NOTES for Luk 9:56

The Lord Jesus Christ says these words in answer to the strange proposition of His followers to make fire to come down from heaven and consume those who didn’t want to receive them with Jesus. "Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of" rebuked the Rescuer with bitterness. These words contain a very important aspect of our faith. Judgment begins with the coming of Jesus into the world, quite as from the moment every person contacts with Him. According to the words of the Lord, judgment consists of the fact that - Light came in the world, and through this Light the deeds and intentions of everyone become visible. And each of us chooses between Light and repentance or darkness and self-content. Difficulties and dangers wait us on this way, and to make this choice despite its conspicuity is not so easy. And often, very often, we appear to be unable to follow the Christ. And Voila, the Lord lets know that He did not come "to catch" us and doom to perdition because of our unreadiness to receive Him. No, the purpose of His advent is to save men’s lives. It is one of the most important reasons why He admonishes very often and obstinately His followers of judgment, of condemning others. And this is an amazing hope for us, unworthy of His sacrifice.