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Before starting to read and discuss Matthew, here's an overview of the book and its author.
The book - Matthew's gospel was written by a well-educated Jew, probably between 60 and 80 AD [Tweet it!] (thirty to forty years after the events he describes). It seems certain he used three sources; these were Mark's gospel, the text of an earlier account that scholars call Q, and probably his own memories and those of his friends.
This gospel is focussed on Jewish traditions and people, and generally draws on a broad and deep understanding of Jewish society and customs at the time of Jesus. It was probably written for the Jewish diaspora living in Alexandria, Antioch and elsewhere, Jews who would have spoken Greek in everyday life.
The structure of Matthew closely follows that of Mark with the addition of extra material at the beginning (the genealogy and stories of Jesus' birth) and at the end (events after the resurrection).
The purpose of the book is to reveal Jesus as the Messiah, of the royal lineage of David, and the fulfillment of the Jewish scriptures. Matthew is also clear that Gentiles are included.
The author - The book may have been written by Matthew the tax collector (also called Levi), one of the twelve apostles. Certainly this is what the second century church fathers thought. The text itself suggests that the author was fluent in Greek with a good knowledge of either Aramaic or Hebrew (or indeed both).
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Showing posts with label Matthew. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Matthew. Show all posts
Friday, 13 December 2013
Thursday, 17 October 2013
Moving on to John
Index
We've finished reading through Matthew, so next we're going to make a start in John.
Hold on, there are four gospels - Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. So why are we not moving on to Mark? For one thing, I'm itching to get stuck into John. So are at least two of my readers. Matthew, Mark and Luke are known as the synoptic gospels because they give a similar view of events and share quite a bit of material. John is rather different.
John focusses more on spiritual issues and he places some historical events in a different sequence. Deliberately so I think, something we might look at as we go along. So to spice things up and provide a bit of variety here's what I propose to do.
Having completed Matthew we'll cover John 1-7 next, then we'll work through Mark, then John 8-14, then Luke, and finally John 15-21. How does that sound?
I just wanted to let you all know to avoid confusion.
Next time I plan to post an introduction to John. From now on I'll provide a bit of background for each gospel before we start working through the chapters. I didn't do that for Matthew so at some point we'll go back and put that right. But don't worry, everything will appear in the right place in the Index so you should be able to find everything quite easily.
Index
We've finished reading through Matthew, so next we're going to make a start in John.
Hold on, there are four gospels - Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. So why are we not moving on to Mark? For one thing, I'm itching to get stuck into John. So are at least two of my readers. Matthew, Mark and Luke are known as the synoptic gospels because they give a similar view of events and share quite a bit of material. John is rather different.
John focusses more on spiritual issues and he places some historical events in a different sequence. Deliberately so I think, something we might look at as we go along. So to spice things up and provide a bit of variety here's what I propose to do.
Having completed Matthew we'll cover John 1-7 next, then we'll work through Mark, then John 8-14, then Luke, and finally John 15-21. How does that sound?
I just wanted to let you all know to avoid confusion.
Next time I plan to post an introduction to John. From now on I'll provide a bit of background for each gospel before we start working through the chapters. I didn't do that for Matthew so at some point we'll go back and put that right. But don't worry, everything will appear in the right place in the Index so you should be able to find everything quite easily.
Index
Wednesday, 16 October 2013
Matthew 28:1-20 - Jesus returns
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We can learn so much about Jesus from Matthew 28:1-20; this is a rich final chapter. The first thing to notice is that death cannot defeat him or hold him. But sometimes we think and talk about the resurrection without going beyond it. Jesus went beyond resurrection.
Not only has he returned to life but he goes ahead of his followers. We should remember this. He is there in Galilee waiting when his disciples arrive. In the same way he prepares a path for us to follow and is always there waiting for us.
And he has a mission for us.
The disciples worshipped him (though some of them were doubtful). But hear what he said to them, for he says the same to us.
"All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."
Why are we to do these things? Because all authority has been given to Jesus. There is no limit to his authority, it is authority in heaven and on earth.
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We can learn so much about Jesus from Matthew 28:1-20; this is a rich final chapter. The first thing to notice is that death cannot defeat him or hold him. But sometimes we think and talk about the resurrection without going beyond it. Jesus went beyond resurrection.
Not only has he returned to life but he goes ahead of his followers. We should remember this. He is there in Galilee waiting when his disciples arrive. In the same way he prepares a path for us to follow and is always there waiting for us.
And he has a mission for us.
The disciples worshipped him (though some of them were doubtful). But hear what he said to them, for he says the same to us.
"All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."
Why are we to do these things? Because all authority has been given to Jesus. There is no limit to his authority, it is authority in heaven and on earth.
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Tuesday, 15 October 2013
Matthew 27:32-66 - Jesus dies
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In this section, Jesus is crucified, dies and is buried. Matthew 27:32-66 has a lot of very interesting detail and even a whole book wouldn't cover it exhaustively. It's good to look at those details and consider them all carefully, but we're not going to attempt it in this short post.
Instead, look at the big picture. Jesus has been killed by the Roman troops and has been buried. To his followers this must have seemed like a tragic end to something that had been very special. Few of them would have had any hope beyond this point. There would have been a sense of finality, there was no way now that they would see his face or hear his voice again. What were they to do next?
Of course, we know that the story is far from over. In a sense it's just beginning! Jesus had left them plenty of clues. He said he was going to prepare a place for them, he had told them to go to Galillee and that he'd meet them there. He'd told them that he'd be with them always, to the end of the age. And he had said that without him they would be able to do nothing.
Sometimes we feel helpless and insufficient, unable to see a way forward. But in that we are in good company! Peter, James, John and eight other disciples also felt helpless and insufficient, unable to see a way forward.
Just as they would be surprised by his presence among them later, so will we be. Are we ready for that? Do we really expect it? Or will we feel defeated and lost as they must have done? Like those disciples we must wait and see what will happen next!
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In this section, Jesus is crucified, dies and is buried. Matthew 27:32-66 has a lot of very interesting detail and even a whole book wouldn't cover it exhaustively. It's good to look at those details and consider them all carefully, but we're not going to attempt it in this short post.
Instead, look at the big picture. Jesus has been killed by the Roman troops and has been buried. To his followers this must have seemed like a tragic end to something that had been very special. Few of them would have had any hope beyond this point. There would have been a sense of finality, there was no way now that they would see his face or hear his voice again. What were they to do next?
Of course, we know that the story is far from over. In a sense it's just beginning! Jesus had left them plenty of clues. He said he was going to prepare a place for them, he had told them to go to Galillee and that he'd meet them there. He'd told them that he'd be with them always, to the end of the age. And he had said that without him they would be able to do nothing.
