Jesus Predicts His Death

All three synoptic gospels record Jesus statement to the disciples regarding His impending death and resurrection. Yet the gospels writers recorded that the meaning of this was hidden from them so that they could not understand it. This is reminiscent of what we read yesterday about Jesus concealing His messiahship and preventing others to speak of it. He was entrusting to them just what they needed to know, just when they needed to know it. Perhaps His true agenda would have completely overwhelmed them or perhaps knowing what lay ahead may have discouraged them from following Him. Nevertheless, He planted the seeds so that when they had been realized, the disciples would recall His prediction and see it as prophecy. It is interesting to note that the disciples were afraid to ask Jesus what He meant, despite their lack of understanding. Remember that it had not been long since Peter had been strongly rebuked ("Get behind me Satan!") when expressing disapproval the last time Jesus had spoken of his death. No wonder they didn't speak up!

Equal to their lack of understanding at this time in their ministry, the disciples also exhibited a lack of faith. In the account of the demon-possessed boy, the disciples were puzzled at their inability to cast out the evil spirit. Jesus told them, without condemnation mind you, that it was their lack of faith. He knew that they really did not fully grasp who He was and was patient with their level of immaturity. As an encouragement to them, he shared the illustration of the mustard seed, which alluded to the fact that they would soon be able to do things much greater than what they had just been denied. After the resurrection, when the faith of the disciples was rock solid, they were able to heal, cast out demons, and perform all sorts of miraculous wonders.

Tomorrow's reading: John 7:1-8:20; Luke 9:51-56; Matt. 8:18-22