The diversity policy of Jesus is shocking in its inclusivity and scandalous in its exclusivity. All are invited but only those who enter through the narrow door are welcomed. This poses big questions. How can God shut the door on someone? What can possibly justify God refusing entry? In this passage, some answers are provided. People will be refused entry to heaven only over Jesus’ dead body. Membership will be denied only as his offer is rejected.
31 At that very hour some Pharisees came and said to him, “Get away from here, for Herod wants to kill you.” 32 And he said to them, “Go and tell that fox, ‘Behold, I cast out demons and perform cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I finish my course. 33 Nevertheless, I must go on my way today and tomorrow and the day following, for it cannot be that a prophet should perish away from Jerusalem.’ 34 O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often would I have gathered your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing! 35 Behold, your house is forsaken. And I tell you, you will not see me until you say, ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!’”
