Rejected by Leaders but Anointed by God’s Spirit

“It came to pass on one of those days, as He (Jesus) was teaching the people in the temple, and proclaiming good news, the chief priests and the scribes, with the elders, came upon Him.” [1]

The religious leaders feared that the Roman government would close down their meeting places and put them out of jobs if the Jesus movement continued to grow. The fact of the matter is that after these leaders crucified Jesus, the Romans did destroy the religious institutions and gathering places of Jerusalem in 70 AD.

I remember a preacher telling a story about an on-fire-Christian being denied entrance into seminary. He was downcast afterwards. He wanted to learn the Word of God so he could win the world to Christ. As he walked away, Jesus came and walked aside him. Finally, Jesus asked him, “Why are you so downcast?” He replied, “Because the seminary would not let me in.” Jesus replied, “Don’t be too disappointed, I am Messiah, and they won’t let me in either.”

Religious leaders, don’t throw Jesus out of your congregations or student body! Invite the Holy Spirit to teach and proclaim Good News of Jesus to your people. Trust in God to deal with those who oppose Him. After all, He’s got the whole world in His hands.

[1] Luke 20:1