When people read the scripture regarding Luke 7:28, it throws a curve ball in their game like a Nolan Ryan pitch.  Pondering this scripture and the one like it in Matthew 11:11, the question arises: what was Jesus really saying? How could he say such a thing about a person who had been so faithful to his calling and ministry? We all know that when it comes to faithfulness for most Christians,  most are as about as faithful as a Sumo wrestler on a fast.

John the Baptist is not only looked upon as the greatest prophet in the bible but he was also the forerunner to Jesus who introduced him to the disciples and the world.  So for Jesus to make this statement was very shocking to the core, at the least.

So why did Jesus call him the "least in the kingdom?   From my studies and what other commentaries explain this statement refers to the timing of John on the scene, as the forerunner of Jesus.  Jesus even said in his first message reading in Isaiah 61:1-2, that scriptures are fulfilled. They were blessed among men to see and hear the Messiah's ministry begin. Many had waited to see this site of the Messiah, desiring to follow him, but most missed the opportunity to participate in his work on earth because they were not called.  Therefore, even though John was the greatest prophet, he was not chosen to have the greatest place, at the feet of Jesus, so to speak, participating and assisting in his ministry.

In Luke 10:23-24 the LORD spoke of how many desired to see and hear what those around him had the opportunity to see and hear but missed it.  You ever go somewhere anticipating to meet someone or do something special only to find out you missed that one and only opportunity?  How did it make you feel?  These people during biblical times either did not believe Jesus was the one, weren't called to be there or died right before his ministry began.

 In addition, I believe that it has to do with the new kind of salvation ushered in when Jesus came upon the scene. This was the age of grace, where the Holy Spirit would eventually indwell men.  Now before this time of Jesus' ministry and the unleashing of the Holy Spirit, the Holy Spirit did not take up residency in mankind, but only came upon them as needed.  I think all these factors played a part in the understanding of this difficult saying of the bible.  What do you think Luke 7:28 was referring to? Do you agree or disagree?  Please share your comments with the community below.