The Mockery That Reveals Truth
Scripture: “The people stood by, watching, but the rulers scoffed at him, saying, ‘He saved others; let him save himself, if he is the Christ of God, his Chosen One!'” (Luke 23.35)
MAIN POINT: In their mockery, Jesus’ enemies unknowingly spoke the truth about His mission.
Everyone at the cross demanded the same thing: “Save yourself!” The religious leaders sneered. The soldiers mocked. Even one of the criminals joined in. They all assumed that a true king would use his power to escape suffering. But they completely misunderstood Jesus’ mission.
Yes, Jesus could have saved Himself. He could have called down legions of angels. He could have stepped down from the cross and silenced His mockers. But then we would all be lost. Jesus came not to save Himself, but to save others. The rulers got it exactly right without realizing it: “He saved others.” That is precisely what Jesus came to do.
The irony is profound. Those who thought they were mocking Jesus were actually proclaiming the Gospel. He cannot save Himself and save us—He must choose. And He chose us. Every moment He stayed on that cross was an act of love for you and me. His refusal to save Himself is what saves us.
Reflection: What the world calls weakness, God calls salvation; what they call foolishness, God calls wisdom. When has God’s way of working seemed foolish yet proved wise? How does knowing Jesus chose not to save Himself deepen your understanding of His love?
Prayer: Crucified Savior, thank You for refusing to save Yourself so that You could save me. Help me to see past the world’s mockery and recognize Your love displayed on the cross. In Your precious Name, Amen.
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