It is most interesting that in two successive passages, Jesus is asking the same question. This time it is most personal and very important. Matthew 20:29-34 (NIV) 29 As Jesus and his disciples were leaving Jericho, a large crowd followed him. 30 Two blind men were sitting by the roadside, and when they heard that Jesus […]
There is common conversation from politicians who are speaking about the upper 1% of wealthy in America. These are actually real people with extraordinary wealth. Here in the Scriptures, one of these come to Jesus with a hope to follow Him. It doesn’t end well, but Jesus never negates the possibility for all to follow […]
The definition of marriage is given in this passage today. It is meant to be a lasting relationship, and I would say is so regardless of any divergent outcome. Ask anyone who has found it necessary to divorce. The marriage remains in the mind and soul of the people involved, good or bad. My marriage […]
Often in our culture we are asked and required to do things that test our priorities and purposes in life. The laws of the land may not seem appropriate, consistent or even relevant to our faith. Many believers take issue with the sanctioning of marriage for same sex couples. Bakeries are being required not to […]
When will we learn? The teacher wonders some times when the students will ever understand the lesson. With limited time and high priority, the teacher does their best to get the message across. We as students need to listen and apply the learning. When the lesson comes from the Master, all the more we should […]
From this series of blogs through Matthew, exploring the questions of Jesus, this one is the most important. Matthew 16:13-19 (NIV) 13 When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say the Son of Man is?” 14 They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and […]
For the best advice, ask someone who knows the truth. It seems simple enough. Why then was Jesus concerned about who the disciples were being influenced by? They had His advice and direction. There is none better. Evidently, He knew of the influence of the opposing perspective. Sometimes, we look in strange places for guidance […]
The Jesus question of the day asks, “What do you have?” That is, “What do you have that would be useful to the Kingdom of God? The truth is that the answer might be “everything.” Whatever we have, we need to offer it up to the King of Kings for His use. Whoever gave up […]
When I think of dullness, I’m quickly reminded of living in a lukewarm way. Lukewarm is good for a baby’s bath, but not recommended for living. Jesus asks if we are “still so dull?” Does that describe you? I hope not. Read the context to see if you qualify. Matthew 15:13-20 (NIV) 13 He replied, “Every […]
One could make an honest argument that the Christmas traditions are also a celebration. Many are. Santa Claus? Rudolph? Mistletoe? The celebration is the birth of Jesus, Savior of the world. Some Christian celebrations have been reduced to tradition. That can be a problem: Matthew 15:1-6 (NIV) 1 Then some Pharisees and teachers of the […]
