Take Away Our Place
“The chief priests therefore and the Pharisees gathered a council and said, What do we? For this man does many signs. If we let him thus alone, all men will believe on him: and the Romans will come and take away both our place and our nation.”-John 11:47-8
Those chief priests expressed several concerns in few words. They knew Jesus' many miracles, they knew they would lead to everyone believing on him, and they concluded believing on Jesus would result in the Romans removing them from their place over the people, and even destroying their nation.
The chief concern of the chief priests was the same as many church leaders today – losing their place. Under the law, the people had to go through the priests to offer their sacrifices to God. They sensed believing on Jesus would make their place of mediating unnecessary . In fact, Jesus did create a new priesthood of all believers.
But some churches soon felt similar expressions of place and power over them. Ruling rather than restoring , prompted Peter's instruction to elders : “neither as lording it over the charge allotted to you,” Elders, shepherds, are called to imitate the Chief Shepherd in pouring out themselves, to give life to others. Words and deeds that pour out our selves , are unmistakable. They multiply the Lord's love and praise. Desiring to decide matters for others reflects pride , and that originated with Satan.
“But do not be called Rabbi; for One is your teacher, and you are all brothers.”- Mt. 23:8
8/21/06, #59