The following is from OBC’s daily devotional for today:
Here Luke relates a transition in Jesus’ ministry toward his death, resurrection, and ascension, even looking ahead to his rule on earth in the kingdom of God.
Jesus sent his disciples to proclaim to Israel that he was their promised Messiah and King. Jesus also gave them power to do works reversing sin’s effects in creation, proving that what they said about Jesus was true. Jesus also taught and did the same (vv. 1-17, 37-42).
Jesus began telling his disciples of his coming betrayal, rejection by Israel, death, and resurrection, but they failed to grasp the significance of what he said (vv. 21-22, 43-45).
Three times Jesus taught what believe and following him means and involves (vv. 23-26, 46-48, 57-62). In two of those Jesus tied such to the coming kingdom when he would be seen in his full glory (vv. 27-36, 60-62).
Truths to Nail Down and Meditate On
- Following Christ involves sacrificing and losing everything (vv. 23-26, 57-62), yet having the assurance of gaining all in the kingdom of God (vv. 26-36).
- No one is “fit for the kingdom of God” who loves anything in a sin-cursed world more than they love the King.