Luke 23:26-38 – Warning and Prayer
Jesus’ words in these verses contain two things: a warning and a prayer. First, through His prophesy He warns the women of Jerusalem. In the Jewish mindset being childless is a huge disgrace. The idea of this being a blessing is a completely foreign concept. But 70 years after Christ’s death Jerusalem comes under siege by the Romans bringing upon the residents of the city the most horrible sufferings from famine and disease. Women actually eat their own children because they are starving. We must always remember that there is justice with Christ as well as mercy. There are judgments being prepared for those who are unbelieving and have hardened their hearts. The same Saviour who holds out mercy and forgiveness now to sinners will one day come in judgment on those who have not believed. If we truly love our unbelieving friends we will tell them of Christ’s forgiveness, but we will warn them of Christ’s judgment.
But Christ’s words here also contain a gracious prayer. When He is crucified, He pleads with God to forgive His murderers. His own agony does not make Him forget others. His prophetic role He has just shown in predicting the judgment of Jerusalem. His kingly role He will soon show by opening the door of Heaven to a repentant thief. But His priestly role He is now showing by praying to God on behalf of those who crucify Him. We have no idea how many of the conversions that take place in the early life of the church are the result of this prayer. But it is one more proof of Christ’s infinite love towards sinners. None are too wicked for Christ to care for. Love like this is a love beyond understanding.
Questions
- What does Jesus warn the women of Jerusalem about?
- Who does Jesus pray for?
- Why does He pray for them?
Prayer Points
- Give thanks for Christ’s love for sinners.
- Use prayer points from your congregation.
- Pray for family matters.