a ministry for hungry saintswotruth.com/commentaries-new/luke/luke-025a.pdf · him that jesus of...

An overview of the Gospel of Luke, by Given O. Blakely

COMMENTARY ON: 7:19-35

Since May, 1993, a ministry instituted for the encouragement of believers in Christ

LESSON NUMBER 25

John had been in prison for some time – probably over a year. Hisdisciples had been reporting to him concerning the activities of Jesus(Lk 7:18; John 3:36). Now, John’s departure is at hand, and thereare still disciples following him. He knows that he has to decrease,while Jesus increases (John 3:30), so he sends two of disciples toJesus so they will know He is, in fact, the One for whom they hadbeen waiting. He Is not inquiring for Himself, for God had alreadyrevealed to Him that Jesus of Nazareth was the One for whom Hewas preparing the way. If He was not the One, John would have tobe released from prison and continue preparing the way, and makingready a people for the Lord. The occasion we will be reviewing wasnot the expression of unbelief. In fact, Jesus will set John forth apremier man – “more than a prophet.” The Lord also gave a synopsisof His ministry and affirm that the person who takes no offense, oris not annoyed by Him – whatever may occur is, in fact, “blessed.”This was apparently His last word addressed to John the Baptist.

A MINISTRY FOR HUNGRY SAINTS

A Ministry for Hungry Saints, Series on the Book of Luke, Lesson #25, Meeting #556 – in its 22ND year

INTRODUCTION

A BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE TEXT John had been in prison for some

time – probably over a year. Hisdisciples had been reporting to himconcerning the activities of Jesus (Lk

7:18; John 3:36). Now, John’sdeparture is at hand, and there are stilldisciples following him. He knows thathe has to decrease, while Jesusincreases (John 3:30), so he sends two

of disciples to Jesus so they will knowHe is, in fact, the One for whom theyhad been waiting. He Is not inquiring forHimself, for God had already revealed toHim that Jesus of Nazareth was the

TRANSLATION LEGEND: ABP=Apostolic Bible Polyglot m(1992); ALT=Analytical-Literal Translation (2005), AMPLIFIED=Amplified Bible (1965), ABP=Apostolic Bible Polygot with Greek Interlinear (2003); ASV=American Standard Version (1901), BBE=Biblein Basic English (1949), BRENT=Brenton’s English Septuagint; CEB =Common English Bible (2011); CEV=Contemporary English Version(1995); DRA=Douay-Rheims (1899), EMTV =English Majority Text (2002); ERV =English Revised Version (1885), ETRV = Easy to Read(1999), ESV=English Stand Version (2001), GENEVA=Geneva Bible (1599), GNB=Good News (1966), GSNT =Goodspeed (1923), GWN=God’s Word (1995), IE= International English (1973), ISV=International Standard Version (1967), JPS=Jewish Publication Society (1917),JUB=Jubilee Bible (2003); KJV=King James Version (1611), LITV= Literal Translation of the Bible (1976), LIVING=Living Bible (1971),MESSAGE=The Message (1993), MKJV= Modern KJV (1962), MONTGOMERY=Montgomery’s New Testament (2001), MRD=Peshitta-James Murdock Translation (1852), NAB=New American Bible (2002), NASB=New American Standard Bible (1977), NAU=New AmericanStandard Bible (1995), NIB=New International Bible, NIV=New International Version (1984), NJB=New Jerusalem Bible (1985),NKJV=New King James Version (1979), NLT=New Living Translation (1996), NRSV=New Revised Standard Version (1989), PHILLIPS=JB Phillips New Testament (1962), PNT=Bishop’s New Testament (1595), RSV=Revised Standard Version (1952), TNK=JPS Tanakj(1985), WEB=Webster Bible (1833),WEYMOUTH=Weymouth’s New Testament (1903), WILLIAMS=William’s New Testament (1937),TYNDALE=Tyndale’s Bible (1526), WYCLIFFE=Wycliffe New Testament (1382), YLT =Young’s Literal Translation (1862)

---------- GREEK LEXICON LEGEND ----------- LEXICON LEGEND: FRIEBERG = Friberg Lexicon, UBS = Barclay-Newman, LOUW-NIDA = Louw-Nida Lexicon, LIDDELL SCOTT

Lesson Number 25

The Book of Luke, 10/2/2015

A MINISTRY INITIATED INMAY 1993, AND DEDICATEDTO STRENGTHENING THOSEWHO ARE IN CHRIST, BYBUILDING THEIR FAITH,ENHANCING THEIR JOY, ANDSTABILIZING THEIR HOPE, ENABLING THEM TO WORKOUT THEIR SALVATION WITHFEAR AND TREMBLING.

P E R S U A D E D O F T H ENECESSITY OF KNOWING THECERTAINTY OF THE THINGSWE BELIEVE, LUKE MAKES USMORE FIRM BY BUTTRESSINGO U R F A I T H , A N DCONFIRMING WE HAVE NOTEMBRACED FABLES.

DISCLAIMER: The quoting of other translations is not to be taken as a condoning of them. My purpose is rather to show the remarkable diversity, and sometimes outrightcontradictions that exist among these various versions of Scripture. Our understanding of the Word of God ultimately depends upon our comprehension of the LordHimself and His eternal purpose. Where this understanding is not present, we are shut up to scholasticism and conjecture, both of which are of the world, not of God.

LUKE 7:19 "And John calling unto him two of his disciples sent them to Jesus, saying, Art thou He that should come? or look we for another? 20 When the men were come unto Him, they said, John Baptist hath sent us unto Thee, saying, Art Thou He that should come? or look wefor another? 21 And in that same hour He cured many of their infirmities and plagues, and of evil spirits; and unto many that were blindHe gave sight. 22 Then Jesus answering said unto them, Go your way, and tell John what things ye have seen and heard; how that the blindsee, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, to the poor the gospel is preached. 23 And blessed is he,whosoever shall not be offended in Me. 24 And when the messengers of John were departed, He began to speak unto the people concerningJohn, What went ye out into the wilderness for to see? A reed shaken with the wind? 25 But what went ye out for to see? A man clothed insoft raiment? Behold, they which are gorgeously apparelled, and live delicately, are in kings' courts. 26 But what went ye out for to see? Aprophet? Yea, I say unto you, and much more than a prophet. 27 This is he, of whom it is written, Behold, I send My messenger before thyface, which shall prepare thy way before thee. 28 For I say unto you, Among those that are born of women there is not a greater prophet thanJohn the Baptist: but he that is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he. 29 And all the people that heard him, and the publicans,justified God, being baptized with the baptism of John. 30 But the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of God against themselves,being not baptized of him. 31 And the Lord said, Whereunto then shall I liken the men of this generation? and to what are they like? 32 Theyare like unto children sitting in the marketplace, and calling one to another, and saying, We have piped unto you, and ye have not danced;we have mourned to you, and ye have not wept. 33 For John the Baptist came neither eating bread nor drinking wine; and ye say, He hatha devil. 34 The Son of man is come eating and drinking; and ye say, Behold a gluttonous man, and a winebibber, a friend of publicans andsinners! 35 But wisdom is justified of all her children." . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Luke 7:19-35

John sends his disciples to Jesus with a question; Jesus responds accordingly and speaks of John to th people – Given O. BlakelyJohn sends and Jesus speaks -- 1 of 15


One for whom He was preparing theway. If He was not the One, Johnwould have to be released from prisonand continue preparing the way, andmaking ready a people for the Lord. Theoccasion we will be reviewing was notthe expression of unbelief. In fact,Jesus will set John forth as a premierman – “more than a prophet.” The Lordalso gave a synopsis of His ministry and

affirmed that the person who takes nooffense, or is not annoyed by Him –whatever may occur is, in fact,“blessed.” This was apparently His lastword addressed to John the Baptist.

This even has proved to be toochallenging to some, who use it tomake John more like contemporarymen, while Jesus set him forth as asuperior man. It is never right to assessa men differently that God and Christhave assessed them. It is whollyimproper to diagnose a person who wasfilled with the Spirit as though he livedin contradiction of that fact.

In this lesson I will labor topresent John as he is consistentlypresented by the Holy Spirit.

