Many times, it’s the most unlikely people who believe in Christ and become His most ardent followers. A person I worked with used to make fun of Christians. Through personal witness of fellow employees, this individual became an enthusiastic disciple of Christ. God transformed Paul from a murderer of Christians to an apostle who was the leading church planter and writer of many books in the New Testament. God loves to surprise by working through unlikely people as you will observe in Luke 23.
Likely People Disbelieve in Christ’s Lordship
Bringing Jesus before Pilate, the religious leaders accused Christ of misleading Israel by forbidding them to pay taxes to Caesar and claiming to be Messiah, a King. Pilate found no guilt after asking Him if He was “King of the Jews.” Pilate sent Jesus to Herod (Lk. 23:1-7). Religious leaders make up lies while refusing to believe that Jesus is Lord.
Herod was glad to see Jesus and hoped for a sign to be performed by Him. Jesus was silent at His questioning. Herod and his soldiers treated Him with contempt, dressed Him in a gorgeous robe and sent Jesus back to Pilate. Herod and Pilate became friends with one another for the first time (Lk. 23:8-12). Political leaders search for signs and miracles instead of making Him Lord.
Pilate told the religious leaders that he found Christ not guilty with nothing deserving of death. They cried out together to crucify Him and release the terrorist and murderer, Barabbas, even though Pilate said three times he wanted to release Jesus. He delivered Jesus to them because of their insistence (Lk. 23:13-25). Religious and political leaders seek political expediency and status quo instead of making Jesus Lord.
Simon bore Jesus’ cross with a great multitude following Him with women mourning and lamenting Him. Jesus told them to stop weeping for Him, but weep for themselves and their children. In the future, the barren would ask mountains to fall on them (Lk. 23:26-31). People seek experiences instead of repenting of their sins.
Religious leaders crucified Jesus and two criminals, one on each side of Him. Jesus told His Father to forgive them since they didn’t know what they were doing. Soldiers cast lots and divided His garments among themselves. The rulers and soldiers mocked and exhorted Jesus to save Himself (Lk. 23:32-38). People seek financial gain and to save themselves instead of believing in Christ’s death.
Unlikely People Believe in Christ’s Lordship
One criminal mocked Jesus and the other feared Him saying He hadn’t done anything wrong. Jesus said that he would be with Him in Paradise after saying, “Jesus, remember me when You come in Your kingdom” (Lk. 23:39-43). Even criminals can believe in Christ’s death.
After the veil of the temple was torn in two, Jesus cried out, “Father, into Thy hands I commit My spirit.” The centurion praised God and said Jesus was innocent. The multitudes beat their breasts. All His acquaintances and women accompanying Him stood at a distance (Lk. 23:44-49). Those in the world often believe in Christ before His people.
Joseph, a member of the Council, who was waiting for the kingdom of God went to Pilate and asked for Jesus’ body. Joseph wrapped Him in a linen cloth and laid Him in a tomb. The women followed after, returned and prepared spices and perfumes (Lk. 23:50-56). Cultural insiders can believe in Christ’s death.
People disbelieve Christ’s Lordship by:
1. Making up lies
2. Searching for signs and miracles
3. Seeking political expediency and status quo
4. Seeking experiences, financial gain and saving themselves through their own efforts
Criminals, people of the world and cultural insiders often respond before His people.
