September 30, 2024
DAILY BIBLE READING – Luke Chapter 18
1 And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint;
2 Saying, There was in a city a judge, which feared not God, neither regarded man:
3 And there was a widow in that city; and she came unto him, saying, Avenge me of mine adversary.
4 And he would not for a while: but afterward he said within himself, Though I fear not God, nor regard man;
5 Yet because this widow troubleth me, I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me.
6 And the Lord said, Hear what the unjust judge saith.
7 And shall not God avenge his own elect, which cry day and night unto him, though he bear long with them?
8 I tell you that he will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?
9 And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others:
10 Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican.
11 The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican.
12 I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess.
13 And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner.
14 I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.
15 And they brought unto him also infants, that he would touch them: but when his disciples saw it, they rebuked them.
16 But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.
17 Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein.
18 And a certain ruler asked him, saying, Good Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?
19 And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? none is good, save one, that is, God.
20 Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Honour thy father and thy mother.
21 And he said, All these have I kept from my youth up.
22 Now when Jesus heard these things, he said unto him, Yet lackest thou one thing: sell all that thou hast, and distribute unto the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, follow me.
23 And when he heard this, he was very sorrowful: for he was very rich.
24 And when Jesus saw that he was very sorrowful, he said, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God!
25 For it is easier for a camel to go through a needle’s eye, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.
26 And they that heard it said, Who then can be saved?
27 And he said, The things which are impossible with men are possible with God.
28 Then Peter said, Lo, we have left all, and followed thee.
29 And he said unto them, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or parents, or brethren, or wife, or children, for the kingdom of God’s sake,
30 Who shall not receive manifold more in this present time, and in the world to come life everlasting.
31 Then he took unto him the twelve, and said unto them, Behold, we go up to Jerusalem, and all things that are written by the prophets concerning the Son of man shall be accomplished.
32 For he shall be delivered unto the Gentiles, and shall be mocked, and spitefully entreated, and spitted on:
33 And they shall scourge him, and put him to death: and the third day he shall rise again.
34 And they understood none of these things: and this saying was hid from them, neither knew they the things which were spoken.
35 And it came to pass, that as he was come nigh unto Jericho, a certain blind man sat by the way side begging:
36 And hearing the multitude pass by, he asked what it meant.
37 And they told him, that Jesus of Nazareth passeth by.
38 And he cried, saying, Jesus, thou son of David, have mercy on me.
39 And they which went before rebuked him, that he should hold his peace: but he cried so much the more, Thou son of David, have mercy on me.
40 And Jesus stood, and commanded him to be brought unto him: and when he was come near, he asked him,
41 Saying, What wilt thou that I shall do unto thee? And he said, Lord, that I may receive my sight.
42 And Jesus said unto him, Receive thy sight: thy faith hath saved thee.
43 And immediately he received his sight, and followed him, glorifying God: and all the people, when they saw it, gave praise unto God.
King James Version. Public Domain
Commentary
Introduction:
Luke chapter 18 is a collection of teachings and events from the life of Jesus that address central themes such as persistent prayer, humility, wealth, discipleship, and faith. Jesus employs parables, encounters, and miracles to convey profound spiritual principles that remain relevant today. The focus is on God’s mercy, righteous judgment, and faith that transforms hearts and lives.
Commentary:
The chapter begins with the parable of the persistent widow, which illustrates the necessity of steadfast prayer. The widow demonstrates that perseverance in prayer leads to an answer, even when it initially seems as though God is not acting. The comparison between the unjust judge and the righteous God underscores that God will always respond justly to His chosen ones when they call to Him in their distress.
The second parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector highlights the contrast between self-righteous arrogance and humble repentance. The tax collector, who is aware of his sins and seeks God’s mercy, is justified, while the Pharisee, who relies on his own good deeds, is not heard. This teaching emphasizes that humility and the acknowledgment of one’s own sinfulness are key to being justified before God.
Another important aspect of the chapter is Jesus’ encounter with the rich ruler who asks about eternal life. Although he keeps the commandments, Jesus challenges him to sell all he has and give to the poor. This reveals the danger of wealth, which can bind the heart and keep one away from the Kingdom of God. Jesus’ statement about the camel passing through the eye of a needle illustrates how difficult it is for those attached to riches to enter the Kingdom of God—but with God, all things are possible.
