Gene’s Daily Scriptural Postings

Insulting the Governor: Luke 13:31-35

Focus Passage: Luke 13:31-35 (NCV)

I have sometimes wondered about what prompted Herod to be in Jerusalem during the crucifixion weekend. After all, Jerusalem was not part of his jurisdiction, and prior to the events of the crucifixion weekend in relation to Jesus, he and Pilate were not friends. Some sources say that they disliked each other.

However, part of me wonders if Jesus’ message to Herod through this group of Pharisees prompted the governor to make the trip to Jerusalem. Jesus’ message begins, “Go tell that fox Herod, ‘Today and tomorrow I am forcing demons out and healing people. Then, on the third day, I will reach my goal.’” (v. 32)

Whether Herod took this as a challenge, or whether he was insulted, we do not know, but it is interesting that Jesus would call the governor a name. What is also interesting is Jesus’ message: “Today and tomorrow I am forcing demons out and healing people. Then, on the third day, I will reach my goal.”  

While this event did not occur three days before the cross, I wonder if it foreshadows Jesus’ big mission. In the next verse, Jesus alludes to His upcoming death, and it would not surprise me if during Wednesday and Thursday of crucifixion week, He was forcing out demons and healing people. In this regard, Jesus will reach the goal of the cross “on the third day”.

However, the phrase “On the third day” is interesting. Looking back on the crucifixion weekend from this point in history, “the third day” is typically referred to as the resurrection day. Someone might say, “Jesus died on the cross, and on the third day, He rose again.” In this scenario, the cross and Sabbath day of rest between the crucifixion and resurrection may be symbolic of His earthly mission that included healing, casting out demons, teaching, preaching, and calling people back to God.

This leads me to the big truth that God knows our future, and He directs our path when we allow Him to work in us. While Herod had no other practical reason that we know of to make the journey to Jerusalem, part of me wonders if it was through this message intrigued Herod enough to make the trip for the upcoming Passover weekend.

This thought was inspired by studying the Walking With Jesus “Reflective Bible Study” package. To discover insights like this in your own study time, click here and give Reflective Bible Study a try today!

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