Day 281, Chronological Bible Study Timeline. Map. Go to today’s Bible reading (use your browser arrow to return): Luke 7:18-35; Matthew 11:1-19; Luke 7:36-8:3; Mark 3:20-30; Matthew 12:22-45; Luke 11:14-26
Faith or Skepticism?
Who is this person, really? He appears to be kind and does many nice things for people, but who is he? Is he as genuine as he makes himself out to be? What is his angle, his motivation? Who is supporting him? These thoughts and words grieve the hearts of those whose character is always true.
In today’s Bible reading, Jesus faces skepticism. He is kind to people, and he heals all their diseases and other physical ailments. Besides that, Jesus is a successful teacher who proclaims the truth with authority. Yet, for whatever reason, people still doubt what they see and hear. It’s too good to be true.
We have often trusted others and later suffered disappointment. Is this miracle-worker any different? Is he too good to be true? How does he prove himself to be genuine? How can we?
Answering Skepticism
Even those strong in the faith, especially when experiencing hard trials, can falter in their thinking. In today’s Bible study, John the Baptist is imprisoned for his ministry, and during his confinement, he has some doubts about Jesus. John sends some of his disciples to question the Lord, “Are you the one who was to come, or should we expect someone else?” He is talking about the Messiah, the Savior the prophets wrote about.
In response, Jesus sends a message back to John, telling him to believe him for his actions:
The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cured, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the news is preached to the poor. Blessed is the man who does not fall away on account of me (Matthew 11:5-6, NIV).
We should believe people and give them the benefit of the doubt, unless they violate that trust. Jesus will never do that.
Some Refuse to Believe
Not all people accept Jesus, and some oppose him (as today). “The people of this generation,” which Jesus refers to, are those who are mistrustful and will not change their minds. In particular, he is referring to the religious leaders. They dislike the messages of Jesus and John. Like children, they want the crowds to dance to their music and songs—their teaching.
God had a purpose for the priests—to teach the Old Testament Scriptures. The prophetic writings reveal God’s mission fulfilled in John the Baptist and Jesus, but they reject it. They’re jealous of their positions and popularity, so they try to discredit John and Jesus (Luke 7:29-35). They’re not satisfied with their behavior. John was too primitive in his lifestyle, and Jesus was too much of a freethinker, not accepting their religious opinions.
Look at the Followers
Jesus concludes the short parable, saying that the ones who were following him and John were proof enough of their correct teaching.
Many of us are the same way as these religious leaders. We’re skeptical and slow to believe, although the truth is parading in front of us. Children often accept things or people quicker than adults. What should we do when we are doubtful?
Besides receiving the words and works of those who appear to be genuine, we should pay heed to the ones following them. Are they deceived people or real? Jesus and John the Baptist were honest. They brought messages of repentance and forgiveness of sins, which we all need. The lives of their followers were genuine and changed for good. Have we trusted in those messages? (more...)
Some Oppose Believers
The Pharisees and the Teachers of the law denounce Jesus and his power. They claim his ability to heal is from the devil (Beelzebub). Their jealousy and suspicion cause them to insult and defame his character. What a slap in the face!
How does Jesus answer them? He answers them in five ways.
- The Lord argues that if he is doing it by Satan’s power, then Satan is destroying his own work.
- He challenges the religious leaders to examine by what power their own people drive out demons.
- Jesus implies it is because he has power stronger than Satan that he can remove demons.
- He warns them about the dire eternal consequences of attributing the power of God to the power of Satan.
Genuine Faith Brings Salvation
About this time, Jesus is invited to a house of a Pharisee named Simon, and he accepts. While he is reclining there, a sinful woman comes to Jesus, giving no heed to propriety or social class. She kneels at his feet, washes his feet with her tears, and wipes them dry with her hair. Then, she then kisses his feet and pours expensive perfume on them.
When the Pharisee who had invited him [Jesus] saw this, he said to himself, “If this man were a prophet, he would know who is touching him and what kind of woman she is — that she is a sinner,” (Luke 7:39, NIV).
Jesus said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace” (Luke 7:50, NIV).
Jesus’ compassion for the sinful woman teaches us that self-righteousness doesn’t bring us favor with God. God is pleased with humility, genuine sorrow over sins, and faith. This woman believes no matter how sinful she is, Jesus can save her. He is the real Son of God. Do we believe it?
End Note: Insights, in part, are from The Bible Knowledge Commentary of the N.T., pp. 46, 117, 235-236)
Discussion
How should we answer skeptics?
No matter what we do, some people will not believe us. Some will even oppose us. What can we do about it? What pleases the Lord?
Focus Verse
Proverbs 3:34 (NIV) “He [the LORD] mocks proud mockers but gives grace to the humble.”
Write a private prayer response to today’s Bible study:
Please send your comments to me, Rod (the author)
Looking Ahead: In our Next Lesson, Jesus shares parables for those who will listen. How Well do we Listen? Join us and improve it.
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