they found no place available to stay. It would seem that there must have been someone who knew them, but they were treated as unknown, and no one seemed to care that Mary was about to give birth. No compassion was shown to them. The only place available was the stable where the animals were kept. A humble and ignoble place for the Son of God to be born. One would have to wonder what the reaction of the people may have been had Mary and Joseph announced to everyone that she was going to give birth to the Savior of the world. Unbelief and ridicule may have been the response. But they kept silent regarding the identity of Jesus and the mission he would accomplish during his life. The lowly shepherds were the first visitors who were directed by the host of heaven that Jesus would be born in Bethlehem. They immediately responded and found the family in the manger. They were the first worshippers of the Messiah a great honor for which they will always be remembered.

The mission of John

 Luke 1:76–79 (NRSV)

76And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High; for you will go before the Lord to prepare his ways,
77to give knowledge of salvation to his people by the forgiveness of their sins.
78By the tender mercy of our God, the dawn from on high will break upon us,
79to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.”

John was conceived through the supernatural intervention of God that overcame the sterility of Elizabeth. Both she and her husband Zacharias were old and beyond childbearing years. Yet God did the impossible by enabling them to conceive and give birth to John who would be the forerunner of Jesus. He had a great mission to accomplish, and his life needed to be separated from negative physical things that could corrupt his identity and cause people to doubt his messages. God set him aside to fulfill his mission to prepare the way for the ministry of Jesus. His message to the people brought hope of forgiveness and salvation that they had been promised and waiting for throughout many years. The 400 previous years were times when no prophetic words were given to the people. They were in spiritual darkness, but everything would change when John began his ministry. God had a perfect plan, and he would accomplish it through his supernatural intervention in the birth of John and Jesus.

Plea for restoration

 Lamentations 5:21–22 (NRSV)

21Restore us to yourself, O LORD, that we may be restored; renew our days as of old—
22unless you have utterly rejected us and are angry with us beyond measure.

The weight of Israel’s sin was more than they wanted to bear. Their life was completely changed after they became captives of Babylon. They felt that God had abandoned them and was no longer concerned for their well-being. The utter rejection was the feeling they had yet they knew that their sin had caused all of their troubles. The only hope was to cry out for mercy and restoration. The anger of God was justified, and their punishment was a result. But God would restore the nation in his timing and in his way. The nation would return to him but the former glory they once experienced would never be the same. During the millennial reign of Jesus there will be a complete restoration of Israel that will go beyond what they experienced prior to the fall of the nation.

False sense of security

 Lamentations 4:12 (ESV)

12The kings of the earth did not believe, nor any of the inhabitants of the world, that foe or enemy could enter the gates of Jerusalem.

Judah had a false sense of security. They believed that the city of Jerusalem was impenetrable because the temple which represented the presence of God was there. They also trusted in Egypt to come to their aid and rescue them from the Babylonian attack, but this did not happen. They were to place their trust in God for deliverance but in the rebellion against him they chose to look to the arm of flesh. When God released his protection over the nation, the enemy was able to overcome and take the people captive. Our faith and trust must always be in the Lord. Our lives must be lived in obedience to him not in rebellion which will bring harm. Israel is an example of a nation that was specifically chosen by God to represent him yet failed miserable to their own destruction. In spite of their failure and punishment God in his mercy promised to restore the nation when the time of their punishment was over. Israel would learn their lesson that rebellion against God produces nothing but pain and suffering.

Examination of the heart

 Let us test and examine our ways and return to the Lord. 41 Let us lift up our hearts as well as our hands to God in heaven. 42 We have transgressed and rebelled, and you have not forgiven. (Lamentations 3:40–42, NRSVue)

Jeremiah understood exactly what needed to be done. The discipline of God was severe and it got the attention of the people. They had wandered away from the God who had rescued and sustained them. They needed to examine their hearts to acknowledge their rebellion and seek forgiveness. It was time for the people to repent and seek the Lord. The consequences of the sin brought great suffering and their only hopeful relief was returning to serve God wholeheartedly.

