SCRIPTURE: Deuteronomy 18
OBSERVATION/APPLICATION:
“The nations you will dispossess listen to those who practice sorcery or divination. But as for you, the LORD your God has not permitted you to do so. The LORD your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your own brothers. You must listen to him. [Deuteronomy 18:14-15] People naturally look for guidance – from the learned and the wise, from the rich and famous, from religious leaders, from the media, from tea leaves or horoscopes or Ouija boards. This was true in Israel’s day, and it’s true today. But God wants to be the source of truth, wisdom and guidance. Here He promises to provide a prophet for the people, from among the people. This promise applies to prophets through the ages, but also and especially to the one great prophet to come, the Anointed (messiah, Christ).
The Jews in Jesus day had a tough time with Jesus. He did speak with authority, He did perform miraculous signs, and what He said did seem to come true. But His message seemed to contradict their own customs and beliefs. “The Jews gathered around him, saying, ‘How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Christ, tell us plainly.’ Jesus answered, ‘I did tell you, but you do not believe. The miracles I do in my Father’s name speak for me, but you do not believe because you are not my sheep. My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.’” [John 10:24-27]
The test for the prophet is whether what they say fits with God’s revelation [Deuteronomy 13:1-5], and whether it comes true [Deuteronomy 18:21-22]. What Jesus said came true, and it was confirmed by the miracles. But the Jewish leaders could not see past their customs and traditions to see whether what Jesus said fit with God’s revelation. They rejected Him because what He said went against their traditions.
If we spend time listening carefully to Jesus’ message, and observe how He lived, and died, and also how His message has impacted the world – we will sense its truth. Our sinful condition, our need for grace, the amazing love of God, the way of love and mercy, the kingdom of God, etc. Those who are open to the Shepherd will recognize His voice. Those who are open to God, will recognize His prophet. Most religious traditions today honour Jesus and His message to some extent. If only we could get past our customs and traditions which blind us to Jesus’ true and good message. If only we would stop looking to horoscopes, or those with university degrees, or Oprah, or the media, or … If only we would consult the Prophet.
PRAYER:
Lord, Your message feels right. It is not an easy message, it is not a feel-good message, but it is honest, good, and hopeful. Help me to listen!