THE DIAGNOSIS OF MENIn this text, Jesus will speak of

how men diagnosed both John andHimself. This confirms that the Lorddoes not ignore how people assess HisSon, or those whom He sends. Frankly,many men are too casual in theirappraisal of God, Christ, the Prophets,and the Apostles – not to mentionthose who are in Christ Jesus. Muchthinking about these has actually beenshaped by men – not Scripture. Thefact that this has, and is, taking place,confirms that we are living in ageneration that is grossly ignorant of

the Scriptures – which is the only placewe can find an intelligent presentationof the following. It also revealsfundamental disinterests in God and thethings of God.

- God.- Christ- The Holy Spirit- The purpose of God- The will of God- The nature of men outside of Christ.- The nature of men who are in Christ.- The obligations that have been laid

upon men- The destiny of those who believe

God.- The destiny of those who do not

believe in God.

The only valid details andsummations of these are expressed inScripture. Any and all valid observationsmust be based on those revelations.

As simplistic as that may appear,a failure to recognize and conform tothis is responsible for all division,sectarianism, false teaching, spiritualretardation, and drawing back toperdition.

In the Kingdom of God, properreasoning is based upon the embrace ofwhat God has affirmed about thevarious components of that reasoning.

JOHN SENDS TWO OF HIS DISCIPLES TO JESUS

LUKE 7:19 "And John calling untohim two of his disciples sent them toJesus, saying, Art thou He that shouldcome? or look we for another? 20

When the men were come unto him,they said, John Baptist hath sent usunto thee, saying, Art thou he thatshould come? or look we foranother?”

JOHN SENDS TWO OF HIS DISCIPLESTO JESUS

"And John calling unto him two ofhis disciples sent them to Jesus . . .”

Remember, John is in prison. Yet,

from his place of confinement, he callstwo of his disciples to himself. He wasstill thinking clearly, and was not castdown in his spirit. This was not aspiritually feeble man!

How did he get word to thesedisciples? It was doubtless by means ofthose who were visiting him. Also,Herod was, by Divine intention, lenientwith John. In fact, even after John hadrebuked Herod for his adultery, "Herodfeared John, knowing that he was ajust man and an holy, and observedhim; and when he heard him, he didmany things, and heard him gladly"

(Mark 6:20). Other versions read,"When Herod heard John, he wasgreatly puzzled ; yet he liked to listen tohim," NIV and “For Herod had [areverential] fear of John, knowing thathe was a righteous and holy man, and[continually] kept him safe [underguard]. When he heard [John speak], hewas much perplexed; and [yet] he heardhim gladly.” AMPLIFIED

This congenial frame of mind wasthe result of Divine initiative, and wasdoubtless the means the Lord used toallow John to continue to hear of Jesusand confer with and teach his disciples.

CONTENTS CONTENTS || INTRODUCTION INTRODUCTION || JOHN SENDS TWO OF HIS DISCIPLESJOHN SENDS TWO OF HIS DISCIPLES

TO JESUS (7:19-20)TO JESUS (7:19-20)|| IN THAT SAME HOUR (7:22)IN THAT SAME HOUR (7:22)|| BLESSED HE, WHOEVER IS NOTBLESSED HE, WHOEVER IS NOT

OFFENDED IN ME (7:23)OFFENDED IN ME (7:23)|| HE BEGAN TO SPEAK TO THE PEOPLEHE BEGAN TO SPEAK TO THE PEOPLE

CONCERNING JOHN (7:24)CONCERNING JOHN (7:24)|| WHAT WENT YE OUT TO SEE? (7:25-WHAT WENT YE OUT TO SEE? (7:25-

26-27)26-27)|| THE GREATEST AND THE LEAST THE GREATEST AND THE LEAST

(7:28-30)(7:28-30)|| WHEREUNTO SHALL I LIKEN THISWHEREUNTO SHALL I LIKEN THIS

GENERATION? (7:31-32)GENERATION? (7:31-32)|| “HE HAS A DEMON,” AND “BEHOLD A“HE HAS A DEMON,” AND “BEHOLD A

GLUTENOUS MAN” (7:33-34)GLUTENOUS MAN” (7:33-34)|| WISDOM IS JUSTIFIED OF HERWISDOM IS JUSTIFIED OF HER

CHILDREN (7:35)CHILDREN (7:35)



Calling two of his disciples wasnot the ordinary privilege of prisoners.

ART THOU HE?“ . . . saying, Art thou He that

should come? or look we for another? 20

When the men were come unto him,they said, John Baptist hath sent usunto thee, saying, Art Thou He thatshould come? or look we for another?”

Matthew says of this occasion,"Now when John had heard in theprison the works of Christ, he sent twoof his disciples, and said unto him, ArtThou He that should come, or do welook for another?" (Matt 11:2-3). It wasthe Lord who orchestrated this hearing,because He had not yet finished withJohn’s work.

We know that at this point, manyof John’s disciples saw Jesus as acompetitor, rather than the One forwhom John was preparing the people(John 3:25-26).

There is a rather popular view thataffirms this action was taken becauseJohn had become doubtful, and wantedto be assured that the One reported toHim was indeed the Messiah. This viewis stated by the fol lowingcommentators. There are manycommentators who do NOT take thisview. I understand that ourunderstanding is not to be shaped bycommentators. However, the power ofthe truth is seen in the fact thataberrant views can be overcome.

- “He who stood on the Jewish side of thethreshold of the kingdom (ver. 11) didnot understand the methods by which

the King was acting, and thus his faithwas tried (comp. Tertullian, ‘Adv.Marc.,’ 4:18). In this he recalls hisgreat prototype, whose plans seemed tohave failed and his boldness to havedone no good (1 Kings 19:13, 14). PULPIT

COMMENTARY

- “It might have been to satisfy hisdisciples that he was the Messiah; or hemight have been desirous ofascertaining for himself whether thisperson, of whom he heard so much, wasthe same one whom he had baptized, andwhom he knew to be the Messiah.” ALBERT

BARNES

- “It is very probable that John nowbegan, through the length of hisconfinement, to entertain doubts,relative to his kingdom, whichperplexed and harassed his mind; and hetook the most reasonable way to get ridof them at once, viz. by applying toChrist himself.” ADAM CLARKE

- “John's doubt might arise from his ownpresent circumstances. He was aprisoner, and might be tempted to think,if Jesus be indeed the Messiah, whenceis it that I, his friend and forerunner,am brought into this trouble, and amleft to be so long in it, and he neverlooks after me, never visits me, norsends to me, enquires not after me,does nothing either to sweeten myimpr isonment or hasten myenlargement? Doubtless there was agood reason why our Lord Jesus did notgo to John in prison, lest there shouldseem to have been a compact betweenthem: but John construed it into aneglect, and it was perhaps a shock tohis faith in Christ.” MATTHEW HENRY

THE REAL SITUATION- John was filled with the Holy Spirit

from his mother’s womb (Lk 1:15).

- God had revealed to John how hewould recognize the Son of God, forwhom he was preparing the way(John 1:33).

- He had seen the Holy Spirit descendon Jesus, and remain there – as Godhad told him (Matt 3:16-17).

- He heard God speak from heavenaffirming this was His Beloved Son(Mark 3:17; Mk 1:11).

- He had received reports of His greatworking, preaching, and baptizing(Matt 11:2; Lk 7:17-18; John 3:26).

- Jesus testified, "For I say unto you,Among those that are born ofwomen there is not a greaterprophet than John the Baptist" (Luke 7:28).

Speaking for myself, I am not ableto fit a doubtful John into those texts.Such a thought simply does not blendwith what the Spirit says about John –and the Holy Spirit has saidconsiderable about John the Baptist.

I see no sensible alternative to thepersuasion that John was leading anywho remained his disciples to jointhemselves to the One whom he wassent to introduce, preparing the people.It was the only reasonable thing to do.For me, the manner in which the Spirit testifies of John forbids any other view.Jesus clearly does not represent Johnas in any sense weak, doubtful,vacillating, or wavering.

IN THAT SAME HOUR

“ 21 And in that same hour Hecured many of their infirmities andplagues, and of evil spirits; and untomany that were blind He gave sight. 22

Then Jesus answering said unto them,Go your way, and tell John what thingsye have seen and heard; how that the

blind see, the lame walk, the lepers arecleansed, the deaf hear, the dead areraised, to the poor the gospel ispreached.”

