WHAT CRUCIFIED JESUS? Part 2
Last week we noted what contributed to
the crucifixion of Jesus. We saw hatred (John 3:19,20; John 7:7), envy
(Matthew 27:18), betrayal (Matthew 26:47-50), false testimony (Matthew
26:59,60), and ignorance (Acts 3:17). All these elements were combined and
led to His death. The same will crucify Him afresh today (Hebrews 6:6).
When hatred exists among God’s people, the influence of Jesus as the prince of
peace is crucified. We are commanded to love one another (John 13:34,35;
14:15). We, the church are the body of Jesus (Eph. 1:22,23: Col. 1:18).
This means we are the hands and feet of the Lord at work in the world today. People are watching to see how we are acting. If it is not loving, we kill the opportunity to influence people in a positive way – thus crucifying the Lord afresh.
When envy exists, it leads
to all sorts of troubles which crucify Jesus again. Envy leads to
character assassination and “politics” designed to undermine someone or
something. It is a common plot on television programs and movies. Someone
is popular or rich or. . . and an envious person sets out to correct the
problem. It may manifest itself by a person “whispering” about another.
When this happens among God’s people, Satan has a celebration for the Lord’s
body is damaged and the possibility of reaching the lost is often dead.
Betrayal happens often
today and money is a leading cause. God requires first place in the hearts
of Christians. Often, however, He is near the top, but job and financial
security take first place. We sing about our love for Jesus, but the job
comes first. After all, we need money to survive. We have things to pay
for such as new houses and cars and boats and vacations and - - - .
There is plenty of false testimony going on today. The result is people
who reject Jesus because some are lying in His name in pulpits across the land.
But there are other false testimonies evident today. Some people lie about
the lives they live, the New Testament calls them hypocrites.
Finally we come to
ignorance. The harm brought about by people who are ignorant of God’s
word and will for their lives is great. They allow hatred, envy, betrayal,
lying, and financial concerns to lead them to actions which harm the influence
of Jesus in our world.
We need to be aware of
Satan and his devises and know the will of God and strive to live it daily.
Let us do all we can to prevent the crucifixion of Jesus today. Let us
root out all hatred, envy, betrayal, false testimony, and ignorance first in our
own lives and then others to do the same.
—Denny