Tag: luke

Danger of Assuming Salvation – Luke 14:15-24

Our attention is drawn to Luke 14:15-24, the parable of the great feast or dinner, which is parallel to the parable of the wedding feast in Matthew 22. The parable is a response to a remark made by one of those reclining at the table with Jesus: “Blessed is everyone who will eat bread in the kingdom of God”. This statement, potentially suggesting that everyone present or all Jews would be saved, prompted Jesus to reveal that many assume they are saved and who is actually saved.

Jesus described a man hosting a big dinner and invited many people. This host is identified as God, holding a great feast representing the kingdom or salvation. The invitation system in that day involved a dual confirmation: an initial oral invitation followed by a second message from a slave when everything was ready. In this parable, the host sent one slave at the dinner hour to say, “Come, for everything is ready now”. This single slave is understood to be the Messiah, Jesus Christ, proclaiming that the kingdom of God is at hand. Salvation is absolutely based on God’s invitation and initiative, originating from God’s predestination and election. God has no obligation to invite anyone, as all deserve eternal punishment.

When the slave delivered the second invitation, those who had been invited and initially accepted, began to make excuses unanimously. The excuses included buying a piece of land and needing to see it, buying five yoke of oxen and needing to try them out, and having just married a wife. These excuses, though some might seem rational or urgent on the surface, are wicked and foolish in rejecting God’s offer for salvation. These excuses are based on man’s total depravity, meaning people are born dead in sin, held captive by a love for sin, suppress the truth, and are hostile toward God. They are driven by the self, prioritizing their ego, selfishness, and self-righteousness over Jesus Christ. Their excuses are also a form of idolatry, placing priorities like possessions (land, oxen representing wealth) above God’s invitation. Furthermore, the excuses are dishonest and based on lies. The married man’s excuse is so brazen it’s almost a joke. People think these excuses make sense because they are blind. Ultimately, the excusers delay or reject because they hate God.

When it comes to salvation, many people have a false sense of security. Like the builders in Thailand, who were confident in their structure despite using substandard materials, leading to collapse during an earthquake and many tragic deaths. Similarly, some people might assume they are saved based on external actions like being born in church, being baptized, serving the church, or even dying in church. Being in the church is different from being in Christ. There are many churchgoers who are “almost Christian”. Those who appear perfect in action and words but lacks the true power of godliness. The almost Christian is genuine, sincere, and passionate in their thoughts and deeds. However, salvation is not about outward form but inward transformation and the power of godliness. Relying on lineage (like having Abraham as a father) or religious practices for salvation is a false assumption.

Upon hearing the excuses, the head of the household became angry. God does not always smile, and His wrath is expressed. The one who does not believe is already judged and will eventually face judgment. While God is angry towards the ones who reject Him, He is gracious to those who are rejected. The master then commanded the slave to go out quickly into the streets and lanes of the city and bring in the poor, crippled, blind, and lame. These represent truly repentant people who recognize their need, their inability to save themselves, and humbly seek God’s mercy as beggars, not creditors. The slave reported that the command had been done, “and still there is room”. The master, being gracious and passionate, then commanded the slave to go out into the highways and along the fences and compel them to come in so that the house may be filled. This is God’s passion, showing His true heart for the lost, demonstrated ultimately by the sacrifice of His Son. God stopped at nothing to save the sinners. His grace is abundant, powerful, and available. The sinner must seek it. Even today, God still invites,and the door of salvation remains open.

There is a consequence for rejecting God’s offer of salvation in the gospel of Jesus Christ. The master declared, “None of those men who are invited shall taste of my dinner”. This means exclusion from the dinner, the kingdom meal, which signifies no salvation. Generally speaking, anyone who makes excuses to reject God’s offer will not taste His dinner. This exclusion from the kingdom means being in hell, a place of never-ending suffering. Rejecting Jesus means shutting out the blessing of God.

Salvation is fundamentally God’s work, originating from His invitation and initiative. It can be hindered and rejected by those who make wicked and foolish excuses rooted in total depravity, self, idolatry, and hatred of God. False security based on external religious association is not true salvation. However, salvation is still possible due to God’s grace and passion, extending the invitation to those who recognize their need and humbly repent. When this offer is rejected, it incurs severe accountability and results in exclusion from the kingdom. Believers, having experienced the wonderful gift of salvation, should follow God’s example and continue proclaiming, “there is still room”, compelling others to come to Christ. 

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Kingdom Economy: The Value of Humility – Luke 14:12-14

Christians are called to be citizens of God’s kingdom, defined by a lifestyle rooted in love and humility. These kingdom values shape not only individual character but also the communal and eternal economy described in Scripture. The passage for today centers on the “kingdom economy,” particularly emphasizing the cost and reward associated with humility. While God, in His sovereignty, is not indebted to humanity, there is one notable exception: He promises to reward believers at the resurrection of the righteous. This divine “repayment” implies a moral and spiritual exchange rooted in grace, not obligation.

