Mark 9 - Lessons for the Disciples . . . and Me

LINK: Mark 9 (see parallel passages within the background)


BACKGROUND


Jesus Transfigures (2-12; Matthew 17:1-13; Luke 9:28-36)
Jesus Delivers a Demon-Possessed Boy (14-29; Matthew 17:14-21; Luke 9:37-43a)


A background study has already been posted on these two events in Matthew 17 HERE. I will have more to say on the healing of the demon-possessed boy in the reflection section. 


Jesus Predicts His Death for the Second Time (30-32; Matthew 17:22-23a; Luke 9:43b-45)


From the region of Caesarea Philippi and northeast Palestine, Jesus began to head through Galilee and Perea to Judea and into Jerusalem where He would face His crucifixion and resurrection six months later. He needed to prepare His disciples now, even though they would not fully comprehend it until later.


Jesus Clarifies True Greatness (33-37; Matthew 18:1-6; Luke 9:46-48)


Rank was important to the Jews, but Jesus taught that the essence of true
greatness was learning to be a servant of all. The Greek word here is diakonos  which means "one who attends to the needs of others freely" as opposed to doulos  which means a slave who is in a servile position.  The road to glory is via service not self-exaltation.  Of course, Jesus is the ultimate example of this. 


Jesus Rebukes the Disciples for Forbidding Deliverance by Outsiders  (38-41; Luke 9:49,50)


Most commentators believe the disciples were jealous of the man who healed in Jesus' name when they could not (14-18), and he was doing it in an unauthorized way rather than the man misusing Jesus' name. (see Acts 19:13-16 for an example of this).  Even though the verses involve different events, Mark 9:40, "For he who is not against us is for us" can be compared to Matthew 12:30, "He who is not with Me is against Me." If you are working for Jesus, you cannot be working against Him also. The man may have not done it the "right" way according to the disciples, but He did it for Jesus, and that is all that mattered. Boy, this is such a lesson for today when established patterns of doing things in the church don't make way for new ways!  


Jesus Warns Against Temptation (42-50; Matthew 18:7-9)


This was discussed in the previous lesson on Matthew 18 HERE.


REFLECTION - All Things Are Possible to Him Who Believes


I shared this story back on Day 15 of the Bible Book Club journey, but God reminded me of it as I was meditating on Mark 9 last Saturday while listening to a speaker at a conference. So, I will share it once again:

I was at Multnomah School of the Bible at a training program back in 1981. Every morning, all the people in the program spent half an hour in the same portion of the Word. 

One particular morning, I was up in a spartan attic bedroom in one of the rental houses near campus peering out the window located at the peak of the roof. It was summer, but, not unusual for Oregon, it was raining cats and dogs. Our passage for that morning was Mark 9, where the man brings his demon-possessed boy to Jesus to heal. After some dialogue with Jesus, the boy's father said to Jesus:

". . .if You can do anything, take pity on us and help us!"

Jesus responded:

"'If You can?' All things are possible to him who believes."

Immediately the boy's father cried out and said, "I do believe; help my unbelief."

Then Jesus drove out the demon.

I sat there in that attic bedroom, and I audibly laughed and said, "I don't believe this really happened, Lord! In fact, I don't believe you turned water into wine either or healed all those people. I don't believe it!!!!! It is too impossible."

Then, I realized the import of my words, and I cried out to God, "I want to be like that man. I do believe Lord, but my faith is so small, help my unbelief! Lord, could you show me yourself by stopping the rain?" (What was I thinking to pray such a crazy prayer in OREGON of all places?)

Immediately, and I mean IMMEDIATELY, the rain stopped, the clouds parted, and the sun beamed through that window blinding my eyes, and I said, "OK, I believe it all." It was a defining moment in my journey.

 The conference speaker's talk was entitled "A Vision for the Possible." He stated that the goal of Jesus was to teach His disciples that the impossible was possible. The speaker shared stories about God accomplishing the impossible in his work overseas, and he referred to this same story in Mark 9 about a father who asked for help in his unbelief. I realized I had slacked off a bit in believing God for the impossible since He parted those clouds for me 29 years ago, but his talk and this chapter inspired me to believe God for big things once again!


APPLICATION


What are you believing God for this year? Dream big dreams for His glory!


PRAYER


Lord, we do believe, help our unbelief. We praise You that You can do anything! Do the impossible through our lives. We ask this in Jesus' name, amen. 

Mark 8 - Miracles and Mission

by Katrina

LINK: Mark 8

BACKGROUND
The chapter starts off with the feeding of the 4000. Though people often confuse them or combine them into one event, this is a different event from the feeding of the 5000. While the 5000 were primarily Jews, the 4000 were in a Gentile area, so it would have been mostly Gentiles who experienced this miracle of Jesus. After the 4000 had eaten, there were seven large baskets of food left over. This basket is one that's large enough for a man to fit in. In fact, a basket like this was used to lower Paul down over the city wall of Damascus (Acts 9:25). Now that's a lot of leftovers!

Then the Pharisees asked Jesus for a special sign from heaven. They weren't satisfied with all the  miracles they had seen, they wanted something like fire or lightning to strike at his command. Jesus knew their hearts were hard and refused to do a demonstration that they wouldn't believe anyway.

Jesus warned the disciples to beware of the leaven of the Pharisees. Leaven represents sin, and Jesus was referring to the hypocritical teaching of the religious leaders. We would do well to beware of hypocrisy today as well.

The disciples were concerned that they hadn't brought enough bread with them on the boat, since they had only one loaf. Jesus "scolded" them and reminded them that he had recently provided bread for a crowd of 5000+ and then another crowd of 4000. Did they seriously need to be concerned about having enough food?

Then, at Bethsaida, a blind man was brought to him for healing. For some reason -- we don't really know why -- Jesus chose to heal him in stages. He did completely restore the man's vision and sent him on his way.

As Jesus walked with his disciples, he asked them what the popular opinion was of himself. There were many views on who Jesus was -- John, Elijah, another prophet. "But who do you say that I am?" he asked the disciples. Peter spoke up and declared him to be the Christ.

Jesus began to explain to his disciples that he would soon suffer in the hands of the religious leaders and be killed. But he would rise again after three days. This was his mission. He had come to earth to die. This was not the news the disciples were expecting. They wanted Jesus to usher in his political kingdom and overthrow Rome. Peter took him aside to question the plan. Jesus rebuked Peter as following Satan's plans rather than God's interests. That was a very strong rebuke! Apparently, Satan was using Peter to try to persuade Jesus to avoid the cross.

Jesus told all who followed him at that time that they must choose whether they would truly follow him. It would cost them everything to be his disciple. They would have their own crosses to carry, but in the end, it would be worth it. The salvation of their souls would be more valuable than owning the entire world, for it's the soul that continues on through eternity. The riches of this world are temporary. The eternal state of the soul is of much more importance!

REFLECTION/APPLICATION
Jesus was warning his followers that it could cost them their lives to follow him. And for many of them, it did cost them their lives. Where I sit today, this isn't a very real threat, but there are many places around the world today where this is very true. (And there's no guarantee it won't be true for me at some point.) Although I don't risk death by being a believer, in our society it's a social risk to speak the name of Jesus boldly. I must learn not to fear man's ridicule or be ashamed of Jesus and his words. My eternal life is so much more important than anything that could happen to me on this earth!

PRAYER
Lord, you are the true source of life. May I lose my life entirely to you and learn to trust you with it. In the name of Jesus, amen.

Mark 7 - Pride or Humility?

by Becky

LINK: Mark 7

Please read this chapter before reading the devotional!

BACKGROUND

The Pharisees, a powerful sect of the Jews, are upset because Jesus' disciples didn't wash their hands in the way that oral tradition prescribed. It isn't that the disciples were dirty or unhygienic. It is that they didn't practice what the Pharisees taught. The Pharisees had come up with many rituals; rituals not given by God, but invented by man. The disciples weren't following the prescribed washing rituals.