Finally, the story of the blind beggar in Jericho is recounted, who persistently calls out to Jesus despite being ignored by the crowd. His faith leads to healing, and he praises God, which moves the people to also praise God. This account demonstrates that faith and persistence lead to healing and redemption.
Summary:
Luke 18 teaches readers important principles of faith and discipleship. Through the parable of the persistent widow, the power of steadfast prayer is emphasized, while the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector shows that humility and repentance lead to righteousness. The story of the rich ruler and the eye of the needle highlights the danger of wealth, which can obstruct the path to eternal life. Finally, the power of faith is revealed through the healing of the blind beggar. Jesus calls for humility, faith, and discipleship, demonstrating that God’s mercy is available to all who seek Him wholeheartedly.
WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages
Chapter 66—Controversy
This chapter is based on Matthew 22:15-46; Mark 12:13-40; Luke 20:20-47
Read online here
Commentary
Introduction:
Chapter 66 describes the increasing confrontation between Jesus and the religious leaders of His time, based on the accounts in Matthew 22, Mark 12, and Luke 20. These confrontations illustrate the attempts by the Pharisees, Herodians, and Sadducees to embarrass and trap Jesus through cunning questions. Jesus meets these challenges with wisdom and authority and lays out fundamental principles for the relationship between humans and God and with secular authority.
Commentary:
In this chapter, the Pharisees and their allies attempt to trap Jesus with a question about tax obligations to the Roman emperor. Jesus exposes their hypocrisy and provides a profound answer: “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” He separates worldly duties from divine ones without diminishing loyalty to God. This demonstrates the duality of a believer’s responsibilities in the world.
Subsequently, the Sadducees attack by posing a question about the resurrection, which they themselves deny. Jesus’ response highlights the spiritual nature of eternal life and refutes their materialistic viewpoint. He emphasizes that different principles apply in the Kingdom of God than in earthly existence. The dispute clarifies the difference between outward ritual and true spiritual understanding.
Finally, a scribe asks Jesus a question about the greatest commandment in the law. Jesus summarizes God’s commandments into two: love for God and love for neighbor. This is the essence of the divine commandments, showing that all commandments are based on love. This statement highlights the inner core of the law and emphasizes that obedience can only truly be fulfilled through love.
Summary:
Chapter 66 depicts the conflicts between Jesus and the religious leaders who tried to bring Him down with deceitful questions. Jesus thwarts their plans with clear, wise answers that reveal deeper truths: the balance between secular and divine authority, the reality of the resurrection, and the essence of the divine commandments rooted in love for God and neighbor. At the end of these confrontations, the religious leaders are left speechless, while Jesus’ teachings continue to testify to truth and clarity.
WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages
Chapter 67—Woes on the Pharisees
This chapter is based on Matthew 23; Mark 12:41-44; Luke 20:45-47; Luke 21:1-4.
Read online here
Commentary
Introduction:
Chapter 67 describes Jesus’ final day, during which He teaches in the temple and delivers a powerful condemnation of the hypocrisy and sanctimony of the religious leaders. Jesus speaks bold words, denouncing the Pharisees and scribes for their false, selfish way of life in faith while simultaneously praising humility and true piety. The crowd observing Him is moved by His words, while the religious leaders are exposed and humiliated.
Commentary:
Jesus’ sharp words against the Pharisees and scribes emphasize their hypocrisy, abuse of power, and selfish motives. Although they appear outwardly pious and emphasize religious duties, they do not adhere to these rules themselves. Jesus condemns their love for titles, honors, and external recognition, highlighting true piety, which is demonstrated through humility, mercy, and service.
The episode of the poor widow who throws her last coins into the temple underscores the importance of selfless sacrifice. While the rich give out of their abundance, the widow gives all she has. This shows that God does not evaluate the material value of a sacrifice but the heart and intention behind it.
At the end, Jesus warns of the spiritual decline of the religious leadership, which will lead to the destruction of Jerusalem. His lament over Jerusalem reflects God’s deep sorrow over the obstinacy of His people, who reject His prophets and ultimately His Messiah.
Summary:
Chapter 67 reveals Jesus’ sharp criticism of the religious leaders of His time. He condemns their hypocrisy and abuse of power, making it clear that true greatness lies in serving and humility. The story of the poor widow demonstrates that God values the heart and willingness to sacrifice of His followers, while Jesus prophesies the impending judgment on Jerusalem. This chapter is a poignant call to inner repentance, genuine piety, and the fulfillment of God’s commandments with love and mercy.
Visited 13 times, 1 visit(s) today