Jesus disappointed many (Mt. 8:34; Mk. 6:3; Lk. 4:28-29, Jn. 1:11).
Why Did The Jews Reject Jesus?
Because He did not meet their expectations. They had their minds made up before He came as to what kind of Messiah He would be. They had the mold ready and when He refused to fit into that mold they were greatly disappointed.
They had read the Old Testament prophesies of a coming king who would sit on David’s throne. They expected an earthly king. Even the disciples had a wrong conception of the kingdom after His resurrection, Acts 1. He made it clear to them He was not a rival to Caesar, even though they wanted that kind of king. They had pre-judged.
They rejected Him because He condemned their materialistic thinking and living. Jesus constantly minimized the material and emphasized the spiritual.
He was rejected by His fellows because He condemned the religious customs and traditions of His day. He was rejected because of his humble origin and simplicity. He was born in Bethlehem meaning, “The house of bread.” Jesus was just too plain, ordinary and humble for the Jews to accept and embrace as the long awaited Messiah.
Why Do Men Reject Him Today?
Because He demands sacrifice. Sacrifice of time, energy and self. Many will not call on the sick or visit the hospital and nursing homes. They won’t make the time to meet with the church when it meets. For some Sunday and Wednesday evening services are out of the question.
Because He expects the sacrifice of money. So many are in such financial debt they feel they cannot give until they get out of debt. When we refuse to give as we have prospered, we reject Christ.
Because He commands clean living. (Titus 2:11-12; Jas. 4:8), we must be pure in mind, (2 Pet. 3:1), in speech (Col. 3:8), in life (1 Tim. 5:22) and in religion (Jas. 1:27). Our Lord calls us to holiness (Mt. 5:48).
As Christians May We Never Become Guilty of Rejecting Jesus!
- via The Encourager, the weekly bulletin for the Calvert City Church of Christ, Calvert City, KY. Lance Cordle preaches for the congregation. He may be contacted through the congregation's website: http://www.calvertchurchofchrist.com
No comments:
Post a Comment