Luke 9:51-56
As Jesus’ neared His ascension, He resolved to go to Jerusalem. He sent messengers to Samaria to
make arrangements, “But they did not receive Him, because He was traveling toward Jerusalem.” (53).
Division between Jews and Samaritans was so intense they did not receive Him as He was focused on
going to Jerusalem. James and John wanted to call fire from heaven to consume these opposers of
Christ, “But He turned and REBUKED them,…… And they went on to another village.” (56) We must
guard against slipping into this spirit when encountering those who “interfere” with our spiritual journey
or destiny. Jesus did not rebuke the Samaritans, but rebuked His disciples and moved on to another
village. Let’s not get sidetracked by those who interfere, but move on lest we are overcome by this
same bad spirit.