Jesus’ mission was to save Israel from self-destruction so she could enter into the Kingdom of God. The question put to Jesus about how many would be saved is not a reference to the contemporary understanding of salvation and eternal life. Jesus was calling the people to follow him into the Kingdom way of living so as to avoid the destruction that was coming to Israel at the hands of the Romans. If the people would turn away from their desire to fight the gentiles and turn their hearts to God there was hope for the nation.
When Jesus speaks of people coming from the east and west and north and south he is looking ahead to the building of his Kingdom by the Apostle Paul and others who took the message of God to the gentiles. Jesus knows what awaited him in Jerusalem and He was grieving over those of his own nation that would not seek their salvation in Him. His reference to working two days and accomplishing his purpose on the third day is a thinly veiled reference to his resurrection on the third day.
Although Jesus has his mind on Israel and her rebellious attitudes, two points in his comments are clearly applicable to us today. First, the entrance door to the Kingdom of God is narrow. The pathway through the doorway is not paved by good works. Nevertheless it is difficult to get in because there is no drive through window. The Kingdom is not for the casual observer or for those who want just a piece of the Kingdom to add to their life. The Kingdom demands all or nothing. And, Jesus says, there will come a time when the doors to the Kingdom are closed. There will come a time when all people will be rewarded with the eternal consequences of the choices they have made. Some will choose to be with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, and others will not.
What word or phrase in these verses
attracts your attention?
Reflect on that word or phrase.
What insights come to you?
How does this passage touch your life today?
24-Jan-12 Luke 14:7-24
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