July 20

Luke 10:17-24 (Click to see scripture)

Bible in One Year Passages:

Journal Entry

Scripture

20 Nevertheless, do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.”
…
23 Then turning to the disciples he said privately, “Blessed are the eyes that see what you see! 24 For I tell you that many prophets and kings desired to see what you see, and did not see it, and to hear what you hear, and did not hear it.”

Observation

After teaching about the high “cost” of following Jesus, Jesus appointed and sent out the 72. The 72 returned rejoicing having experienced first-hand what it means to obey. Although unclear from these words, it may have been the same command he gave to the 12 disciples in Chapter 9:1-3 – “ sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal.” Specifically, the 72 experienced that demons were subject to them in Jesus’ name. Yet, Jesus reminds them that they should not rejoice in this (that demons are subject to them), but because they were saved. They were blessed because they had seen and heard directly from the Messiah.

Application

God’s strategy and plan of redemption has not changed. Jesus must be proclaimed. Unless we, as believers are “seen” and “heard” how will “others” come to believe? If “others” do not see Jesus in us, what do they see and how are they impacted, if at all. The harvest is truly great, but the workers are few. I am reminded of these words:

"To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ. 29 For this I toil, struggling with all his energy that he powerfully works within me." (Colosians 1:27-29)

"How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard?[c] And how are they to hear without someone preaching? 15And how are they to preach unless they are sent?" (Romans 10:14-15.)

Prayer

Lord, help me to proclaim Jesus in all places and at all times. Help me to present everyone mature in Christ; my wife, my children, my co-workers, my friends, my neighbors; knowing it is your energy and power which sustains me. Thank you Lord for Your Holy Spirit and Your Son.

--jyim