Sometimes we feel helpless and insufficient, unable to see a way forward. But in that we are in good company! Peter, James, John and eight other disciples also felt helpless and insufficient, unable to see a way forward.
Just as they would be surprised by his presence among them later, so will we be. Are we ready for that? Do we really expect it? Or will we feel defeated and lost as they must have done? Like those disciples we must wait and see what will happen next!
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Sunday, 13 October 2013
Matthew 26:36-75 - Betrayed and arrested
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Now events play out as Jesus had said they would. He is betrayed, arrested, brought before the Sanhedrin, and disowned by Peter (Matthew 26:36-75).
It is very clear that Jesus is human just as we are. He is desperate for a way out; he prays for a way out; yet he knows the Father's will and intends to do what he must. As he puts it, the spirit is strong but the flesh is weak. He does not want to die, and especially he is desperate to avoid the dreadful pain and torment of crucifixion. Unlike us, he had no doubt seen criminals crucified by the Roman authorities, he knew exactly what lay ahead.
He craves the presence of close friends in this time of angst, but they fail him. We are just like them. But as with them, he understands our weakness and doesn't hold it against us. We are weak not deliberately, but inherently. Tiredness overwhelms them because they are not capable of truly identifying with what is in his heart and mind.
Perhaps they don't even understand that he really is going to die. When he is arrested it must have suddenly seemed more serious and urgent to them. But Peter still disowns Jesus. He is afraid, confused, anxious about his own safety. We are in all respects like Peter; what would it take for me to disown Jesus? How far would I tough it out?
But Jesus loves us anyway, despite our many failures and weaknesses - just as he did Peter and the other disciples.
Pray for strength in times of testing and weakness. And thank the Father and the Son that they stepped in and filled the gap on our behalf. And remember when you eat and drink together, the meaning of the broken bread and the wine poured out.
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Now events play out as Jesus had said they would. He is betrayed, arrested, brought before the Sanhedrin, and disowned by Peter (Matthew 26:36-75).
It is very clear that Jesus is human just as we are. He is desperate for a way out; he prays for a way out; yet he knows the Father's will and intends to do what he must. As he puts it, the spirit is strong but the flesh is weak. He does not want to die, and especially he is desperate to avoid the dreadful pain and torment of crucifixion. Unlike us, he had no doubt seen criminals crucified by the Roman authorities, he knew exactly what lay ahead.
He craves the presence of close friends in this time of angst, but they fail him. We are just like them. But as with them, he understands our weakness and doesn't hold it against us. We are weak not deliberately, but inherently. Tiredness overwhelms them because they are not capable of truly identifying with what is in his heart and mind.
Perhaps they don't even understand that he really is going to die. When he is arrested it must have suddenly seemed more serious and urgent to them. But Peter still disowns Jesus. He is afraid, confused, anxious about his own safety. We are in all respects like Peter; what would it take for me to disown Jesus? How far would I tough it out?
But Jesus loves us anyway, despite our many failures and weaknesses - just as he did Peter and the other disciples.
Pray for strength in times of testing and weakness. And thank the Father and the Son that they stepped in and filled the gap on our behalf. And remember when you eat and drink together, the meaning of the broken bread and the wine poured out.
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Saturday, 12 October 2013
Matthew 26:1-35 - Using traditions
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We are getting close to the end of the gospel account; in Matthew 26:1-35 we read about the Seder, or Passover meal and some of the conversation that took place around the table.
Notice how Jesus is embedded in the Jewish culture of his day, he celebrates the traditional feasts including this one, but he reuses some of the traditions for his own purposes. He says that the broken bread is his body and the wine is his blood. This would have been very memorable for the disciples. They'd have said to themselves every year, "Do you remember how Yahshua said this bread is my body and this wine is my blood?"
After the meal they went out to the Mount of Olives, and he told them that they would abandon him later that night.
We can learn from him even in this; we, too, should be embedded in our own culture. We might repurpose some of our traditions. Here in the UK we sometimes raise our glasses and say a few meaningful words when we share a drink on special occasions - weddings, retirement parties, at a house warming or at a special meal in a restaurant. Why not use times like that to give thanks to him for his involvement in everything we do?
We enjoy a barbecue in the garden in warm summer weather from time to time, and often invite friends or neighbours. Could we use those occasions in some way too? Use your imagination. If necessary, create a tradition of your own. Why not?
Another activity many people enjoy is to take a stroll together in the countryside. Perhaps we could use those times to think about some of the things Jesus said to his disciples as they walked together 2000 years ago.
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We are getting close to the end of the gospel account; in Matthew 26:1-35 we read about the Seder, or Passover meal and some of the conversation that took place around the table.
Notice how Jesus is embedded in the Jewish culture of his day, he celebrates the traditional feasts including this one, but he reuses some of the traditions for his own purposes. He says that the broken bread is his body and the wine is his blood. This would have been very memorable for the disciples. They'd have said to themselves every year, "Do you remember how Yahshua said this bread is my body and this wine is my blood?"
After the meal they went out to the Mount of Olives, and he told them that they would abandon him later that night.
We can learn from him even in this; we, too, should be embedded in our own culture. We might repurpose some of our traditions. Here in the UK we sometimes raise our glasses and say a few meaningful words when we share a drink on special occasions - weddings, retirement parties, at a house warming or at a special meal in a restaurant. Why not use times like that to give thanks to him for his involvement in everything we do?
We enjoy a barbecue in the garden in warm summer weather from time to time, and often invite friends or neighbours. Could we use those occasions in some way too? Use your imagination. If necessary, create a tradition of your own. Why not?
Another activity many people enjoy is to take a stroll together in the countryside. Perhaps we could use those times to think about some of the things Jesus said to his disciples as they walked together 2000 years ago.
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Friday, 11 October 2013
Matthew 25:31-46 - Sheep and goats
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Matthew 25:31-46 makes the basis of judgement as plain as it can be. Are you a sheep, placed on Jesus' right? Or are you a goat, placed on his left? Do you face eternal life or eternal punishment? And in any case, what do these terms mean?
We sometimes think of eternal life as a never ending time of joy and peace and happiness. We sometimes think of eternal punishment as constant pain and torment in a raging fire and separation from everything that is good. We think in terms of heaven and hell, but what do we imagine those to be like?
The fact is we have some clues but we cannot know for sure and opinions differ widely. What we can say is that there is a significant difference between being on his right or on his left. There's no mention of faith in this passage, but there is a strong reference to the results of following Jesus and becoming more and more like him. Following comes from believing; nobody would follow a person they don't believe in. In that sense following or not following is evidence of believing or not believing. It's evidence of faith or lack of faith.
