John Calvin once said, “All the exhortations which can be given us to suffer for the name of Jesus Christ and in defence of the gospel will have no effect if we do not feel sure of the cause for which we fight.” Jesus, in Luke 22, was absolutely sure of the cause for which He was fighting.
Luke’s account of Jesus’ passion opens with the Jewish leaders, aided by Judas, plotting to put Jesus to death (vv.1-6). Judas’ collusion with the Jewish opposition brought the Savior ever closer to the great suffering and ultimate fulfilment of His mission—redeeming humanity. He faced His passion with confidence, awareness, humility, and faithfulness. Knowing His death was imminent, Jesus made plans to celebrate the Passover meal with His disciples (v.8). During the meal, He predicted His painful death (vv.15-16), using the bread and wine to give the disciples a way to remember Him and His sacrifice (vv.19-20). Jesus also announced His betrayal (v.21), taught that greatness is found in serving others (v.26), appointed 11 of the disciples to future authority (vv.29-30), and predicted Peter’s denial (v.34).
The Savior was completely aware of what was unfolding, and He trusted God the Father in the process. Although He predicted His suffering, He understood what was at stake—redemption and hope for all mankind. It was all part of God’s plan, and He was willing to humbly, obediently submit to it. Jesus exemplified the walk of the innocent and righteous before a hostile world, initiating the New Covenant between God and His people (Jeremiah 31:31-34).
As followers of Jesus, we will engage the world and face great opposition. Like Him, we’re not called to withdraw or be afraid but to face suffering headon— for His glory.
More:
God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example, and you must follow in His steps (1 Peter 2:21).
Next:
Compare Jesus’ plans with the plans of the Jewish leaders. As you examine Jesus’ plan, what impresses you about the Savior?
ncaberte on May 22, 2010 at 1:02 am
As we walk in this world, we will always face sufferings. That is why we need to abide in Him by reading His Word and pray “communicate” to God so we may grow and be strong. Many times, I encountered difficulties and trials in my life but He has never left me nor forsake me. I know God is building His character in me and to be honest, it’s not easy, many times I failed Him. But God is patient and faithful. Through the sufferings we encounter in life, He wants to make us strong and courageous to bring His cause to the world. To God be the glory!!!
amazinggrace on May 22, 2010 at 8:18 am
I have tried many online devotionals…this is by far the best! Each day has a variety of verses that i can apply to my life!
Thank you and God Bless!
bethanyF on May 22, 2010 at 9:30 am
Praise God. God has given us his plan in His word and I am so thankful for that.
compassion1 on June 1, 2010 at 12:52 pm
Many believers do not want to suffer or face anything that takes them out their comfort zone. But this walk isn’t about us, it’s about JESUS. It’s about the plan GOD has for our lives. It’s about coming out your comfort zone and stepping out on faith, saying what GOD would have you to say, when and how to say it. HE doesn’t have any quiet witnesses; some may receive and some may not. Remembered the world hated JESUS, should it be any less for us? The great thing about it is that where GOD guides HE will provide us with everything we need, even strength, courage, and holy boldness to get the job done. No challenge is too great for HIM. HE is greater than anything man can throw at us.