Luke 7:24–30 (ESV)
Messengers from John the Baptist (Part 2)
24 When John’s messengers had gone, Jesus began to speak to the crowds concerning John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken by the wind? 25 What then did you go out to see? A man dressed in soft clothing? Behold,
those who are dressed in splendid clothing and live in luxury are in kings’ courts. 26 What then did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. 27 This is he of whom it is written,
“ ‘Behold, I send my messenger before your face,
who will prepare your way before you.’
28
I tell you, among those born of women none is greater than John. Yet the one who is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he.” 29 (When all the people heard this, and the tax collectors too, they declared God just, having been baptized with the
baptism of John, 30 but the Pharisees and the lawyers rejected the purpose of God for themselves, not having been baptized by him.)
In yesterday’s reading, Jesus answered the question of who He is
and is there a greater one to follow. He answered by fulfilling prophecy right before their eyes. His messengers have gone back to John to tell him what they saw. Jesus now addresses the crowd and asked them what did you expect to see?
He was speaking about John. He quotes Malachi 3:1 by saying “ ‘Behold, I send my messenger before your face, who will prepare your way before you.’” Notice the “I send my messenger”. Jesus is the “I”
and “my messenger” is John the Baptist. Jesus states the role of John by saying “28 I tell you, among those born of women none is greater than John. Yet the one who is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he.”
John is one of the greatest prophets. Unfortunately, like most prophets... he will be killed.
I pray: Lord, it is easy to get distracted by your workers. Help no one get so attached to a
preacher that they lose sight of Christ. Help us to always set our eyes on you and to walk according to your ways. Amen.