Nearly one-third of the recorded teachings of Jesus in the Gospels are parables. It’s said that a parable is “an earthly story with a heavenly meaning.” Jesus was the Master teacher who taught with simplicity, clarity (Matthew 13:54), and great authority (7:28-29). So much so, that the leading priests, teachers of the law, and elders asked Him, “By what authority are you doing all these things?” (Luke 20:2). Jesus responded by telling a parable of the evil tenant farmers (Matthew 21:33-46; Mark 12:1-12). Jesus spoke of:
• The sinfulness of humanity (Luke 20:9-15). Jesus drew from Isaiah 5:1-7, where the vineyard refers to the nation of Israel (v.7). The Jews, despite their favored nation status, had rejected God’s authority. The tenant farmers are a vivid representation of man’s rebellion and rejection of God.
• The long-suffering patience of God (Luke 20:10- 13). Despite the cruel treatment of all His messengers, the landowner relentlessly reached out to the tenants. He even sent His cherished son. For He is “the God of compassion and mercy . . . slow to anger and filled with unfailing love and faithfulness” (Exodus 34:6). The landowner is a clear picture of God’s patient endurance with people (2 Peter 2:9, 3:15).
• The severity of God’s judgment on those who reject the Son (Luke 20:13-16). There’s a mistaken idea that a loving God can’t get angry. But God said, “My Spirit shall not strive with man forever” (Genesis 6:3 NKJV). There is such a thing as “the wrath of the Lamb” (Revelation 6:16). This is a warning of judgment on everyone who rejects the Son. The teachers and leading priests knew that Jesus was telling the story against them—they were the wicked farmers (Luke 20:19). What was Jesus saying to you and me in this tale?
More:
• Isaiah 5:1-7
• 1 Peter 3:20
• 2 Peter 3:9-15
Next:
Jesus will come back again as Judge. Are you ready to meet Him? Have you presumed on God’s grace and patience, or are you living a pure and blameless life? (1 Peter 3:16).
PeacewithinMe on May 20, 2010 at 9:58 am
I love this…. I have been slow to anger and loving and faithful with my husband and my daughters. Now I will continue to be that way only I will disipline with a strong hand and keep my faith in Jesus who sustains me. I love You….. Amen
Soldier4Christ on May 20, 2010 at 11:35 am
It is a good thing that God is patient with us because I know that I like the prodigal son strayed from the path of righteousness. Not unlike Gina and I am sure many many others I too put God on a shelf, sometimes I would get Him off the shelf for a while but I was stubborn and was trying to do things my way. I came to realize that I had to give up my plans and ask God to forgive me and show me His plans for my life. I still stumble from time to time but I have a loving Father to go to immediately and ask for forgiveness and then carry on. It is only in His strength that I can accomplish anything.
maryanneb47 on May 20, 2010 at 1:33 pm
Amen. Soldier4Christ. I still get a little lazy in my devotion to Christ then I realize I can’t handle things myself and ask God’s forgiveness. When I do this it seems as though God puts the right devotion for me to study and help me get back on track to know my Father in heaven better.
maryanneb47 on May 20, 2010 at 1:28 pm
Gina thank you for your comments. I didn’t find the Lord until I admitted I was an alcoholic and have been every day. I thank God every day and His word so that I can learn more daily.
maryanneb47 on May 20, 2010 at 1:35 pm
Thank You Sharon. God bless you and keep you.