True blessing, as understood in the Christian context, is not merely earthly happiness, but spiritual fulfillment that stems from God. Though people often pursue happiness through worldly means, Scripture asserts that blessing is unattainable apart from addressing the problem of sin. In the New Testament, Jesus outlines the path to blessing in the Beatitudes, where He states, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:3). This reflects the paradox of kingdom life—those who recognize their spiritual poverty are the ones who inherit the riches of God’s kingdom.

Timing is crucial in understanding the promise of reward. The repayment occurs at the “resurrection of the righteous,” a time when God will evaluate the lives of believers. As Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 5:10, “we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ.” The Greek term for “judgment seat” is bema, which historically referred not to a place of punishment but to a platform where rewards were distributed. Jesus uses this concept to teach that believers will be judged not to be condemned, but to be rewarded based on their faithful service.

Significantly, those who will receive this divine repayment are described as people who extend hospitality and compassion to society’s marginalized. This is shown in the parable of the Great Banquet that Jesus speaks to, where true generosity is shown not by inviting the wealthy or influential, but by welcoming “the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind” (Luke 14:13). In contrast, hospitality extended only to the socially elite reflects a transactional culture—one of self-interest, not kingdom values. Jesus critiques this mindset, noting that if one loves only those who reciprocate, “what reward do you have?” (Matthew 5:46). Such actions, while socially accepted, do not merit divine repayment because they are not grounded in agape—the selfless, unconditional love of God.

So, when does God “owe” anything to His people? Only when they live out agape love. Those who embody this divine love toward others—especially the vulnerable and overlooked—reflect the heart of Christ and participate in the values of the kingdom. Jesus modeled this love by humbly serving and caring for sinners and the spiritually needy (Matthew 15:31), ultimately offering His life in obedience to the Father’s will. For His loving humility, Jesus was exalted by God (Philippians 2:9–11), providing the ultimate example of the reward awaiting those who follow Him in love and humility.

Furthermore, genuine hospitality in the kingdom of God is distinguished by its sacrificial and inclusive nature. It does not consist merely of providing resources or performing community service. Rather, it involves extending personal invitations, forging relationships, and offering love to strangers. Kingdom hospitality arises from a heart transformed by Christ and reflects an eternal perspective—one that values treasures in heaven above rewards on earth (Matthew 6:20–21).

How can believers sustain this kind of life? Through humility. Love, according to Scripture, “does not seek its own” (1 Corinthians 13:5). As Tim Challies writes, “Love is impossible without humility. If I want to excel at love, I first need to learn to be humble.” Andrew Murray adds that true humility is only proven in our relationships with others, as we learn to forsake self and allow God to be all. The ultimate display of divine love and humility was Christ’s sacrifice for us “while we were still sinners” (Romans 5:8).

As God’s people, we are invited to see His kingdom by faith and to live according to its values now, with eternity in mind. Those who understand the kingdom economy—where humility and love hold ultimate worth—must live accordingly. The reward awaiting believers in heaven will reflect the depth of their love and humility on earth. Therefore, the Christian life is not merely about right belief but about embodying the heart of Christ: loving others through humility, serving without expectation, and investing in the eternal.

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Humble Yourself – Luke 14:7-11

The context for our parable today is the kingdom of God. Jesus has been teaching and revealing who He is (the Lord of the Sabbath) and what the kingdom of God is like. Here, Jesus teaches that entering the kingdom of God requires humility. Humility is not a simple or easy subject, yet it is significant. Without humility, Christians cannot endure to the end of their pilgrimage. Many fall away before the end because they are not humble enough to trust and depend on the Lord. While humility is praised across many religions, true humility requires looking to Jesus Christ himself. We must avoid merely moralizing humility; true humility is interpreted in the context of Jesus Christ.

Conversely, we must understand the profound danger of pride. Pride is described as extraordinarily evil and wicked. It is the “sin of sins.” Pride is clashing with God by attempting to be Him, fight Him, or go over Him. Pride leads to the Lord’s immediate attention. God reacts quickly and fast to pride, unlike many other sins. Proverbs 6:16-17 states that Yahweh hates six things, and chief among them are haughty eyes – pride. Pride involves forgetting our identity as creatures and acting as if we are the Creator. It is full of self, self-righteousness, and self-centeredness, holding an idol of self. The worst form of pride is spiritual pride, hypocrisy without internal transformation or holiness. Pride does not remain neutral; it always leads to consequences. As scripture warns, pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. Pride is like standing on bubbles; it wins no glory and no crown.

Jesus illustrates the path of humility and the folly of pride in a parable about a wedding feast. The wedding feast represents the kingdom of God. Those who proudly take the places of honor risk being asked to move to the lowest place in shame. This shame, in the context of the wedding feast being the kingdom, signifies being cast out or destruction, which is hell. Even performing outwardly good actions means nothing before God if they are done with pride. Pride blinds people and keeps every Christian from the narrow gate because it is too tall and too big in both thought and action. They think they are in, but they are cast out. In contrast, the one who takes the last place, who humbles himself, will be invited to move up higher by the host (who is God) and receive honor in the sight of all. This humility in earthly life ultimately points to the glorification of believers in the future. Abraham provides an example by humbly allowing Lot to choose the best land, even though he had every right to choose the land first. Abraham was ultimately recognized and honored by God and became the spiritual father of every believer.