So the Pharisees ask Jesus about that. Jesus' forceful response indicates that the Pharisees don't really want to know why, but that they are criticizing and finding fault.

Jesus' answer makes clear what matters. He quotes from Isaiah, a prophet they revere, to point out their hypocrisy. Jesus even says that Isaiah was prophesying about them! The Pharisees are neglecting to do what God says, and instead are focusing on keeping the extraneous traditions that men had invented. The focus of their hearts has shifted from God to man. Jesus points out to them (and to us!) that it is what comes out of us that defiles us, not what is outside us. It's all about motive.

Two miracles complete this chapter. We see the great faith of a woman who is not a Jew, and who wants Jesus to heal her daughter. I can't help but contrast her attitude with that of the Pharisees. The chapter closes with the healing of the deaf man, something that causes great amazement among the Jews.

REFLECTION

This is a convicting and powerful portion of Scripture. Jesus lambastes the Pharisees, calling them hypocrites. Why? They claim to love God and follow Him, and in fact, they made up extra rules for following God which they have kept scrupulously. They keep the ones they made up better than the ones God gave! They forget that it isn't what is outside us that makes us sinners, but what is inside, in our hearts, and is revealed through our actions and words. They are hypocrites because they claim to love God when they don't. They are hypocrites because they care more for outward appearance than inner truth.

Look at the difference between the Pharisees and the Syrophoenecian woman who heard about Jesus and came to Him (vv 24-30). The Pharisees were all about what others thought of them. They thought they could gain favor with God by adding more external rules. They thought they were pretty good, because they were able to live by those doctrines they made up. In doing so, however, they neglected to focus on what God said was important. They weren't doing what they did because they loved God - their hearts were far from Him. They didn't really think that they had a need. They were doing what they did because they wanted to look good.

The Gentile woman comes to Jesus and asks Him to cast a demon from her daughter. She comes and falls at Jesus' feet when she asks. And she keeps asking - persistently. Jesus at first responds to her by saying that the "children" (meaning the Jews) should be satisfied first - that it wasn't good to take the children's bread and throw it to the dogs (comparing her to the dog). She responds, not angrily, but with humility. "Yes, but even the dogs under the table feed on the children's crumbs!" She knew her need. Her words reveal her heart. She doesn't care what anyone thinks of her - she has a need and she knows it and she is focused on Jesus. Jesus hears her and heals her daughter.

Can you imagine what a person full of pride (like a Pharisee) would have answered? Hypocrisy would take offense: "How could He speak to me that way? I deserve better than that!" I am wondering how I would have responded myself. Would I have been offended by Jesus' words? Would I have gone off in a huff because Jesus compared me to a dog?

APPLICATION

We frequently think of the Pharisees as legalists (which they were) and forget that the root that Jesus dug at was pride. Pride reveals itself in all sorts of ways, though. Anytime I am more focused on what man thinks of me, on how I look to others, on myself, than I am on humbly seeking the LORD, then I am exhibiting pride.

It is not the externals that defile us. Look at the list that Jesus gave: "evil thoughts, fornications, thefts, murders, adulteries, deeds of coveting and wickedness, as well as deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride and foolishness." All those things come from within us - from our hearts.

The Pharisees, in their pride and self-deceit, were fools. The Gentile woman, persistently seeking Jesus in humility, was wise.

I hope you will take time, with me, to examine your own heart and life in the light of this passage. Do you care more what others think of you than you do your need of the LORD Jesus? Do you think that you bring something of value to Him? Think again.

PRAYER

Help us to love you from our hearts, LORD. Keep us from the deceit of pleasing other people rather than you. Keep us from the self-deceit that we can can please you without yielding our hearts. Help us to come to you in humility, like the Gentile woman in this chapter - not caring how we look or what people might say about us.

Mark 6 - Sending Out to Regions Beyond

LINK: Mark 6 
Parallel passages: Matthew 13:53-58; 10:1-16; 14:1-36; Luke 9:1-17; 3:19-20; John 6:1-21

BACKGROUND


This chapter marks a transition from Jesus' ministry in the region of Galilee to the regions outside.  During this time, His ministry focus shifted more toward the disciples as He sent them out (the Greek word is apostellō, means "sent away") two by two as His authorized representatives to preach repentance, drive out demons, and heal the sick. This was their "practical training" time!


His opposition and rejection (even by His hometown!) increased during this time, and He revealed more and more to His disciples who He really was. 


The rest of this chapter is identical to Matthew 14. For a more extensive look at John the Baptist's death and the feeding the 5,000. Please go to a previous BBC background study HERE.


APPLICATION


I know I don't discuss Peter getting out the boat in the background discussion, but I wanted to recommend this book! I have recommended it before, but I will do it again because I love it and have discussed it with others and had a great time. Find a friend and read it together.


 If You Want to Walk on Water You've Got to Get Out of the Boat







PRAYER


Lord, send us out into the harvest fields of the world. We ask this in Jesus' name, amen. 

Mark 5 - Deliverance and Healing Ministry

LINK: Mark 5
Parallel Passages: see below


BACKGROUND


Jesus' works authenticated His words. The following miracles demonstrate Jesus' sovereign power and authority: 


1. The Gerasene Demoniac (1-20; Matt. 8:28-34; Luke 8:26-39) 


This event probably occurred in a small town called Gersa which is now modern day Khersa. It is located on the Sea of Galilee's eastern shore, and most of the people who lived there were Gentiles. We know this because farmers on the east side of the Sea of Galilee were raising pigs for the predominantly Gentile population since Jews considered pigs "unclean" (Leviticus 11:7). 


The man came out of the tombs which were sometimes places where demented people dwelt. Matthew mentions two demoniacs. Mark and Luke put their attention on just one. The demons possessing the man knew that Jesus was the "Son of the Most High God."  This title was often used in the Old Testament by Gentiles in order to refer to the God of Israel as above any of their pagan Gods (Genesis 14:18-24; Numbers 24:16; Isaiah 14:14; Daniel 3:26; 4:2). 


The name of the demon was Legion. This was a Latin word denoting a Roman army of about 6,000 soldiers. This man was greatly oppressed by a host of demons! Jesus' authority was demonstrated because he gave the demons "permission" to go into the swine. 


The significance of Jesus delivering the Gerasene demoniac is that he was obviously a Gentile. Jesus was showing that His ministry reach and care was not just to the Jews but to the Gentiles. It was God's plan all along that Gentiles would be reached with the Good News. When the man was healed, he was told to go and tell his family all that the Lord had done. This spread the Good New among the Gentiles in the Decapolis (a league of 10 Greek cities with all but one east of the Jordan).   




2. Jairus' Daughter (21-24; 35-43; Matt. 9:18-19, 23-25; Luke 8:40-42, 49-46)


This story is "sandwiched" around the story of the bleeding woman. This is a literary device used by Mark on several occasions (3:20-35, 5:21-43; 6:7-31; 11:12-26; 14:1-11; 27-52). 


Jairus asked Jesus to heal his dying daughter, but he had to wait for Jesus to heal the bleeding woman. What a test of faith for him that in the waiting his daughter's died, but what an opportunity for Jesus' power over death to be displayed!


Jesus told him to not be afraid (it might be wise to mark how many times Jesus said this in His ministry).  Essentially, He was saying, "Stop fearing in unbelief, just keep believing." He spoke in Aramaic (a Jewish language related to Hebrew) and translated it into Greek for his Greek-speaking, Gentile readers: "Little girl . . . get up." Mere words caused her to rise again!




