Luke 4:14-30: The shadow of the cross.(please click here for todays passage)

David Pawson, preaching about Pentecost (Acts 2) noted that when a house is on fire you don’t have any publicity problems. The fire advertises itself. People come to see what is happening. As we begin today’s reading I note in (14) that Spirit-filled Christianity carries its own in-built publicity. The Holy’s Spirit’s work is to glorify Jesus.

We read that Jesus ‘’went into the synagogue, as was his custom.’’ (16). Again, here are good habits of public devotion exemplified in God’s Son. ‘’The piety of Jesus’ parents continues in Jesus…’’ IVP Commentary.

What a role model Jesus is for every preacher. We have already seen Him as a Man of the Word. Here, in the synagogue in Nazareth, He takes God’s Word, reads it and them simply explains and applies it (16-21). Powerful preaching involves the opening up of the Bible by a Spirit-filled person. Jesus’ first ministry was to preach the gospel (18; see 15, 43 and 44.) But along with the Word you also see the works. There is an example of Him freeing a prisoner/releasing the oppressed in 33-35.

Verse 20 describes a good start from the congregation’s point of view, with every eye ‘’fastened’’ on Jesus. That is how to live, day by day and moment by moment. That’s how we need to be ‘in church’ and it’s a reminder to all who lead and preach to keep the focus on the Master.

How fickle people can be. How quickly, and even violently, public opinion can change (22-30). When the message bit; when they found it to be challenging and unpalatable, they became murderously angry (25 – 30). As was the case with Herod and Herodias and John the Baptist (3:19, 20), as soon as the message didn’t suit there was a hostile reaction. Surely this story ends with a miraculous escape. But from the beginning of His ministry Jesus walked in the shadow of the cross. It fell on Him here. We can see it clearly. But He could not die until it was God’s Time. Someone said, ‘’I am immortal until all the will of God for me is accomplished.’’

‘’Jesus’ synagogue declaration brings a moment of decision for those who hear his claims. A snapshot of his entire ministry flashes in this brief exchange. Jesus offers much, but the crowd questions what is on offer. In the tension of the contrast, Luke’s readers are left to choose sides.’’ IVP Commentary.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, I want to align myself with you – today, tomorrow and always.