IN THE SAME HOUR“And in that same hour . . .”

Other versions read, “that veryhour,” NKJV “at that very time,” NASB “justthen,” NRSV “right then,” CEB

“immediately,” LIVING “At that moment,”MONTGOMERY and “In the next two or threehours.” MESSAGE



A person’s wisdom and authoritycan be measured by how quickly theyare able to respond to an urgent appeal.Those who have to make extensiveplans are generally neither wise norauthoritative. With Jesus, the onlymodifying factor was whether or not Heconsented to help those desiring Hisinvolvement. That is actually a verywonderful arrangement. Some men cando “this,” but not “that.” They aregoverned by time as well. But whenyou come to Jesus, the kind of thing tobe done and the extent of His ability donot govern the situation.

HE CURED MANY“ . . . He cured many of their

infirmities and plagues, and of evilspirits; and unto many that were blindHe gave sight . . .”

Other versions read, "made anumber of people free," BBE and“healed.” ESV

The word from which “cured” istranslated [therapeuo], means “to heal,cure, restore to health,” THAYER “to causesomeone to recover health.” LOUW-NIDA

This is a word that indicatescomplete healing and recovery. It doesnot allow for the presence ofsymptoms, which are the only means ofidentifying a disease in the first place.

DISEASE AND ITS SYMPTOMSHealth has not been recovered

where the symptoms of the diseaseremain! There really is no such thing assymptoms with no correspondingdisease. Those who affirm that such athing is possible, and that we shouldsimply deny the symptoms, aredeparting from sound reasoning. How

can God receive glory from acclaimedhealings that have not removed thecorresponding symptoms, anymore thana sinner has been saved who remainsunder the dominion of sin? A personwho has the symptoms of disease hasnot been healed of that disease – somemodern teaching notwithstanding. Aleper has not been healed if there is anypatch of skin on his body that is stillleprous. A deaf man has not beenhealed if he requires a hearing aid. Alame man that has been healed does notrequire a cane. In fact, it is the absenceof any symptoms that confirms theindividual has been healed.

A text that is often used by thoseclaiming the symptoms of a disease canremain while the disease itself has beenhealed, is First Peter 2:24, whichincludes a quotation from Isaiah 53:5:"Who His own self bare our sins in Hisown body on the tree, that we, beingdead to sins, should live untorighteousness: by whose stripes yewere healed" (1 Pet 2:24). Peter’sexplanatory note makes clear that sin iswhat is being addressed, not bodilydiseases: "For ye were as sheep goingastray; but are now returned unto theShepherd and Bishop of your souls" (1Pet 2:25). Elsewhere, the Gospelwriters confirm that Isaiah’s referenceto the Lord Jesus bearing our“infirmities” (referred to in Isaiah as“griefs” and “sorrows” (Isa 53:4), wasfulfilled in the earthly ministry of Jesus,which explains the details of Hishealings: "When the even was come,they brought unto him many that werepossessed with devils: and he cast outthe spirits with his word, and healed allthat were sick: THAT IT MIGHT BEFULFILLED which was spoken by Esaiasthe prophet, saying, Himself took our

infirmities, and bare our sicknesses"(Matt 8:16-17). As our iniquities werelaid upon Christ when He died, so thediseases He healed were, so to speak,laid upon Him as He went about doinggood. They, of course, had no powerover Him, for disease is sister of death,and Jesus was in no sense “dead” untilHe dismissed His spirit while on thecross (Matt 27:50; Mk 15:37; Lk23:46).

INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE SICKThe Scriptures do tell us what to

do if any are sick among us. Theirwords are not for the infirm to confessthey are healed. Rather, James wrotewith remarkable clarity: “Is any sickamong you? let him call for the elders ofthe church; and let them pray over him,anointing him with oil in the name ofthe Lord: And the prayer of faith shallsave the sick, and the Lord shall raisehim up; and if he have committed sins,they shall be forgiven him" (James5:15). The suggestion is that somesicknesses are the direct result of sin –as in First Corinthians 11:30). In thistext, the sick being raised up iscontingent upon “the prayer of faith,”not an mere procedure.

GO YOUR WAY AND TELL JOHN“ . . . Then Jesus answering said

unto them, Go your way, and tell Johnwhat things ye have seen and heard;how that the blind see, the lame walk,the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear,the dead are raised, to the poor thegospel is preached.”

In my judgment there was at leasta sevenfold impact realized here.

- First: God was glorified by the worksJesus was doing.

- Second: Jesus found innernourishment by doing the will ofGod, which was His “meat” (John4:34).

- Third: There was a confirmation thatthe Kingdom of God had come (Matt12:28).

- Fourth: A decisive blow wasministered to the kingdom of

A person’s wisdom and authority can bemeasured by how quickly they are able torespond to an urgent appeal. Those who haveto make extensive plans are generally neitherwise nor authoritative.



darkness (Acts 10;38).

- Fifth: Jesus had confirmed who Hewas to the multitudes among whomHe was then ministering, God being“with Him” (Acts 10:38).

- Sixth: John would be comforted bythe report of the working of Jesus,the One for whom he had preparedthe people.

- Seventh: John’s disciples wouldhave what they saw more firmlyestablished in their minds as theyreported it.

MATTHEW’S REPORTMatthew reports Jesus saying, "Go

and show John AGAIN those thingswhich ye do hear and see" (Matt 11:4-6).

John’s disciples had already beenreporting to John, as is stated in verses17-18: "And this rumor of Him wentforth throughout all Judaea, andthroughout all the region round about. And the disciples of John showed himof all these things." I gather that the“again” relates to that fact.

There is another reference toreports that given to John: "And they

came unto John, and said unto him,Rabbi, He that was with thee beyondJordan, to whom thou barest witness,behold, the same baptizeth, and all mencome to him" (John 3:26). At that timeJohn responded, "John answered andsaid, A man can receive nothing, exceptit be given him from heaven Yeyourselves bear me witness, that I said,I am not the Christ, but that I am sentbefore him. He that hath the bride is thebridegroom: but the friend of thebridegroom, which standeth andheareth him, rejoiceth greatly becauseof the bridegroom's voice: this my joytherefore is fulfilled" (John 3:27-29).

BLESSED IS HE, WHOEVER IS NOT OFFENDED IN ME

“ 23 And blessed is he, whosoevershall not be offended in Me.”

BLESSED IS HE“And blessed is he . . .”

Other versions read, “blessed is theman,” NIV “blessed is anyone,” NIV "Happyis anyone," CEB "God blesses those," NLT

“is truly happy,” IE “blessed (happy—withlife-joy and satisfaction in God’s favor andsalvation, apart from outwardconditions—and to be envied).’ AMPLIFIED

The word translated “blessed”[makarios] has the following lexicalmeaning: “blessed, happy,” THAYER

“transcendent happiness or religious joyblessed, happy,” FRIBERG “pertaining to beinghappy, with the implication of enjoyingfavorable circumstances,” LOUW-NIDA and“blessed, fortunate, happy usually in thesense of privileged recipient of divinefavor.” GINGRICH

McClintock & Strong’s Cyclopediagives the following comment: “When Godblesses, he bestows that virtue, that efficacy,which' renders his blessing effectual, andwhich his blessing expresses. His blessings areeither temporal or spiritual, bodily or mental;but in every thing they are productive of thatwhich they import. God's blessings extend intothe future life, as his people are madepartakers of that blessedness which, in infinitefulness, dwells in himself.”

Easton Bible Dictionary says, “Godblesses his people when he bestows onthem some gift temporal or spiritual.”

Smith’s Bible Dictionary says,“Favors or benefits specially given byGod.”

Other lexicons and dictionaries do notadd to these purported definitions – allof which I find wholly unsatisfactory, sofar as academics are concerned.

I will attempt to define what Iunderstand Jesus to have meant whenHe said “Blessed is he.”

- That God will look with favor uponsuch a person.

- That needed provisions will begranted that will assist the person tolive in this world, preparing for theworld to come.

- That special protection and care willbe provided that will allow theperson to serve the Lord.