3. The Bleeding Woman (25-34; Matt. 9:20-22; Luke 8:43-48)


This woman had what might have been a menstrual disorder or a uterine hemorrhage. This would make her ritually "unclean" (Leviticus 15:25-27) and would exclude her from social relations. This was a double whammy of physical illness and socio-religious isolation!


Many touched Jesus, but He realized the touch of faith of this woman, and she was instantly healed. He called her "daughter," and this is the only recorded use of this term by Jesus in the Gospels. 


REFLECTION and APPLICATION


Deliverance, healing, and miracles were a big part of Jesus' ministry to authenticate His authority.  Do you believe it should be a part of our ministry today? 


You can read about this issue in these excellent (and short) articles by John Piper (the audio is much longer, but the written articles are succinct):


What Are We Up Against? 
How is the Kingdom Present?  
Are Signs and Wonders for Today? 
Gifts of Healings and Workings of Miracles


Also, it would be really valuable for you to gain insight into demonic oppression by reading this book by my good friend, Tom White:


Copies that include shipping are $4.00 at Amazon!




PRAYER


Lord Jesus, we praise You for Your power and authority over death, sickness, and demonic oppression. Greater are You than he who is in the world!  Lord, help us to armor up in these time when Satan's kingdom is challenged. Keep us in Your Word. Keep us close to Your heart for people as we go out to minister in Your name and in Your love. In Your name we pray, amen. 

Mark 4 - Kingdom Parables and the Little Seed That Could

LINK: Mark 4 
Parallel Passages: see in each section


BACKGROUND


Kingdom Parables  (1-34)


The parables were given during a time of growing opposition from the religious leaders (2:3-3:6, 22-30) and growing popularity among the masses (1:45; 2:2, 13, 15; 3:7-8).  As we learned from our reading in Matthew, a parable is a "short discourse that conveys spiritual truth by making vivid comparisons. The truth to be taught is compared to something in nature or a common-life experience" (The Bible Knowledge Commentary: Mark 4:1-34).


We covered two of these when we were in Matthew. If that is the case, I will link this post to that background post:


1. The Sower and Soils (3-20; Matt. 13:1-23; Luke 8:4-15)

2. The Lamp and The Measure (21-25; Luke 8:16-18; Matt. 5:15 and Luke 11:33; Matt. 7:2 and Luke 6:38; Matt. 10:26 and Luke 12:2; Matt. 13:12; 25:29 and Luke 19:26) 

Just as lamps are meant to give light and not to be out of sight, Jesus was destined to be revealed. The measure means that the more truth we receive and apply now the more we will receive in the future. 

3. The Automatic Seed (26-29)


This parable is unique to Mark. It is similar to the parable of the Sower, but this emphasis is on the power that the seed has to grow and produce "all by itself" (the Greek word is automatos, from which we get our English word "automatic"). We cannot explain how it grows and this is the mystery. 


4. Mustard Seed - (30-32; Matt. 13:31-32; Luke 13:18-19)


Jesus went on to explain all of these parables privately to His disciples (vv. 33-34) as part of his discipleship training. 


Calming the Storm (35-41; Matt. 8:23-27; Luke 8:22-25) - His response in the boat to his disciples revealed that discipleship involved faith in Jesus who had the authority to calm the storm!




REFLECTION - The Little Seed that Could


We had a speaker come to our living room last Saturday who basically debunked all the theoretical research that says we can determine the factors that cause "Church Planting Movements" (CPM) and even went so far as to say that there was no such thing!  Needless to say, the majority of our group didn't like to hear that because they loved the book we had read in the fall that gave them the faith to believe that God could turn millions to new life in Christ and they could be a part of that!


As usual, I could see both sides of it. On the one hand, this skeptical speaker knows what he is talking about because he has been "in the trenches" among an unreached people group for 20+ years with no CPM. In addition, he has gathered much data of his own from practitioners on the field (450 of them), presenting the empirical data with no inferences other than the hard facts. The author of Church Planting Movements has never been "on the ground" doing that kind of work in hard to reach places, and his data is more anecdotal observation rather than hard core empirical data. (Can you see my science background coming out? I am also married to a statistician. What can I say?)


We "unpacked" our feelings as a group last night, and I woke up at 3:30 this morning somewhat troubled by the controversy this wonderful man stirred. I hate to see others "throw the baby out with the bath water" just because of his one controversial statement.   


Leave it to God to lead me right to the "Parable of the Automatic Seed." The man just threw the seed out there on good soil and by the next morning, it had sprouted and grown, and he did not know how! 


I loved reading about the growth of CPM's throughout the world, and I want to believe God for them too! I also think the book has some good points about a way to go about it.  All that said, I have to admit reading about the "Ten Elements That Accomplish Them" (see link below) put a little too much emphasis on man's efforts and little on God's power. It also left me feeling sorry for the many workers throughout the world who have labored and not seen a CPM in their lifetime. Were they doing it "all wrong" and being judged? I know plenty of people who have practiced those initial steps of prayer and abundant gospel sowing and never seen fruit. Where do they fit in the theory?


Jesus' parable indicates that the coming of God's kingdom is mysterious and based on the sovereign work of God not by man's specific efforts. The man sowed and probably watered, but God caused the miraculous growth (see also 1 Cor. 3:6)! Ultimately, we can do nothing to manipulate God's hand or make people hunger and thirst for Him.  We just need to be faithful with the initial steps and leave the rest up to God. 


So, I will keep on sowing and wait for the harvest!




APPLICATION


Here is a free download of the booklet called Church Planting Movements (skip to p. 33 if you want to see the 10 Elements)




PRAYER


Lord, help us to be faithful as sowers of Your seed in the world. We ask this in Jesus' name, amen.  




Let your light shine! 

Mark 3 - Ministry and Accusations

LINK: Mark 3


Parallel Passages: Matthew 12:9-32, 46-50; 10:1-4; Luke 6:6-16; 11:14-23, 27-28; 8:19-21;12:10


BACKGROUND


Healing the Man with the Withered Hand (1-6)
Healing on the Sabbath was only allowed if a person's life was in danger. If Jesus did it, the religious leaders could accuse him. Jesus looked at the Pharisees in anger (only reference to Jesus' anger in the New Testament) because they would follow their laws versus exhibiting God's mercy toward the suffering. Jesus healed the man, and the Pharisees and Herodians united to destroy Jesus because His authority overwhelmed their authority. 


Ministry Around the Sea of Galilee (7-12)
We see how in the midst of opposition and unbelief, Jesus withdrew with his disciples but the crowds followed. The fact that he wanted a boat ready to escape is only reported here in Mark. In this time, he delivers others of evil spirits who knew who He was.


Appointment of the Twelve (13-19)
Jesus had many disciples who followed Him (2:15), but He appointed the 12 (corresponding to the 12 tribes of Israel) so that He could train them and send them out to preach and carry on His authority over demons. 


True Family and Refutation of the Beelzebub Accusation (20-35)
Jesus explained the kingdom in another parable. Our English word parable is a combination of two Greek words para meaning "alongside" and ballo meaning "to throw or cast." Jesus put a figurative picture alongside a teaching so that we might understand its meaning. The crowds were beginning to see him as the Messiah, but the religious leaders thought He was of Beelzebub (name of a devil that means "master of the house"). In order to make the connection, He gave us a picture of a strong man guarding His house! He pointed out the absurdity of assuming that Satan acts against himself. The charge that Jesus' exorcisms were due to Satan's power were ludicrous. No one can overtake this strong "master of the house" unless he shows he is more powerful, and that is exactly what Jesus had done! The part about blaspheming the Holy Spirit reflects an open and defiant hostility toward God. 


The chapter concludes with a resumption of the narrative that began in 3:21. He asserts the importance of spiritual family. 


REFLECTION and APPLICATION


Here is an article regarding healing and deliverance by John Piper:


How is the Kingdom Present?


