How does Matthew 23:37 challenge us to respond to God's protective love? “Jerusalem, Jerusalem, who kills the prophets and stones those sent to her, how often I have longed to gather your children together as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were unwilling!” What We Hear in Jesus’ Lament • A personal address—“Jerusalem, Jerusalem”—showing deep affection, not cold judgment. • A vivid picture—“as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings”—revealing tender, active protection. • A heartbreaking contrast—“how often I have longed… but you were unwilling!”—God’s persistent offer met by stubborn refusal. God’s Protective Love Illustrated • Shelter: Wings shield the vulnerable from storm and predator (Psalm 91:4; Ruth 2:12). • Nearness: Chicks must stay close; distance means danger. • Initiative: The mother hen gathers first; the chicks need only respond. Why Refusal Is So Tragic • It ignores centuries of prophetic warning (2 Chronicles 36:15–16). • It forfeits blessings God is eager to give (Deuteronomy 28:9–10). • It grieves the One who loves most deeply (Ephesians 4:30). How the Verse Challenges Us Today • Come willingly—move toward Christ when He calls, instead of resisting. • Stay close—cultivate daily communion through Word and obedience (John 15:4). • Trust His covering—rest in His saving work rather than self-reliance (Romans 8:1). • Repent quickly—turn the moment conviction comes (1 John 1:9). • Cherish truth—honor those God sends with His Word; reject cynicism (Hebrews 13:7). • Share His longing—pray and labor for others to find refuge in Him (2 Peter 3:9). Living Under His Wings • Begin each day acknowledging His guardianship—“You are my refuge.” • Memorize promises of protection (Psalm 17:8; Isaiah 31:5). • Regularly gather with believers; community helps keep us near the “Hen.” • Keep short accounts with God; unconfessed sin breeds distance. • Serve as His wings to others—offer support, warning, and gospel hope. Supporting Scriptures to Reinforce the Picture • Deuteronomy 32:11—“Like an eagle that stirs up its nest… He spread His wings and caught them.” • Psalm 91:4—“He will cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you will find refuge.” • Luke 13:34—Jesus repeats the same lament, proving His heart hasn’t changed. • Hosea 11:4—God draws His people with “cords of human kindness, with ties of love.” Takeaway The Savior longs, gathers, shelters, and still invites. Our part is simple yet decisive: be willing, come close, and remain under His wings. |
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