True humility is essential. It is not hiding, self-hatred, weakness, or continuous self-deprecation. These can be outward displays masking inner pride. True humility is characterized by giving up the self and taking a place of perfect nothingness before God. It is sinking down into one’s own nothingness while remaining trustful, patient, and meek, surrendering entirely to Jesus Christ. Humility is regarding others as more important than ourselves, not just looking out for our own interests, but also the interests of others. This makes humility sacrificial. The ultimate example is Christ Jesus, who, existing in the form of God, emptied himself by taking the form of a slave, becoming obedient to the point of death on a cross. (Philippians 2:6-11) Humility means being lost, ruined, and undone, yet victorious in Christ. Humility is the first duty of God’s creatures and the root of every good quality. Without it, grace cannot take root. To believe in Jesus means having the humility of Jesus Christ.

Therefore, how can we live in humility? Firstly, by becoming a genuine Christian. Without humility, one cannot become a Christian. The first act of becoming a Christian involves self-denial, rejecting the self, and accepting the exchange of our self for Christ, who is the substance and source of humility. When Christ lives in you, humility lives in you. Secondly, by frequently visiting the cross of Jesus Christ. When tempted by pride, look at the cross. The cross is the greatest symbol of humility, where pride was crucified and is gone. Fixing our eyes on Jesus, who endured the cross, helps us practice internal self-denial and absolute submission to the Father’s will through humility. Putting yourself under the authority of God’s Word is also humility. Trusting in God, especially in difficult circumstances, like giving thanks in all things, is humility.

Living in humility allows God to lift us up in His timing. Humble yourself before the Lord in faith, and He will lift you up. Humility is a sign of our true salvation, the key to true repentance and genuine saving faith. As we learn from Jesus, the embodiment of humility, our own humility can increase. We are invited by God, and by living humbly before Him, we can be called His friend.

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Jesus Heals; Only He Can Satisfy Our Needs – Luke 14:1-6

God is the Creator of all things, and humanity is the pinnacle of His creation, having been made in His image. Yet, ever since the Fall, human beings have sought to fill the void left by the broken relationship with God—a relationship that once existed in the perfection of the Garden of Eden. St. Augustine famously remarked that humanity has a “God-shaped hole” in the heart, which only God Himself can fill. As a result, sinners live in a state of constant restlessness. True peace and deliverance from sin and judgment can only be found in God.

In the biblical passage under consideration, we encounter a man suffering from a condition known as dropsy. While not fatal, this illness left him in desperate need of healing. Upon encountering Jesus, the man received not only physical restoration but also spiritual healing—an inner renewal that surpassed mere bodily relief.

Jesus had been invited to a meal at the house of a Pharisee leader on the Sabbath. The Sabbath held deep religious significance for the Jewish people. However, over time, the religious leaders had burdened God’s simple commandment to rest with numerous additional regulations, transforming it into a legalistic observance that was difficult, if not impossible, to follow. These leaders closely observed Jesus, hoping He would violate their man-made Sabbath laws, thereby providing them grounds for accusation.

Despite having seen Jesus’ works and heard His teachings, the Pharisees and legal experts never asked Him the most vital question: whether He was the promised Messiah and Prophet. They did not seek salvation from Him. This same type of spiritual blindness persists today in what might be called “almost Christians”—those who outwardly appear religious but lack genuine faith. Like the Pharisees, they may lead others astray, appearing pious while lacking the truth and transformation of a real relationship with Christ.

True Christianity is marked by a continual abiding in Christ, as described in John 15:5. Believers are branches connected to the true vine, Jesus, and their lives reflect a commitment to His word and love. Those who truly remain in Him demonstrate their faith through obedience to His commandments (John 15:10). This consistent connection to Christ distinguishes authentic followers from those who merely profess belief without genuine discipleship.

The Pharisees and lawyers, despite their extensive knowledge of the law, lacked sincerity and integrity. Jesus, fully aware of their hearts, exposed their hypocrisy. The text illustrates this when the leaders remain silent in response to Jesus’ questions:

  • “And Jesus answered and spoke to the scholars of the Law and Pharisees, saying, ‘Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath, or not?’” (v. 3)
  • “And He said to them, ‘Which one of you will have a son or an ox fall into a well, and will not immediately pull him out on a Sabbath day?’ And they could make no reply to this.” (vv. 5–6)

We must ask ourselves whether we are truly honest with God, especially in times of need or uncertainty. Do we earnestly seek His healing and submit to His will, or do we cling to our own desires and understanding? Genuine faith requires surrendering control and aligning our hearts with God’s word and purposes.

Jesus’ confrontation revealed their duplicity, a theme He addressed repeatedly (cf. Luke 13:15). In contrast, we are called to be people of integrity—honest before God so that we may receive His healing and forgiveness.