PRAYER


Lord, help us to be those who do Your will. Amen. 

Mark 2 - Authority of Jesus

by Katrina

LINK: Mark 2
parallel passages:
Mark 2:1-22 ~ Matthew 9:1-17 ~ Luke 5:17-39
Mark 2:23-28 ~ Matthew 12:1-8 ~ Luke 6:1-5

BACKGROUND
In this chapter, Mark continues to demonstrate Jesus' power and authority.

authority to forgive sin ~ 2:1-12
Jesus not only healed the paralyzed man, but also forgave his sins. This paralytic was very fortunate to have friends who would bring him to Jesus. These friends weren't easily deterred either. When they couldn't get in the door, they took apart part of the roof and lowered him down that way.

authority over tax-collectors and sinners ~ 2:13-20
Jesus called Levi the son of Alpheus to follow him. Levi is also called Matthew (author of the book of Matthew) and was a Jewish tax-collector for the Romans. The Jewish leaders considered other Jews who collected taxes for the Roman government to be traitors. When Jesus said, "follow me" to Matthew, he got up and followed him. Jesus and his disciples were eating dinner with a houseful of tax-collectors and "sinners" when the religious leaders complained that Jesus socialized with such "low life" people and that Jesus and his disciples were not religious enough.

authority to change religion ~ 2:21-22
Jesus told the scribes and Pharisees that his message did not fit their old way of doing things. He was going to change "religion" as they knew it, and his round peg would never fit into their square hole.

authority over the Sabbath ~ 2:23-28
The Pharisees had added restrictions to the Sabbath beyond what God had required in the Law. They nit-picked the Law to death, and one of their pet topics was the Sabbath. The disciples weren't actually doing anything against the Law when they picked the grain on the Sabbath. He made it very clear that he had authority over the Sabbath.

REFLECTION
The religious leaders of the day had everything down to a system. They were all about keeping the system. They knew nothing of a relationship with the holy God; they only knew of keeping a list of rules and regulations and thought that keeping the rules was what God required. They viewed anyone who didn't keep all their rules with condemnation. Jesus called their ways "old garments" and "old wineskins." He brought a message of grace and forgiveness, introducing something "new." His message would never fit into their system.

APPLICATION
Many believers who have a church background in life get caught up in the "rules" of the church and never really experience the grace of God. We often think we're doing what God requires, when we're really following man's rules. We need to make sure our focus isn't on rules and regulations, but on Jesus. The author of Hebrews put it this way, "let us also lay aside every encumbrance, and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith" (Heb 12:1-2).

PRAYER
Lord, help us to fix our eyes on you and run the race that you have set for us to run. Thank you for bringing to us salvation from the sin that gets us tangled up and the from things that weigh us down. May we seek to serve you, not anyone's system. In the name of Jesus, who provided it all for us, amen.

Mark 1 - Off and Running

by Katrina

LINK: Mark 1
parallel passages:

Matthew 3-4
Luke 3, 4, 5:1-16

INTRODUCTION TO THE BOOK OF MARK
Mark was the son of Mary, a wealthy woman of Jerusalem. He was a close friend (and possibly a convert) of Peter. He likely received most of his information for this book from Peter. Mark accompanied Paul and Barnabas (Mark's cousin) on the first missionary journey, but did not complete the trip. Because he had "bailed out" on the first trip, Paul refused to take him on the second trip. But Barnabas traveled to Cyprus instead and took John Mark along with him. About twelve years later, Mark had once again joined Paul in ministry. And when Paul was in prison, he sent for him, because "he is useful to me for service."

Mark wrote this message to the Gentiles, specifically the Romans. Because he had a different audience than Matthew, you will notice several differences in his account. Mark did not spend any time on genealogies which would mean nothing to Gentiles. He was not trying to present Jesus as the promised Messiah like Matthew was. He was presenting the Son of God to his readers. Mark's audience wasn't primarily Jewish, so he includes only a few Old Testament passages. Mark's account is one full of action with not as much time spent on the teaching of Jesus. He frequently uses the word "immediately," and uses very descriptive language. He also frequently records emotions such as astonishment, laughter, "lonely places," compassion, suffering, indignation, etc. His message was that Jesus was compassionate, ministered to those who were suffering, and died for the sins of the world.

BACKGROUND
Mark begins his account with a brief summary of events that led up to Jesus' ministry -- a proclamation from Isaiah, John's baptism of repentance, Jesus' baptism by John, his temptation by Satan in the wilderness, his announcement that the "kingdom of God is at hand," and the calling of his disciples.

Then Mark jumps right into demonstrating that Jesus was the Son of God by describing a number of his miracles. These continue into chapter three. Jesus demonstrated power over demons and disease in this chapter.

REFLECTION
This chapter is action-packed. Did you notice how many times Mark said "immediately"? He really keeps things moving in his account. Tucked away in the middle of all the activities is verse 35. Did you catch it? Jesus got up early one morning, while it was still dark, and went to a lonely place to pray. Then, when the disciples found him, he went right back to preaching, traveling, healing, and casting out demons.

APPLICATION
How much more do we need to take breaks from our daily lives and ministry to spend time with the Lord in prayer. Carve out some time today and throughout this week to do just that. Maybe you'll need to get up early in the morning before the rest of your household rises. Maybe there's another time of day when you can come away from the busyness of the day and pray. Find a "lonely place" and meet God there.

PRAYER
Lord, may we learn to "come away" and meet you in prayer regularly and frequently. Thank you for making yourself accessible to us and for communicating with us. May we not take it for granted. Amen.

Put Matthew Back on the New Testament Shelf

You have completed your first New Testament book. WOOHOO! Twenty-six more to go.


Remember you have a break until Monday. Use that time to read the article "Mandate on the Mountain" from the last post in Matthew!

Matthew 28 - The King's Victory and Commission

LINK: Matthew 28
Parallel passages: Mark 16:1-8; Luke 24:1-12; John 20:1-20

BACKGROUND


The Resurrection Victory


He is RISEN! This proves the kingship of Jesus Christ! After standing at the cross and seeing Jesus die, Mary Magdalene (Jesus had delivered her of seven demons [Luke 8:2, Mark 16:9]) and the "other" Mary (the mother of James and Joses [Mark 15:40] and wife of Clopas [John 19:25]) were the first to discover the empty tomb (since women bring people into the world, it was only appropriate that two mothers would be the first to discover)! Many mistaken Mary Magdalene for the woman who was a sinner and wiped His feet, but there is no basis for this in Scripture. 

The women were told by one of the angels to tell the disciples. Then they saw Jesus on the way and worshiped Him! Following this, there were 500 witnesses who saw Jesus alive (Acts 9; 1 Cor. 15:3-8). Not even a bribe from the religious leaders to make the soldiers say the body was stolen could counteract the truth of His resurrection because of so many witnesses! Disciples once discouraged were invigorated once again. HE IS RISEN!


The King's Commission


Matthew does not record that Jesus met with the remaining 10 disciples later that day (John 20:19-23) and subsequent appearances afterward (John 20:24-29), but he does record the very important instruction to go on the basis of His authority (the Greek word exousia means "official right or power") to all the nations (panta ta ethne - meaning all the different people groups of the world as they tend to understand and define themselves by language, lineage, or socio-cultural factors). This is the clearest mandate for world evangelization give, but we know from our reading throughout the Word of God all the way back to Genesis 12 that God wanted to  bless all nations!  See the reflection section for more background on this. 


REFLECTION - Please read this!!!!!!!!!


I made the background extra short today because I don't want you to miss this. Since we are at the end of Matthew and have a three day break from our Bible reading, I strongly encourage you to read the article that I have linked to this reflection!


