Intro: What do you think of when you hear the word “expert?” Most people have an image of someone who not only has extensive knowledge in an area, but also has the skill to apply and perform it in excellence. An expert is someone you would call if you needed assistance in their field of study or occupation. There are plenty of people who may proclaim to be experts in certain areas, but as my mother would say, “The proof of the pudding is in the eating!” In other words, the truth is revealed in firsthand experience.
In our passage today, Jesus is approached by an “expert” in the law who wants to know how to make sure he has eternal life. This expert sums up the law verbatim as Jesus did on a previous occasion. Therefore, we witness the expert has proper knowledge. So, Jesus stretches the faith of this expert by inviting him into a performance application of his understanding; “…do this!” The proof of our loving God, neighbor, and self according to the law—the proof of our pudding—is revealed through our attitudes, words, and actions. Would we want to eat that pudding? Since we all fail to perform as experts before God, may we seek the mercy of God and ask for the Spirit’s help in making us more like Jesus—the TRUE EXPERT!
Luke 10:25-28 NLT
25 An expert in the Law of Moses stood up and asked Jesus a question to see what he would say. “Teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to have eternal life?”
26 Jesus answered, “What is written in the Scriptures? How do you understand them?”
27 The man replied, “The Scriptures say, ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, strength, and mind.’ They also say, ‘Love your neighbors as much as you love yourself.’ ”
28 Jesus said, “You have given the right answer. If you do this, you will have eternal life.”
Prayer: Lord, let my life be more than just giving someone a right answer. May my life reveal the truth of my heart to love You, my neighbor, and myself in a righteous way. In Jesus’ name. Amen.