Scripture to Read: Luke 20:3-8
Jesus knew the proud hearts of the chief priests and the scribes with the elders, so, God had Luke record this in Luke 20:3–8, “Jesus answered and said to them, ‘I will also ask you a question, and you tell Me: 4 Was the baptism of John from heaven or from men?’ 5 They reasoned among themselves, saying, ‘If we say, ‘From heaven,’ He will say, ‘Why did you not believe him?’ 6 But if we say, ‘From men,’ all the people will stone us to death, for they are convinced that John was a prophet.’ 7 So they answered that they did not know where it came from. 8 And Jesus said to them, ‘Nor will I tell you by what authority I do these things.’” Jesus was not interested in a debate or an argument, so He immediately asked them a question. The question Jesus asked, though, was one that would prove He was God in the flesh, for John was seen as a prophet of God, and he was sent to prepare people for God’s coming work. John had already identified Jesus as the one who would come after him and that Jesus was greater than him (Luke 3:15–17). John’s ministry directed all attention to Jesus. So, if the chief priests, scribes, and elders admit that John’s mission came from God, they are also accepting John’s testimony about Jesus. The religious leaders’ reply reveals that they were more concerned with protecting their reputation than with discovering the truth. The truth of the gospel is what people need and that should be our focus.
Challenge & Application
What was Jesus’ reason for asking the question that He asked?
What should be our focus when talking with lost people and why?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!