In 1988, I had the honor of going to Bangkok, Thailand with a team of seventeen people. Most mornings, our leader and teacher on the trip, Steven Hawthorne, expounded on God's heart for the nations. He has authored this article that I heard verbally 22 years ago. It deals with a much better exposition of Matthew 28:19-20 than I could ever give. Please take the time to read it. You will be blessed.


MANDATE ON THE MOUNTAIN by Steven C. Hawthorne




The sidebar in the above article originally published in Perspectives on the World Christian Movement, Fourth Edition edited by Ralph D. Winter and Steven C. Hawthorne is not included in this article, so I have included it here because it is so important and ties the book of Matthew together so nicely!

"The Great Commission and the Great Commandment" by Steven Hawthorne

The "Great Commission" of Matthew 28 has been seen as a counterpart to the so-called "Great Commandment," in which Jesus points to the most important of all commandment of Scripture. In the familiar passage (Matt 22:25-37, with parallel accounts in Mark 12:28-34 and Luke 10:25-37), Jesus says that the "greatest" of all biblical commandments is love for God and love for neighbor. Many significant evangelical voices have put the two imperatives side-by-side as a way of expressing the full responsibility of Christians in the world.

How does the Great Commandment relate to the Great Commission? They are often presented as balancing equals, corresponding to different dimension of human need. the Great Commission is thought to focus on spiritual issues, while the Great Commandment is considered to address physical and social matters. But when they are held side-by-side as responses to human need, there can be confusion about how to integrate them as Christian mission.

Different: Historical Achievement and Constant Imperative

We may better see how the two commands work together if we respect how they are different. Comparing them as though they were equal may result in us failing to pursue either fully.

Loving God and our neighbors with devotion and service is not something which can ever be completed. Love is something that can only grow over time and must be pursued at all times. But the Great Commission is a global, historic achievement, a task to be completed. In spite of popular understanding, the Great Commission is not a command to do evangelism as often as one finds possible. It is a mandate entrusted to all of Christ's followers to accomplish a work that requires many generations of labor that at the end of history will be finished.

Same Focus: Both are For God 

Try to balance or compare the Great Commandment and the Great Commission may be missing the point of either one. In neither of them is the pre-eminent focus on human need, spiritual or otherwise. the primary end of both is relational reality directed toward God. Though we often pay more attention to "love your neighbor" in the Great Commandment, the main point of Jesus' words it that God would be loved with heart, soul, mind, and strength. And the essential outcome of the Great Commission is equally for God, that He would be served by obedient disciples in every people. 

The point is not just to love God, but to labor that He will be loved. The greatest way of loving our Lord is to see that He is worshiped, followed, and loved in every people. Furthermore, we have been given something greater than merely extending our own love to neighbors. We have a mandate to transform entire neighborhoods by multiplying those who love one another as Christ commanded.

How They Work Together

Neither can be prioritized above or below the other. Ultimately, neither can happen without the other. We cannot evangelize the peoples without excelling in love. And we cannot consider our evangelization to be complete unless people are growing in love for God and obeying Him by loving their neighbors. 

APPLICATION


Be sure to read the articles and consider taking the entire Perspectives on the World Christian Movement course!  


Check out their website for a course in your area HERE


No matter where you are in your walk with God, this class will challenge and encourage you! I took it 22 years ago, but I have been correcting reviews for the last two years, and I never cease to love the "shot in the arm" it gives me as I review the things I learned. 


If there is not one in your area, you can also take it online. It is well worth the investment of time and money. 


If you are still in doubt, take the first two lessons for free online HERE. You won't regret it!


PRAYER


Lord, thank You for giving us a clear purpose for our lives. May we obey You by loving You and our neighbor and taking the Good News of Jesus to all the peoples of the earth. In Jesus' name, amen. 

Matthew 27 - The King is Crucified

LINK: Matthew 27
Parallel Passages: Mark 15; Luke 22:66-71; 23:1-5; 13-43; John 18:28-19:27


BACKGROUND


Only the Romans could exercise capital punishment (John 18:31). Even though the religious leaders had passed judgment on Jesus, only the Romans could exercise capital punishment. Therefore, Jesus had to go to Pilate, the Roman procurator. Pilate was procurator of Judea and Samaria from A.D. 26-36 (Luke 3:1).


Matthew is the only gospel writer who records the suicide of Judas. He felt remorse and didn't want the money he was paid (the price of a slave, Exodus 21:32), but the priest could not use tainted money (Deut. 23:18). Acts 1:18-19 adds more details to the story of Judas. So sad. See the prophecies in Zechariah 11:12-13 and Jeremiah 19:1, 4, 6, 11.


The religious leaders brought Jesus to Pilate with three accusations, but Pilate only concerned himself with the third: Jesus' claim to be king. This was the only one that would be any threat to Rome, but after questioning, Jesus revealed that His kingdom was not of this world (John 18:33-37). Consequently, Pilate wanted to release this innocent man, but the crowd was stirred up by the religious leaders, and he was pressured to release Barabbas, an insurrectionist (John 18:40) and murderer (Mark 15:7) instead. He took water and washed his hands symbolizing that he wanted to absolve himself of putting an innocent man to death (Deut. 21:6-9). 


After being mocked by the soldiers (fulfilling Isaiah 52:14), Jesus was crucified at 9 a.m. and mocked by passers by, the religious leaders, and even the other robbers being crucified. There was darkness from noon to 3:00 p.m. In that time, Jesus became the sin-offering for all mankind (John 1:29; Romans 5:8; 2 Cor. 5:21; 1 Peter 2:24; 3:18). In this period, He was separated from the Father because the Father had to turn judicially from His Son in order to accomplish that (Romans 3:25-26). At the end of that time, Jesus cried out to the Father, and He gave up His spirit.


When Jesus died, the veil that separated the holy place from the holy of holies  in the temple was torn from top to bottom. The temple curtain was four inches thick. The length was 60 feet.The width was 30 feet. And the weight was in the region of four tons. It took 300 men to hold it.  This had to be a miracle of God! The way of access into His presence was now available to everyone through Jesus Christ, not the Old Testament high priest (Hebrews 4:14-16; 10:19-22). 


Jesus was buried by Joseph of Arimathea, a religious leader and secret disciple of Jesus (Luke 23:51; Mark 15:44-45). The tomb was sealed (the Romans used  a cord and wax so that tampering could be detected) and guarded because the religious leaders were concerned about Jesus' prediction that He would rise again in three days.


Stay tuned!


REFLECTION/APPLICATION


We will go through four "Good Fridays" between now and the official Good Friday on April 2. Please use this day to ask God to search your heart for any sin in your heart and to thank Jesus for being our sin-offering.


PRAYER


Search us, O God, and know our hearts;
Try us and know our anxious thoughts;
And see if there be hurtful way in us,
And lead us in the everlasting way (Psalm 139:23-24).


Thank You Jesus for being our sin offering and our High Priest so that we might have access into God's very presence. Amen. 

Matthew 26 - Preparation, Passover, Betrayal, Trial and Denial

by Katrina

LINK: Matthew 26

BACKGROUND
Preparation (vs 1-16)

An unidentified woman came with an alabaster vial of very expensive perfume and poured it over Jesus's head. When the disciples complained of the waste, Jesus praised her for doing good. She was preparing Jesus for his soon-coming burial. Then Judas joined the chief priests in their plot against Jesus and agreed to betray him.

Passover (vs 17-30)
The Passover was a day to commemorate Israel's exodus from Egypt. It was immediately followed by the Feast of Unleavened Bread, which lasted seven days. The entire eight days was often referred to as the "Passover Feast." We usually refer to this meal that Jesus had with his disciples as "The Last Supper." A lot more details of the Last Supper are given in John's gospel (John 13-17). Here, in Matthew's account, we see that Jesus knew that Judas had already made arrangements to betray him.

