Pastor Lyell Walker | May 19, 2024
In this message, Pastor Lyell teaches from Luke chapter 20. This chapter covers the final time Jesus confronted the religious leaders of his day before his arrest and crucifixion. Each section of Luke 20 allows us to see how Jesus dealt with religious hypocrisy in his day and how our lives line up to Jesus. We also see Jesus’ warning about becoming like these religious leaders.
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In Luke 20, we encounter a series of interactions between Jesus and the religious leaders. These leaders question His authority and attempt to trap Him by asking Him about paying taxes to Caesar. Jesus responds with questions and a parable, revealing profound truths about His identity and the condition of their hearts.
One of the most profound teachings in this chapter is the parable of the tenants. Jesus tells of a landowner who leases his vineyard to tenants. When the landowner sends servants to collect some of the fruit, the tenants beat them and send them away empty-handed. Finally, he sends his beloved son, thinking they will respect him, but the tenants kill the son, hoping to seize the inheritance.
This parable illustrates Israel's history with the prophets and the coming rejection of Jesus Himself. Jesus is the beloved Son sent by the Father, whom the religious leaders would reject and crucify. Yet, in quoting Psalm 118:22, "The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone," Jesus foreshadows His ultimate victory and the establishment of a new covenant through His resurrection.
Reflections:
1. Recognize Jesus' Authority: Just as the religious leaders struggled with acknowledging Jesus' authority, we, too, must continually submit to His lordship in our lives. Reflect on areas where you might resist His guidance and surrender them to Him.
2. Value What God Values: The tenants in the parable failed to recognize the value of the landowner's son. In our lives, we often overlook what is truly valuable. Ask God to help you see and value what He values, prioritizing His kingdom over worldly pursuits.
3. Embrace Jesus as the Cornerstone: If we truly believe Jesus is the Cornerstone, we will spend time with Him daily in prayer and reading Scripture, letting God's Word shape our thoughts and actions. Just as a cornerstone guides building construction, let Jesus guide your decisions and priorities.
4. Proclaim the Gospel: Just as Jesus confronted the religious leaders with the truth, we are called to share the gospel with boldness and love. How can you share the gospel more boldly and lovingly with the people you interact with daily?