Read Luke 7:31-35.

In Luke 7:31-35, Jesus challenged the people around Him with a powerful analogy, comparing them to children who were impossible to please. It’s a warning for the unbeliever and for the lukewarm believer who’s been checking the “go to church” box but avoiding participation in Christ’s body.

In Jesus’ day, children would gather to play make-believe in the market. They might say, “Let’s play a wedding!” and assign roles—the bride, the groom, the wedding party. So, in Jesus’ analogy, someone has suggested they play wedding, but the others don’t like the idea. That’s what Jesus is describing in Luke 7:32: “We played the pipe for you, and you did not dance; . . .”

So someone suggests they play funeral instead, assigning roles for professional mourner, bereaved family, and dirge singers. But again, the kids rejected this idea: “. . . we sang a dirge, and you did not cry” (v. 32). They wouldn’t participate; nothing satisfied. Jesus equates the scenario with the people around Him. Their apathy had blunted their ability to receive the Gospel and participate in the family of God. They adopted a critical, complaining, self-absorbed attitude.

For, when John the Baptist came with a message of repentance, they were initially interested but soon mocked his lifestyle (see Luke 7:33). They complained that he was too severe, too uncivilized. Then Jesus came with the same message, eating, drinking, and attending weddings and dinners. But the people still complained, “Here is a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners” (v. 34). They said He’s too friendly, too approachable.

The people were so focused on themselves and their opinions that they neglected the heart of the matter: the supremacy of God. Too often this has kept souls, even believers, away from the local church—nitpicking the delivery, criticizing the congregation, and neglecting to worship the one true God. But Jesus says those who look beyond themselves will be proven wise (see v. 35).

So let’s lift our eyes from ourselves to our Savior, our only sure foundation. As we do, we will demonstrate the power of the Gospel to move multitudes from selfishness and purposelessness to abundant joy, unaccountable peace, and brotherly love.

Prayer: Lord, may I dwell on Your matchless character and love for me so that I think of myself less and find complete joy in You. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“Jesus went on to say, ‘To what, then, can I compare the people of this generation? What are they like?’” (Luke 7:31).

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