Betrayal (vs 31-56)
Jesus went outside to pray and took Peter, James, and John with him. He asked them to pray too, but they kept falling asleep instead. Jesus wrestled with the agony he was about to suffer. He was looking at a very unpleasant physical death. But more than that, he knew he would experience an even more painful separation from the Father while he bore the sin of mankind on the cross. After he prayed, Judas arrived with a great number of armed men and betrayed Jesus with a kiss. The men seized Jesus and took him to the high priest.

Trial and Denial (vs 57-75)
While Jesus was being questioned by the priests, Peter (and John, we learn from John's gospel) hung around the courtyard. Peter was identified three times as a follower of Jesus and denied it three times.

MEDITATION
At the Last Supper, Jesus broke bread, blessed it, broke it, gave it to his disciples and said, "Take, eat; this is My body." He blessed and shared the cup as well, saying, "Drink from it, all of you; for this is My blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for forgiveness of sins . . ." He was giving the disciples a vivid picture of what was about to happen and the significance of his death. This passage is a great one to meditate on today.

REFLECTION
Peter was so sure he would never deny Jesus (vs 31-35). Even if everyone else left Jesus, Peter was sure he would not. Even if he had to die with Jesus, he would not deny him. His confidence was entirely in himself, though, and he fell. We can learn a lesson from Peter. We can not put our trust in ourselves for those difficult times. We must draw our confidence from God. Peter eventually learned this lesson himself.

Peter wrote to Christians who were being persecuted for their faith, "[believers] are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time" (1 Peter 1:5), and "Therefore, gird your minds for action, keep sober in spirit, fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ" (1 Peter 1:13). No longer was Peter trusting in himself; he was fixing his hope entirely on Jesus.

APPLICATION
When times are tough, do you rely on yourself when you should rely on God? When your faith could get you in trouble or bring ridicule, do you deny Jesus out of fear? Let's take these circumstances to God and put our trust in him, rather than depending on ourselves to get us through the difficult situations.

PRAYER
Lord, teach us to boldly proclaim your name. Help us not to buckle under fear but to turn to you for strength and trust in you for the outcome. In the name of Jesus, amen.

Matthew 25 - Blessed to Be a Blessing

by Katrina

LINK: Matthew 25

Please read the scripture passage before continuing. It will make a lot more sense that way. =)

BACKGROUND
This chapter continues the Olivet Discourse we began yesterday.

First, in the story of the ten virgins, we have one more illustration of being (vs 1-13). Becky discussed this pretty well yesterday, so if you missed yesterday's post, scroll down and take a look. I know I want to be ready and waiting when Jesus comes back!

Second, Jesus tells us to use what God has given us for God's increase and glory (vs 14-30).

Third, There will be judgment in the end (vs 31-46). At least part of that judgment will be on what we did to help those in need.

REFLECTION/APPLICATION
Let's consider the last two sections of the chapter. God has given each of us "talents" to be used for him. He does not want us to "sit on them" and keep them to ourselves. Whatever he gave us, he intends for us to use for his service just like the man in the story expected of his servants.

Take some time to consider what "talents" God has given to you.

• spiritual gifts
• physical abilities
• creative talents
• education
• job skills
  
• family heritage
• life-changing experiences
• relationships that have formed you

How can you use these things in service to God?

Let's take it one step further. How can you use what you have to help mankind? Can you offer comfort, support, compassion, food and drink, clothing, shelter? Those in the story did not help in order to gain recognition for themselves. They just helped because there was a need and they could meet it.

PRAYER
Father, help us to see the ways you have equipped us to serve you. May we use all you have given us for your glory and for the benefit of others. Let us not hide what you have intended for us to use. Rather, let us use the blessings you have given us to be a blessing to you and to others. In the name of Jesus, amen.

Matthew 24 - Watch and Be Faithful!

by Becky

LINK: Matthew 24

BACKGROUND

Seeing Jesus' lament over Jerusalem and the temple (23: 37 - 38), the disciples call His attention to the temple's buildings - well-kept and sturdy and thriving - probably wondering why He called the place desolate. Jesus makes His point clearer. The temple will be completely destroyed (24:2).

Jesus is sitting on the Mount of Olives when His disciples come to Him with a question prompted by what He said about the temple. He answers them, though perhaps not as straightforwardly as they wished, and He gives them instruction and warning as He does so. Because they're on the Mount of Olives this is often called the Olivet Discourse.

Here is what the disciples asked:

"Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign of your coming and the close of the age?" (v 3, English Standard Version)

They asked two questions. Jesus begins a long discourse and in the process He does answer them, but He says a whole bunch more, too! This is a passage of prophecy, and prophecy often weaves multiple events together and is easier to understand in hindsight than beforehand!

Let's deal with the answer to their questions first. Jesus' answer to the first question (When will these things - the destruction of the temple and Jerusalem's suffering - be?) is this: "Truly, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until these things take place." Jesus says that the temple will be destroyed before that current generation passes away. The temple was destroyed by the Romans in 70 AD and at least one of the disciples (John) and lived to see it. The disciples also understandably want to know how they will know when Jesus will come back to close the age. Jesus answers that question this way: "Concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only."

This seems to me to be the best explanation for Jesus' statement about that generation not passing away. Throughout the discourse He interweaves what will happen when the temple is destroyed (70 AD) with what will happen when He returns a second time (still unknown). It makes sense to me that His answer would include both as well.

The rest of His discourse about what will happen between His first and second comings can be summed up in five sentences:

• Don't be surprised or deceived!
• The earth will suffer many wars and natural disasters.
• Jesus' followers will be hated and persecuted.
• Jesus' return will be very obvious (like the presence of an animal's carcass is from the vultures that circle it).
• Keep watch and be faithful!

REFLECTION

We live in that time between Jesus' first coming and His return so I think it's important for us to take this to heart. Jesus told His disciples what to expect. We here in the U.S. have lived in a very comfortable era, but that isn't something we should plan on. If there are wars and disasters in the world, we shouldn't be surprised - though we should meet them with compassion and care as Jesus did those who suffered. If we are hated and persecuted we shouldn't be taken aback or wonder what is wrong. Finally, we shouldn't be deceived by those who tell us that Jesus has returned.

There are some things we don't (and won't) know. We don't know exactly which parts of the chapter apply to the fall of Jerusalem and destruction of the temple and which parts refer to Jesus' return (though we have a better idea than the disciples did at that time). We won't know exactly when Jesus is going to come back. We will know when He does!

What is our attitude to be in the meantime? The stories Jesus tells in this and the following chapter tell us. We are to be watching and serving faithfully. We don't know when it will be (just as the owner of the house doesn't know when the thief is coming), so we must be watchful and always ready. We are to continue serving Him faithfully like the servant who was left in charge of the master's household while the master went away. That faithful servant continued to serve and carry out his tasks while waiting for his master's return.

APPLICATION

Jesus knows our hearts. He knows our tendency to have short attention spans, to give up hope. I think that's why He spoke the words in this chapter. He wants us to understand that there will be suffering - both for the whole earth and for believers. He doesn't want us to give up in the face of hard times while waiting for His return.

Let's encourage each other to continue to be alert and faithful.

I want to be found serving my master, Jesus, when He returns! What about you?

PRAYER

We shouldn't be surprised by wars and natural disasters, Lord, but please give us compassion and a love that reaches out to those people who suffer from them. I think especially of the people of Haiti right now. Help us to help them. Please also help us to keep on watching and to continue to serve you faithfully in obedience no matter what.

Matthew 23 - False versus True Righteousness

LINK: Matthew 23
Parallel Passages: Mark 12:38-40; Luke 20:45-47


BACKGROUND


Jesus goes for the jugular by calling the teachers of the Law and the Pharisees hypocrites. They did everything for show like wearing phylacteries, but they did not practice what they preached.  Phylacteries were little leather boxes containing Scripture that they wore on their forehead and arms in keeping with Deuteronomy 6:8 and Exodus 13:89,16. Jesus proclaimed that the way to exaltation is via humility. 


