Thoughts on Luke 16:14-16

Luke 16:14-16
The Pharisees, who were lovers of money, heard all these things, and they ridiculed him. And he said to them, "You are those who justify yourselves before men, but God knows your hearts. For what is exalted among men is an abomination in the sight of God. "The Law and the Prophets were until John; since then the good news of the kingdom of God is preached, and everyone forces his way into it."


The Pharisees had major problems. Jesus never shied away from confronting them with the error of their ways. In this little discussion he has with them many things jumped out at me today.

Here are some of my thoughts:

#1 - “What is exalted among men is an abomination in the sight of God.”
What they prided themselves on and was applauded by men was actually offensive to God. And these men were seen as the cream of the religious crop. Empty religious acts may fool many people, but not God.

I should not seek to be put on the proverbial pedestal. My name may never be known among the “who’s who” lists. But, am I loving the Lord my God with all my heart, soul, and mind? That is what truly matters.

#2 – "The Law and the Prophets were until John, since then the good news is preached.”
The Law and the Prophets bear witness of the coming Messiah. The one whom John the Baptist said, “Look, the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world.” And he also said, "I am unworthy to even untie his sandals.”“

#3 – “Everyone forces his way into it.”
The Pharisees and many others believed that you could force yourself into God’s kingdom. They had more laws, stipulations, and requirements than the Texas Penal Code Book. And they prided themselves on keeping every single one. Why? They thought it earned them a special place with God. The truth was quite the opposite.

That same idea is prevalent today. I talk to so many lost, churched people who still believe in some type of works based salvation. You cannot force your way into the kingdom of God.

#4 – Not one iota of the law has passed away.
An iota is a Hebrew vowel point. It was literally a tiny dot that was added to the root consonants of a Hebrew word. It was small and seemingly insignificant.
Jesus says that not one iota will pass away.
Here is the point that jumped out at me. The context is crucial. He is conversing with the Pharisees who prided themselves on keeping the law. Jesus demonstrates that they have not and this is what judges them. There are two ways they have not kept the law.
First, by their additions and subtractions they have elevated their own opinions above the law of God. They have created stipulations that allow them to get away with things that are contrary to the law. Jesus gives them an example in the following verses.
Secondly, the major purpose of the Law and Prophets was it pointed to the coming Christ. Here He is, Jesus, and they have rejected Him, and thus rejected the law.

I am thankful that God's grace is not something that I can earn. I pray that all my service will be more than a religious act, but an act of true devotion, love, and worship of the Messiah who died for my sins.