Now there were some present at that time who told Jesus about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mixed with their sacrifices. Jesus answered, "Do you think that these Galileans were worse sinners than all the other Galileans because they suffered this way? I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish. Or those eighteen who died when the tower in Siloam fell on them--do you think they were more guilty than all the others living in
The repetition of the sentence, But unless you repent, you too will all perish, caught my eye. When a teacher repeats something in dramatic fashion like this, pay attention. So I did.
Don’t compare… repent. Don’t assume… repent.
Don’t compare yourself with others… repent. Don’t assume you are better than others… repent.
We humans have this incredible ability to rationalize and see ourselves as better than other people. The result is that we generally think we are ‘better than others’ and we will make it. We will be saved, others may not but we will be.
The Jews following Jesus were apparently thinking, those Galileans most have been really bad people because of the way they died. Did you hear the subtly of it? They are bad, therefore, I am good or at least good-er! (Forgive my improper English, used for effect.)
Jesus’ point… everyone must repent. Everyone.
Don’t compare… just repent. Don’t assume… just repent.
So where do you stand on this ‘repent point’? Have you repented and fallen on the mercy of God? Or are you still fooling yourself into thinking you are good enough to make it into Jesus’ Kingdom?
Think about it…
Jesus, Father, Holy Spirit, I repent. I acknowledge that I will not and would not make it on my own. I am a sinner in need of Your grace and mercy. Please forgive me of my sins. I acknowledge them and I turn from them.
Holy Spirit, I ask for Your strength to win the battle in my life over sin that besets me. I pray this in Jesus’ name and that the Glory of the Father may be known throughout the earth. Amen.
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