"The Chief Priests"

 

Matthew 27:41-43 "Likewise also the Chief Priests mocking HIM, with the Scribes and Elders, said, HE saved others; HIMSELF HE cannot save. If HE be the KING of Israel, let HIM now come down from the cross, and we will believe HIM. HE trusted in GOD; let HIM deliver HIM now, if HE will have HIM: for HE said, I AM the SON of GOD."

     The Jewish religious leaders, who were so pleased with the day's events, watched JESUS die on the cross. The Chief Priests and Scribes were, of course, very pious, but they were also very lost because they refused to believe what the prophets had spoken concerning JESUS of Nazareth. These men were dead to the spiritual significance of CHRIST's coming, and they rejected HIS claims to be ONE with GOD.

     "HE saved others, HIMSELF HE cannot save" (v.42) was their mocking declaration as they observed HIS suffering. They ridiculed the idea that JESUS was the SAVIOR, the MESSIAH, WHO could forgive sin and the only ONE through WHOM mankind could approach unto the Heavenly FATHER. "Prove YOURSELF -- do something sensational, and then we will believe !" they, in essence, sneered. But even if HE had "proven" HIMSELF, they still would not have believed, for JESUS had already performed numerous miracles during HIS earthly ministry. The faith that saves is the faith that comes by hearing and believing the WORD of GOD (Romans 10:17 pictured above). Miracles are of no avail when man's understanding is "dead in trespasses and sins" (Ephesians 2:1). It takes new life to respond to the light, and that comes only by heeding the glorious message of the Gospel -- that by believing the good news of salvation through JESUS CHRIST's finished work on Calvary's cross, one can be saved. Yes, HE died to save others (v.42) ! These religious leaders had "a form of godliness, but [denied] the power thereof" (2nd.Timothy 3:5 pictured above). They rejected GOD's design to save those who trust in JESUS CHRIST alone for the remission of sins. Their "religion" caused them to deny the only true SAVIOR of the world ! What about you ?

Your servant in CHRIST, 

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

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