Jesus always had a heart for the sick, the oppressed, the hungry, and the weak. So should we. In the end, those on the right did the things that he does, those on the left did not. Those on the right he welcomes, those on the left he rejects.
Will Jesus judge you to be a sheep or a goat?
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Matthew 25:31-46 makes the basis of judgement as plain as it can be. Are you a sheep, placed on Jesus' right? Or are you a goat, placed on his left? Do you face eternal life or eternal punishment? And in any case, what do these terms mean?
We sometimes think of eternal life as a never ending time of joy and peace and happiness. We sometimes think of eternal punishment as constant pain and torment in a raging fire and separation from everything that is good. We think in terms of heaven and hell, but what do we imagine those to be like?
The fact is we have some clues but we cannot know for sure and opinions differ widely. What we can say is that there is a significant difference between being on his right or on his left. There's no mention of faith in this passage, but there is a strong reference to the results of following Jesus and becoming more and more like him. Following comes from believing; nobody would follow a person they don't believe in. In that sense following or not following is evidence of believing or not believing. It's evidence of faith or lack of faith.
Jesus always had a heart for the sick, the oppressed, the hungry, and the weak. So should we. In the end, those on the right did the things that he does, those on the left did not. Those on the right he welcomes, those on the left he rejects.
Will Jesus judge you to be a sheep or a goat?
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Thursday, 10 October 2013
Matthew 25:1-30 - Virgins and talents
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Once more, Jesus shares two parables with his listeners. Remember that he's just been talking about the destruction of the Temple, the trouble that lies ahead, and that he will come unexpectedly. Now he presses home the message about needing to be ready and engaged in the work he has given us.
Matthew 25:1-13 is a story about the young women who were not ready with spare oil when the bridegroom arrived. Matthew 25:14-30 covers the servants entrusted with funds while their master was away.
In both cases we see the need to be dealing with things now, because the opportunity ends when the Son of Man finally appears. It's clear that for Jesus, this is a very important thing for us to know and do. This is, he says, what the kingdom of heaven will be like.
What does the "kingdom of heaven" truly mean? It means the rule and authority that is from beyond this world that we know so well. And that rule and authority from beyond will arrive suddenly and unexpectedly. When it does, it will be too late to be obedient because time will have run out. So if we are going to obey the Master, let's do it now.
Jesus says it's foolish to be unprepared (Matthew 25:3). And he gives out the tasks according to our ability (Matthew 25:15) so we have absolutely no excuse for failure.
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Once more, Jesus shares two parables with his listeners. Remember that he's just been talking about the destruction of the Temple, the trouble that lies ahead, and that he will come unexpectedly. Now he presses home the message about needing to be ready and engaged in the work he has given us.
Matthew 25:1-13 is a story about the young women who were not ready with spare oil when the bridegroom arrived. Matthew 25:14-30 covers the servants entrusted with funds while their master was away.
In both cases we see the need to be dealing with things now, because the opportunity ends when the Son of Man finally appears. It's clear that for Jesus, this is a very important thing for us to know and do. This is, he says, what the kingdom of heaven will be like.
What does the "kingdom of heaven" truly mean? It means the rule and authority that is from beyond this world that we know so well. And that rule and authority from beyond will arrive suddenly and unexpectedly. When it does, it will be too late to be obedient because time will have run out. So if we are going to obey the Master, let's do it now.
Jesus says it's foolish to be unprepared (Matthew 25:3). And he gives out the tasks according to our ability (Matthew 25:15) so we have absolutely no excuse for failure.
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Wednesday, 9 October 2013
Matthew 24:29-51 - An unexpected time
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Here in Matthew 24:29-51 we see the Son of Man in all of his power. After the period of great trouble (immediately afterwards) all the lights will go out. The sky itself will be shaken, the sun, moon and stars will stop shining and the Son of Man will come "with power and great glory".
Whether you see this as a literal convulsion of the entire universe, as a local manifestation in the Earth's atmosphere blocking the light, or as a figurative picture, it's abundantly clear that something of major significance is involved.
Jesus says it will follow the sign of the times just as summer follows the time of young leaves on the fig tree in the spring. When spring is here, summer is inevitably just around the corner. This upheaval of Earth and sky is the same.
But Jesus' words are confusing. He says, "This generation" without specifying which generation he means. The one he is speaking to? The one that witnesses the time of great trouble? And he says that not even the Son knows when the time will come, but only the Father. But until that time, life will go on as normal and people will be unsuspecting. But he does say very clearly that we should be ready.
Jesus lived in the world for thirty years, doing nothing but building work and carpentry. Then, at the right time, he began the main task for which he had come. Like him, we lived in the world doing ordinary things until we were called for a new and extraordinary task.
It's essential that we be found working when he comes, not sleeping. The take-home message is very clear even though the details seem mysterious. We have a new job to do and we need to be engaged in it wholeheartedly.
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Here in Matthew 24:29-51 we see the Son of Man in all of his power. After the period of great trouble (immediately afterwards) all the lights will go out. The sky itself will be shaken, the sun, moon and stars will stop shining and the Son of Man will come "with power and great glory".
Whether you see this as a literal convulsion of the entire universe, as a local manifestation in the Earth's atmosphere blocking the light, or as a figurative picture, it's abundantly clear that something of major significance is involved.
Jesus says it will follow the sign of the times just as summer follows the time of young leaves on the fig tree in the spring. When spring is here, summer is inevitably just around the corner. This upheaval of Earth and sky is the same.
But Jesus' words are confusing. He says, "This generation" without specifying which generation he means. The one he is speaking to? The one that witnesses the time of great trouble? And he says that not even the Son knows when the time will come, but only the Father. But until that time, life will go on as normal and people will be unsuspecting. But he does say very clearly that we should be ready.
Jesus lived in the world for thirty years, doing nothing but building work and carpentry. Then, at the right time, he began the main task for which he had come. Like him, we lived in the world doing ordinary things until we were called for a new and extraordinary task.
It's essential that we be found working when he comes, not sleeping. The take-home message is very clear even though the details seem mysterious. We have a new job to do and we need to be engaged in it wholeheartedly.
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Sunday, 6 October 2013
Matthew 24:1-28 - End of the Temple
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Jesus becomes more specific in Matthew 24:1-28. The disciples are impressed by the massive and fine stonework but he speaks clearly to them about the coming destruction of the Temple. And he speaks about the problems and difficulties they will face before the time arrives. He says there will be persecution and even death, and that many will turn from the truth, and that love will grow cold because of the growth of wickedness.
