Monday, March 30, 2009
Luke 20:10-12 He sent a servant to the vine-dressers . . . Again he sent another servant . . . And again he sent out a third.
A SURE THING: GOD'S PERSISTENCE IN SENDING OUT HIS WORD TO THOSE WHO ARE LOST
"It's a sure thing." How often have we heard those words and fallen for them? Nine months ago, investments in the stock market seemed like a sure thing. Job security and the value of your home were seemingly sure things. But this is not to say that there aren't sure things. When our God is involved, then there is certainty and consistency.
In the parable of the vine-dressers found in Luke 20:9-19 we find the certain truth that God is persistent in reaching out to lost sinners. He portrays Himself as the owner of the vineyard and the Jews as the vine-dressers. Repeatedly He sent out servants to gather in His fruit, but the servants were beaten and sent back empty-handed.
We recall in the Old Testament how the Lord sent prophet after prophet to His people. He sent them to give information about the coming Messiah. When necessary, He sent out prophets to warn them of their wickedness and to urge them to repent. He reached out beyond Israel's borders to their enemies such as the Assyrians and Babylonians. When times were really wicked, such as in the days of Ahab, He did even greater wonders through the prophet Elijah.
People did not always listen to His Law or Gospel. Yet despite rejection after rejection He continued to send out His servants. Rejection did not get in the way of His love.
It is a sure thing that today and until the end of time God will continue to send His servants to reach lost sinners. That will never change.