A good portion of this chapter includes the "eight woes" directed at the religious leaders. (The NIV version has seven woes because it leaves out verse 14 which is not included in early manuscripts.)  A good way to look at these "woes" is to contrast them with the eight beatitudes in Matthew 5:1-12. In the beatitudes, Jesus is talking about true righteousness. In the "woes" He is talking about false righteousness. 

Here are the contrasts from The Bible Exposition Commentary by Warren Wiersbe:

1) Entering the kingdom -- shutting up the kingdom (v. 13, 5:3)


2) Mourners comforted -- destroyers condemned (v. 14; 5:4)


3) Meek inherit the earth -- Proud send souls to hell (v. 15; 5:5)


4) Hungering for holiness -- greedy for gain (vv. 16-22; 5:6)


5) Obtaining mercy -- rejecting mercy (vv. 23-24; 5:7)


6 & 7) Pure in heart -- defiled in heart (vv. 25-28; 5:8)


8) Peacemakers and persecuted are God's children -- persecutors are the devil's children (vv. 29-33; 5:9-12)


On the heels of the eighth woe, Jesus closes by lamenting over Jerusalem, wanting to gather her up in His arms like a mother bird does her chicks. This city had killed the prophets, and they would soon reject and kill Him. As a result, they would be destroyed, and this came true when the temple and the city were destroyed by invading Roman armies in A.D. 70. Despite this, there is a promise that He will return again (Psalm 118:26; Zech 12; Roman 11:25-27). 


REFLECTION


Warren Wiersbe writes:

As we review these tragic woes from the lips of our Lord, we can see why the Pharisees were His enemies. He emphasized the inner man; they were concerned with externals. He taught a spiritual life based on principles, while the Pharisees majored on rules and regulations. Jesus measured spirituality in terms of character, while the Pharisees measured it in terms of religious activities and conformity to external laws. Jesus taught humility and sacrificial service; but the Pharisees were proud and used people to accomplish their own purposes. The holy life of Jesus exposed their artificial piety and shallow religion. Instead of coming out of the darkness, the Pharisees tried to put out the Light; and they failed.

Wiersbe, W. W. (1996, c1989). The Bible exposition commentary. "An exposition of the New Testament comprising the entire 'BE' series"--Jkt. (Mt 23:13). Wheaton, Ill.: Victor Books.

APPLICATION


How do you measure your spiritual life?


Have you become more involved in perfecting the practice of religion than living a holy life?  


Go through the eight contrasts between the woes and beatitudes and evaluate your life before God.


PRAYER


Lord, teach us to be like Jesus. Amen. 

Matthew 22 - Confrontation Continued

LINK: Matthew 22
Parallel passages: Mark 12:13-37; Luke 20:20-44 


BACKGROUND


Third Parable in Response to Confrontation with Priests and Elders (1-14) - Continuing from the last chapter, Jesus responded to the religious leaders. The parable of the wedding feast is only recorded in Matthew. In this culture, there were usually two invitations. This time, the king made three invitations, and the guests still rejected them and even killed some of his messengers! So, the king invited a broader group from off the street. He even provided the proper wedding clothes for these outsiders, but one person failed to wear what was given to him. That would have been a great insult to the host.  


Jesus was pointing to the nation's rejection of Him. His teaching had, for the most part, been rejected. The invitation for salvation has been extended beyond Israel, and individuals must choose to accept the "garment of righteousness" (Psalm 132:16; Isaiah 61:10; Zechariah 3:3-5; Revelation 3:4,5; 19:7,8)  that is freely given in order to enter the King's banquet of eternal life. 


Confrontation with Pharisees and Herodians (15-22) - Like the Sadducees and Pharisees in Matthew 16, these lifelong enemies united against their common enemy: Jesus. The Pharisees were purists who opposed Roman rule, and the Herodians were those who supported the rule of Herod the Great and favored change dictated by Rome. They knew if Jesus answered that it was good to pay taxes to Rome, most of the Jews would consider Him a traitor. If he said they should not be paid, He would be trapped as a rebel against Rome. He solved the dispute by saying that we have "dual citizenship" (1 Peter 2:17) by being a citizen under an authority on earth and a citizen of heaven which requires obedience and commitment to God.  He was saying that we all have political and spiritual responsibilities.


Confrontation with the Sadducees (23-33) - The Sadducees were considered the religious liberals because they did not believe in the resurrection or angels or spirits (Acts 23:8). So, of course, they would try to trap Him in a question about the resurrection, but Jesus knew that they did not know the Scriptures because it taught of the resurrection and that God had the power to bring people back to life. Since the Sadducees believed only in the Pentateuch, He used Exodus 3:6 implying that their patriarchs are alive with God. 


The Greatest Commandment (34-40) - The Pharisees had over 600 laws and were constantly trying to classify which ones were more important. Jesus quoted Deuteronomy 6:5 and Leviticus 19:18 and said all the rest would be fulfilled if they followed these two. 


Jesus' interrogation (41-46) - He had silenced His interrogators. Now, He would question them by asking who they thought the Messiah (Christ) was.  Quickly they replied, "the Son of David." Jesus quoted Psalm 110:1 to show that the Messiah would be greater than David. They didn't understand He would be God. 


REFLECTION


Just this morning, Jennifer and I prayed through the two greatest commandments in the Law:


First,


"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind."


Second,
"Love your neighbor as yourself."


All the Law and the prophets hang on these two commandments.


Really soak in and pray through these verses today. How can you grow as a result?


PRAYER


Lord, help us to love You with all our heart, soul, and mind and our neighbor as ourself. In Jesus' name we pray, amen. 

Matthew 21 - The King is Presented and Confronted

LINK: Matthew 21
Parallel: Mark 11:1-27; 12:1-12; Luke 19:28-48; Luke 20:1-19; 21:33-39 John 12:12-19


Note: I added to yesterday's free reading post if you want to go back and read about Matthew 20. For Facebook readers, click HERE. 


BACKGROUND


The beginning of this chapter is the event known as the "Triumphal Entry."  Jesus entered Jerusalem for the last time and the mood was celebratory for some but others plotted his death. He rode on a donkey as a just and humble king and fulfilled the prophecy found in Zechariah 9:9, but He also rode on to die. All four Gospels include this event, but only Matthew mentioned a donkey and a colt. The crowd acknowledged him as the Son of David (9, 15), the Messiah they had waited for all these years. 


The scene shifts to Jesus clearing the temple again (Matthew does not record the first clearing but John does in 2:13-17).  He cleared it because the corrupt commercialism there interfered with worship and prayer for all the nations and for healing. Many were making their living from the temple and insisting that people had to change the local currency into "temple money" for a fee. Then, those people had to buy animal sacrifices at inflated prices. The cleansing and healing caused the children to acknowledge Him as the Messiah. This all made the chief priests and teachers of the law indignant (it comes from the verb meaning "to be stirred up in anger"). 


Then, Jesus cursed a fig tree and caused it to wither. We can interpret this as a parable in action with symbolic meaning. "Just as the fig tree looked good from a distance but was fruitless on close examination, so the temple looked impressive at first glance, but its sacrifices and other activities were hollow because they were not done to worship God sincerely [see 21:43]" (The Life Application Bible, p. 1696). 


Jesus also used this incident to teach His disciples about His authority and believing prayer. If they had faith, they could do miracles even greater than this (17:20). 


Verses 21:23-22:14 involve Jesus' confrontation with the priests and elders.  From the time He set foot in Jerusalem, He was proving His authority as the Messiah, and they wanted to know where this authority came from, but He answered with a question and more parables and refused to answer their questions.


