I Will Give You Words

"Luke 21:5-38

The words of Jesus are eternal. He says, ‘Jerusalem will be trampled on by the Gentiles ... Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away’ (vv.24,33). Two thousand years later more and more people around the world are affected by the words of Jesus.

The teaching of Jesus is widely acknowledged to be the greatest teaching of all time. It is the foundation of our entire civilization in the West. Many of our laws were originally based on the teaching of Jesus. We have advanced so much in science and technology. 

Yet in the last two thousand years no one has ever improved on the moral teaching of Jesus. They are the greatest words ever spoken. They are the kind of words you would expect God to speak.

Jesus warns us about deceptive words. He says, ‘Watch out that you are not deceived. For many will come in my name, claiming, “I am he,” and “The time is near.” Do not follow them’ (v.8).

Jesus has told us to love everyone – our neighbours and even our enemies. Now he warns us that although we are to love everyone, we will also be hated by all(v.17).

If we are persecuted, we are to see this as an opportunity to be a ‘witness’ (v.13). On these occasions Jesus says, ‘Make up your mind not to worry beforehand how you will defend yourselves. For I will give you words and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to resist or contradict’ (vv.14–15). Not only are the words of Jesus powerful, but he also promises to put powerful words in your mouth, if and when you are under attack.

So much of the language Jesus uses is the language of love and relationship. It has to do with your heart and your prayer life. He says, ‘But be on your guard. Don’t let the sharp edge of your expectation get dulled by parties and drinking and shopping’ (v.34, MSG). ‘Be always on the watch, and pray’ (v.36).

Lord, please give me words and wisdom for every occasion. Help me not to be weighed down by the anxieties of life, but always to be on the watch and praying. Help me to develop the language of love and prayer."

1. Praise God for new friends in church.

2. Thank You for a good walk in the city.

3. Thank You for challenges that push me to grow.