MPV Commentary

The Period of His Assumption Approaching Christ Takes His

51. The time was approaching for Jesus to be received up into heaven.

This marked a significant turning point in his ministry, dividing it into two stages. Everything that had happened before this moment belonged to one stage, and everything that followed belonged to the other. During the first stage, he came to his own people, but they rejected him. Now, as he approached the second stage, the consequences of their rejection would become clear.

He steadfastly set his face toward Jerusalem, where he would ultimately be received up into heaven. This was in line with his own prophetic words: "I have set my face like a flint" (Isaiah 50:7).

52. Jesus sent messengers ahead to prepare for him, which was a new approach. Previously, he had avoided drawing attention to himself, but now he seemed to be seeking it out.

53. The Samaritans refused to receive Jesus because they were offended by his request that they prepare quarters for him in Jerusalem. This slight against their claims as the rightful people of God raised their national prejudices and made them unwilling to welcome him.

54. James and John, often referred to as "the sons of thunder," accompanied Jesus on this journey. They had previously shown a desire for power and prestige (Mark 3:17), but now they were willing to follow Jesus to Jerusalem. This was in contrast to Peter, who would have been expected to be with them.

The Samaritans asked Jesus if he was the one who was to come, and James and John referred to the example of Elijah, who had called down fire from heaven (2 Kings 1:10-12). However, Jesus rebuked them for their request, which was not in line with the spirit of his ministry.

55-56. The Samaritans did not understand what kind of spirit they were asking for. They wanted to see a demonstration of power that would be consistent with the Old Testament law, but it was not suited to the new covenant era. Jesus' miracles were always about salvation, never destruction.

He then went on to another village, illustrating his own teaching: "Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth; I have not come to bring peace, but a sword" (Matthew 10:23).