Admission of sin

 The Lord is in the right, for I have rebelled against his word; but hear, all you peoples,

and behold my suffering; my young women and young men have gone into captivity. (Lamentations 1:18, NRSVue)

Jeremiah admitted the cause of the captivity of the nation was a consequence of their rebellion against the word of God. The suffering they were experiencing was foretold and now the reality was being fulfilled. God is faithful to perform his word. When it is not obeyed suffering results. His word provides the guidance we need and if it is rejected it is always to our harm individually and corporately. The reality is that everyone has sinned against God and deserves to be punished. No one but Jesus has lived a perfect life. The first step in reconciliation with God is to admit our sins against him and receive the forgiveness and mercy he has provided through Jesus. We cannot save ourselves,only Jesus can do this for us.

Beauty turned to ashes

 He burned the house of the Lord, the king’s house, and all the houses of Jerusalem; every great house he burned down. 14 All the army of the Chaldeans who were with the captain of the guard broke down all the walls around Jerusalem. (Jeremiah 52:13–14, NRSVue)

The destruction of Jerusalem came as a result of the rebellion of the people and the failed leadership of the nation. The city of the Great king that was the joy of the whole earth was now a laughing stock of everyone that passed by. It was a sad end that could have been avoided if the words of the prophets had been obeyed. The temple eventually was rebuilt but on a smaller scale. When people turn away from the Lord they will never regain what has been lost. Sin makes fools of everyone by deceiving us to believe that there will not be consequences.

Babylon’s future

 Therefore the time is surely coming, says the Lord, when I will punish her idols,and through all her land the wounded shall groan.*53 Though Babylon should mount up to heaven,and though she should fortify her strong height,from me destroyers would come upon her,says the Lord.*

Babylon was ruthless when it conquered Judah. The violence used against the people was extreme and the ravaging of the temple was an offense offense to God. Babylon was the Sword of the Lord to execute judgment and punishment on Judah but they conducted themselves in a manner that was unnecessary. It was also a nation that served false gods that were an abomination to God. Babylon would be destroyed when God would act in revenge against them. They would be judged and punished in the same measure they punished Judah. They would reap what they had sown.

Who is like me?

 Like a lion coming up from the thickets of the Jordan to a perennial pasture, I will suddenly chase them away from her, and I will appoint over her whomever I choose. For who is like me? Who can summon me? Who is the shepherd who can stand before me

(Jeremiah 50:44, NRSVue)

God is not hindered in accomplishing his will. He is all powerful and nothing or no one can stop him. His prophetic words have been fulfilled in many cases yet there remains more that will be fulfilled in the future. Some of the prophecies spoken against Babylon were accomplished but several will be accomplished in the last days. Satanic forces are constantly trying to stop the plans of God but they cannot keep him from doing what he has promised. God is in control and we can rest in this knowledge and assurance. He can make sudden changes that will surprise his enemies. He is the sovereign Lord who cannot be controlled.

Fierce anger

 I will terrify Elam before their enemies and before those who seek their life; I will bring disaster upon them, my fierce anger, says the Lord. I will send the sword after them until I have consumed them,

(Jeremiah 49:37, NRSVue)

The fierce anger of the Lord is a characteristic of him that many do not want to acknowledge. A God of love in their minds should not have fierce anger and send the sword to execute the people. This type of reasoning does not consider the intense hatred God has for sin. He is a holy God,separate from mankind in his perfection. To tolerate sin would diminish his character and make him like a human being. Elam just as all the other nations mentioned in these final chapters deserved to be punished severely for the sins they committed. But after their punishment most of the nations would be restored. The miracle of our salvation is that Jesus took our sins that deserved to be punished upon himself when he died on the cross. The wrath of God was placed placed upon him instead of us. The supreme sacrifice for our sins was fulfilled in the death of Jesus. His death made possible our restoration and forgiveness of our sins that separated us from a holy and righteous God.

A laughingstock

 Make him drunk because he magnified himself against the Lord; let Moab wallow in his vomit; he, too, shall become a laughingstock. 27 Israel was a laughingstock for you, though he was not caught among thieves, but whenever you spoke of him you shook your head!

(Jeremiah 48:26–27, NRSVue)

Moab was a neighbor to Israel and was the product of an incestuous relationship Lot had with his daughter. The people worshipped the god Chemosh and were very arrogant. They opposed Israel and when Israel was attacked they aided the invading nation rather than help Israel. They laughed at the calamity Israel was experiencing. God was angered against them for many reasons and the nation would suffer for their actions. Even in his judgment against them God wept for them as they would suffer greatly. God finds no delight in punishment but knows that it is necessary in order to bring justice and righteousness. Evil cannot be overlooked as it would defame the character of God. Though Moab would be punished God promised that in the future it would be restored.

