SCRIPTURE: Luke 20 

KEY POINTS TO PONDER: In Luke 20 the various religious rulers continue to try and trap Jesus in his words and discredit him, and in every case Jesus’ wisdom puts them to shame. All this goes to show that Jesus was very correct in comparing them to the wicked tenants in verses 9-18, as they suspected (v. 19). The last of these particular encounters in the book of Luke (vv. 27-40) is actually very timely, as the topic is resurrection. The Sadducees believed that being raised from the dead wasn’t possible, and yet Jesus showed that it is not only possible, but the nature of God’s plan for believers. Imagine those same teachers hearing later that Jesus himself had died and been raised to life again! As Christians, we have this amazing truth to depend on. We need not be afraid of death; Jesus has overcome death, it’s been swallowed up in his victory (1 Corinthians 15:54). So even when facing the worst in our lives, when facing death itself, we can trust that Jesus has already overcome the worst, and will raise us from the dead as well. So what have we to fear on this earth? 

CHALLENGING TERMS: The parable of the wicked tenants is an analogy for all the prophets who came before Jesus who were killed and mistreated, and it ends with a reference to Jesus himself, who they would betray and kill shortly after he told this parable. 

REFLECTION: What is your greatest fear? How might knowing that Jesus overcame death bring you peace amidst that fear? 

PRAYER: Jesus, thank you, that not only did you overcome death, but it is in your plan to save us from death as well and give us a place in heaven with you. Father, help calm my fears and remind me of your power and victory and the amazing plan you have for my life even in the reality of death.