In the parable of the two sons, the first son is the son who obeyed and would be admitted into the kingdom of God. The second one offered lip-service, but he didn't follow through. The second son is just like Israel (and her religious leaders) who kept on saying she would obey, but just went through the motions, pretending to obey God.  


In the parable of the wicked tenants, God is the landowner, the vineyard is Israel (carefully prepared to be His fruitful one - Isaiah 5:1-7), the wicked tenants are the religious leaders, the landowner's servants are the prophets and priest who tried to warn Israel, and the son is Jesus. They would not listen to and killed the landowners son just as they would do to Jesus. If they rejected His Son, the chief cornerstone, He would take the kingdom of God away from them and give it to those who would bear fruit (hearkening back to the symbolic fig tree in vv. 18-19).


This angered the religious leaders, but they were too afraid of the crowd that supported Him.


REFLECTION/APPLICATION/PRAYER


Meditate on the Triumphal Entry through the lyrics of the song 


"Ride on to Die" by Michael Card



Sense the sorrow untold, as you look down the road
At the clamoring crowd drawing near
Feel the heat of the day, as you look down the way
Hear the shouts of Hosanna the King

[Chorus:]
Oh, daughter of Zion your time's drawing near
Don't forsake Him, oh don't pass it by
On the foal of a donkey as the prophets had said
Passing by you, He rides on to die

Come now little foal, though your not very old
Come and bear your first burden bravely
Walk so softly upon all the coats and the palms
[ Find more Lyrics on http://mp3lyrics.org/8coU ]
Bare the One on your back oh so gently

Midst the shouting so loud and the joy of the crowd
There is One who is riding in silence
For He knows the ones here will be fleeing in fear
When their shepherd is taken away

[Chorus]

Soon the thorn cursed ground will bring forth a crown
And this Jesus will seem to be beaten
But He'll conquer alone both the shroud and the stone
And the prophesies will be completed

[Chorus]

On the foal of a donkey as the prophets had said
Passing by you He rides on to die

Matthew 20 - Instructing the Disciples about Grace and Ambition

LINK: Matthew 20
Parallel passages: Mark 10:32-52; Luke 18:31-43


It is tomorrow, and here is the recap of Matthew 20. Sorry I couldn't do it yesterday, I was unable to sit and type, but I changed to a new physical therapist yesterday, and she made my back better and not worse like my old therapist! I am on the road to recovery!


And Jesus is on the road to Jerusalem and instructing his disciples. 


The Parable of the Laborers in the Vineyard (1-16) - Jesus further clarified about life in the the kingdom of heaven in the parable of the workers being paid equally. In it, every worker was paid a denarius (typical pay for a Roman soldier and equivalent to about a penny a day) for their work whether they started early in the morning or at 5:00 p.m. It is a parable that expresses that God's grace and generosity is extended to "latecomers" as well as those who have been around for a long time.  It is a story about envy on the part of the "early workers."  It was all under God's sovereign control and even those who labored for only one hour could be promoted above those who labored from sunrise to sunset. 


Death and Resurrection Foretold (17-19) - He had already announced that He was to die and rise again in 12:40; 16:21; 17:22-23. He was now on the road to Jerusalem, and He reiterated this point. This is the first time He spoke of His betrayal, condemnation, mocking, scourging, and crucifixion. 


Ambition and Servanthood (20-28) - The fact that the mother of the sons of Zebedee made the request have led some to believe that she was the sister of Mary because only a close family relationship would prompt such a bold request. Some also believe her request was at the urging of the two sons! Jesus instructed them that honor in the kingdom of heaven came with the price of suffering, and it was not His to grant but the Father's.  This teaching illustrates that that the disciples had not yet grasped that "the way up is down" and that the Son of man did not come to be served but to serve and to give His life as a ransom for many (v. 28). You cannot have honor without humility. It also illustrates an ambitious desire for position rather than having the heart of a servant. 


Authority (29-34) - These blind beggars called Jesus the Son of David revealing that they knew that He was the long anticipated Messiah. The religious leaders were blind, but these blind beggars could see. By the authority of God, He was able to heal them of their physical blindness.


REFLECTION/APPLICATION


The story about the disciples seeking positions of honor reminded me about some people I have worked with who were in it for the glory, honor, and title they received for doing "the Lord's work." They treated everyone else like their underlings and only served for show when others were looking, leaving all the dirty work for those underlings. It was tough and heart wrenching to watch. 


Are you looking for a position of honor as a believer or are you looking where you can serve? Jesus said that He did not come to be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many. Give your life away today by serving someone in an unexpected and uncharacteristic way. Maybe you can listen to someone's hurt and pray with them. Maybe you can do a service to a widow in your neighborhood. The possibilities are endless!


PRAYER


Lord, we praise You for Your grace that is unmerited and bestowed on us regardless of our labor but because of Your great love. Thank You that that grace propels us to serve You in the harvest fields of the world. May we serve with no ambition for honor or glory other than glorifying You. In Jesus' name, amen. 

Matthew 19 - Marriage, Children, and Wealth

by Katrina

LINK: Matthew 19

Parallel Passages:
Matthew 19:1-12 -- Mark 10:1-12
Matthew 19:13-15 -- Mark 10:13-16 -- Luke 18:15-17
Matthew 19:16-30 -- Mark 10:17-31 -- Luke 18:18-30

BACKGROUND
Jesus touches on three major topics in this chapter.

1) Marriage and Divorce - When the Pharisees asked Jesus if it's okay for a man to divorce his wife, they were asking a loaded question. The Pharisees of the time were divided on this issue, with one faction not allowing a man to divorce his wife unless she had committed adultery and the other faction allowing a man to divorce his wife for any (or no) reason. They wanted Jesus to choose sides. Jesus cut right to the chase, though, and simply addressed the issue of marriage and divorce. God never intended for divorce to exist but for marriage to be permanent in all cases. However, because of the sinfulness of man, divorce happens. So God commanded Moses that when it does happen, the woman should be provided for and protected through an official certificate of divorce. She could not simply be abandoned.

The disciples understood that Jesus was disallowing divorce and responded, with "Wow! Maybe it's better not to marry at all then!" (Katrina's paraphrase) Jesus answered that, yes, for some that is the better option.

2) Children - Some people were bringing children to Jesus that he might pray for them. The disciples didn't want Jesus to be bothered with children. But Jesus said to let them come. He valued the children and wanted to bless them.

3) Wealth - In the final section, a rich man came to Jesus and asked what one thing he should do to obtain eternal life. He was a man who kept the law but knew something was missing. Jesus, knowing the man's attachment to his wealth, told him to give up his wealth and follow him. But the man didn't feel he could part with his wealth and walked away. Jesus told his disciples that it is very difficult for the rich to enter the kingdom of heaven. I think this is for two reasons. One, we tend to become very attached to our possessions and are afraid to give them up in order to serve God. And two, the wealthy don't readily see their need for Christ.

Peter asked Jesus if there was any reward for giving up material possessions to follow Christ. Jesus assured him that there will be reward enough. But if his focus is on getting rewards, there will be little reward. The one who gives up thinking of rewards and just follows Jesus will receive the most abundant rewards in the end.


REFLECTION
This is a rich chapter with much to think about. Depending on where you are in life, one section may hit you more than the others. Carefully read what Jesus has to say here and meditate on it.

APPLICATION
Ultimately our willingness to truly follow Jesus is the most important thing. If we do that, everything else falls into place. Let's examine our hearts today and weed out anything that hinders us from obeying Jesus.

PRAYER
Lord, you are truly the only one worth following. You have the only offer of forgiveness and salvation. You promise to meet all our needs. You don't promise that it will always be easy, but you do promise that you will never forsake us. Help us today to consider our discipleship and be willing to give up all to follow you. Amen.