- That blessing will not be permittedto work with such a person at will.

- That all things will be workedtogether for the good of such aperson.

- That a special joy and peace will beenjoyed by the individual.

- That satisfying insight andunderstanding will be ministered tothe person.

You can probably see that it isexceedingly difficult to explain the stateof blessedness. That is simply becauseit is intended to be experienced, notmerely explained.

You can probably see that it is exceedinglydifficult to explain the state of blessedness.That is simply because it is intended to beexperienced, not merely explained.



WHOSOEVER“ . . . whosoever . . .”

Other versions read, “anyone,”NRSV "the one" ESV “the man, NIB

"whoever," YLT “the person,” IE and“every one.” WEYMOUTH

As described, “whosoever” doesnot apply to everyone, but only to thoseJesus now describes. Any one andevery one who properly falls into thiscategory will surely be blessed.

NOT OFFENDED IN ME“...shall not be offended in Me.”

Other versions read, “not offendedbecause of Me,” NKJV “keeps fromstumbling over Me,” NASB “does not fallaway on account of Me,” NIV “takes nooffense at Me,” NRSV "shall find nooccasion of stumbling in me," ASV "hasno doubts about me," BBE "not offendedby me," ESV "does not find me a causeof falling," NJB "do not turn awaybecause of me," NLT “finds nothing thatrepels him in me,” GOODSPEED and “whotakes no offense in Me and who is nothurt or resentful or annoyed or repelledor made to stumble [whatever mayoccur].” AMPLIFIED

The word translated “offended”[skandalizo] means, “to put a stumbling-block or impediment in the way, upon whichanother may trip and fall; to cause a person tobegin to distrust and desert one whom heought to trust and obey; to cause one to judgeunfavorably or unjustly of another,” THAYER “astaking offense at Jesus or refusing to believein him be offended,” FRIBERG “to cause someone tono longer believe - 'to cause to give upbelieving, to make someone no longer believe,”LOUW-NIDA and “be led into sin or repelled bysomeone, take offense at someone.” GINGRICH

Let it be clear that Jesus is notonly a Foundation, but a StumblingBlock as well. It is written, “Unto youtherefore which believe He is precious:but unto them which be disobedient,the stone which the builders disallowed,the same is made the head of thecorner, AND A STONE OF STUMBLING,and a rock of offence, even to themwhich stumble at the word, beingdisobedient: whereunto also they were

appointed" (1 Pet 2:7-8).

The person who is “offended” isthe person who is eliminated by therequirements Jesus gives.

Let it be clear to all, you cannothave Jesus without the cross. BothJesus and His cross are stumblingblocks.

- JESUS: "Unto you therefore whichbelieve He is precious: but untothem which be disobedient, theStone which the builders disallowed,the same is made the Head of thecorner, And a stone of stumbling,and a rock of offence, even to themwhich stumble at the word, beingdisobedient: whereunto also theywere appointed." (1 Pet 2:7-8).

- THE CROSS: "But we preach Christcrucified, unto the Jews astumblingblock, and unto the Greeksfoolishness" (1 Cor 1:23).

In my opinion, this word has notbeen taken seriously by the nominalchurch – in fact, it is rarely declaredverbally or in writing. We do thank Godfor those noble proclaimers who are notafraid to quote Jesus instead ofphilosophers!

Here is a sampling of some ofJesus’ eliminating statements. These

are either sayings to build upon, or tostumble on – on one must take place!

- "And said, Verily I say unto you,Except ye be converted, and becomeas little children, ye shall not enterinto the kingdom of heaven." (Matt18:3)

- "I tell you, Nay: but, except yerepent, ye shall all likewise perish." (Luke 13:3,5)

- "Then Jesus said unto them, Verily,verily, I say unto you, Except ye eatthe flesh of the Son of man, anddrink His blood, ye have no life inyou." (John 6:53)

- "Abide in Me, and I in you. As thebranch cannot bear fruit of itself,except it abide in the vine; no morecan ye, except ye abide in Me." (John 15:4)

- "Jesus answered and said unto him,Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Excepta man be born again, he cannot seethe kingdom of God." (John 3:3,5)

- "If any man come to Me, and hatenot his father, and mother, and wife,and children, and brethren, andsisters, yea, and his own life also,he cannot be My disciple." (Luke14:26)

- "And whosoever doth not bear hiscross, and come after Me, cannot beMy disciple." (Luke 14:27)

- "So likewise, whosoever he be ofyou that forsaketh not all that hehath, he cannot be My disciple." (Luke 14:33)

Whoever refuses to embrace thosesayings and act upon them, has been“offended” by Christ. There is not theslightest chance that anyone doing thiscan, while in that refusal-posture, beblessed in the sense of this text.

Whoever sees Jesus as thethorough Provider, the ultimateTeacher, and the Divine remedy for allthat was caused by sin, is the personwho will be blessed. It is that individual



who will take every word of Jesusseriously. He will not balk at it, orstumble over His requirements.

There is a great deficiency in ourtime of in the matter of comprehendingthe significance of “the cross of Christ”

(1 Cor 1:17; Gal 6:12; Phil 3:18). Thefact of being “crucified with Christ”(Gal 2:20) needs to be proclaimed.

HE BEGAN TO SPEAK TO THE PEOPLE CONCERNING JOHN

“ 24 And when the messengers ofJohn were departed, He began to speakunto the people concerning John, Whatwent ye out into the wilderness for tosee? A reed shaken with the wind? 25

But what went ye out for to see? Aman clothed in soft raiment? Behold,they which are gorgeously apparelled,and live delicately, are in kings' courts.”

It is apparent that the messengersof John delivered their message in thepresence of the people who weregathered around Jesus. The people hadobviously witnessed the many miraclesHe wrought at that time.

WHEN THE MESSENGERS OF JOHNWERE DEPARTED

“And when the messengers ofJohn were departed . . .”

Behold their instant obedience.Jesus had said to them, "Go your way,and tell John what things ye have seenand heard" (Luke 7:22). They instantlyreturned to John, just as Jesus had toldthem to do. Among other things, thatmakes known the caliber of disciplesthat were followers of John the Baptist.John had declared the truth, and thetruth never produces lethargic disciples,or those who are slow to respond. Youwill find the same was true of thetwelve, who spent time with Jesus.They always did what they were told,when they were told to do it.

HE BEGAN TO SPEAK TO THE PEOPLECONCERNING JOHN

“ . . . He began to speak unto thepeople concerning John . . .”

How many individuals werementioned by Jesus when He taughtthe people? Here are some of them:

- Noah (Matt 24:3739)- Abraham (John 8:56-58)

- Isaac and Jacob (Matt 22:32)- Lot (Lk 17:28-29)- Moses (Matt 19:7-8)- David Matt 22:43-45)- Solomon (Matt 12:42)- Queen of the south [Sheba] (Mk

11:31)- Elijah (Lk 4:25)- Eliseus [Elisha] (Lk 4:27)- Isaiah (Matt 13:14-15)- Jonah (Matt 12:39-42)- Zechariah (Matt 23:35)

I do not believe Jesus gave thesea commendation as He did to John theBaptist. He spoke about John (Matt11:11-12,18; 17:13; 21:25,32; Lk16:16; John 5:33). When He heardJohn been thrown into [prison, “Hedeparted into Galilee” (Matt 4:12).WhenJohn was beheaded, Jesus “departedthence by ship into a desert placeapart” (Matt 14:10). He spoke of “thebaptism of John” (Matt 21:25)

You determine if this is the way

Jesus spoke about doubters. Is thishow the Lord referred to those whowere weak, who were not sure of whatGod had revealed to them. Judge foryourself!

WHAT DID YOU EXPECT – #1?“ . . . , What went ye out into the

wilderness for to see? A reed shaken

with the wind? . . .” Other versions read, “a reed

swayed by the wind,” NIV "a tall stemmoving in the wind?” BBE "A stalk blowingin the wind?” CEB "Reeds swaying in thebreeze?" CJB “weak as grass, moved byevery breath of wind?” LIVING

Is this how the Son of God wouldspeak about a once-strong person whowas now entertaining doubts? Is thereany example of Jesus commending aperson who was strong, but is nowweak? A person who once knew forsure, and now was not sure?

