What do the Pharisees and teachers of the law ask Jesus?

From yesterday’s passage, why might this request have caused Jesus to respond like he did in v39?

What sign will Jesus give?

Jesus then refers to the repentance of the Ninevites (see the book of Jonah) and the Queen of Sheba recognising the Lord’s wisdom (1 Kings 10). Importantly, these are non-Jewish people who recognise God’s power and respond with recognition and praise. They put the Pharisees and teachers of the Law to shame - these Jews should be able to recognise Jesus and respond with repentance and praise, rather than scepticism and hard-heartedness.

The parable of the impure spirit (v43-45) warns against an initial acknowledgement of God (causing the ejection of the impure spirit in the first place) but then a failure to replace old ways with the new ways of God (‘it finds the house unoccupied’). Those who fail to repent (i.e., cast off sinful desires and pursue the ways of God) will be judged (v45). Those who are truly part of Jesus’ family do the will of God (46-50).

How does repentance fit with salvation by grace?

What does repentance look like in your life?

1. Ask God to produce good fruit in your life that reflects His transforming grace. Praise Jesus for defeating sin and the devil on our behalf.

2. J & R: Pray for the preaching seminars and classes they teach to have a lasting gospel impact.

3. Church on Sunday: Pray for our four congregations (8am, 9:30am, 11am, and 5pm), that they remain welcoming. That when we meet, we know real worship, fellowship, and spiritual growth.