Spiritual healing comes only through union with Jesus Christ. The man with dropsy serves as an example of approaching Jesus with one’s burdens and trusting in His power to heal. In response to Jesus’ question, the religious leaders remained silent, but Jesus acted: He took the man, healed him, and sent him away (v. 4). In doing so, Jesus revealed His identity—not only as healer, but as omniscient Lord of the Sabbath, the very one who instituted it. By His actions, He demonstrated that true obedience to God’s law is fulfilled in love (Romans 13:10).

Furthermore, the man with dropsy exhibited a longing for something greater than physical healing; he sought the One who is the Bread of Life and the Living Water. Only Christ can satisfy the soul that honestly and humbly seeks Him. With compassion and authority, Jesus restored the man and sent him out—likely to testify about what the Lord had done. Those who genuinely seek salvation are given the opportunity to encounter the compassionate Savior. Jesus’ invitation still stands: “Come to me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:29).

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What a Precious Salvation – Luke 13:34-35

In today’s text, salvation is shown as the most valuable gift bestowed by God, emphasizing its rarity and significance. Despite being widely offered, Scripture underscores that only a few will ultimately be saved, pointing to the gravity of embracing this divine gift with one’s entire being. The author frames salvation not as a peripheral spiritual idea, but as the sole matter of importance at the time of death, one that determines entry into the eternal kingdom of God.

One of the primary reasons for salvation’s value is its origin in the character of God, who acts out of love, grace, kindness, and compassion. The lament over Jerusalem in verse 34 illustrates how God’s offer of salvation was tragically rejected by the very people He longed to save. Though Jerusalem was chosen by God and honored as the dwelling place of His temple, its history of killing prophets reflects a persistent rejection of His messengers. Still, Jesus’ sorrow over the city signifies God’s deep compassion, and His determination to offer salvation not just to Jerusalem, but to the entire world.

Furthermore, salvation is seen as God’s ongoing mission, demonstrating His persistent effort to reach humanity. The phrase “how often” reveals His tireless pursuit of sinners, highlighting that God never ceases in His redemptive work. Even after Christ’s resurrection, the Spirit continued spreading salvation through the early Church and beyond, ensuring that the gospel would reach generation after generation. This unrelenting divine initiative is what ultimately enables believers to hear, respond to, and accept the message of salvation.

The imagery of God gathering His people like a hen gathers her chicks reveals both His protective nature and His desire to draw humanity into intimate relationship. Salvation is not simply about deliverance from sin, but about being drawn near to God. In doing so, God transforms sinners not only into citizens of His kingdom, but into priests—representatives of His presence and truth in the world. This divine gathering reflects not only justice but a nurturing heart, echoing maternal tenderness found in Scripture.

However, the passage also confronts the tragic reality of human rejection of salvation. Though God offers numerous opportunities for redemption, sinners often resist it, not on intellectual or emotional grounds, but because of a willful preference for sin. According to the author, the human condition, being spiritually dead, naturally gravitates away from God. Thus, the refusal of salvation is not due to God’s failure to offer it, but the sinner’s stubborn desire to remain apart from Him.

The stakes of rejecting salvation are portrayed as ultimate and irreversible. The Bible offers vivid imagery of hell and eternal separation from God, reinforcing the urgency of embracing salvation in this life. Once a soul has passed into eternity without Christ, there remains no further opportunity for redemption. This understanding compels believers to proclaim the gospel boldly, while there is still time for others to respond.

Salvation’s worth is also reflected in the eternal hope it offers believers. In contrast to the despair of judgment, salvation brings a lasting joy rooted in the presence of God. Christ Himself modeled this hope during His suffering, enduring the cross for the joy set before Him. The Christian’s hope, then, is not based on circumstances, but on the future promise of glory, a hope that sustains believers through trials and gives them a vision of heaven even amid life’s darkest moments.

In conclusion, the passage encourages believers to treat salvation with reverence and seriousness, understanding its divine origin, enduring hope, and eternal consequences. It calls for a life marked by “fear and trembling,” not out of dread, but in recognition of the immense gift that salvation is. More than anything else, salvation is presented as the greatest treasure one can possess, both now and forever.

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You Didn’t Want It – Luke 13:31-35

The mistrust that led to Jesus’ eventual crucifixion stemmed from a combination of political, religious, and spiritual misunderstandings. Among the groups most resistant to Jesus were the Pharisees and Herod Antipas. Although the Pharisees warned Jesus that Herod sought to kill him, their motives were questionable. Today’s text depicts the Pharisees as hypocrites who, despite pretending concern, rejected Jesus as the Messiah. Jesus responds by affirming that his journey and mission are governed not by human threats, but by divine purpose and timing.

Herod Antipas’s hostility toward Jesus may have been motivated by jealousy or political fear. As Jesus gained popularity, Herod may have perceived him as a threat to his influence. Additionally, Jesus’ teachings and actions challenged the societal order and religious establishment, possibly leading Herod to believe that Jesus was a destabilizing force. These tensions contributed to a growing desire among the ruling class to eliminate Jesus as a perceived threat.