WHAT DID YOU EXPECT – #2?“ . . . But what went ye out for to

see? A man clothed in soft raiment?Behold, they which are gorgeouslyapparelled, and live delicately, are inkings' courts.”

Other versions read, "A mandressed in fine clothes? No, those whowear expensive clothes and indulge in

luxury are in palaces," NIV and “A mandressed up in soft garments? Behold,those who wear fine apparel and live inluxury are in the courts or palaces ofkings.” AMPLIFIED

Did the people go out to see animpressing looking man, arrayed inexpensive garments, and being served in

It is what John said and did that wassignificant, not what he looked like.Appearance was something about which thescribes and Pharisees had great concern (Lk20:46). But this is not the thing thatidentified John the Baptist.



the lap of luxury? That is the kind ofman you would expect to have doubts.If so, that certainly is not what theysaw! Instead, they saw a rugged lookingman wearing a camel’s hair garment,

girded with a leather belt, and eatinglocusts and wild honey. It is what Johnsaid and did that was significant, notwhat he looked like. Appearance wassomething about which the scribes and

Pharisees had great concern (Lk 20:46).But this is not the thing that identifiedJohn the Baptist. His ministry was thepoint, not his appearance, which wastotally unworldly.

WHAT WENT YE OUT TO SEE?

“ 26 But what went ye out for tosee? A prophet? Yea, I say unto you,and much more than a prophet. 27 Thisis he, of whom it is written, Behold, Isend My messenger before thy face,which shall prepare thy way beforethee.”

The Lord continues Hiscommendation of John the Baptist.

Remember, this is not how He spoke ofPeter when He began to sink in thestormy wave (Matt 14:31). He did notspeak in this way of the leading Apostleof the twelve when He denied Himthree times (Lk 22:61-62). He did notcommend Thomas, or speak in defenseof him when he refused to believe thetestimony of the other apostles (John20:27). If John was really doubtingwhether or not Jesus was the Christ, isthis really the way the Lord would

speak of him?

A PROPHET?“But what went ye out for to see?

A prophet? Yea, I say unto you, andmuch more than a prophet. . .”

Other versions read "moreexcellent than a prophet," DARBY "greaterthen a Prophet," GENEVA “John is even

more than a prophet,” IE “far more thana prophet.” WILLIAMS

Does anyone of sound mind reallythink this is the way Jesus speaks of adoubter, or one who is weak in thefaith? To Peter He said, “O thou of littlefaith, where didst thou doubt” (Matt14:31). To the two on the road toEmmaus He said, “O fools, and slow ofheart to believe all that the prophetshave spoken" (Luke 24:25). To Thomas

He said, “Be not faithless, butbelieving” (John 20:27).

Jesus did not say to either Peteror Thomas, “Thou art an apostle!” Whywould He say John was “greater than aprophet” if he was now wonderingwhether or not Jesus of Nazareth wasthe Messiah. This kind of reasoning ispygmy thinking. It disgraces John theBaptist, and misrepresents Christ Jesus.It really makes no difference whomakes such statements. On thatmatter, they have not thought properly.

Now, Jesus will speak of John asbeing much greater than a prophet.

THIS IS HE“ . . . This IS he, of whom it is

written, Behold, I send My messengerbefore thy face, which shall prepare thyway before thee.”

Jesus does not say that John“was” God’s appointed messenger, butthat this is what he “IS.” This is not anacademic assessment, but a Divineappraisal. Is there really any chancethat it is incorrect? John IS a particularProphet with a unique privilege.

THE GREATEST AND THE LEAST

“ 28 For I say unto you, Amongthose that are born of women there isnot a greater prophet than John theBaptist: but he that is least in thekingdom of God is greater than he. 29

And all the people that heard him, andthe publicans, justified God, beingbaptized with the baptism of John. 30

But the Pharisees and lawyers rejectedthe counsel of God against themselves,

being not baptized of him.”

NOT A GREAT PROPHET THAN JOHNTHE BAPTIST

“For I say unto you, Among thosethat are born of women there is not agreater prophet than John the Baptist...”

This is a remarkable statementthat include all of the prophets that

were born up to the time of John.

John the Baptist occupied aposition between that of a prophet, andthe promised Messiah Himself. Thatmade him greater than a prophet, butlesser than the Christ. He announcedthe coming Christ, baptized Him, andconfirmed His identify to the people.That made him greater than any of the

Does anyone of sound mind really think thisis the way Jesus speaks of a doubter, or onewho is weak in the faith?



prophets before him – none of whomknew who the Messiah was, or whenHe would appear. Therefore Peterwrote, “Of which salvation the prophetshave inquired and searched diligently,who prophesied of the grace that shouldcome unto you: searching what [personNASB], or what manner of time the Spiritof Christ which was in them did signify,when it testified beforehand thesufferings of Christ, and the glory thatshould follow. Unto whom it wasrevealed, that not unto themselves, butunto us they did minister the things,which are now reported unto you bythem that have preached the gospel untoyou with the Holy Ghost sent down fromheaven; which things the angels desireto look into." (1 Pet 1:10-12).

All of the holy prophets of old hadto take a back seat to John the Baptist.Their prophecies were not fully clarifieduntil after Jesus rose from the dead andwent back ro heaven.

This means that it is moresignificant to know the specific identityof the Christ, than to be privileged toprophesy of the coming of Christ, whilenot knowing who He is, or when He willcome. It seems to me that this is aperspective that must be maintained bythe saved.

The epistles written to specificindividual believers and churchesfrequently refer to the “prophets.”

- The Gospel is the one that waspromised by the prophets (Rom 1:2).

- The righteousness imputed tobelievers was witnessed to by theprophets (Rom 3:21).

- The manifestation of the Gospel ismade known by the “Scriptures ofthe prophets” (Rom 16:26).

- God spoke in sundry times anddivers manners in times past “untothe fathers by the prophets” (Heb1:1).

- The prophets are mentioned in theeleventh chapter of Hebrews as anexhibit of true faith (Heb 11:32).

- The prophets are cited as anexample of “example of suffering,and of patience” (James 5:10).

- The prophets “prophesied of thegrace that should come to” us (1 Pet1:10).

- We are to be mindful of “the wordswhich were spoken before by theholy prophets” (2 Pet 3:2).

- The “mystery of God” will be“finished, as He hath declared to Hisservants the prophets” (Rev 10:7).

- God is going to give reward to Hisservants the prophets (Rev 11:18).

Let no one imagine that the holyprophets can be despised by ignoringtheir writings or neglecting theirministry! Notwithstanding, of theprophets prior to Jesus’ exaltation,John stands as number one.

HE THAT IS LEAST IN THE KINGDOM“ . . . but he that is least in the

kingdom of God is greater than he...”

Here is a declaration worthy ofmuch consideration: “but he that isinferior [to the other citizens] in thekingdom of God is greater [inincomparable privilege] than he” [Johnthe Baptist] AMPLIFIED

Historically, as far back as, andincluding, Chrysostom, Augustine,Hilary, and Theophylact, theologianshave had great difficulty with this text.Some thought Jesus was speaking ofhimself being “least” in age. Othersthought the reference was “the apostles

of Christ, and the least among them, whowere then the kingdom of heaven.” JOHN GILL

I respectfully reject these views.

First, both John and Jesuspreached the Kingdom of God was “athand” (Matt 4:17; Mk 1:15). Jesus sentout His disciples, telling them “Preach,saying The kingdom of heaven is athand” (Matt 10:7). Jesus Himself toldthe people, “The kingdom of God iscome nigh unto you” (Lk 10:9,11). Andagain, "But if I with the finger of Godcast out devils, no doubt the kingdomof God is come upon you” (Lk 11:20).This, however, by no means equates tothe people themselves being “in thekingdom of God.” No one had yet been“translated . . into the kingdom of Hisdear Son” (Col 1:13). In fact, the Kinghad not yet been given the Kingdom(Dan 7:14).

It appears that from the very first,men had difficulty distinguishing theFirst and Second covenants from eachother. Historically, some have thoughtthe New Covenant was an extension ofthe Old Covenant, and that somehowthey were blended. But this cannot be

true, for the New would not then be“New,” and the “Old” would not havebeen “ready to vanish away” (Heb8:13).