It's likely that Jesus is speaking here of the destruction of the Temple by the Roman General Titus in 70 AD and also perhaps about an end time that is still to come. Does he say things that resonate with you in terms of our own times?
Jesus wants us to stand firm, he warns us about false prophets. He tells us that when he comes it will be clear enough (like lightning illuminating up the entire sky from east to west). Rumourmongers are like vultures, gathering round times of difficulty like vultures around a dead animal. Don't believe them!
Through all of these hard times, where does our duty lie? We are called to love one another and to help the weak and the impoverished and the suffering. We are to be undeceived and not alarmed. We are to share the good news of the kingdom as widely as we can.
The disciples were impressed by the massive and lavish Temple buildings, but it's not about technology or wealth - either then or in our own day. It's about truth and love and following the Son, bringing glory to the Father, and understanding the signs of the times.
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Jesus becomes more specific in Matthew 24:1-28. The disciples are impressed by the massive and fine stonework but he speaks clearly to them about the coming destruction of the Temple. And he speaks about the problems and difficulties they will face before the time arrives. He says there will be persecution and even death, and that many will turn from the truth, and that love will grow cold because of the growth of wickedness.
It's likely that Jesus is speaking here of the destruction of the Temple by the Roman General Titus in 70 AD and also perhaps about an end time that is still to come. Does he say things that resonate with you in terms of our own times?
Jesus wants us to stand firm, he warns us about false prophets. He tells us that when he comes it will be clear enough (like lightning illuminating up the entire sky from east to west). Rumourmongers are like vultures, gathering round times of difficulty like vultures around a dead animal. Don't believe them!
Through all of these hard times, where does our duty lie? We are called to love one another and to help the weak and the impoverished and the suffering. We are to be undeceived and not alarmed. We are to share the good news of the kingdom as widely as we can.
The disciples were impressed by the massive and lavish Temple buildings, but it's not about technology or wealth - either then or in our own day. It's about truth and love and following the Son, bringing glory to the Father, and understanding the signs of the times.
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Saturday, 5 October 2013
Matthew 23:1-39 - Hypocrites
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In this chapter (Matthew 23:1-39) Jesus deals with hypocrisy. In the first three verses he makes it very clear that the teachers of the Law and the Pharisees should be obeyed but not followed. They do not do what they teach which, of course, is hypocritical.
We must be people who not only say right things, but also do them. We are not to show off, and we are not to take on titles such as Teacher or Father or Instructor. Can you think of other titles we should avoid?
Jesus lists seven woes, seven key issues that will cause the religious leaders to come unstuck. He is generalising, there were some among the Pharisees who followed him, Nicodemus, for example. Read through these woes. They are strong stuff.
If we are to keep Jesus central in our lives, it goes without saying that we should not do the bad things the teachers of the Law and the Pharisees did. But what about the good things they did? Was Jesus saying that we should meet all the requirements of Mosaic Law? I don't think so! He said that he came to fulfil the Law, not to destroy it. He also said that his burden is light. He calls us to go beyond the Law just as he did. Read Matthew 22:37-40 again. Love is the key, the Law is rooted and grounded in love. So love!
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In this chapter (Matthew 23:1-39) Jesus deals with hypocrisy. In the first three verses he makes it very clear that the teachers of the Law and the Pharisees should be obeyed but not followed. They do not do what they teach which, of course, is hypocritical.
We must be people who not only say right things, but also do them. We are not to show off, and we are not to take on titles such as Teacher or Father or Instructor. Can you think of other titles we should avoid?
Jesus lists seven woes, seven key issues that will cause the religious leaders to come unstuck. He is generalising, there were some among the Pharisees who followed him, Nicodemus, for example. Read through these woes. They are strong stuff.
If we are to keep Jesus central in our lives, it goes without saying that we should not do the bad things the teachers of the Law and the Pharisees did. But what about the good things they did? Was Jesus saying that we should meet all the requirements of Mosaic Law? I don't think so! He said that he came to fulfil the Law, not to destroy it. He also said that his burden is light. He calls us to go beyond the Law just as he did. Read Matthew 22:37-40 again. Love is the key, the Law is rooted and grounded in love. So love!
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Friday, 4 October 2013
Matthew 22:23-46 - Understanding the truth
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And now the Sadducees approach him with a question of their own (Matthew 22:23-46). They seem to be much very interested in details of doctrine and teaching, and their specific question is about resurrection. The Pharisees believed the dead would return to life in the end times, the Sadducees did not.
Their argument failed so the Pharisees again tested Jesus, sending an expert in the Law to question him. Not only did he answer well, Jesus then asked them about the Messiah and confounded them again. Matthew tells us that they were so dumbfounded that they stopped questioning him at that point.
If we could meet Jesus in open conversation, what would our questions be? It's interesting to wonder. What would you choose to ask him? Or would you just sit and listen?
It's very clear that Jesus is far less interested in theological points about resurrection or the Law than he is about love. When he says that loving the Mighty One and loving one another are the basis for all the Law, he is taking a new line. And we need to listen to him, hear what he is saying, and then do it. Love is the key. Love is the most important thing. That is a simple message, far simpler than arguments concerning the Law.
Doctrine and theological argument often divide us. If instead we focussed on love, there would be no danger of division.
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And now the Sadducees approach him with a question of their own (Matthew 22:23-46). They seem to be much very interested in details of doctrine and teaching, and their specific question is about resurrection. The Pharisees believed the dead would return to life in the end times, the Sadducees did not.
Their argument failed so the Pharisees again tested Jesus, sending an expert in the Law to question him. Not only did he answer well, Jesus then asked them about the Messiah and confounded them again. Matthew tells us that they were so dumbfounded that they stopped questioning him at that point.
If we could meet Jesus in open conversation, what would our questions be? It's interesting to wonder. What would you choose to ask him? Or would you just sit and listen?
It's very clear that Jesus is far less interested in theological points about resurrection or the Law than he is about love. When he says that loving the Mighty One and loving one another are the basis for all the Law, he is taking a new line. And we need to listen to him, hear what he is saying, and then do it. Love is the key. Love is the most important thing. That is a simple message, far simpler than arguments concerning the Law.
Doctrine and theological argument often divide us. If instead we focussed on love, there would be no danger of division.
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Thursday, 3 October 2013
Matthew 22:1-22 - Two kingdoms
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This time we're looking at Matthew 22:1-22. The passage begins with another parable about the kingdom of heaven and finishes with the need to pay taxes to Caesar. Our lives are enmeshed in both spiritual and earthly kingdoms.
It seems very likely that the religious leaders were still listening and would have heard the parable about the wedding banquet. What do you think they would have made of it? They would have understood that Yahshua was referring to them as the people who would not come to the King's banquet for his son. They probably realised that he was referring to himself as the son and that the King was Yahweh Elohim.
