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What does Jesus mean by 'I would have gathered you, but you would not'?

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This phrase indicates that while Jesus desired to save the people of Jerusalem, their own refusal to come to Him resulted in their spiritual desolation.

In the lament of Jesus, 'I would have gathered you, but you would not,' we see a profound statement about divine desire contrasted with human rebellion. Jesus expresses His longing to embrace the people of Jerusalem, likening His desire to that of a mother hen gathering her chicks. This showcases His compassionate heart for those who are lost. However, the anguished cry also highlights a tragic truth: the people's refusal to accept the salvation He offers. It is not that Jesus lacked the power to save; instead, it was their willful rejection of Him that left them desolate, as noted in Luke 19:44. Their unwillingness to recognize the time of their visitation seals their fate, illustrating that the choice to turn away lies with the individual, not with God's intent or capacity to save. Thus, when one is lost, it is a reflection of their own will rather than a deficiency in God's will or desire to save.
Scripture References: Luke 19:41-44, Matthew 23:37

Sermons (1)

The House Of Prayer
Chris Cunningham · Feb 16, 2020
Joshua

Joshua

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