Luke 20:9-18
Read Luke 20:9-18
Reread Daniel 2:34. Then, read Luke 20:9-18. Focus on Luke 20:17-18
In our text today, the Parable of the Wicked Tenants, Jesus gives a relatively straightforward parable. The vineyard represented Old Covenant Israel. God called a people out of slavery in Egypt, planting them as a vineyard to bear fruit for Him, leaving them under the care of tenants—kings, priests, and other leaders.
Periodically, the Lord sent prophets to investigate the vineyard, but the tenants (the leaders of Israel) rejected the prophets (Amos 3:7; Zech. 1:4–6). Rather than destroy the nation, however, God decided to send one last messenger: His Son. But the Son would be received with even more hatred than the prophets. The tenants killed Him in an attempt to steal the owner's inheritance.
Because they rejected Jesus, the vineyard will be handed over to others (i.e, the Gentiles). But to Jesus’ enemies, it was unthinkable that the privileges of the Jews as God’s chosen people could under any circumstances be given to the Gentiles. They interject by saying, “Surely not!” However, Jesus points them back to Scripture and quotes two passages side by side - Psalm 118:22 and Daniel 2:34 - and applies them to himself. In doing so, Jesus identifies himself as the Rock of Daniel. He is the Messiah, the stone which crushes the kingdoms of this world and any opposition as his kingdom advances through the preaching of the Gospel.
Reflection Questions:
What does Jesus quoting Daniel 2 teach us about nations or individuals who refuse to submit to Jesus?
How is the Kingdom of Jesus Christ different from Nebuchadnezzar’s Kingdom or other earthly empires? For more help answering, see the following verses: (Luke 20:15, Matthew 4:17, Matthew 13, John 18:33-38, Philippians 2:5-11, Colossians 1:13-14, 1 Peter 1:7-12, 2 Peter 1:11, Revelation 11:5)
In what ways does it comfort you that Christ has established his kingdom, the one which will crush all other kingdoms? How does it comfort you that Christ is the cornerstone of the church and our lives? Be specific (See 1 Peter 2:1-6 if you need help!)