How can we apply the lesson of rejection in Luke 20:12 today? Setting the Scene • Luke 20 records Jesus’ parable of the vineyard owner whose tenants abuse every messenger he sends. • Verse 12 captures a turning point: “Then he sent a third; but they wounded him and threw him out.” • The literal event Jesus foretells is Israel’s rejection of prophet after prophet—and ultimately Himself—yet the principle of rejection extends to all who carry God’s message today. The Heart of Rejection in Luke 20:12 • Rejection targets the sender through the treatment of His servants. • Each messenger represents patient grace; each rejection magnifies human rebellion. • Wounding and casting out preview the cross (Luke 20:15) where the Son Himself will be “thrown out” of Jerusalem and killed (Hebrews 13:12-13). Why Rejection Still Happens Today • The gospel confronts sin, so fallen hearts resist (John 3:19-20). • Loyalty to Christ realigns our values, clashing with a world that “loves its own” (John 15:18-19). • Satan opposes truth-bearers (Ephesians 6:12), stirring hostility toward those who speak it. Living Faithfully When Rejected • Expect it—Jesus promised, “If they persecuted Me, they will persecute you also.” (John 15:20) • Anchor identity in Christ, not in others’ acceptance (Galatians 2:20). • Respond with blessing, not retaliation (Romans 12:14-21). • Keep proclaiming; rejection never nullifies the message’s power (2 Timothy 4:2-5). • Draw strength from fellowship—believers “share in Christ’s sufferings” together (1 Peter 4:13). Guarding Against Becoming Rejecters • Examine attitudes toward correction from Scripture or fellow believers (Hebrews 3:13). • Welcome godly reproof as evidence of the Father’s love (Proverbs 3:11-12). • Resist pride that silences conviction; humble obedience keeps hearts soft (James 1:21-22). Encouragement from Other Scriptures • Isaiah 53:3—Christ “despised and rejected” understands our experience. • 2 Corinthians 4:8-10—though “persecuted, but not forsaken,” we carry Jesus’ life to others. • Psalm 118:22—the Stone rejected becomes the cornerstone, proving God vindicates faithfulness. Steps to Put This into Practice 1. Meditate daily on Luke 20:12-15 to remember Christ’s patient pursuit of sinners. 2. Pray for courage to speak truth even when unwelcome (Acts 4:29-31). 3. Keep a journal of rejection moments, noting God’s faithfulness through each. 4. Encourage another believer facing pushback; share Scripture and practical help (Hebrews 10:24-25). 5. Cultivate gratitude for every open door, while trusting God with closed ones (Acts 18:6-10). |
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