In that same hour he rejoiced in the Holy Spirit and said, “I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to little children; yes, Father, for such was your gracious will. Luke 10:21
As I continue to sort out my next study, this morning I once again listen to and study DesiringGod.com's Solid Joys daily devotional, which this morning looks at Luke 10:21 where John Piper examines what makes Jesus rejoice in this text. Luke 10 starts with Jesus sending out seventy-two of His disciples to share the Good News of Jesus Christ. They return (v17-20) excitedly sharing the joy of how they, through the Holy Spirit, were able to have authority of demons. Next we see how Jesus shares in this joy, rejoicing how God reveals the identity of His Son Jesus to some but not others - v21-22. This is one of the great mysteries of the gospel - that Jesus saves some but not others. Piper writes that "[t]he point of this is not that there are only certain classes of people who are chosen by God. The point is that God is free to choose the least likely candidates for his grace. God contradicts what human merit might dictate. He hides from the self-sufficient wise and reveals to the most helpless and unaccomplished. When Jesus sees the Father freely enlightening and saving people whose only hope is free grace, he exults in the Holy Spirit and takes pleasure in his Father’s election." Piper wraps the devotion with a call to action that believers should join in this rejoicing as we know the identity of Jesus, the One Who Saves! Hallelujah!
Comment and discuss this post.
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God that saves and through Your grace You have revealed Yourself to me - thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of how You save. My sin is great and it continues...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
