Jesus Weeps Over Jerusalem

Introduction:

Jesus was to be a man of sorrows. (Isaiah 53:3) The New Testament records three instances when He wept: At the tomb of Lazarus (John 11:35); when He prayed (Hebrews 5:7); and at the sight of Jerusalem (Luke 19:41-44)What made Jesus weep over Jerusalem?

Body:

  1. He Wept over their False Belief
  • They had Moses and the prophets. (Luke 16:29)
  • They had failed to comprehend the message of the Old Testament about Him. (John 5:45-47)
  • They crucified Jesus the week of Passover which meant they missed the Passover for which they had been looking. (I Corinthians 5:7)
  • Does Jesus see any false beliefs in our city and community?
  1. Different plans of salvation (Acts 2:38)
  2. Different ways to worship (John 4:23)
  3. Spiritual blindness (Matthew 13:14-15)
  1. He Wept over their Lack of Commitment
  • Jesus had told them the high demands of following Him. (Luke 9:23-25, 57-62)
  • What does our Savior see in our area?
  1. Division among those who claim to be His followers (John 17:20-21)
  2. Unattended assemblies, empty buildings, and unsupported works (Hebrews 10:25, I Corinthians 15:58)
  3. Members with little or no self-discipline (I Corinthians 9:27)
  1. Jesus Wept over Lost Souls
  • When Jesus looked at the people, He saw people who were spiritually empty. They were lost. (Matthew 9:30)
  • What does Jesus see when He looks at our city? He sees lost sheep that have wandered away. He sees lost coins that don’t know they are lost. He sees lost sons who have rebelled against God and turned away from His Word.
  • We need to shed more tears for the lost. (Psalm 126:5-6) It is only now that we can show concern. One day we won’t be able. (John 9:4)
  1. Jesus Wept Because of Impending Judgment
  • Jesus knew what was going to happen in about thirty-five years. The Roman army would turn Jerusalem into a blood bath and kill vast multitudes of Jews.
  • What does Jesus know about this town? He will open up the cemetery. (John 5:28-29) He will destroy every building: church, school, house . . . (II Peter 3:10-12) He will judge the entire world. (Matthew 25:31-33)

Conclusion:

Let us prepare ourselves so that we will rejoice when Jesus comes. (II Timothy 4:8)

Bobby Stafford July 28, 2013