To wrap up our survey of the sayings of Jesus, we shift our attention to Luke’s Gospel. Here we find several passages that harmonize with those of Matthew. We also discover a couple of interesting additions.

Harmonizing the two accounts uncovers additional depths of understanding. For example, Luke’s Beatitudes add a physical, down to earth perspective to Matthew’s account. Both are true; encouraging us that Jesus was concerned about, and speaking to, all aspects of our lives.

We will search out a few of the more important harmonies in our next article. For now, I would like to focus on a particular addition in Luke’s account: Jesus’ pronouncement of woes.

But woe to you who are rich,
For you have received your consolation.
Woe to you who are full,
For you shall hunger.
Woe to you who laugh now,
For you shall mourn and weep.
Woe to you when all men speak well of you,
For so did their fathers to the false prophets. Luke 6:24-26

These woes represent life in and for the world. Interestingly, they match well with “the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life” of John’s first epistle – those things of the world we are warned will pass away.

For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world. And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever. Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 1John 2:15-17

Perhaps the most sobering thing about this passage: If we love the world, or the things of the world, the love of the Father is not in us. Whoa (or woe), what does that mean?

One chapter later, John says the same thing about the one who has this world’s goods and shuts up his heart to his brother in need (1John 3:17): “How can the love of God be in him?” These are strong words of warning – works that warrant strong consideration.

Did you know that at more than 90% of the world’s population lives below the American poverty line? Being rich is a matter of perspective? For most Americans this is a matter of pride and satisfaction; for “we are a great nation, blessed by God.”

This matter of blessing is also a matter of perspective. We should not be so quick to celebrate. Jesus is saying that we have received our consolation. Whatever this means, it can’t be good. It’s a woe, remember.

Just to be clear: Jesus is not condemning the rich (at least, I don’t think so). He is simply saying that they have exchanged riches in this life for consolation in the next. That leaves me with a very strong conviction:

I do not want to be a rich man.

Seriously, it’s not worth it; not from an eternal perspective. I will take eternal consolation over earthly riches every time it’s offered. In fact, I don’t even want to be a steward that is rich. He is still rich; and the consolation, short lived.

I think the best thing to be is the steward of a rich Master. If I have truly forsaken all, that is what I am – no matter what He has entrusted to my keeping. In fact, Jesus tells us that we cannot be His disciple if we do not forsake everything (Luke 14:33). No wonder being rich is a woe.

Last thought on being rich: Whatever we are entrusted with better be invested in the kingdom of God for a return that pleases Him. Regrettably, the wicked and lazy servants will learn that lesson the hard way (Matthew 25:14-29).

The remaining woes are as much a mystery and challenge to our thinking as the first. The temptation to read on past them is probably greater. What could be wrong with being full, laughing, and having men speak well of you? Kind of explains why we haven’t heard very many sermons on the woes, doesn’t it?

Well, let me offer two perspectives on the purpose of these sayings. The first is actually about perspective: God’s perspective – the perspective we are to live by – is about as opposite from the world’s as you can get. This should make us pause, even pause until our minds are renewed.

And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. Romans 12:2

Fullness, fun, and prestige are things of this world – things the world strives to obtain. Acquiring them requires our following the world’s ways (i.e., being conformed to this world). Success in the achievement of them compromises our dependence and pursuit of God. The nation of Israel proved this again and again, and we, the people of the New Covenant – are apparently no different in our short-sightedness.

In these woes, Jesus is trying to give us new perspective on the American dream. The American dream is a dream for a land other than – and less than – His kingdom. Consequently, we must exchange our dreams for His. This is no small matter!!

The world and our flesh are viciously and vigorously opposed to anything less than conformity. Truly, we are our greatest enemy. We must become strong in the Lord and in the power of His might (Ephesians 6:10). We must find God’s way for the woes of Jesus.

God bless you with courage and grace, for yourself and those He has entrusted to your care, encouragement, and leading.

Humbly yours and forever His,

Rob

#iamjustthepen