"This is a wicked generation". While John the Baptist was very direct in his preaching, calling people a "brood of vipers", Jesus was often blunt about the reality of our condition. The gospel was not sent to save a people who are basically alright and just need a little help, or would be ok if only they weren't under oppression of some sort. It was sent to save a sinful people and we need to face up to the reality of our sin if we are to make any progress. Indeed it is only then that we can properly appreciate the good news.
Jesus rebukes the generation for demanding a sign, and says that none will be given to it. Now this is a little odd for Jesus did loads of miracles, ie He gave them lots of signs. But though signs were abounding their eyes were blind so they did not receive any of them. The people were always questioning Jesus, but it was themselves that they needed to question. Jonah went to Nineveh (eventually) and preached a message of judgement, the city was saved when they repented of their sins. In the same way Jesus was preaching judgement upon Israel. The gospel is partly a message of judgement. It tells us that on our own merits we are under a sentence of death.
The Queen of Sheba recognised the wisdom of Solomon, but Israel failed to recognise the much greater wisdom of Jesus. Israel considered herself better than the other nations, but in reality she was much worse.
Repentance is at the heart of the gospel.
No comments:
Post a Comment