In response to the Pharisees’ warning, Jesus refers to Herod as a “fox,” a term indicating cunning and insignificance in comparison to divine authority. This remark underscores the disparity between Herod’s limited earthly power and Jesus’ supreme spiritual authority. Jesus asserts his control over all realms—spiritual, earthly, and cosmic—making it clear that human leaders like Herod cannot thwart God’s plan.

Jesus proclaims his authority over the spiritual realm by referencing his ability to cast out demons. This ability highlights his divine power, as demons are invisible, spiritual beings that only God can command. Numerous New Testament accounts, including Mark 5:4, illustrate this authority. The Pharisees and Herod lacked the spiritual insight necessary to recognize Jesus’ divine identity, blinded instead by worldly desires and ambitions.

In addition to spiritual authority, Jesus rules over the earthly domain. Colossians 1:16-17 speaks of his sovereignty over all creation. His power to heal and perform miracles affirms that he governs life and death itself. Jesus provides meaning and coherence to existence, and his dominion over earthly events ensures that those who serve him in this life will also be rewarded in the next.

Jesus’ control extends to the cosmic level. He willingly submitted to the Father’s plan, including his death and resurrection in Jerusalem. Herod held no real power over Jesus’ fate; rather, Jesus orchestrated his own suffering as part of God’s redemptive plan. His death was not a defeat but a divine victory, and only through belief in the gospel can sinners be saved. His power transcends all earthly and spiritual barriers.

Despite the clarity of Jesus’ identity and work, many—both then and now—fail to acknowledge him as Lord and Savior. This failure often stems from self-will and a preference for worldly pleasures over spiritual truth. The Pharisees and Herod represent those who reject Christ not due to ignorance alone but due to hardened hearts and misplaced priorities. The same danger persists for those who resist surrendering their lives to Christ.

Ultimately, Jesus holds dominion over all existence. He alone offers both physical life and eternal salvation to those who repent and believe in his redemptive work. His death and resurrection removed condemnation for believers and established a path to eternal life. Rejecting him means remaining in spiritual darkness, but accepting him brings freedom and eternal hope through the perfection of his saving work.

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A Sure Sign of True Salvation – Luke 13:22-24

One of the things we gain from the Bible is the ability to see that God is personal—He communicates with us and reveals Himself to us. The Bible is deeply intellectual, and through it, we are able to learn who God is. Often in Scripture, God—or someone else—asks a question and then answers it. For example, in Matthew 16:15–16, Jesus asks, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answers, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Jesus frequently responded to questions or accusations from His enemies with questions of His own.

In today’s passage, we’re presented with a great question—one that comes from a disciple who is genuinely curious about salvation and desires to be saved himself: “Lord, are there just a few who are being saved?” Or, put another way: How many will be saved? How hard is it to be saved?

In Jesus’ day, there was a common belief that when the Messiah came, all Jews would be saved simply based on their ancestry. It was a form of spiritual universalism. That same attitude exists today—many people assume they’re saved simply because they grew up in church, were raised in a Christian home, or live a generally moral life. But we must ask ourselves: Are we saved? How many of us are actually saved?

When we look at history, the numbers appear to be few. In Noah’s day, only eight people were saved from the flood. In Sodom and Gomorrah, only Lot and his family escaped. Out of all his family and community, Abraham alone was called out by God. In Romans 9:6–8, Paul reminds us that not all physical descendants of Israel are truly Israel. Only a remnant will be saved. Jesus calls His followers a “little flock.” R.C. Sproul and Leonard Ravenhill have observed that many who profess faith are not actually saved.

At the time of this question, Jesus was traveling from city to village—from large crowds to small little villages. He was spreading the gospel wherever He could, no matter how few people were there, He traveled His own way to Jerusalem, the place where He would be crucified. He was proclaiming the gospel while fulfilling it.

It was on the way when Jesus was asked, “Lord, will those who are saved be few?” Jesus doesn’t directly answer how many will be saved or the steps to be saved. Instead, He gives a command: “Strive to enter through the narrow door.” (Luke 13:24) This is not how to be saved but how to know who are saved.

The key word in Jesus’ response is not narrow door—it’s strive. Your attitude and effort determine which door you will enter. Without striving, you will naturally drift toward the wide and easy door. So the question becomes: Are you striving? What is Striving?

To strive means to devote serious energy or effort, to struggle, to labor. The language carries the idea of agonizing. Christians are called to strive from the beginning and continue striving throughout life. The Apostle Paul compares it to running a race for a prize—requiring great self-control and discipline. Jacob wrestled with God at the river Jabbok until he received a blessing. Jesus agonized on the cross until He declared, “It is finished.” Christians strive. We cannot lose this intention.

What do we strive For? This striving is not for our salvation, as if we could earn it. Salvation is by grace through faith. But we strive because we are saved. We pursue a goal.