When John wrote the Revelation,still remaining in the world, he affirmed,"I John, who also am your brother, andcompanion in tribulation, and in thekingdom and patience of Jesus" (Rev1:9).

It must be remembered that theera of the New Covenant, the new

It must be remembered that the era of the NewCovenant, the new birth, and translation into theKingdom did not commence until Jesus had died,been buried, raised from the dead, ascended intoheaven given a kingdom, and seated at the righthand of the “Majesty on high”



birth, and translation into the Kingdomdid not commence until Jesus had died,been buried, raised from the dead,ascended into heaven given a kingdom,and seated at the right hand of the“Majesty on high” (Heb 1:3).

No son of Adam was “in theKingdom,” “added to the Lord” (Acts5:14), or “born again” (1 Pet 1:23) priorto that. Without an enthroned Christ,those things were not possible.

The person who is “the least inthe kingdom of God,” is not someonewith the least value, being the leastprecious to the Lord. Rather, this is theindividual who is least advanced, moreof a novice, or a beginner – someonewho has just been born again. They arenot qualified to teach, or to lead. Theyare a “babe” (1 Cor 3:1), or a “novice”(1 Tim 3:6), or a “child” who has notyet grown up into Christ in all things(Eph 4:15).

The thing that makes them“greater” than John the Baptist is notwho they are, but WHERE they are. If,as person to person, they are comparedto John, they would be like a midget,and John like a giant – but they wouldbe like a midget standing on amountain, while John was a giantstanding in a valley.

Because Jesus had not yet takenaway the sin of the world (John 1:29),destroyed the devil (Heb 2:14), andbeen exalted to the right hand of God(Eph 1:20-22), John did not haveaccess to “all spiritual blessings inheavenly places” (Eph 1:3). He had not

yet been given all things pertaining tolife and godliness (2 Pet 1:3). He, likethe most noble of our race beforeJesus, was not made perfect “withoutus” – or without the benefits that nowbelong to us (Heb 11:40).

It is not possible to adequatelystate how serious it is for spiritualgiants of the past (like Abraham, Noah,David, Daniel, etc) to tower abovepeople professing to be in Christ. Thosestalwarts looked forward to what wenow possess in Christ. It is tragicbeyond description, or even imaginativethinking, that such a high level ofmediocrity and inferior progress in theLord is found in the modern church.Whole bodies of theological systems ofthought have been developed to explainthe condition – but they have all fallento the ground. No man or woman ofGod should engage in an effort toexplain carnality in a professed believer.

JOHN WAS AN APPOINTED MEANS OFMEASURING MEN

“ . . . And all the people thatheard him, and the publicans, justifiedGod, being baptized with the baptism ofJohn. But the Pharisees and lawyersrejected the counsel of God againstthemselves, being not baptized of him.”

Because John was a prophet, andbecause he was especially prepared andsent by God, and faithfully spoke thetruth, men could be measured by theirresponse to what he said. This is amost remarkable circumstance. In fact,some will find it exceedingly difficult toaccept that such a privilege couldvouchsafed to a man. However, theSon of God Himself will affirm that thiswas the case. This will confirm that thetruth loses none of its potency when itis insightfully spoken by a man.

THOSE SUBMITTING TO JOHN’SBAPTISM

Observe, the persons whosubmitted to John’s baptism, whichwas a universal requirement. They“justified God, being baptized with thebaptism of John.”

Other versions read, “theyacknowledged God's justice,” NASB

“acknowledged that God’s way wasright,” NIV "when they had knowledge ofthese things, gave glory to God," BBE

"acknowledged God's way ofrighteousness," CSB "declared God just,"ESV "admitted that God was right," GWN

"acknowledged the righteousness ofGod," NAB "acknowledged God's savingjustice,” NJB "agreed that God's way wasright," NLT "declared God righteous," YLT

“agreed that God's requirements wereright,” LIVING “upheld the righteousness ofGod,” WEYMOUTH “vindicated the righteousr e q u i r e m e n t s , ” W I L L I A M S a n d“acknowledged the justice of God [incalling them to repentance and inpronouncing future wrath on theimpenitent].” AMPLIFIED

Their obedience did not vindicateJohn, but GOD! The rightness was notthe baptism, itself, but God’srequirement of it. By submitting toJohn’s baptism, they were confessingGod was right in demanding it – and itwas for “the remission of sins” (Mk1:4). To be ready for Jesus, this had tobe done.

THOSE NOT SUBMITTING TO JOHN’SBAPTISM

It is important to take note ofwhat the Spirit says about those whodid not submit to John’s baptism. Thismay be a sensitive subject, but we aredealing with heaven’s appraisal of the reaction of men to a Divine mandate,given through a man – a requirement.

"But the Pharisees and lawyersrejected the counsel of God againstthemselves, being not baptized of him" (Luke 7:30).

Other versions read, “rejected thewill of God for themselves,” NKJV

“rejected God’s purpose forthemselves,” NASB "the teachers of thelaw were against the purpose of God forthemselves," BBE "nullified for themselvesGod's plan," CJB "despised the counsel ofGod against themselves" DARBY "thecounsel of God did put away forthemselves,” YLT “rejected God's plan forthem and refused John's baptism,” LIVING

“frustrated God's purpose as to theirown lives,” WEYMOUTH “thwarted God'spurpose for themselves,” WILLIAMS “the



counsel of God discarded forthemselves,” ABP and “annulled andrejected and brought to nothing God’spurpose concerning themselves.” AMPLIFIED

To “reject the counsel of Godagainst themselves” means they wouldnot receive remission of sins – theimmediate benefit to be realized. Also,by rejecting what John required, theyforfeited the benefit of being ready forJesus.

Thus, they were placed in thecamp of the enemies of God, whichmeans God was against them–something that was confirmed by themanner in which both John and Jesusspoke to them.

- JOHN: "But when he saw many ofthe Pharisees and Sadducees cometo his baptism, he said unto them, Ogeneration of vipers, who hathwarned you to flee from the wrathto come? Bring forth therefore fruitsmeet for repentance: And think not

to say within yourselves, We haveAbraham to our father: for I say untoyou, that God is able of these stonesto raise up children unto Abraham.And now also the ax is laid unto theroot of the trees: therefore everytree which bringeth not forth goodfruit is hewn down, and cast intothe fire." (Matt 3:7-10).

- JESUS: "Woe unto you, scribes andPharisees, hypocrites! for yecompass sea and land to make oneproselyte, and when he is made, yemake him twofold more the child ofhell than yourselves . . . ye fools andblindguides . . . hypocrites . . . yeare the children of them that killedthe prophets . . . "Ye serpents, yegeneration of vipers, how can yeescape the damnation of hell?" (Mat23:13-15).

There you have the Divineperspective of those who ignoredsomeone sent by God to deliver amessage and carry out a baptism.

- John was filled with the Holy Spirit.

- He was commissioned by God.

- He was sent to baptize the penitent.

- The Pharisees and Lawyers rejectedJohn’s baptism.

- The benefits of John’s baptism werewithheld from them.

If this was true of John’s baptism,what of the baptism that is commandedto those coming to Christ (Matt 28:19;Mk 16:15-16; Acts 2:38; 10:48)? Howdare any mortal say that baptism intoChrist is not necessary, while John’swas? If it is optional, why did Petercommand those at the house ofCornelius to be baptized (Acts 10:48).What shall we say of such people? Thatthey are sincere? That they love God?That God will look upon them withfavor? May the Lord rebuke those whoask us to take such a foolish stand! Letevery person yield to the truth of God!

WHEREUNTO SHALL I LIKEN THIS GENERATION?

“ 31 And the Lord said, Whereuntothen shall I liken the men of thisgeneration? and to what are they like?32 They are like unto children sitting inthe marketplace, and calling one toanother, and saying, We have pipedunto you, and ye have not danced; wehave mourned to you, and ye have notwept.”

WHEREUNTO SHALL I LIKEN THISGENERATION?

“And the Lord said, Whereuntothen shall I liken the men of thisgeneration? and to what are they like?...”

