Some people came to Jesus with a report about something tragic (Luke 13:1-5). They mentioned an occasion when Pilate murdered some innocent Galileans while they were worshipping. It appears that they believed that the Galileans suffered this fate because they were wicked and terrible sinners (Luke 13:2).

Their suffering resulted from living in a sinful and fallen world that is unsafe and full of uncertainty. The proper response to the sufferings witnessed in this life is repentance (Luke 13:3, 5). Repentance is far more critical than discussions about the causes of suffering.

You are a sinner.

  • We are all sinners (Romans 3:23).
  • The consequence of sin is spiritual death (Romans 6:23). Jesus referred to this when He mentioned “perishing” in Luke 13:3, 5). Paul also used similar language in 2 Corinthians 4:3.
  • Sin and its consequences are universal problems!
  • This is why repentance is so important (Matthew 3:2; Acts 3:19; 17:30; Revelation 2:5, 16, 21; 3:19). Repentance is a prerequisite for Bible baptism (Acts 2:38).
  • Repentance may be the most difficult step in God’s plan to clean us spiritually because it requires turning away from sin. It requires having a righteous change of mind towards sin that leads to daily discipleship.

Sin is a far more serious problem than suffering.

  • These people who approach Jesus are curious about the causes of suffering. Jesus doesn’t engage in a philosophical discussion with them about suffering. Instead, He talks with them about the real problem in the world – sin!
  • Sin is the reason why we live in a broken and fallen world. It is why there are natural calamities, mass shootings, wars, sicknesses, and death.
  • Challenging ourselves to see this will impact our lives dramatically. It will help us avoid getting wrapped up in the suffering of the world while at the same time minimizing the seriousness of sin.
  • It will help us avoid sin and refrain from ever approving the very thing responsible for the suffering in the world.

You don’t know when you are going to die.

  • We all will experience death (Ecclesiastes 9:3; Hebrews 9:27). Sometimes death occurs suddenly and unexpectantly. Those who die without repentance will spiritually perish!
  • This is why repentance must never be delayed. While we can’t always avoid suffering in this life, we can repent and avoid suffering in the life to come.

Conclusion:

Examine your life. Do you need to repent?