The Sword of the Lord

 Jeremiah 47:6–7 (ESV)

6Ah, sword of the LORD! How long till you are quiet? Put yourself into your scabbard; rest and be still!
7How can it be quiet when the LORD has given it a charge? Against Ashkelon and against the seashore he has appointed it.”

The Babylonians were the sword of the Lord that executed his judgment and punishment on the heathen nations that worshipped false gods and were a constant problem to Israel. It would be a terrible day when the Philistines were invaded by the Babylonian militar. They would totally destroy the people and take possession of the land. God’s judgment will be upon all the nations along with all the people that have rebelled against him. The sword of the Lord is active today as we witness evil nations being attacked to prevent them from continuing their evil. It is God who raises up nations and brings them down. He controls world events and uses them to advance his purposes.

Discipline and mercy

 Jeremiah 46:28 (ESV)

28Fear not, O Jacob my servant, declares the LORD, for I am with you. I will make a full end of all the nations to which I have driven you, but of you I will not make a full end. I will discipline you in just measure, and I will by no means leave you unpunished.”

God was judging not only Israel but the nations around them for their idolatrous worship. God had revealed himself to the nations in various ways and sent prophets to them calling them to repent. They were not innocent ignorant people but were people who chose to worship false gods. God will not have any other gods before him. He is the Supreme God over all the universe, and he alone deserves to be worshipped and glorified. Israel was held to a higher level of accountability because of the specific revelation they had received. They would be disciplined by God through the nations that would execute his punishment. He could not turn a blind eye to their disobedience. He did not want them to continue to drag his name in the mud through their defiance and rejection toward him. He would punish them, yet he also gave a promise that they would be restored to their land. God’s mercy is without measure and Israel was a recipient of it along with Egypt. God’s discipline was necessary, and he knew exactly what it would take to break the hardness of the heart of the people so they would return to him and be the people he called them to be.

An altered life

 Jeremiah 45:5 (ESV)

5And do you seek great things for yourself? Seek them not, for behold, I am bringing disaster upon all flesh, declares the LORD. But I will give you your life as a prize of war in all places to which you may go.”

Baruch was the scribe who recorded the prophetic words of Jeremiah. He knew exactly what was going to happen to his country and his life would be completely altered as a result. Whatever ambitions he had would be put on hold or totally made impossible because of the impending captivity and destruction of Judah by the Babylonians. The only positive thing he had to look forward to was that his life would be spared. Many would die in the battles yet his life would be not be taken. It was to be regarded as a prize from the Lord that he would not be put to death. His life would be different but at least he would have it as a gift from God. The sins of Israel had a profound effect on everyone which is a lesson for us today. What we do impacts the lives of others either positively or negatively.

Misinterpretation

 Jeremiah 44:18-19 But since we left off making offerings to the queen of heaven and pouring out drink offerings to her, we have lacked everything and have been consumed by the sword and by famine.” And the women said, “When we made offerings to the queen of heaven and poured out drink offerings to her, was it without our husbands’ approval that we made cakes for her bearing her image and poured out drink offerings to her?”

The Israelites who fled to Egypt had a wrong interpretation of why they were suffering. Their punishment was not a result of their failure to offer libations to the Queen of heaven but were a consequence of not obeying the Lord. They falsely assumed that their prosperity in Judah was a result of their worship of the false gods. Our experiences must always be judged by the word of God. We can easily be deceived when we rely on our own interpretation. The prophetic words of the many prophets God sent to them to warn them and call them to repentance were rejected and as a result God rejected them.

Arrogance

 Azariah the son of Hoshaiah, and Johanan the son of Kareah, and all the arrogant men said to Jeremiah, “You are telling a lie! The Lord our God has not sent you to say, ‘You are not to enter Egypt to reside there’;  (Jeremiah 43:2)

Arrogance and pride lead people into doubting the truth. They believe they know more and refuse to listen to anyone who opposes what they believe. Jeremiah had a track record of speaking the truth, and the arrogant leaders had a track record of rejecting the truth. The fulfillment of the prophecy regarding the conquest of the Babylonians was not sufficient evidence that Jeremiah was speaking the truth.  Their minds were already set on fleeing to Egypt, and nothing would cause them to change their decision. Pride and arrogance always precede a fall.