They were determined to trap him and their plan was a shrewd one - get him to speak against the Roman taxes in the presence of Herod's supporters. Then matters would take their course and Jesus would be silenced, at best executed and at the very minimum shut away in prison. But of course he was too wise for them and they were stymied once again.
As Jesus' followers we too should pay what the state requires of us while also paying due regard to what the Almighty requires of us. And one of those holy duties is inviting the people around us to the wedding feast of the Son. If we plan to be there ourselves, we'd better be robed in righteousness when we're in his presence.
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This time we're looking at Matthew 22:1-22. The passage begins with another parable about the kingdom of heaven and finishes with the need to pay taxes to Caesar. Our lives are enmeshed in both spiritual and earthly kingdoms.
It seems very likely that the religious leaders were still listening and would have heard the parable about the wedding banquet. What do you think they would have made of it? They would have understood that Yahshua was referring to them as the people who would not come to the King's banquet for his son. They probably realised that he was referring to himself as the son and that the King was Yahweh Elohim.
They were determined to trap him and their plan was a shrewd one - get him to speak against the Roman taxes in the presence of Herod's supporters. Then matters would take their course and Jesus would be silenced, at best executed and at the very minimum shut away in prison. But of course he was too wise for them and they were stymied once again.
As Jesus' followers we too should pay what the state requires of us while also paying due regard to what the Almighty requires of us. And one of those holy duties is inviting the people around us to the wedding feast of the Son. If we plan to be there ourselves, we'd better be robed in righteousness when we're in his presence.
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Wednesday, 2 October 2013
Matthew 21:23-46 - Authority challenged
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In the first part of the chapter, Jesus demonstrates his authority in a variety of ways. But his authority does not go unchallenged.
In Matthew 21:23-27 we read about a direct challenge from the chief priests and the elders of the people. They demand to know what his authority consists of and also who gave it to him. They made these demands while he was teaching. In other words, right in front of the people who were listening to him. This was a very public confrontation.
Instead of answering these two questions, Jesus asks a single question of his own. Not only that, he puts the onus on them to respond first. "If you answer my question, I'll answer your's."
They equivocate, so Jesus says, "Neither will I tell you by what authority I am working". But he doesn't leave it there; he tells two parables one that describes their past failures and another that predicts his death and explains their thinking in their coming moves against him.
In Matthew 21:28-32 he compares them to a disobedient son who says he will but doesn't. And he contrasts them with the tax collectors and prostitutes who are entering the kingdom ahead of them!
And in Matthew 21:33-46 he compares them to wicked tenants who murder the heir of the estate. They knew that both parables were aimed fairly and squarely at them. And they wanted to arrest him.
Normally, it's not helpful to annoy and irritate powerful people. But this is a critical time, and Jesus knows he must act and speak very plainly. So are we to follow him in this too? Perhaps the answer is yes and no. We must speak the truth plainly but we must also speak it in love. Like Jesus, sometimes
we will need to avoid throwing pearls to the pigs, but at other times we will need to be outspoken regardless of the opposition.
We can see examples of both in the book of Acts, particularly in the life of Paul. Father, give us the wisdom to know when to remain quiet and when to speak out so that your will may be done and all the glory will be yours.
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In the first part of the chapter, Jesus demonstrates his authority in a variety of ways. But his authority does not go unchallenged.
In Matthew 21:23-27 we read about a direct challenge from the chief priests and the elders of the people. They demand to know what his authority consists of and also who gave it to him. They made these demands while he was teaching. In other words, right in front of the people who were listening to him. This was a very public confrontation.
Instead of answering these two questions, Jesus asks a single question of his own. Not only that, he puts the onus on them to respond first. "If you answer my question, I'll answer your's."
They equivocate, so Jesus says, "Neither will I tell you by what authority I am working". But he doesn't leave it there; he tells two parables one that describes their past failures and another that predicts his death and explains their thinking in their coming moves against him.
In Matthew 21:28-32 he compares them to a disobedient son who says he will but doesn't. And he contrasts them with the tax collectors and prostitutes who are entering the kingdom ahead of them!
And in Matthew 21:33-46 he compares them to wicked tenants who murder the heir of the estate. They knew that both parables were aimed fairly and squarely at them. And they wanted to arrest him.
Normally, it's not helpful to annoy and irritate powerful people. But this is a critical time, and Jesus knows he must act and speak very plainly. So are we to follow him in this too? Perhaps the answer is yes and no. We must speak the truth plainly but we must also speak it in love. Like Jesus, sometimes
we will need to avoid throwing pearls to the pigs, but at other times we will need to be outspoken regardless of the opposition.
We can see examples of both in the book of Acts, particularly in the life of Paul. Father, give us the wisdom to know when to remain quiet and when to speak out so that your will may be done and all the glory will be yours.
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Tuesday, 1 October 2013
Matthew 21:1-22 - Coming to Jerusalem
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Jesus enters Jerusalem and spends the night in nearby Bethany, returning to the city in the morning. He probably stays at the house of Lazarus, Mary and Martha. But his arrival in the city is different this time; there are huge crowds and a lot of noise and celebration. The city is excited.
Matthew 21:1-22 describes the scene and some interesting events, the donkey and her foal, the cloaks and branches placed on the road by the crowd, the chanting and shouting, the upheaval in the temple courts, the healings, the conversation with the chief priests and teachers and the fig tree incident.
Things are clearly coming to a head now. In the past Jesus has slipped away and avoided the limelight. This time he makes no effort to moderate it or calm things down. This is not "gentle Jesus, meek and mild".
We follow a king, indeed he is the King of kings. His authority and power is all over this passage. He has the authority to use the donkey. Is he making use of what is not his? Or is he demonstrating that everything in the universe is his to command and employ? The crowd understands his kingly status, calling him the Son of David (the greatest king in Israel's history, the father of wise Solomon).
He takes authority over the activities in the temple courts. It is not a place for trading and profiteering. As so often before, he takes authority over blindness and lameness; where Jesus is, all will see clearly and walk freely. He speaks authoritatively to the religious leaders too, wasting no time in lengthy conversation but walking away.
He even demonstrates authority over a fruitless tree. It's no coincidence that the fig tree is symbolic of the nation of Israel. The nation has not borne the fruit that was expected of it and now it will wither. Forty years later the temple will be destroyed by the Roman army after a terrible siege of Jerusalem, and all Jews will be made to leave the city. It will be redeveloped as a Roman town and Jews will not be allowed to enter.
Jesus tells his astonished disciples that believing prayer will bring about anything they ask, not only the tearing down of a nation but even the tearing down of a mountain.
