Sermon 111

📖 Sermon 111 – Jesus’ Sorrow Over Jerusalem

Date: [no date given]
Text: Luke 13:31–35

Introduction

Some Pharisees warn Jesus that Herod seeks to kill Him. Jesus responds fearlessly, fulfilling His mission unhindered, and then laments over Jerusalem — the city that rejects its prophets and now rejects its Messiah. This passage reveals both Christ’s resolve and His tender compassion.

I. Christ’s Courage in the Face of Threat

A. Herod’s threat does not deter Him
“Go tell that fox…” Herod is cunning, but powerless against God’s plan.

B. Jesus continues His work
“Behold, I cast out devils, and I do cures today and tomorrow.” He walks in perfect obedience to His Father.

C. His mission must take Him to Jerusalem
“For it cannot be that a prophet perish out of Jerusalem.” He knows what awaits Him, yet He goes willingly.

II. Christ’s Lament Over Jerusalem

A. The city of privilege and rejection
It had the temple, the sacrifices, the Scriptures, the prophets — yet it stoned those sent to it.

B. Christ’s longing heart
“How often would I have gathered thy children together, as a hen doth gather her brood under her wings…” A picture of protective, tender love.

C. Their refusal
“…and ye would not.” The tragedy is not inability, but unwillingness.

III. The Judgment Pronounced

A. “Behold, your house is left unto you desolate.”
The temple and city will fall. The glory departs from those who reject the Savior.

B. A promise of future repentance
“Ye shall not see Me, until the time come…” Though judgment falls, grace remains available.

C. The true blessing
“…when ye shall say, Blessed is He that cometh in the name of the Lord.” Only when the heart receives Christ is there peace.

Conclusion

This passage reveals Christ’s boldness and His broken heart. He moves toward the cross with courage, yet He weeps over those who reject Him. Let us not repeat Jerusalem’s refusal, but receive Him with repentance, faith, and love.