The Weekend - “‘You gotta go’” (Matthew 21:28 – 22:14)

Jesus took on the religious establishment of his day. His opponents were religious insiders who often got the outward stuff right but missed the heart of God’s message. It’s not that difficult to see ourselves in them and apply his message for them to ourselves. 

But sometimes Jesus had a direct message for his church, the gatherings of his disciples that would constitute his people after his ascension. It’s somewhat rare. He only mentions the church two times in the gospels. 

This weekend’s passage doesn’t mention the church, but it directly addresses those who will make up his church. To some he will nod and say, “You can stay in my kingdom party.” To others in his church he will say, “You gotta go.” And the criteria will be, believe it or not, whether or not they dressed appropriately for his party. 

I look forward to worshiping with you this weekend.