  1. Strive Against Sin and For Repentance – We sin every day, so we must repent every day. Striving means hating sin, fighting it without compromise, even at great personal cost.
    • Hebrews 12:4: “In your struggle against sin you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood.”
    • Jesus said it is better to lose an eye or a hand than to be thrown into hell. That’s how seriously we are to fight sin.
  2. Strive for God’s Glory – “Whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31) Whatever happens—loss or gain, health or sickness—we glorify God. The apostles sang hymns in prison. We honor God in all things because He is always present and worthy.
  3. Strive to Seek God’s Kingdom – Jesus is the King of kings and Lord of lords, and He commands us to seek first His kingdom and His righteousness. We are not just citizens—we are servants and heirs. This kingdom is our inheritance, our future home, and our greatest treasure.
  4. Strive to Pray – Prayer is not natural, it requires discipline. In Colossians 4:12: Epaphras was one who “struggled in prayer” for others.Prayer is dependence, just as a slave cannot do anything without the command of their master. It is humility. It is crying out for help even when we are weak. (Psalm 107:6). We are the byproduct of our prayers. God works through prayer. His promises are available to us in prayer. Strive to pray.
  5. Strive to Preach the Gospel – Why did God choose and save us? In heaven, we will still worship and fellowship. But evangelism is for now. It’s part of our mission on earth. We often fail to evangelize because we fear man and desire his approval. But Jesus strived to share the gospel, and so must we.

How Do We Strive?

  • Self-Denial – Matthew 16:24: “If anyone would come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me.” George Müller said he had to die to himself, to the world, and to the opinions of others. In Matthew 16:22, Peter tried to rebuke Jesus because of his own desires and ideas. But self-denial is the way of Jesus.
  • Be Born Again – Self-denial is impossible unless we are born again. We cannot truly strive unless we have new life. “It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me.”
  • Be Filled with the Holy Spirit – 2 Thessalonians 2:13 says we are saved through sanctification by the Spirit. The Holy Spirit makes Jesus real to us. He turns knowledge into obedience and empowers us to reveal Jesus to the world. (Acts 4:13)
  • Have Real Saving Faith – We are saved by faith alone. But real faith always strives. It doesn’t need anything else—money, comfort, blessings—because Jesus is the treasure. True faith is more precious than diamonds. Don’t be like the rich young ruler in Matthew 19:20, who walked away from salvation for his wealth. Strive to have the kind of faith that sees Jesus as the only treasure worth having.

What Hinders Our Striving? Worldliness. 1 John 2:16 warns that if we live by the world’s values, we are not striving. You can’t serve two masters. Striving for heaven and the world leads to ruin.

What Is the Narrow Door? The narrow door is difficult. Don’t believe the lie that the Christian life is easy. Jesus said we must count the cost. From the very beginning, the path of following Jesus is a path of the cross. The narrow door also means suffering. Jesus, though perfect, suffered. We should expect the same. Acts 14:22: “Through many afflictions we must enter the kingdom of God.” Jesus’ whole life was one of striving and suffering. His purpose was to suffer and die for the lost. He is the door of the sheep. Matthew 11:12: “From the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven has suffered violence, and the violent take it by force.” This is the holy war. Those who strive against sin and for righteousness will take the kingdom.

Are You Striving? This is not a call to works-based righteousness. It is a call to take your salvation seriously. To examine yourself. To press on. To run the race with endurance. Jesus said, “Strive to enter through the narrow door.” Will you strive? Will you repent daily, glorify God in all things, seek His kingdom, pray persistently, and proclaim His gospel? Will you take up your cross and follow Him? The door is narrow. The way is hard. But if you strive then you have true salvation in Jesus Christ and eternal life.

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The Kingdom of God, Part 2 – Luke 13:20-21

The message of the kingdom of God is of utmost importance to believers, yet the church can sometimes fail to preserve its passion and urgency. While the church is meant to be a vessel for spreading this message, it is not immune to shortcomings. At times, the way the kingdom message is communicated can become weakened or even distorted, diminishing its impact on those who hear it.

Jesus provides a powerful metaphor for the kingdom of God in Luke 13:20-21, comparing it to “leaven, which a woman took and hid in three pecks of flour until it was all leavened.” This analogy would have been well understood by His audience. The mention of “three pecks of flour” held deep significance, as it symbolized devotion to God, hospitality toward others, and fellowship with God. These three elements formed the foundation of a faithful life during that time.

In this passage, the woman represents the church, which serves as God’s instrument for drawing people into fellowship with Him. The imagery aligns with the biblical portrayal of the church as the bride of Christ, emphasizing a nurturing and caring role. However, the introduction of leaven into the flour conveys a more complex message. Leaven, or yeast, is a fermenting agent that spreads throughout the dough, changing its composition. While yeast is sometimes associated with growth and transformation, in biblical contexts, it often symbolizes corruption and impurity.

The function of leaven is to permeate and transform the entire lump of dough, which in many biblical passages is used as an illustration of sin. For instance, 1 Corinthians 5:6-8 describes leavened bread as representing the old sinful nature. The idea that the woman in Jesus’ parable covertly places yeast into the flour suggests a warning about how the kingdom message can become tainted. Similarly, in Old Testament times, leaven was strictly forbidden in grain offerings to God (Leviticus 2:11), reinforcing the idea that God’s people were to remain spiritually pure and untainted by corruption.

