Reflecting on Luke 13:22-30“There will be weeping there, and gnashing of teeth, when you see Abraham, Isaac and Jacob and all the prophets in the kingdom of God, but you yourselves thrown out.” (Luke 13:28)
Jesus is describing the moment when some people realize they are not saved.
Weeping and gnashing of teeth describes an angry, shocked surprise.
It is not remorseful weeping, but angry, teeth-grinding tears.
Jesus says, ‘you are in for a rude awakening when the kingdom finally comes’.
He is saying this to those who were deeply religious, but not good people.
Despite their showy religion, they were judgmental, cruel, unmerciful, hurtful.
They were evil-doers (Luke 13:27), not good-doers; they did not reflect kingdom values!
This isn’t describing the torment of hell; it is the moment of shocking realization.
Are there cruel, unloving and judgmental religious people today?
Are there religious leaders like the Pharisees who make life hard on others?
They may be acclaimed for holiness now, but they will be in for a rude awakening.
Outsiders, sinners, ‘unholy’ pagans will sit at the feast, but these ‘insiders’ won’t.
The assumption is that these outsiders, judged as unholy, were actually good people.
In their hearts, despite being judged as wrong, they were eager to do good and be kind.
Apparently many Christians, like Pharisees, will be shocked and angry on the last day.
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, forgive me for having a 'holier than thou' attitude, or thinking that my faith is better than others. Surprise me now with how inclusive You will be, so I won't be shocked and angry when it finally becomes clear!
Amazing grace. I am not my own but belong to Him. He makes me glad. Him I serve today and always. I am standing on the promises of God. I live for Jesus and by His power I am His and He is mine.