In the town of Nazareth, where Jesus had grown up, he returned from his 40 days in the wilderness to begin his public ministry. He attended the local synagogue and chose the passage from the Isaiah scroll that spoke of the Anointed One who would come. The word “anointed” is where the Hebrews get the word “Messiah,” and where the Greeks get the word “Christos.” Having read this passage, he lifted his eyes from the Scripture and instead of offering the usual commentary, he claimed to be the “fulfillment” of Isaiah’s prophecy. He claimed to be the Christ. This created quite a stir in the small synagogue. His hometown people rejected his claim saying, “Is not this Joseph’s son?” Their familiarity with Jesus actually caused them to doubt him. Is this happening in America, where everyone is familiar with Jesus the man, but not many believe in him as Lord?
‘And he began to say to them, “Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing”‘ (Luke 4:21 ESV)
Scripture for today:
Numbers 30:1-31:54; Luke 4:1-30; Psalm 63:1-11; Proverbs 11:20-21