We have been teaching our clients lately about establishing authority. It’s important in business for potential customers to see you as an authority, that is, knowing what you’re talking about. Here, the Pharisees are doubting the authority of Jesus. How crazy is that?! Granted, we know who Jesus is because we have the Bible.
When people question your authority or know-how, they aren’t very likely to listen to you. Think how much the Pharisees missed out on because they were not able to see what was right before them. It is a bit puzzling how the leaders with the most knowledge couldn’t see Jesus for who he was. They knew what they were looking for and expecting. They had access to all the Scriptures. Prophecies of old were likely passed down from generation to generation. Yet, their radars must have been turned off. Did God do that on purpose?
Whatever their “problem” was, it was clear they were refusing to listen to Jesus and recognize him as the ultimate authority. You can probably think of an example where you were told to listen to someone “in authority” but didn’t want to. Maybe it was a teacher you didn’t like, or a church leader who got under your skin, or even a pushy business owner selling something you needed. How did that work out for you?
Jesus was giving examples of sinful people repenting upon hearing a message from God. What message from God have you heard? Have you repented as did the people of Ninevah? Jesus’ wisdom is clearly given to us, we can listen or we can refuse to do so. What will happen to us if we refuse?
Jesus gives us an interesting picture of being filled with evil. We often talked about this in our recovery ministry. It is so true. If you are able to get yourself cleansed and renewed from a certain sinful behavior, that is quite a feat in itself. But it is important to keep yourself focused and distance yourself from the same temptations or sinful behaviors once you’re “cleaned up.” Why?
If you have ever relapsed into the behavior you once were able to overcome, you know that the behavior can be much worse the second and third time around. We can repent of any behavior, but we need to be on guard for it to return. If it does, it is likely to be so much worse than the first time. This is a truth Jesus reveals for us.
I love how Jesus talks to these religious leaders. He is trying to help them see. He is patient with them, yet direct. He exposes them without them realizing he has done it. But they are ego-driven and not at all impressed by Jesus. Or perhaps they are secretly impressed but can’t allow the others to see. Sadly, those who knew the most didn’t recognize Jesus for who he was.
How about you? Are you listening?
Let’s pray. Lord, forgive me when I lose my focus and don’t see or hear you trying to correct me. Open my ears so I can hear from you. Thank you for this path you’ve given me. Please bring the people to me who need to hear my message. Prepare their hearts to hear the message. Continue to work in me to groom me into the woman you want me to be. I am listening for your voice. In Jesus’ name.