Other versions read, “To whatthen shall I compare the men of thisgeneration,” NASB “the people of thisgeneration,” NRSV "how can I describethe people of this generation? What arethey like?" CJB "What comparison, then,can I find for the people of thisgeneration?" NJB “the men of this age,”WILLIAMS “What are you people like? What

kind of people are you?,” CEV “the peopleof this day,” GNB and “How can Idescribe the people who are livingnow?” GW

Even though all men are the same

at the root – sinners, coming short ofthe glory of God (Rom 3:23), alienatedfrom the life of God (Eph 4:18), andthose in whom Satan works (Eph 2:1-2), there are certain differences ingenerations and ages of time. There aresome periods when unusual mannersand decline occur. There are also some

when people are more, and less proneto war, and others when men are proneto peace. All generations are the same.

Now Jesus will address the kindof generation extant while He wentabout doing good.

LIKE CHILDREN IN THEMARKETPLACE

“ . . . They are like unto childrensitting in the marketplace, and callingone to another, and saying, We havepiped unto you, and ye have notdanced; we have mourned to you, andye have not wept.”

There are some periods when unusual manners anddecline occur. There are also some when people aremore, and less prone to war, and others when menare prone to peace. All generations are the same.



LIKE UNTO CHILDRENOther versions read, "little children,"

GENEVA/ISV/WILLIAMS/AMPLIFIED “a group ofchildren,” IE and “spoiled children” MESSAGE

The word translated “children”[paidion] does mean “a young child, alittle boy, a little girl, infants, children,little one,” THAYER “as a small child (young)child; figuratively; of undevelopedunderstanding childish person,” FRIBERG

“normally below the age of puberty,” LOUW-NIDA

and “very young child.” GINGRICH

Jesus is likening that generation toa group of small children with nounderstanding, and who are engrossedwith playing – immature and unlearned.It appears to me that this is an excellentdescription of our generation also – ag a m e - p l a y i n g , f u n - s e e k i n g ,entertainment-crazed generation. But,Jesus goes further.

CALLING ONE TO ANOTHEROther versions read, “calling out

to each other,” NIV "They complain totheir friends." NLT

Total non-productivity – justshouting back and forth seeking theirown will and airing their complaints. Tothem, life was more like a competitivegame than a quest for glory. Thatposture was an aggravation to the LordJesus, as this text confirms. He is notspeaking of an individual, but of acollection of individuals – a type ofpeople, a group with certaincharacteristics – a generation.

Keep in mind, Jesus is notspeaking merely of individuals, but ofan entire generation. He used the wordas Solomon did: "There is a generation

that curseth their father, and doth notbless their mother. There is a generationthat are pure in their own eyes, and yetis not washed from their filthiness.There is a generation, O how lofty aretheir eyes! and their eyelids are liftedup. There is a generation, whose teethare as swords, and their jaw teeth asknives, to devour the poor from off theearth, and the needy from among men" (Prov 30:11-14).

WE HAVE PIPED UNTO YOUOther versions read, “we played

the flute for you, and you did notdance,” NKJV "We made music for you,but you did not take part in the dance,"BBE "We made happy music, but youwouldn't dance!" CJB “You don't like it ifwe play wedding,” LIVING “We played thewedding march for you, but you did notdance,” WILLIAMS “We wanted to skip ropeand you were always too tired,” MESSAGE

and “We piped to you [playing wedding],and you did not dance.” AMPLIFIED

Paul referred to this kind ofactivity as people gathering teachers tothemselves to fulfill their own desires:“For the time will come when they willnot endure sound doctrine; but aftertheir own lusts shall they heap tothemselves teachers, having itchingears" (2 Tim 4:3). In this text, thepeople were discontent with Jesusbecause He was not addressing things“relevant” to them, and their corruptdesires. It was passingly interesting tosee Him and hear Him – but there wasnot enough interest to follow Him andgive heed to His words. That generationcontinues until this very day!

WE HAVE MOURNED UNTO YOU“ . . . we have mourned to you,

and ye have not wept.”Other versions read “we sang a

dirge, and you did not weep,” NASB “wewailed and you did not weep,” RSV "wegave cries of sorrow, but you were notsad,” BBE "We sang a funeral song andyou didn't cry," CEB "We sang a funeralsong, but you didn't cry," GWN “youdon't like it if we play funeral,” LIVING “Awoeful dirge we chanted, too, but thenyou did not mourn,” ISV and “we sangdirges and wailed [playing funeral], andyou did not weep.” AMPLIFIED

Jesus is not likening them topeople who wept like the widow ofNain (Lk 7:13), or like the woman withthe alabaster box (Lk 7:38), or Mary atthe passing of Lazarus (John 11:33), orthe Mary who wept at the tomb inwhich Jesus had been placed (John20:11). They were just playing, acting,pretending.

This was a generation that wantedJesus to enter into their charade. Theywere pretending to serve God, andwanted Jesus of Nazareth to blend inwith their pretensions. But He wouldnot to so, catering to that generation.

As I have said, this generation isstill with us, remaining in those who, intheir religion, settle for less then reality.Then, not content to come shortthemselves, they insist that others jointhem in their religious game. And if theydo not, they get angry, criticize, andpretend as though they were actuallyserious. As Jesus duly noted, they arelike little children who have neithercogent thoughts nor manners. This typeof religion has been popularized in ourtime, and is seemingly flourishing.Those who reject it are rare.

“HE HAS A DEMON” AND “BEHOLD A GLUTENOUS MAN”

“ 33 For John the Baptist cameneither eating bread nor drinking wine;and ye say, He hath a devil. 34 The Sonof man is come eating and drinking; andye say, Behold a gluttonous man, and awinebibber, a friend of publicans andsinners!”

THEIR ASSESSMENT OFJOHN THE BAPTIST

“For John the Baptist came neithereating bread nor drinking wine; and yesay, He hath a devil. . . ”

Other versions read, “he has a

demon,” NKJV "He has an evil spirit," BBE

"He is possessed," NJB "He's possessedby a demon," NLT and “For John theBaptist used to go without food andnever took a drop of liquor all his life,and you said, He must be crazy!” LIVING



Here were men who “make broadtheir phylacteries, and enlarge theborders of their garments" (Matt 23:5),and “desired to walk in long robes” (Lk20:46; 23:38). When they saw Johnthe Baptist, they saw a man with"raiment of camel's hair, and a leatherngirdle about his loins; and his meat waslocusts and wild honey" (Matt 3:4).They concluded he was a wild anduncultured man, possessed of a demon.

What an ignorant assessment!They were actually beholding a manfilled with the Holy Spirit, with adiscerning heart, and the word of Godin his mouth! It is not possible for apeople to be more wrong, moredeluded, more ignorant than them!

THEIR ASSESSMENT OF THE CHRIST“ . . . The Son of man is come

eating and drinking; and ye say, Beholda gluttonous man, and a winebibber, afriend of publicans and sinners!”

Matthew reports, "The Son ofman came eating and drinking, and theysay, Behold a man gluttonous, and awinebibber, a friend of publicans andsinners. But wisdom is justified of herchildren" (Matt 11:19).

Their view of Christ was evenmore wrong than their view of John theBaptist. It also revealed their utterhypocrisy, not to mention their totallack of perception.

Rather than being noted forfasting, Jesus attended and participatedin feasts (Lk 5:29-30; John 2:1-11).Many people affirm that at these feasts,particularly the one prepared byMatthew, Jesus drank hard liquor, orwine. The Scriptures do not say this, and neither should men! These wordsare not a factual report, but are theassessment of the enemies of Jesus.

Were any of these charges true?- John the Baptist had a “demon.”

- Jesus was “glutenous.”

- Jesus was a “winebibber.”

- Jesus was “a friend of publicans andsinners.”

Does the record God has given ofHis Son (1 John 5:10-11) set theseforth as proper presentations of theLord Jesus? Where did Jesus say Hewas a “Friend” to anyone? Rather, did

He not clearly say, "Ye are My friends,if ye do whatsoever I command you." (John 15:14). Jesus is never depictedby the Holy Spirit as a “Friend.” He isLord, Savior, Master, Teacher – butnever “Friend.” The saved are the oneswho are the “friends.” Jesus is the Kingand the Head of the house.