For the church to fulfill its divine purpose, it must remain pure and unblemished by outside influences. The integrity of the kingdom message depends on the holiness of those who proclaim it. If the church allows itself to be compromised, the message can become distorted, leading people away from the truth rather than toward it. Only those who truly believe in the gospel and live according to its principles should be entrusted with delivering its message. The church must be vigilant in maintaining its faithfulness to God’s calling, ensuring that its teachings remain uncorrupted.

One of the key threats to the church’s purity is the leaven of hypocrisy. Jesus warned His disciples to “beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy” (Luke 12:1). Hypocrisy occurs when a person’s outward appearance of righteousness does not align with their inward reality. It is a dangerous influence that can lead even strong believers astray, as seen in Galatians 2:13. Christians must actively reject hypocrisy, as it belongs to the former sinful self (1 Peter 2:1). The only way to avoid this danger is through a genuine pursuit of Christ. By continually seeking to know and follow Him, believers can ensure that their faith is authentic and not merely for show.

Another form of corruption that threatens the church is the leaven of rationalism. The Sadducees exemplified this mindset, as they prioritized political influence over spiritual truth and denied the supernatural aspects of faith. Rationalism, which elevates human reasoning above divine revelation, weakens the church’s dependence on God. Jesus emphasized the necessity of faith and prayer, stating that those who lack them have little faith (Matthew 16:8). To guard against rationalism, believers must rely on God’s wisdom, which grants them perseverance and joy even in the face of trials (James 1:2).

Additionally, the church must be wary of the leaven of materialism. An excessive focus on wealth and worldly success reveals a heart that is dissatisfied with God. From the early church onward, many congregations have struggled with financial hardship, yet their faith remained strong. The danger of materialism is that it can lead to lukewarm faith, where believers become complacent and spiritually stagnant. A church that prioritizes material wealth over spiritual devotion risks secularization and idolatry, losing sight of its true mission.

Jesus’ words in Luke 13:21 serve as a sobering warning: “until it was all leavened.” This phrase suggests that corruption will continue to spread unless the church repents. However, there is hope in repentance. When believers turn back to God and seek renewal, He restores them and purifies His church. Only those who are truly repentant can be used by God to advance His kingdom. Through humility, faith, and commitment to the truth, the church can resist the corrupting influences of hypocrisy, rationalism, and materialism, ensuring that the message of the kingdom remains pure and powerful.

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The Kingdom of God – Luke 13:18-19

The Kingdom of God was the central theme of Jesus’ ministry (Luke 4:43). It is not a fictional or mythical concept like Atlantis but a reality that Jesus came to reveal. The kingdom is where Jesus reigns, and as believers, we are already part of it. However, there are common misunderstandings about the Kingdom of God that must be clarified to fully grasp its significance.

Clarifying Misunderstandings Some believe the Kingdom of God is only spiritual, but Jesus made it clear that it is both spiritual and earthly (Luke 17:21, Romans 14:17). Others think the kingdom is solely an earthly rule, but Colossians 1:20 teaches that all things, in heaven and on earth, have been reconciled to Christ. Some equate the kingdom with the church, but while the church belongs to the kingdom, it is its vanguard, proclaiming the way to enter (Matthew 16:18-19).

The Kingdom: Already, But Not Yet The Kingdom of God is both a present reality and a future promise. When Jesus came, the kingdom was inaugurated (Matthew 2:11, Luke 17:21). The disciples expected its full establishment (Acts 1:6), but it will only be completed at Jesus’ second coming when He defeats all evil and reigns forever (Revelation 19:11-15). Just as believers are justified now but await glorification, the kingdom is promised but not yet fully realized.

The Power of the Kingdom Jesus illustrated the kingdom’s power by healing a woman bound by Satan (Luke 13:16). This was a demonstration of the kingdom’s victory over darkness. Today, many declare “Christ is King” in response to political turmoil, but we must understand His reign biblically (John 18:36-37). His kingdom is not of this world, yet it is stronger than any earthly power (Daniel 2:33). Jesus is the rock that crushes all human empires.

