Look how the whole world has gone after him!
Here Jesus’ popularity reaches its apex. The people who were present when He raised Lazarus from the dead are spreading the news of this wonderful miracle.
He’s the One!
As Jesus approaches Jerusalem, there is a spontaneous eruption of enthusiasm, awe and affection for Him. Many people, because they had heard that he had given this miraculous sign, went out to meet him.
They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting, "Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Blessed is the King of Israel!"
Meanwhile, not everyone is happy. The religious leaders see the threat. As Jesus popularity with the people increases, they know their power and influence is waning.
And they’re correct, because this is exactly what happens when people start listening to Jesus. The voice of the Teacher becomes the sole source of all authority. Every other competing voice fades into the background.
Why pay attention to any other when Jesus has all the answers about how to live a life that pleases God?
This is what every student of the Teacher understands. He has the best information on every subject! He is a complete and final authority for living the good life.
He alone knows the way to God.
Listening to Jesus, excitedly following Him, is what being a student of Jesus is all about.
So how are we at being those students who listen to His voice?
ReplyDeleteHow often do we read something, or have a question, and reference commentaries or ask another's opinion?
Why are we not hungry to turn to Jesus' words for understanding rather than someone else commenting on Jesuis' teachings?
Don't get me wrong, we can gain wisdom from one another and insight from other sources. But why not simply try to let the texts of the Bible speak for themselves first?
Why not pray for insight before we read so that we can understand? Psalms 119:125 David asks for discernment that he might understand God's statutes.
And remember, cross reference God's word with God's word: use cleare passages to help understand the more difficult ones.
We are Christians - let's get used to following Christ's words first.