As for myself, I do not feelcomfortable thinking of Jesus as thosewho were His avowed enemies did. Icannot accept their appraisal of theLord of glory as in any way being valid.The record God has given concerning

His Son is not delivered by His Son’senemies.

Further, Jesus was certainly notcommending them, either in part or inwhole, for how they assessed Him andspoke of Him. If they had spoken thetruth, He would have said so – as Hedid to the woman at the well (John4:18).

WISDOM IS JUSTIFIED OF HER CHILDREN

“ 35 But wisdom is justified of allher children." (Also Matthew 11:18).

Other versions read, "But wisdomis justified by all her children,” NKJV "Yetwisdom is vindicated by all herchildren,” NASB "But wisdom is provedright by all her children,” NIV "Butwisdom is judged to be right by all herchildren," BBE "Well, the proof of wisdomis in all the kinds of people it produces"CJB "proved right by all its results," GWN

"is shown to be right by the lives of

those who follow it," NLT "was justifiedfrom all her children," YLT “I am sure youc a n a l w a y s j u s t i f y y o u rinconsistencies,” LIVING “is shown to beright by all the things it does,” IE “isjustified by all who are truly wise,”WEYMOUTH “Absolved from every act ofsin, is wisdom by her kith [friends] andkin,” ISV “Opinion polls don't count formuch, do they? The proof of thepudding is in the eating,” MESSAGE and“shown to be true and divine) by all herchildren [by their life, character, and

deeds].” AMPLIFIED

Once again I want to emphasizethat the remarkable variances in thetranslations confirm the key tounderstanding the Scripture is not foundin knowing the “original Greek text.” Ifthat erroneous postulate was true, thenversions that were created from theGreek text would at least be similar. Ifbuilders all use the same kind of ruler,and were all building the same sizestructure, their blueprints of the size of

I cannot accept their appraisal of the Lord ofglory as in any way being valid. Further,Jesus was certainly not commending them,either in part or in whole, for how theyassessed Him and spoke of Him.



the structure they were building wouldall be the same.

The point is this: “wisdom,” theincarnation of which is Jesus Himself (1Cor 1:24,30), is proved valid by what itaccomplishes. The Pharisees gaveimproper assessments of both John theBaptist and Jesus. However, the resultsthat were produced by these men, with

Jesus being the primary One, confirmedthey were sent by God. The results ofthe Pharisees, on the other hand,confirmed that were not sent by God.

In an academic society, such asthe one in which we live, this saying israrely, if ever, uttered. But it certainly issomething to be seriously considered.The religious landscape is cluttered withpretenders, false teachers, and thosewho are continually overcome by sin.All of these are the direct result offeigned wisdom. They are the fruit offalse teachers and erroneous ideas.What we have in contemporary“Christianity” is the result of doctrine,or teaching – things that have beenpromulgated by men that were not“sent” from God (Rom 10:15), or“given to every man” (1 Cor 3:5). Theyhave come from the camp of theenemy.

BY THEIR FRUITJesus said, "Ye shall know them

by their fruits. Do men gather grapes ofthorns, or figs of thistles? Even soevery good tree bringeth forth goodfruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth

evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forthevil fruit, neither can a corrupt treebring forth good fruit. Every tree thatbringeth not forth good fruit is hewndown, and cast into the fire. Whereforeby their fruits ye shall know them." (Matt 7:16-20).

What do men produce? What doestheir doctrine produce? Is it the same as

the Spirit has revealed about whattakes place in those belonging toChrist? – those who have believed andobeyed the Gospel?

- EVIDENCE OF BEING OF GOD. Jesussaid, "He that is of God hearethGod's words: ye therefore hear themnot, because ye are not of God."(John 8:47).

- EVIDENCE OF THE NEW BIRTH. He thatis “born of God,” or is “begotten ofGod,” does righteousness; doth notcommit sin; loves; loves thosebegotten of God; overcomes theworld; and keeps himself. (1 John2:29; 3:9; 4:7; 5:1,4,18)

- EVIDENCE OF BEING CREATED ANEW.Men are “created in Christ Jesus” inorder to do good works, which Godhas before ordained that we shouldwalk in them (Eph 2:10).

- EVIDENCE OF HAVING SALVATION. Thesame grace that brings salvation isteaching those who receive it “thatdenying ungodliness and worldlylusts, we should live soberly,righteously, and godly, in this

present world, Looking for thatblessed hope, and the gloriousappearing of the great God and ourSavior Jesus Christ" (Tit 2:11-13).

- EVIDENCE OF BEING IN CHRIST."Therefore if any man be in Christ,he is a new creature: old things arepassed away; behold, all things arebecome new” (2 Cor 5:17).

- EVIDENCE OF BELONGING TO CHRIST."And they that are Christ's havecrucified the flesh with theaffections and lusts" (Gal 5:24).

We are told, "Beloved, believe notevery spirit, but try the spirits whetherthey are of God: because many falseprophets are gone out into the world." (1 John 4:1). The fundamental way oftesting the spirits is to examine thepeople-fruit that they, their teaching,and their emphasis has produced. Jesusmade it clear: "A good tree cannot bringforth evil fruit, neither can a corrupttree bring forth good fruit" (Matt 7:18).Once you have discerned what a “tree”has produced, you know the sourcethat planted and is nourishing that tree.It is then your responsibility to respondaccordingly, not treating corruptteachers as though they were good.

One complication that exists in ourtime is that the mega-church mentalityhas conveniently obscured the kind ofpeople that are being produced by theseimpressive organizations. The thrustappears to be placed on the institutionitself, and numbers alone seem to beadequate proof that God, Jesus, andthe Holy Spirit are in the work. Butnumbers are not enough – in fact, theyare often cited in Scripture as evidenceof falsity, not truth: "For many shallcome in my name, saying, I am Christ;and shall deceive MANY" (Matt 24:5);"And many false prophets shall rise,and shall deceive MANY" (Matt 24:11);“But there were false prophets alsoamong the people, even as there shallbe false teachers among you, whoprivily shall bring in damnable heresies,even denying the Lord that boughtthem, and bring upon themselves swiftdestruction. And MANY shall followtheir pernicious ways; by reason of

The religious landscape is cluttered with pretenders,false teachers, and those who are continuallyovercome by sin. All of these are the direct result offeigned wisdom. They are the fruit of false teachersand erroneous ideas. What we have in contemporary“Christianity” is the result of doctrine, or teaching– things that have been promulgated by men thatwere not “sent” from God



Our next Hungry Saints Meeting will be held on Friday, 10/16/15. In our next lesson, we will continue our series inthe Gospel of Luke. The twenty-sixth lesson will cover verses 36 thru 50 of chapter 7: “JESUS INVITED BY APHARISEE, AND THE WOMAN WHO ANOINTED HIS FEET.” A certain Pharisee invited Jesus to his house, and whilethere a woman of ill-fame washes His feet with her tears, and anoints them with ointment. The Pharisee criticizesJesus in his heart, and Jesus responds with a scathing rebuke. Our meeting will begin at 7:00 P.M. You are invitedto bring your family and friends for fellowship around the Word of God. Refreshments are served afterward, with atime of extended fellowship for everyone.

whom the way of truth shall be evilspoken of" (2 Pet 2:1-2).

OUR LIVES MUST MATCH OUR CLAIMSIn a fragmented religious culture,

it is imperative those with superiorclaims have lives that match them. Ifwe preach a Gospel that speaks ofregeneration, then that regenerationmust be reflected in our lives. If wemake much of grace, then much of

what grace does is to be seen in ourlives. If we accent the truth andnecessity of faith, then our lives musttestify to the effects of that faith. Ifwe affirm the sovereignty andunquestioned rule of God and Christ,then our lives must display how peoplewho are subjected to that Sovereigntylive – how we react to crisis,deprivation, abundance, hostility,civility, temptation, opportunities to do

good, etc. In this manner, wisdom will be

justified in her children. What the truthaffirms will be confirmed when it isfleshed out in holy living by those whohave received it. A disobedient,lukewarm, ignorant church has not beenliving by every word of God (Lk 4:4)!TheG3 teaching to which such a body hasbeen subjected is not liberating truth.


a ministry for hungry saintswotruth.com/commentaries-new/luke/luke-025a.pdf · him that jesus of...

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