And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.”
(Romans 8:28, NLT)
Today’s text reveals that God is in full control, always working in His perfect timing. God orchestrated Christ’s crucifixion so that He would die at the exact time the Passover lambs in Jerusalem were being sacrificed. As John the Baptist declared, Jesus was, “the lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world.”
Today’s text in context …
The Festival of Unleavened Bread, which is also called Passover, was approaching. The leading priests and teachers of religious law were plotting how to kill Jesus, but they were afraid of the people’s reaction. Then Satan entered into Judas Iscariot, who was one of the twelve disciples, and he went to the leading priests and captains of the Temple guard to discuss the best way to betray Jesus to them. They were delighted, and they promised to give him money. So he agreed and began looking for an opportunity to betray Jesus so they could arrest him when the crowds weren’t around. Now the Festival of Unleavened Bread arrived, when the Passover lamb is sacrificed. Jesus sent Peter and John ahead and said, “Go and prepare the Passover meal, so we can eat it together.” “Where do you want us to prepare it?” they asked him. He replied, “As soon as you enter Jerusalem, a man carrying a pitcher of water will meet you. Follow him. At the house he enters, say to the owner, ‘The Teacher asks: Where is the guest room where I can eat the Passover meal with my disciples?’ He will take you upstairs to a large room that is already set up. That is where you should prepare our meal.” They went off to the city and found everything just as Jesus had said, and they prepared the Passover meal there.” (Luke 22:1–13, NLT)
Many were out to destroy Jesus at this time. The religious leaders wanted Him dead because they were jealous of Him and threatened by Him. The devil wanted Jesus dead because of his blind hatred against God and His Messiah. Judas had conspired with the religious leaders to turn Jesus in for a reward and have him arrested. There was so much working against Jesus. Yet, God was in control, working out His plan in His perfect timing. We will take an in-depth look at all this today.
We are assured and know that [God being a partner in their labor] all things work together and are [fitting into a plan] for good to and for those who love God and are called according to [His] design and purpose.” (Rom 8:28, Amp)
Pastor Mike