Father of the Inklings Father of the Inklings

The cross has become the essential symbol of Christianity. It was not so, however, when Jesus spoke these words.

There are many ”firsts” in the Gospel story -- the first disciples called, the first command, the first sermon, the first Follow me, etc. We have noted some of these as we have progressed through the Commands. One of the most instructive such firsts occurs in Matthew 5:3: Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

This is a very interesting and seriously convicting command. And one mostly ignored by the vast majority of Christendom’s churches.

Contrary to what many think, Jesus had nothing against either money or rich people. Many of his closest friends were possessors of means.

We here encounter a Command made all the more intriguing when we consider to whom Jesus addressed it. He did not speak these words to his disciples or followers or to the crowds. This was his response to Satan after the final temptation in the wilderness. Can we then consider it a universal Command which Jesus places upon his followers as well?

So many of Jesus’ Commands are interrelated. In these combined passages from Luke, we hear echoes of Love, Give to the poor, Do more than required, Be a servant, Be kind, Do good, Do not demand back what you have given, Serve the least of humanity as you would Jesus.