Lament For The City
Lesson Text: Luke 13:31-35
Luke 13:31-35: "At that very hour some Pharisees came and said to him, “Get away from here, for Herod wants to kill you.” He said to them, “Go and tell that fox for me, ‘Listen, I am casting out demons and performing cures today and tomorrow, and on the third day I finish my work. Yet today, tomorrow, and the next day I must be on my way, because it is impossible for a prophet to be killed outside of Jerusalem.’ Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it!
How often have I desired to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing! See, your house is left to you. And I tell you, you will not see me until the time comes when you say, ‘Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord.’
BIBLE EXPOSITION
In Luke 13:31-35, we witness Jesus' heartfelt lament over Jerusalem, a city that had persistently rejected the prophets and God’s message of salvation. This passage reveals both Jesus’ deep sorrow for the city and His unrelenting desire to gather its people under His protection and care.
1. Warning from the Pharisees (v. 31)
Some Pharisees came to Jesus, warning Him that Herod wanted to kill Him. Though the Pharisees were often in opposition to Jesus, this warning shows that there were individuals among them who did not wish for His harm. Jesus, however, was undeterred by the threat of violence because He knew His mission and the timing of His death were in God’s hands.
2. Jesus’ Response (v. 32-33)
Jesus responds by calling Herod a “fox,” indicating that Herod’s cunning or threats would not deter Him from fulfilling His purpose. He boldly declares that He would continue His work of healing and ministry until His mission is complete. His unwavering commitment to God’s plan shows His obedience and courage, even in the face of danger.
3. Lament for Jerusalem (v. 34)
Jesus expresses His grief over Jerusalem, the city that killed the prophets and stoned those sent to it. He compares His longing to gather the people of Jerusalem to a hen gathering her chicks under her wings — a tender image of love, protection, and care. Yet, despite His desire to shelter and save them, they were unwilling to respond to His invitation. This shows the tragedy of persistent rejection of God’s offer of salvation.
4. Prophecy of Judgment (v. 35)
Jesus foretells that the city will be left desolate, a reference to the impending destruction of Jerusalem. He also alludes to His future return when the people will recognize Him as the Messiah, saying, “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.” This speaks both to the judgment and eventual restoration that will come through Him.
This passage reveals the tension between God’s love and humanity’s rejection. Jesus’ lament over Jerusalem is a powerful reminder of His heart for the lost and His sorrow over those who refuse to accept His grace.
Life Application
1. Jesus’ Heart for the LostJust as Jesus grieved for Jerusalem, He grieves for those today who reject Him and His offer of salvation. As believers, we are called to share in His concern for the lost and to pray for their salvation. We should never grow indifferent to the spiritual condition of those around us, but instead be moved with compassion as Jesus was.
2. God’s Desire to Protect and Save:
The image of Jesus wanting to gather Jerusalem under His wings illustrates God’s deep love for His people. Even when we stray or resist Him, God’s heart is always one of mercy and protection. We should respond to His call, knowing that His arms are always open, ready to embrace us.
3. The Consequences of Rejection
Jesus' lament over Jerusalem serves as a sober warning of the consequences of rejecting God’s grace. While His desire is to save, persistent rejection can lead to spiritual desolation. This should prompt us to evaluate our hearts, ensuring that we are receptive to His voice and responsive to His call.
4. Persevering in Our Mission:
Jesus’ determination to fulfill His mission, despite opposition and threats, is a powerful example for us. In our own walk with God, we will face challenges and obstacles, but we must remain committed to the work God has called us to. Like Jesus, we should press on with courage and faith, trusting that God’s plan will prevail.
5. Praying for Cities and Nations
Just as Jesus wept over Jerusalem, we are called to pray for the cities and nations of our world. Many places are spiritually lost, and we must intercede for them, asking God to bring revival, repentance, and salvation. Our prayers can make a difference in turning hearts back to God.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your unfailing love and mercy. Just as Jesus lamented over Jerusalem, give us a heart that grieves for the lost and seeks to bring them into Your fold.Help us to be faithful in our mission, undeterred by opposition, and filled with compassion for those who need You. Empower us to pray for our cities and nations, knowing that You are always ready to extend Your grace. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.