What Jesus Did! 'No Control over the Christ' — Luke 13:31-33

Thursday, August 31, 2023

At that time some Pharisees said to [Jesus], "Get away from here if you want to live! Herod Antipas wants to kill you!"

Jesus replied, "Go tell that fox that I will keep on casting out demons and healing people today and tomorrow; and the third day I will accomplish my purpose. Yes, today, tomorrow, and the next day I must proceed on my way. For it wouldn't do for a prophet of God to be killed except in Jerusalem!"

— Luke 13:31-33 NLT

Key Thought

God's will and Jesus' sense of mission determined the timing, the place, and the extent of the Messiah's ministry and sacrifice. Herod's threats did not frighten or derail the Lord Jesus from his purpose. Like every great prophet who preceded him, Jesus' destiny would be fulfilled in Jerusalem. He would not be manipulated or controlled by political pressure, unfair opposition, or empty religious propriety. Jesus walked his own way to accomplish God's will and fulfill his prophesied ministry.

Today's Prayer

Father, please give your servants of your Son, especially those ministering in foreign and unfamiliar places, all the courage, boldness, integrity, and passion they need to serve you effectively with righteousness, mercy, and grace. I pray this in the name of Jesus. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • 2 Timothy 2:20-21
  • John 7:25-31
  • John 4:34

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Illustration

Illustration of Luke 13:31-33 NLT — "Get away from here if you want to live! Herod Antipas wants to kill you!"

About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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