How should we respond to such an awesome king? He has authority over everything. Through him and in him, so do we. Our one goal, therefore, should be to keep Jesus at the centre of all we do and say and think and are. "Without me", he said, "You can do nothing".
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Jesus enters Jerusalem and spends the night in nearby Bethany, returning to the city in the morning. He probably stays at the house of Lazarus, Mary and Martha. But his arrival in the city is different this time; there are huge crowds and a lot of noise and celebration. The city is excited.
Matthew 21:1-22 describes the scene and some interesting events, the donkey and her foal, the cloaks and branches placed on the road by the crowd, the chanting and shouting, the upheaval in the temple courts, the healings, the conversation with the chief priests and teachers and the fig tree incident.
Things are clearly coming to a head now. In the past Jesus has slipped away and avoided the limelight. This time he makes no effort to moderate it or calm things down. This is not "gentle Jesus, meek and mild".
We follow a king, indeed he is the King of kings. His authority and power is all over this passage. He has the authority to use the donkey. Is he making use of what is not his? Or is he demonstrating that everything in the universe is his to command and employ? The crowd understands his kingly status, calling him the Son of David (the greatest king in Israel's history, the father of wise Solomon).
He takes authority over the activities in the temple courts. It is not a place for trading and profiteering. As so often before, he takes authority over blindness and lameness; where Jesus is, all will see clearly and walk freely. He speaks authoritatively to the religious leaders too, wasting no time in lengthy conversation but walking away.
He even demonstrates authority over a fruitless tree. It's no coincidence that the fig tree is symbolic of the nation of Israel. The nation has not borne the fruit that was expected of it and now it will wither. Forty years later the temple will be destroyed by the Roman army after a terrible siege of Jerusalem, and all Jews will be made to leave the city. It will be redeveloped as a Roman town and Jews will not be allowed to enter.
Jesus tells his astonished disciples that believing prayer will bring about anything they ask, not only the tearing down of a nation but even the tearing down of a mountain.
How should we respond to such an awesome king? He has authority over everything. Through him and in him, so do we. Our one goal, therefore, should be to keep Jesus at the centre of all we do and say and think and are. "Without me", he said, "You can do nothing".
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Monday, 30 September 2013
Matthew 20:17-34 - Dying for life
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Matthew 20:17-34 tells us a lot about the character and nature of Jesus. It falls naturally into three parts, Jesus speaks about his coming death in Jerusalem, he deals with Zebedee's wife and sons, and he heals two blind men.
This is about as stressful as life gets! Imagine you are setting out on a journey that you know will end in your painful and desperate death, that you are having to deal with your followers jockeying for position and criticising one another, and people are stopping you along the way asking for help.
At a time like that I would be a gibbering wreck looking for a way out, grumpy and more than a tad impatient. Just look at some of the words associated with Jesus in this short passage...
Delivered over to the chief priests and teachers - condemn to death - hand over to the Gentiles - mock, flog, crucify - raise to life - ask a favour - drink the cup - indignant - servant, slave - ransom - shout - have mercy - we want our sight.
Jesus took it all and dealt with it patiently, graciously, and determinedly. He came to serve, first the Father, then the people around him.
Read the passage through with this in mind, then consider your own response to others when you're under heavy pressure and extreme stress. He is such an example for us. Can you follow him deeper into patience and grace in your own daily life?
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Matthew 20:17-34 tells us a lot about the character and nature of Jesus. It falls naturally into three parts, Jesus speaks about his coming death in Jerusalem, he deals with Zebedee's wife and sons, and he heals two blind men.
This is about as stressful as life gets! Imagine you are setting out on a journey that you know will end in your painful and desperate death, that you are having to deal with your followers jockeying for position and criticising one another, and people are stopping you along the way asking for help.
At a time like that I would be a gibbering wreck looking for a way out, grumpy and more than a tad impatient. Just look at some of the words associated with Jesus in this short passage...
Delivered over to the chief priests and teachers - condemn to death - hand over to the Gentiles - mock, flog, crucify - raise to life - ask a favour - drink the cup - indignant - servant, slave - ransom - shout - have mercy - we want our sight.
Jesus took it all and dealt with it patiently, graciously, and determinedly. He came to serve, first the Father, then the people around him.
Read the passage through with this in mind, then consider your own response to others when you're under heavy pressure and extreme stress. He is such an example for us. Can you follow him deeper into patience and grace in your own daily life?
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Sunday, 29 September 2013
Matthew 20:1-16 - Vineyard work
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In Matthew 20:1-16, Jesus uses a parable to put over an idea that seems unfair yet is not. The owner of the vineyard chooses to pay all workers the same whether they've laboured all day or just for a short time at the end of the day.
But as Jesus points out, the owner is within his rights, he can pay whatever he wishes to those starting late. Those who signed on early received the pay they'd contracted for. They had no reason to expect more.
As with all parables, this story reveals something significant about the kingdom of heaven. Telling these stories helped Jesus explain difficult ideas in ways that people would remember, even if they didn't always understand them fully.
Perhaps we should use stories more often ourselves. They don't have to be fiction with an underlying meaning like a parable. They might also be true stories based around events in our lives. Both parables and our own experiences can illuminate the hearts and minds of the people who hear them.
But why are stories so effective? I suspect it may simply be that stories capture our imagination. People will listen to a story when they might glaze over at the bare facts. And both parables and life examples are able to demonstrate how a principle works so that it may be reapplied in different circumstances.
Stories are useful when speaking to large groups of people, but they're also effective in one-on-one conversations. Try to accumulate a series of useful stories that you can draw on when the right occasions arise.
Here's a simple example from my own life, many years ago. I had missed the last bus home from Cheltenham so I decided to start walking. After some while, toiling up the hill to Seven Springs and with more than ten miles still to go it began raining, hard. A beat-up old Reliant Robin pulled over and offered me a lift, and during the twenty minute journey the driver told he me he was happy to be able to help me and he hoped I would help others in my turn whenever I had the chance.
That made quite an impression on me and I have never forgotten it. Somehow that simple experience helped me understand the grace and love of my heavenly Father who helps us when we need it and expects us to treat others in the same way. What had previously seemed no more than boring rules in a dusty old book suddenly came alive for me with great clarity.
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In Matthew 20:1-16, Jesus uses a parable to put over an idea that seems unfair yet is not. The owner of the vineyard chooses to pay all workers the same whether they've laboured all day or just for a short time at the end of the day.
But as Jesus points out, the owner is within his rights, he can pay whatever he wishes to those starting late. Those who signed on early received the pay they'd contracted for. They had no reason to expect more.