Don’t go there

 The Lord has spoken to you, O remnant of Judah, “Do not go into Egypt!” You should clearly understand that today I have testified against you. (Jeremiah 42:19, NASB95)

The people asked Jeremiah to seek the Lord for counsel where they should go. They had already determined to go to Egypt, and when Jeremiah prophesied that they were not to go there but stay in the land and trust God, they rejected the word of the Lord. They wanted confirmation of their desire to flee to Egypt. Jeremiah made it very clear that their future in Egypt would be a disaster, yet they refused to accept the consequences. Faith in the promises and character of God  enables us to face situations that are out of our control. Our trust in God is our only hope, and he will never fail us as we obey what he asks us to do. When God says “Don’t go there” he means what he says.

Murder and mayhem

 Jeremiah 41:1–3 (ESV)

1In the seventh month, Ishmael the son of Nethaniah, son of Elishama, of the royal family, one of the chief officers of the king, came with ten men to Gedaliah the son of Ahikam, at Mizpah. As they ate bread together there at Mizpah,
2Ishmael the son of Nethaniah and the ten men with him rose up and struck down Gedaliah the son of Ahikam, son of Shaphan, with the sword, and killed him, whom the king of Babylon had appointed governor in the land.
3Ishmael also struck down all the Judeans who were with Gedaliah at Mizpah, and the Chaldean soldiers who happened to be there.

Gedaliah did not receive the warning that Ishmael was coming to murder him. Ishmael presented himself to Gedaliah as a friend sharing food with him as a disguise to murder him. It was a political murder that ended in Ishmael fleeing for his life when Johanan came to rescue the people he had taken captive to bring to Ammon. God spared the lives of the people taken captive. He was still caring for his people in spite of the situation they faced. Difficult times and trials are part of living in a fallen world. We see the persecution and execution of Christians today in many countries. Their blood cries out to a just God who will bring justice to the persecutors and murderers. God is with us in these times of trials, and he will give us the strength to endure if immediate deliverance is not provided. The testimony of our faith and faithfulness to serve God is a strong message to the world that what we believe to be true is worth our suffering.

God’s continued care

 Jeremiah 40:9–10 (NRSV)

9Gedaliah son of Ahikam son of Shaphan swore to them and their troops, saying, “Do not be afraid to serve the Chaldeans. Stay in the land and serve the king of Babylon, and it shall go well with you.
10As for me, I am staying at Mizpah to represent you before the Chaldeans who come to us; but as for you, gather wine and summer fruits and oil, and store them in your vessels, and live in the towns that you have taken over.”

Some of the poor people from Judah were not taken into captivity but were left in the land to care for the crops. They were still under the Babylonian rule yet had the privilege of staying in their homeland and live in peace. Jeremiah had previously told the people to surrender and serve the king of Babylon in order that they would be spared as a nation and that it would go well for them. When they submitted to the new rulers and governors God bless the land and an abundant harvest was reaped. God was still with his people in spite of the circumstances. He would fulfill his promise to return them to the land and rebuild the city and temple that was destroyed. The nation had lost its liberty, but God was at work to bring about their return when the time of their punishment was served. The people needed to learn to submit to authority’s instructions, something they had failed to do that led to their demise.

A final family memory

 Jeremiah 39:5–7 (ESV)

5But the army of the Chaldeans pursued them and overtook Zedekiah in the plains of Jericho. And when they had taken him, they brought him up to Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, at Riblah, in the land of Hamath; and he passed sentence on him.
6The king of Babylon slaughtered the sons of Zedekiah at Riblah before his eyes, and the king of Babylon slaughtered all the nobles of Judah.
7He put out the eyes of Zedekiah and bound him in chains to take him to Babylon.

The fulfillment of the prophecies regarding the land of Judah and the cities was the result of years of disobedience and denial of the words spoken by many prophets. God had reached the end of his patience with the rebellious people, and the day of judgment came upon them. For King Zedekiah and all the leaders of the nation it was a horrible ending to the life they formerly knew. Instead of being recipients of God’s mercy and provision, they were now experiencing his wrath. Zedekiah would live the remainder of his life as a prisoner who could not see and with his last memory of his children being a witness to their death that was caused by his unwillingness to surrender as he was instructed. Sin always costs you more than you can pay and is never worth whatever gain you thought you would enjoy. Zedekiah is an example of failed leadership that led to a failed nation because he would not listen and obey the prophets God sent in his mercy to warn him and call him and the nation to repentance.

