Scripture
39 And those who passed by derided him, wagging their heads 40 and saying, “You who would destroy the temple and rebuild it in three days, save yourself! If you are the Son of God, come down from the cross.”
41 So also the chief priests, with the scribes and elders, mocked him, saying, 42 “He saved others; he cannot save himself. He is the King of Israel; let him come down now from the cross, and we will believe in him.
43 He trusts in God; let God deliver him now, if he desires him. For he said, ‘I am the Son of God.’” 44 And the robbers who were crucified with him also reviled him in the same way.
Observations
Several different groups were among those scoffing at Jesus.
“Those who passed by wagged their heads …”
“Chief priests, scribes, and elders mocked…”
“ The robbers reviled …”
At every level of society, highest to lowest and furthest to nearest, Jesus was belittled.
Interestingly, each group, as they mocked Him, put demands on Jesus.
There were a lot of “if’s” …
There were statements that “if” the demands were met by Jesus, then they would “believe”.
Jesus knew better.
He didn’t meet their expectations when He came.
And He would not meet their demands as He died.
Jesus would not be motivated to save Himself.
He was motivated to save the world.
Application
Expectations and Demands.
What expectations do I put on Jesus?
What demands to make of Jesus?
Sure I don’t make overt demands of Jesus, but what about the subtle ones?
Do I ever play the “good person” card like the rest of the world?
“Jesus come through for me on this one … not because you’re a gracious and loving God … but because I deserve it!”
Do I ever have expectations of Jesus?
“It wasn’t supposed to be like this, Jesus!”
Am I just “passing by” Jesus “wagging my head”?
The most religious people thought they knew what was best for Jesus.
Do I act like that? … Jesus if you do “this”, so many people will believe in You!”
Jesus is not interested in my demands of Him or my expectations of Him.
Jesus is interested in my Worship of Him … regardless of the circumstances.
“Truly He is the Son of God.”
Prayer
Thank you again for your Word.
Help me keep it close to my heart.
Help me love it today and always.
Help me see you are enough.
I need not expect or demand anything more than your presence
In Jesus name
Amen