As with all parables, this story reveals something significant about the kingdom of heaven. Telling these stories helped Jesus explain difficult ideas in ways that people would remember, even if they didn't always understand them fully.
Perhaps we should use stories more often ourselves. They don't have to be fiction with an underlying meaning like a parable. They might also be true stories based around events in our lives. Both parables and our own experiences can illuminate the hearts and minds of the people who hear them.
But why are stories so effective? I suspect it may simply be that stories capture our imagination. People will listen to a story when they might glaze over at the bare facts. And both parables and life examples are able to demonstrate how a principle works so that it may be reapplied in different circumstances.
Stories are useful when speaking to large groups of people, but they're also effective in one-on-one conversations. Try to accumulate a series of useful stories that you can draw on when the right occasions arise.
Here's a simple example from my own life, many years ago. I had missed the last bus home from Cheltenham so I decided to start walking. After some while, toiling up the hill to Seven Springs and with more than ten miles still to go it began raining, hard. A beat-up old Reliant Robin pulled over and offered me a lift, and during the twenty minute journey the driver told he me he was happy to be able to help me and he hoped I would help others in my turn whenever I had the chance.
That made quite an impression on me and I have never forgotten it. Somehow that simple experience helped me understand the grace and love of my heavenly Father who helps us when we need it and expects us to treat others in the same way. What had previously seemed no more than boring rules in a dusty old book suddenly came alive for me with great clarity.
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Saturday, 28 September 2013
Matthew 19:16-30 - The rich man
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Read Matthew 19:16-30. Notice carefully how Jesus deals with this young man. How would I have dealt with him? How would you deal with him? What can we learn about Jesus from this? What do we need to change in our own thinking?
Jesus has just left the place where he blessed the little children and right after that a man comes to ask him a question. Like many people in our own day, this man thinks he needs to do something good in order to receive eternal life as a fair exchange. Of course, it doesn't work quite that way, we don't, and indeed can't, earn eternal life. Given our sinful nature there is nothing we can offer in fair exchange. Eternal life is a gift offered to us through grace.
So Jesus doesn't say, "You need to do this, or go there, or do that". Instead he says, "You need to keep the commandments". No doubt the man wants to know which ones, as if he thinks some of them may not matter. Are we like that? And when we speak with people we meet and they express an interest in Jesus, are they like that too? Aren't we all prone to pick and choose which rules to obey and which to ignore? Have you been guilty of murder or fraud or arson? Probably not. Have you ever exceeded a speed limit? Hmm...
But we can't do that with the commandments. They are law, but they are the law of Yahweh, the Almighty. We can't just push the boundaries a little and expect him not to notice!
So Jesus gives him what he wants, he provides a short list. He tells the man not to break some fundamental commands. And the man assures him that he has not. He must think, "I'm in!" I imagine him mentally punching the air at this point. "Yes!" But maybe he sees something in Jesus' face, and he asks, "What am I still missing?"
And then Jesus picks the one thing he is not willing to let go of, the one that will prevent him from following. What things prevent me from following Jesus fully? And how about you? Are there things too precious for us to give up?
Jesus explains to the disciples that hope still remains because all things are possible for Elohim. Once again it's the poor in spirit who will inherit life. Those who put themselves last will be in the forefront. But those with money (like the rich man), power and spiritual strength will be last in because they have so much to lose.
Why must we lose everything in order to find Jesus? Because we must come to the point of realising that he is worth much more than everything else we have. Until we see this and understand it clearly, we won't even be willing to follow him.
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Read Matthew 19:16-30. Notice carefully how Jesus deals with this young man. How would I have dealt with him? How would you deal with him? What can we learn about Jesus from this? What do we need to change in our own thinking?
Jesus has just left the place where he blessed the little children and right after that a man comes to ask him a question. Like many people in our own day, this man thinks he needs to do something good in order to receive eternal life as a fair exchange. Of course, it doesn't work quite that way, we don't, and indeed can't, earn eternal life. Given our sinful nature there is nothing we can offer in fair exchange. Eternal life is a gift offered to us through grace.
So Jesus doesn't say, "You need to do this, or go there, or do that". Instead he says, "You need to keep the commandments". No doubt the man wants to know which ones, as if he thinks some of them may not matter. Are we like that? And when we speak with people we meet and they express an interest in Jesus, are they like that too? Aren't we all prone to pick and choose which rules to obey and which to ignore? Have you been guilty of murder or fraud or arson? Probably not. Have you ever exceeded a speed limit? Hmm...
But we can't do that with the commandments. They are law, but they are the law of Yahweh, the Almighty. We can't just push the boundaries a little and expect him not to notice!
So Jesus gives him what he wants, he provides a short list. He tells the man not to break some fundamental commands. And the man assures him that he has not. He must think, "I'm in!" I imagine him mentally punching the air at this point. "Yes!" But maybe he sees something in Jesus' face, and he asks, "What am I still missing?"
And then Jesus picks the one thing he is not willing to let go of, the one that will prevent him from following. What things prevent me from following Jesus fully? And how about you? Are there things too precious for us to give up?
Jesus explains to the disciples that hope still remains because all things are possible for Elohim. Once again it's the poor in spirit who will inherit life. Those who put themselves last will be in the forefront. But those with money (like the rich man), power and spiritual strength will be last in because they have so much to lose.
Why must we lose everything in order to find Jesus? Because we must come to the point of realising that he is worth much more than everything else we have. Until we see this and understand it clearly, we won't even be willing to follow him.
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Friday, 27 September 2013
Matthew 19:1-15 - Divorce and children
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Jesus' teachings often seem hard, even unattainable. But should we see them as goals to be achieved despite enormous odds? Or should we rather see them as clear statements of the depths of our shortcomings, making plain the huge gulf between our abilities and the demands of holiness?
The answers to those two questions determine whether we will attempt to achieve salvation by our own efforts, or recognise that only grace can save us.
Jesus has already applied this thinking several times. For example, he claims that lust in a man's heart is as bad as adultery. Anger in a man's heart is as bad as murder. An eye that causes you to sin should be pulled out and thrown away. Now, in Matthew 19:1-12, he applies the same approach to divorce.
While he's healing the crowds, the Pharisees come with another testing question, part of the process laid down for checking out anyone who claims to be Ha Mashiach, The Messiah. Ironically, but true to form, they are more interested in technicalities than in the healings taking place before their very eyes; surely that should have been sufficient evidence!
As usual, it's a trick question, "Is there any valid reason for a man to divorce his wife?" Yet in asking this, they thought they had a trump card up their sleeves. Moses wrote that yes, you could write a letter of divorce (making it official) and then send your wife away (making it practical). So if Yahshua says "No" they can point to Mosaic law, but if he says "Yes" they can point to passages in Genesis.
