Actions have consequences

Initially, I considered the possibility in Divorce as an impurity that the word “divorce” was used by the Lucan Jesus as a catchword.

Yet it is possible that the use of the word “adultery,” in Luke 16:18 is a catchword that triggers an allusion to the 4^th chapter of Hosea and to the condemnation of Israel’s adultery which is most explicit: “There is no faithfulness or kindness, and no knowledge of God in the land; there is swearing, lying, killing, stealing, and committing adultery; they break all bounds [boundary lines] and murder follows murder.” In the second part of his book, Hosea urges the utmost fidelity to God while promising restoration if the people repent and keep the Sinai covenant. An allusion to the 4^th chapter of Hosea and words quoted above would provoke a strong reaction. The Pharisees knew the promises were not unconditional. They knew that the choices had consequences. The ultimate consequences of defiling the Sinai covenant is that God will allow Israel’s destruction.

Faithlessness to the covenant has consequences. It brings enemy oppression upon Israel. Only repentance and God’s intervention can save it. This is part of the Sinai theme and the message of the Book of Judges. It is also the message of Luke.

Copyrighted 2007

Religion

Christianity

Gospel of Luke