A no brainer decision

 Jeremiah 38:17 (NRSV)

17Then Jeremiah said to Zedekiah, “Thus says the LORD, the God of hosts, the God of Israel, If you will only surrender to the officials of the king of Babylon, then your life shall be spared, and this city shall not be burned with fire, and you and your house shall live.

Zedekiah had to make a decision about the future of not only his life but the lives of the people and the city. Jeremiah presented the options and consequences of his decision to accept or reject the words presented. It would seem to be a no brainer type decision given the consequences of rejecting the option of surrendering to the Babylonians. If Zedekiah truly believed the prophetic words, surrender would be the only viable option that would preserve the lives of the people and spare the city from destruction. Though he feared for his life if he did surrender, Jeremiah confirmed that he would not be killed by his own people nor the Babylonians. Decisions have consequences and when the truth is presented and rejected disaster will result. History records that Zedekiah chose the wrong option and the consequences that no one wanted were fulfilled.

Where are your prophets?

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A no brainer decision →

Jeremiah 37:18–19 (ESV)
18Jeremiah also said to King Zedekiah, “What wrong have I done to you or your servants or this people, that you have put me in prison?
19Where are your prophets who prophesied to you, saying, ‘The king of Babylon will not come against you and against this land’?

Jerusalem had received a temporary reprieve from the siege of the Babylonian army when the army of Egypt came to help them. This was again another act of disobedience as God did not want them to depend on another nation for victory. He would be their defense and deliverer if they returned to worship and serve him instead of the gods of the other nations. Jeremiah was false accused of disserting and joining the Babylonians and was thrown in a prison for many days. When King Zedekiah sought him for counsel from the Lord, Jeremiah bravely spoke and confronted the King with his belief in the false prophets who declared that Babylon would not attack and defeat the city. The lie was exposed as the prophecy of Jeremiah regarding attack was fulfilled and in addition the city would be burned in the next attack. These words had no effect on Zedekiah and his heart remained hardened to accept the facts and call the nation to repentance. Once again God was extending mercy conditioned upon the repentance of the people and just as the previous responses, the counsel was not heeded. The reality of the invasion and conquering of the nation was right before them but they held to the false promises of false prophets. Surrendering to Babylon was the only option available as the judgment of God would be executed.

Denial and Destruction

Jeremiah 36:29 (NRSV)
29And concerning King Jehoiakim of Judah you shall say: Thus says the LORD, You have dared to burn this scroll, saying, Why have you written in it that the king of Babylon will certainly come and destroy this land, and will cut off from it human beings and animals?

The King Jehoiakim had no respect for Jeremiah nor the words he had written on the scroll. The people who first listened to them responded with fear, knowing that disaster was coming because of their disobedience. Though the people were going through a ritual act of fasting, their hearts were not fully following the Lord. When the scroll was read to them, they realized that they needed to inform the King and that he would take heed to the seriousness of the prophetic words and the consequences that would occur if they did not repent. The King held power over the people, and he refused to heed the words he heard as the scroll was read. His reaction was not of fear but of disdain and he burned the scroll. He had an opportunity to lead the people in repentance and spare them from the travesty that would come upon them, but he chose to ignore the words and instead sought to kill Jeremiah for speaking the truth. Burning the words did nothing to change the circumstance as God’s word will always be fulfilled. It never returns void and can never be negated. Muslims today despise the Bible and burn it in defiance as they believe it is corrupt. If the Koran is spoken against, they will punish the person who spoke against it. God’s truth will endure, and one day the Muslims will realize that they have believed a lie. Many are converting to Christianity today as the truth is revealed to them

Contrasting groups

Jeremiah 35:17–19 (ESV)

17Therefore, thus says the LORD, the God of hosts, the God of Israel: Behold, I am bringing upon Judah and all the inhabitants of Jerusalem all the disaster that I have pronounced against them, because I have spoken to them and they have not listened, I have called to them and they have not answered.”

18But to the house of the Rechabites Jeremiah said, “Thus says the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel: Because you have obeyed the command of Jonadab your father and kept all his precepts and done all that he commanded you,
19therefore thus says the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel: Jonadab the son of Rechab shall never lack a man to stand before me.”

