I look at equality and the conversations had in this world about that equality and have realized that it is a simple thing that remains extremely confusing.
In Luke Chapter 20 verses 27-40, Jesus is questioned about the law and how that translates to the resurrection. A valid idea to question, when your motives are understanding. But, when the question is centered around the motive of catching someone in a “lie” or manipulation, the idea loses its luster.
The Sadducees crafted a scenario that could happen, although the likelihood was not realistic. This scenario was devised to catch Jesus off guard to undermine His teaching.
“29Now there were seven brothers. The first took a wife, and died without children. 30And the second 31and the third took her, and likewise all seven left no children and died. 32Afterward the woman also died. 33In the resurrection, therefore, whose wife will the woman be? For seven had her as wife.” – Luke 20:29-33 (ESV)
Whereas possible, this scenario is not likely. I can see where they are strictly asking trap Jesus. His response is irrefutable.
“34And Jesus said to them, ‘The sons of this age marry and are given in marriage, 35but those who are considered worth to attain to that age and to the resurrection from the dead neither marry nor are given to marriage,’” – Luke 20:34-35 (ESV)
I find myself asking God about simple items that I have created too much complexity around. As I read this morning I am reminded that the answers to God are simple. I make things more complicated and confusing that they really are.
“36for they cannot die anymore, because they are equal to angels and are sons of God, being sons of the resurrection.” – Luke 20:36 (ESV)
Jesus cleared things up for the Sadducees by stating the simplicity that is overlooked. The resurrection is for the living in God. Therefore the dead of this world are not of this world any longer. They are now of the living as like the angels and simply do not adhere to equality as defined in this world. And at this, the Sadducees then stopped asking questions of Jesus as they were taken aback by the simplicity of His response in the midst of their confusing thoughts.
I have to remember that it is me who makes things more confusing than they should be. I have to accept that what is happening is happening because God planned it that way and it is my job to continue working for Him and the plan laid out for me by Him.
For you, what simple questions are you making out to be more confusing? Are you looking to understand, or trick to prove a point? What if you took that confusion and looked for the simplicity of equality instead?
Trevor's Thoughts 