Five Truths About the Kingdom that encourage and strengthen us

  1. Powerful in All Circumstances The kingdom may seem small, like a mustard seed, but it has world-changing power (Luke 13:18-19). Jesus, a humble man who was crucified, overturned the Roman Empire in just a few centuries. Likewise, small beginnings—like a few missionaries in India—can transform entire nations.
  2. Supernaturally Sustained The kingdom’s growth is not by human effort but by Jesus, the divine farmer who personally tends to His people (Luke 13:8, Philippians 1:6). He nourishes, prunes, and strengthens His kingdom, ensuring that it flourishes in His perfect timing. If God is for us, no one can stand against us (Romans 8:31). We must ask ourselves: Do we truly know Him, and do we walk daily in His power, allowing Him to sustain and grow us?
  3. Planted in Good Soil The kingdom is sown in God’s garden, intentionally placed in the best conditions for growth (Luke 8:5, Matthew 13:23). Unlike seeds scattered on rocky ground or among thorns, we are planted in the rich soil of God’s providence and care. No trial, hardship, or struggle occurs outside of His sovereign will. We are never abandoned, even in difficult seasons. His love is steadfast and unwavering, embracing us with an undivided heart.
  4. Marked by Growth and Repentance just as a seed must grow to maturity, so must we as believers. Growth in the kingdom of God is not optional—it is essential. True repentance is the first step, leading to faith and transformation (Mark 1:15). It is not merely a momentary decision but an ongoing, lifelong turning toward Christ. Nicodemus, who initially came to Jesus in secret, was later emboldened to publicly honor Him (John 3:3, John 19:39). Are we likewise growing in our faith? Are we actively striving to enter the narrow gate (Luke 13:23-24), seeking His kingdom and righteousness above all else (Matthew 6:33)?
  5. A Future of Blessing The kingdom is vibrant, a place of joy and peace. The birds resting in the mustard tree represent God’s blessing (Matthew 5:3,10). Revelation gives us a vision of a future kingdom without sorrow, only eternal joy (Revelation 21:2,4). This is our hope and our destiny.

The Kingdom of God is a present and future reality, full of power, promise, and transformation. Though it is not yet fully established, we experience its influence daily. It is powerful and transformational because Jesus is King. As we wait for its full realization, let us live as kingdom people—seeking, growing, and proclaiming Christ’s reign until He comes again. Come, Lord Jesus! (Revelation 22:20).

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An Epilogue to Repentance – Luke 13:10-17

Many sermons in this passage focus on the Sabbath, Jesus’ mercy, and His courage in healing a crippled woman. However, Luke is the only Gospel writer who includes this account, and he places it in the larger context of repentance. Chapter 13 begins and ends with Jesus calling for the repentance of Israel. This miracle is a picture of salvation through repentance.

The Hopeless Condition of Humanity

Jesus often stirred controversy on the Sabbath, and this instance was no exception. A woman who had been crippled for eighteen years bent double and unable to straighten herself, was in the synagogue. In ancient Israel, women had no rights or status. So this condition must have seemed hopeless and she had no power to help herself. Even worse, her affliction was caused by a spirit.

Her condition is a picture of all humanity— crippled by sin and incapable of saving ourselves. We are totally depraved, spiritually powerless, and utterly lost apart from God. Salvation is not just difficult; it is impossible without divine intervention. If we truly grasped the weight of our sin and the miracle of salvation, we would treasure it above all else.

Jesus, the Only Savior

Why is Jesus the only one who can save? Because He is compassionate. He saw this woman, called her, and healed her—despite the fact that it was the Sabbath and would provoke opposition. Jesus is not a distant theologian who merely teaches doctrine; He is actively involved in the lives of those who need Him. Whenever and wherever Jesus is ready to help you. Even today, He calls us through the gospel, both outwardly by preaching and inwardly by the Holy Spirit (Romans 10:7). This calling leads to repentance and salvation.

When Jesus calls, He also transforms. As soon as He touched the woman, she was made whole—standing upright like a normal person. This is the work of salvation: restoring us to our created purpose and bringing us into the right relationship with God. The treasure of true salvation is not found in earthly riches but in the presence of Jesus Himself.

Jesus, the Only Truth

After healing the woman, Jesus exposed the hypocrisy of the religious leaders. The Sabbath had become a tool for oppression rather than rest. The synagogue official was outraged, not because of righteousness, but because Jesus had lightly placed His hands on this woman—while they would handle animals without a second thought. Their religion was hollow, filled with rules but devoid of love. They were hypocrites pretending to care about righteousness while inside they were greedy and oppressive. They cared more for their animals than this poor woman in need.

False religion twists God’s commands into burdens, focusing on outward appearance while remaining spiritually dead inside (Matthew 15:4-7). But Jesus is the truth. He didn’t come to enslave us with man-made traditions but to set us free.

Jesus, the Only Life

Jesus didn’t just heal the woman physically—He gave her a new spiritual life. He offers eternal life instead of eternal damnation. Calling her a “daughter of Abraham” was referring to her faith. She had repented and been restored to God. The kingdom of God belongs to those who repent, not the self-righteous who cling to empty religion.

Repentance is a full surrender to Jesus. It is not partial, not “half me and half Jesus.” True repentance is a total transformation—a new life in Christ. And just like this woman, the repentant are called children of God, heirs of His promises.

The Joy of Salvation

Luke 13:17 tells us that the people rejoiced over all the glorious things Jesus was doing. Salvation brings joy—because we are no longer bound by sin but are made children of God. And not only do we rejoice in Him, but He rejoices over us (Isaiah 44:23).

If you are redeemed, then your life should reflect that joy. If you are still lost, then there is no reason for joy—only urgency to repent and be saved. Repentance is the work of Christ, and it bears the fruit of joy. Let’s treasure our salvation, fully and joyfully, knowing that in Christ, we have everything.

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