Jeremiah presented a stark contrast between the Rechabites and the other Israelites. One was obedient to the commands of their ancestors to refrain from wine, not plant crops and live in tents while the other was disobedient to all the commands given to them by the prophets God sent to them to turn away from worshipping idols and serving the gods of the other nations. One would be rewarded forever, and the other would be conquered by the Babylonians and taken into captivity, losing everything they had been given. The Rechabites honored their ancestors by obeying the commands given to them. One of the10 commands was to honor your father and mother that you may live a long life in the land. The honor they gave to their ancestors was noted by God and they received a wonderful promise. The Israelites did not listen or obey the many prophets God sent to them and dishonored God through their worship of other gods. Obedience is always rewarded and demonstrates that we honor God and his word. Disobedience invites disaster.

Violating the Covenant

Jeremiah 34:8–11 (ESV)
8The word that came to Jeremiah from the LORD, after King Zedekiah had made a covenant with all the people in Jerusalem to make a proclamation of liberty to them,
9that everyone should set free his Hebrew slaves, male and female, so that no one should enslave a Jew, his brother.
10And they obeyed, all the officials and all the people who had entered into the covenant that everyone would set free his slave, male or female, so that they would not be enslaved again. They obeyed and set them free.
11But afterward they turned around and took back the male and female slaves they had set free, and brought them into subjection as slaves.

 Israel had violated many aspects of the covenant God made with them. One of the violations was that indentured slaves were to be released after fulfilling their 6-year commitment to serve their master. Yet this was not done as was commanded. Zedekiah enforced this part of the covenant by requiring the slaves to be set free. His motivation was not to truly set the people free but to use them as part of his army to defend the city against the Babylonian army. When the Babylonians retreated due to the intervention of the Egyptians help, the people dishonored the release of the slaves and took them back into possession. This act brought a response from God and the prophetic word of Jeremiah to let the people know that they would be defeated and brought into captivity for their violation of the covenant. When the covenant was made, an animal was sacrificed and cut into 2 parts. All of the people who were in agreement with the covenant would pass between the parts which symbolized that violation of the covenant would result in death. It was a solemn covenant and God held them accountable for changing their minds and taking the slaves back instead of giving them their freedom. God was angry because the covenant was made in his name and in agreement with his commands to them. The violation was an act against not only the slaves but God who instituted the covenant. When a vow is made in the name of God, he holds people accountable as it is a reflection upon him and an offense to him when it is not honored.

Restoration not rejection

 Jeremiah 33:23–26 (NRSV)

23The word of the LORD came to Jeremiah:
24Have you not observed how these people say, “The two families that the LORD chose have been rejected by him,” and how they hold my people in such contempt that they no longer regard them as a nation?
25Thus says the LORD: Only if I had not established my covenant with day and night and the ordinances of heaven and earth,
26would I reject the offspring of Jacob and of my servant David and not choose any of his descendants as rulers over the offspring of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. For I will restore their fortunes, and will have mercy upon them.

The nation of Israel though severely punished was not totally rejected by God. They were still his chosen people and he was their God. He had plans to restore the nation and make the city of Jerusalem that was burned and destroyed a place of joy and worship. Israel has this promise, and God will not change it. It will be fulfilled during the millennial reign of Jesus when there will be a transformation not only of the land but the hearts of the Jewish people. They will realize that Jesus was the Messiah they rejected and crucified and will acknowledge him as Lord. The land will be prosperous, and the blessings of God will be showered upon the people. Other nations will be drawn to Jesus and will come to worship and offer sacrifices to him. God will receive the glory that he alone deserves.

Do them good

 ← Israel an eternal nation

Restoration not rejection →

Do them good

Posted on November 23, 2025 by bruceahlberg

Jeremiah 32:40–41 (ESV)
40I will make with them an everlasting covenant, that I will not turn away from doing good to them. And I will put the fear of me in their hearts, that they may not turn from me.
41I will rejoice in doing them good, and I will plant them in this land in faithfulness, with all my heart and all my soul.

God reveals his heart and soul for his people who have been in rebellion. They deserved and received the punishment that he brought upon them through the Babylonians. The city was completely destroyed as were all the houses where the sacrifices and offering were made to the other gods. These acts were an abomination to God as they turned their backs to him. In spite of all the evil they had committed, God was not willing to completely give up on fulfilling his promises to them. He would give them a new heart, one that fear him and would obey his commands. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and it is demonstrated by hatred of evil. He would rejoice in doing good to them and bring them back into the land. This was the desire of God for the people that they would seek him, obey him and be blessed by him. What kind of God is this who would restore and forgive the people who completely turned away from him? God is a God of love, mercy and forgiveness that goes beyond any human ability.