Holy Week: A Walk to the CrossSample

They Couldn’t Catch Him Slipping

After flipping tables and clearing out the Temple, Jesus came back the next day, and the religious leaders were waiting for Him. They were angry, embarrassed, and, most of all, afraid of losing their influence over the people. So, they tried to trap Jesus with tricky questions, hoping He’d slip up and say something they could use against Him. But Jesus wasn’t falling for it.

What they didn’t realize was that their plots couldn’t work unless God allowed it. Jesus wasn’t going to be arrested just because they wanted Him to be—He would be arrested at the exact time God had planned. Even His enemies had to submit to God’s timing.

The Parables: Stories With a Message

Jesus didn’t just call people out—He told stories to help them understand what was really happening. Here’s what He shared that day:

1. The Story of Two Sons (Matthew 21:28-32)

Imagine a dad asking his two kids to clean the house. One says, “No way!” but later feels bad and does it anyway. The other says, “Sure, Dad!” but never actually helps. Jesus was saying that actions matter more than words. The religious leaders looked like they were obeying God, but their hearts were far from Him. Meanwhile, the people they judged—like sinners and tax collectors—were turning to God.

2. The Story of the Wicked Tenants (Matthew 21:33-46)

Think of a business owner who rents out a restaurant. But every time he sends an employee to collect payment, the renters beat them up and refuse to pay. Finally, he sends his own son, thinking they’ll respect him, but instead, they kill him. Jesus was saying this was exactly what the religious leaders were doing. God had sent prophets (like the employees), but they were rejected. Now, He had sent Jesus (the Son), and they were planning to kill Him too.

The religious leaders knew Jesus was talking about them, but instead of changing, they got even angrier. Their hatred for Jesus grew, and the plot to kill Him became more serious. But no matter how much they schemed, everything was still under God’s control.

What Does This Mean for Us?

Sometimes, it may feel like the enemy is plotting against us, trying to make us fall, fail, or question our faith. But just like with Jesus, nothing happens outside of God’s timing. The enemy doesn’t have the final say—God does.

Reflection Question:

Are there areas in your life where you feel like the enemy is attacking? How can you trust God’s timing, even when things seem out of control?

Prayer:

God, thank You that nothing happens outside of Your timing. When I feel attacked or overwhelmed, help me trust that You are in control. Keep my heart focused on You, no matter what. In Jesus’ name, Amen.