The Nazareth Manifesto

Bible Reading: Luke 4:16 – 30

There are moments in history when a single speech has changed its course.

Martin Luther King Junior's 'I Have a Dream' speech, delivered on the 23rd of August, 1963, inspired and galvanized the movement for civil rights and to end racial discrimination in the United States.  Winston Churchill's 'Never Give In' speech, delivered at Harrow School in 1941, inspired resilience and increased morale during the Second World War. 

Two thousand years ago, when Jesus stood in His hometown, Nazareth, and read from the scroll of Isaiah, the 'Manifesto of the Messiah,' the people were filled with wrath.  They thrust Him out of the city and tried to throw Him down the cliff.

Why did this rock the crowd?

Isaiah had prophesied about the mission of the Messiah as follows:

•          To preach the Gospel to the poor; 

•          To heal the broken-hearted,

•          To proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind,

•          To set at liberty those who are oppressed;

•          To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD.

And Jesus had fulfilled all of the above.  So when Jesus said, "Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing," the people understood that Jesus was the Messiah, and this upset them. 

Why is the 'Manifesto of the Messiah' important to us?

Jesus said, "As the Father has sent Me, I also send you." He breathed on them and said to them, "Receive the Holy Spirit" (John 20:21).  As God's representatives, Jesus' mission is also our mission.  Just as the Father sent Jesus, we have also been sent into this world.  God has anointed and equipped us with the Holy Spirit.

How can we fulfill this mission?

Many are oppressed by hatred and unforgiveness in their hearts.  Many are unable to see the truth; they hear but do not understand.  Many are struggling with broken hearts due to the loss of a loved one or financial problems or health issues.  Many are bound in sin and guilt.  We must present Jesus through our lives.  They can be freed only by the Gospel of Christ.  The good news is the 'year of the Lord's favor' is now!

My friend, the mission of Jesus must continue through us.  This is not just a historical moment; it is a present invitation.  The Spirit is still moving.  The favor of the Lord is available today, and a new beginning awaits everyone who would come to Him.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, as Your Ambassadors, help us bring the good news of the Gospel and a new beginning to everyone around us.  Amen.