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This week we conclude our discussion of chapter 22 of Luke’s Gospel. Please read verses 63-71 and Chapter 23:1-3 every day this week and, if possible, use a different translation each day, asking God to open your eyes to fresh revelation from His Word.
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Luke 22:63-65 (New International Version – NIV)
‘The men who were guarding Jesus began mocking and beating him. They blindfolded him and demanded, “Prophesy! Who hit you?” And they said many other insulting things to him.’
I have been working for the same employer for almost 20 years and during that time, I have met some incredible and diverse characters. Recently, my senior manager moved to a different position within the company and I have to say that I was very saddened by his decision to go. He was a great manager and I will really miss him. Other people haven’t had the same kind of effect on me!
There was one lady who seemingly couldn’t cope if the conversation was about anything other than her. It didn’t matter what was being discussed, she would always find a way to steer the conversation toward herself and to what she was doing. I really believe that for some reason, she thought that the whole world revolved around her. She always had to be the focus of attention and was never content unless other people were looking at her and listening to her. The really sad part is that she didn’t have anything of real value to talk about and people would do all they could to avoid spending time with her.
Luke’s gospel is almost unique in that he records so few details about what was happening to Jesus during these last few days. He records at great length the denials of Peter and of the torment that he was going through and yet barely records a sentence describing the ‘insults’ thrown at the Saviour. Everyone else seems to be the centre of attention and so little is spoken of Jesus. It’s almost as if Jesus has been ‘backstage’ but now Luke is going to throw some light in His direction. Unlike my work colleague, Jesus really should be centre stage but Luke chooses not to give us much detail. I really don’t know why that is the case, but we know from the other gospels that the torture, pain and agony that Jesus went through was absolutely horrific and barbaric. Perhaps Luke, as a doctor, couldn’t bear to think about what Jesus was suffering.
Even before we get to the beatings of the soldiers, here we see the religious people resorting to sadistic and brutal behaviour. These men were the so-called venerable pillars of Jewish society but we are now seeing the true character of the men that were providing religious examples. We can’t say for sure who was doing the beating but even if the servants of the priests were involved, we know that the priest were in attendance and stood back as the perfect, sinless Son of God was subjected to inhumane and despicable actions.
Having said all of that, it is very difficult for any of us to stand in judgment over these men. I believe in the complete depravity of human nature and that without saving grace, all of us could possibly stoop to such behaviour. At the beginning of this week, may our hearts be full of gratitude for the “Amazing Grace that saved a wretch like me”.
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