20:41-44
Having been questioned by various folk, Jesus now addresses the people directly. David was seen as the best king Israel ever had. God had also promised that David would always have a son on the throne (Jer 33:17; 2 Sam 7:16). So the general supposition was that the Messiah would be like David, and is why they expected a military messiah to set them free from the Romans. Jesus, however, points to Psalm 110. Now Jesus is not denying His Davidic descent. Indeed, Luke emphasises this: 1:27,32,69; 2:4; 3:31). What He is doing is declaring that the Messiah is far, far greater than David. In Psalm 110 it says “The Lord said to my Lord ...” So in saying this David was recognising that the Messiah would be far greater than he.
This is a mistake people often make, and we often make. Our vision of God is too small, and this can lead to important theological errors. God’s plans, His character, everything about Him is infinitely greater than we ever imagine (Eph 3:20; 1 Cor 2:9).
2:45-47
Jesus then turn His attention to the disciples, with some warnings that would be relevant in later times, and are still most relevant today. One has to say that it seems that on the whole we have failed miserably in terms of v46. Many established churches dress their ministers/priests in all sorts of weird and wonderful garments, and having a respected place in society seems to be the goal of many. However, it is not just the traditional churches that are prone to this. Charismatic churches have their fair selection of prima donnas. The sin that Jesus is warning against is one that we are prone too. And it was not just outward show that they were prone too, but also exploiting the poor, and making a big show of their religion. Sadly, there is also plenty of evidence of this in all sorts of churches as well.
The message we should all take home from this is to be on our guard at all times, for sin can easily rise up from within us. We need to take life seriously, and take following Jesus seriously.
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