Of course, it all unravels for them. Jesus tells them that the perfect and original state of affairs is that a marriage cannot be broken. And as far as Moses goes, he says that divorce became necessary through human weakness and failure. So divorce and remarriage is equivalent to adultery just as anger is equivalent to murder. And that's his final word on the matter to a Pharisaic heart.
But see how he responds to a repentant heart. To the woman caught in adultery he says, "Has anyone condemned you? Neither do I. Go in peace but don't sin" (John 8:2-11). That is grace in action.
The lesson we can take from this is not just a lesson about marriage, divorce and adultery, it's a challenge to have the same kind of grace in our hearts that Jesus demonstrated for us. If I am to represent him among the people in my street and in my town I'd better think more like a little Jesus than a little Pharisee.
Perhaps Jesus drives this message home in Matthew 19:13-15. We must never turn away the simple-hearted, the inexperienced, or those without understanding. The worldly wise will always look out for themselves. But the weak (like the woman caught in adultery) need our blessing.
If Jesus didn't come for the rich or strong or healthy or wise but for the poor in spirit and the weak and the sick and the little children, I should do the same.
< Previous | Index | Next >
Jesus' teachings often seem hard, even unattainable. But should we see them as goals to be achieved despite enormous odds? Or should we rather see them as clear statements of the depths of our shortcomings, making plain the huge gulf between our abilities and the demands of holiness?
The answers to those two questions determine whether we will attempt to achieve salvation by our own efforts, or recognise that only grace can save us.
Jesus has already applied this thinking several times. For example, he claims that lust in a man's heart is as bad as adultery. Anger in a man's heart is as bad as murder. An eye that causes you to sin should be pulled out and thrown away. Now, in Matthew 19:1-12, he applies the same approach to divorce.
While he's healing the crowds, the Pharisees come with another testing question, part of the process laid down for checking out anyone who claims to be Ha Mashiach, The Messiah. Ironically, but true to form, they are more interested in technicalities than in the healings taking place before their very eyes; surely that should have been sufficient evidence!
As usual, it's a trick question, "Is there any valid reason for a man to divorce his wife?" Yet in asking this, they thought they had a trump card up their sleeves. Moses wrote that yes, you could write a letter of divorce (making it official) and then send your wife away (making it practical). So if Yahshua says "No" they can point to Mosaic law, but if he says "Yes" they can point to passages in Genesis.
Of course, it all unravels for them. Jesus tells them that the perfect and original state of affairs is that a marriage cannot be broken. And as far as Moses goes, he says that divorce became necessary through human weakness and failure. So divorce and remarriage is equivalent to adultery just as anger is equivalent to murder. And that's his final word on the matter to a Pharisaic heart.
But see how he responds to a repentant heart. To the woman caught in adultery he says, "Has anyone condemned you? Neither do I. Go in peace but don't sin" (John 8:2-11). That is grace in action.
The lesson we can take from this is not just a lesson about marriage, divorce and adultery, it's a challenge to have the same kind of grace in our hearts that Jesus demonstrated for us. If I am to represent him among the people in my street and in my town I'd better think more like a little Jesus than a little Pharisee.
Perhaps Jesus drives this message home in Matthew 19:13-15. We must never turn away the simple-hearted, the inexperienced, or those without understanding. The worldly wise will always look out for themselves. But the weak (like the woman caught in adultery) need our blessing.
If Jesus didn't come for the rich or strong or healthy or wise but for the poor in spirit and the weak and the sick and the little children, I should do the same.
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Thursday, 26 September 2013
Matthew 18:21-35 - Forgiven but unforgiving
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Matthew 18:21-35 relates another of Jesus' parables, prompted by a question from Peter.
Peter wanted to know how long patience should be applied in a situation where there has been repeated offence and repeated forgiveness. How long would you put up with this treatment? How long would I? Three times? That would seem more than generous in a case where someone is taking the mickey. We are called to be forgiving, but surely we're not called to be stupid? This is not, "Once bitten, twice shy". It's more like, "Three times bitten and reach out your hand again"!
It's easy to think Peter was a bit of lightweight in terms of forgiving, but he wondered whether seven times would be enough. Peter certainly outclasses me, how about you?
Jesus' answers, "Not seven times, but seventy-seven times". This seems a very demanding requirement to put it mildly. But the parable makes it clear that we have been forgiven far, far more than anything another person could possibly owe us. Father has forgiven us everything, he has sent us away with life when we deserved death. How, then, dare we fail to forgive a brother or sister?
How does this work out in practice for us? How will we treat people when they let us down, make promises they fail to keep, take what is ours, or leave us in the lurch? Well, we must forgive them - this time, next time, and again and again and again. When Jesus taught the disciples to pray he included the words, "Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us".
Forgiving the same person repeatedly is a challenge for us all, but it's a challenge we must rise to and succeed in. Be like your Father in heaven, pour out good things on all without distinction. Be gentle, be patient, be merciful.
The world will notice. Whether they respond in growing love or in deepening hatred is not the point. It's all part of being a disciple, demonstrating to a broken world what Jesus is like.
< Previous | Index | Next >
Matthew 18:21-35 relates another of Jesus' parables, prompted by a question from Peter.
Peter wanted to know how long patience should be applied in a situation where there has been repeated offence and repeated forgiveness. How long would you put up with this treatment? How long would I? Three times? That would seem more than generous in a case where someone is taking the mickey. We are called to be forgiving, but surely we're not called to be stupid? This is not, "Once bitten, twice shy". It's more like, "Three times bitten and reach out your hand again"!
It's easy to think Peter was a bit of lightweight in terms of forgiving, but he wondered whether seven times would be enough. Peter certainly outclasses me, how about you?
Jesus' answers, "Not seven times, but seventy-seven times". This seems a very demanding requirement to put it mildly. But the parable makes it clear that we have been forgiven far, far more than anything another person could possibly owe us. Father has forgiven us everything, he has sent us away with life when we deserved death. How, then, dare we fail to forgive a brother or sister?
How does this work out in practice for us? How will we treat people when they let us down, make promises they fail to keep, take what is ours, or leave us in the lurch? Well, we must forgive them - this time, next time, and again and again and again. When Jesus taught the disciples to pray he included the words, "Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us".
Forgiving the same person repeatedly is a challenge for us all, but it's a challenge we must rise to and succeed in. Be like your Father in heaven, pour out good things on all without distinction. Be gentle, be patient, be merciful.
The world will notice. Whether they respond in growing love or in deepening hatred is not the point. It's all part of being a disciple, demonstrating to a broken world what Jesus is like.
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