Read Matthew 27:33-44
Part 1 – Are You That Blind?
Jesus and his cross, with the help of Simon the Cyrene, went to Golgotha, meaning “The Place Of A Skull.” This is where Jesus was crucified. It’s the place where people mocked him with great abuse. What’s ironic though, is that what the people did and said actually involved words of truth, but they didn’t recognize it as truth. They were blind to the fact. For example:
1. There is a sign above Jesus’s head that read, “This is Jesus the King of the Jews.” That was a true statement but they were blind to the truth. As a result they made fun of him as if he was not a king but a criminal.
2. They mocked Jesus saying, “You who said you are going to destroy the temple and rebuild it in 3 days, save yourself.” Actually, Jesus said earlier in his ministry that if the Jews were to destroy this temple, he would rebuild it in 3 days. He was referring to his body. That if the Jews were to destroy his body he would rise again on the third day. This is a truth, but they didn’t recognize it because they were blind.
3. The people said, “If you are the Son of God, come down from there.” They mocked him but he really was the Son of God and he was dying for the sins of the world. If they knew that, they would not have mocked him. These are just a few examples.
Why were the people so blind to the truth? For the same reason they’re blind today to the truth:
1. Pride. Some people want recognition and glory. They want to look good. They want to be in control. They are blind to the truth.
2. Sin. Some people love the pleasures of this world. They love the immediate gratification that comes from it.
3. Deception. Satan is a powerful influence and loves to feed us lies and make it look wonderful as if it is truth.
This can all happen with believers and non-believers. Think of something that you want really really bad! At some point do you become so fixated on it that it becomes more important than your relationship with God? It could be a relationship. It could be a position at work. It could be a hobby or a sport. It could be your passion or talents that you want to use for your glory and not the glory of God. You have become blind to the truth of what’s really happening.
When this happens, it’s time to surrender it to the Lord, even though it may be a huge sacrifice. But your obedience will result in God being glorified and you being blessed by God. It could be a blessing enjoyed here on Earth or in Heaven. Or both.
Don’t be blind to the truth.
