So much happened in this text! Jesus bursts on the scene with authoritative preaching and exorcisms. At the height of his popularity he withdrew to pray and came away with a change of plans because, "This is why I came." Jesus was clear on why he came so he could resist the pull of opportunities that looked fulfilling, but were off-target.
He spoke harshly to the lepers and sent them away. Jesus is nice. He's not supposed to speak harshly with people, is he? He told them not to talk but they did. Was their love (and appreciation) for Jesus in conflict with obedience to him? Hmmm. Clearly their disobedience had significant consequences for Jesus' freedom in that area. He had to withdraw to the hills.
No comments:
Post a Comment