Continuing his preaching instruction, Jesus says: "A disciple is not above his teacher, nor a slave above his lord." So Jesus' followers must expect to receive the same ill-treatment and persecution as he did for preaching God's Kingdom. Yet he admonishes: "Do not become fearful of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul; but rather be in fear of him that can destroy both soul and body in Gehenna."
Jesus was to set the example in this matter. He would fearlessly endure death rather than compromise his loyalty to the One with all power, Jehovah God. Yes, it is Jehovah who can destroy one's "soul" (meaning in this instance one's future prospects as a living soul) or can instead resurrect a person to enjoy everlasting life. What a loving compassionate heavenly Father Jehovah is!
Next Jesus encourages his disciples with an illustration that highlights Jehovah's loving care for them. "Do not two sparrows sell for a coin of small value?" He asks. Yet not one of them will fall to the ground without your Father's knowledge. But the very hairs of you head are all numbered. Therefore have no fear: you are worth more than many sparrows.
The Kingdom message Jesus commissions his disciples to proclaim will divide many households, as certain family members accept it and others reject it. "Do not think I came to put, not peace, but a sword." Thus, for a family member to embrace Bible truth requires courage. "He that has greater affection for father or mother than for me is not worthy of me," Jesus observes, "and he that has greater affection for son or daughter than for me is not worthy of me."
Concluding his instructions, Jesus explains that those who receive his disciples receive him also. "And whoever gives one of these little ones a cup of cold water to drink because he is a disciple, I tell you truly, he will by no means lose his reward." Matthew 10:16-42.
Next time: Murder During A Birthday Party
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
1.30.2009
Preparation To Face Persecution
AFTER instructing his apostles in methods of carrying out the preaching work, Jesus warns them about opposers. He says: "Look! I am sending you forth as sheep amidst wolves . . .Be on your guard against men; for they will deliver you up to local courts, and they will scourge you in their synagogues. Why, you will be haled before governors and kings for my sake."
Despite the severe persecution his followers will face, Jesus reassuringly promises: "When they deliver you up, do not become anxious about how or what you are to speak; for what you are to speak will be given you in that hour; for the ones speaking are not just you, but it is the spirit of your Father that speaks by you.
"Further," Jesus continues, "brother will deliver up brother to death, and a father his child, and children will rise up against parents and will have them put to death." He adds: "You will be objects of hatred by all people on account of my name; but he that has endured to the end is the one that will be saved."
The preaching work is of primary importance. For this reason Jesus emphasizes the need for discretion in order to remain free to carry out the work. "When they persecute you in one city, flee to another," he says, "for truly I say to you, you will no means complete the circuit of the cities of Israel until the Son of man arrives."
It is true that Jesus gave this instruction, warning and encouragement to his 12 apostles, but it was also meant for those who would share in the worldwide preaching after his death and resurrection. This is shown by his saying that his disciples would be 'hated by all people,' not just by the Israelites to whom the apostles were sent to preach. Further, the apostles evidently were not haled before governors and kings when Jesus sent them out on their short preaching campaign. Moreover, believers were not then delivered up to death by family members.
So when saying that his disciples would not complete their circuit of preaching "until the Son of man arrives," Jesus was prophetically telling us that his disciples would not complete the circuit of the entire inhabited earth with the preaching about God's established Kingdom before the glorified King Jesus Christ would arrive as Jehovah's executional officer at Armageddon.
Next time: Conclusion of Preparation To Face Persecution
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
Despite the severe persecution his followers will face, Jesus reassuringly promises: "When they deliver you up, do not become anxious about how or what you are to speak; for what you are to speak will be given you in that hour; for the ones speaking are not just you, but it is the spirit of your Father that speaks by you.
"Further," Jesus continues, "brother will deliver up brother to death, and a father his child, and children will rise up against parents and will have them put to death." He adds: "You will be objects of hatred by all people on account of my name; but he that has endured to the end is the one that will be saved."
The preaching work is of primary importance. For this reason Jesus emphasizes the need for discretion in order to remain free to carry out the work. "When they persecute you in one city, flee to another," he says, "for truly I say to you, you will no means complete the circuit of the cities of Israel until the Son of man arrives."
It is true that Jesus gave this instruction, warning and encouragement to his 12 apostles, but it was also meant for those who would share in the worldwide preaching after his death and resurrection. This is shown by his saying that his disciples would be 'hated by all people,' not just by the Israelites to whom the apostles were sent to preach. Further, the apostles evidently were not haled before governors and kings when Jesus sent them out on their short preaching campaign. Moreover, believers were not then delivered up to death by family members.
So when saying that his disciples would not complete their circuit of preaching "until the Son of man arrives," Jesus was prophetically telling us that his disciples would not complete the circuit of the entire inhabited earth with the preaching about God's established Kingdom before the glorified King Jesus Christ would arrive as Jehovah's executional officer at Armageddon.
Next time: Conclusion of Preparation To Face Persecution
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
1.29.2009
Another Preaching Tour Of Galilee
AFTER about two years of intensive preaching, will Jesus now begin to let up and take it easy? On the contrary, he expands his preaching activity by setting out on yet another tour, a third one of Galilee. He visits all the cities and villages in the territory, teaching in the synagogues and preaching the good news of the Kingdom. What he sees on this tour convinces him more than ever of the need to intensify the preaching work.
Wherever Jesus goes, he sees crowds in need of spiritual healing and comfort. they are like sheep without a shepherd, skinned and thrown about, and he feels pity for them. He tells his disciples: "Yes, the harvest is great, but the workers are few. Therefore, beg the Master of the harvest to send out workers into his harvest."
Jesus has a plan of action. He summons the 12 apostles, whom he had chosen nearly a year earlier. He divides them into pairs, making six teams of preachers, and gives them instructions. He explains: "Do not go off into the road of nations, and do not enter into a Samaritan city; but, instead, go continually to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. As you go, preach, saying, 'The kingdom of the heavens has drawn near.' "
This Kingdom that they are to preach about is the one Jesus taught them to pray for in the model prayer. The Kingdom has drawn near in the sense that God's designated King, Jesus Christ, is present. To establish his disciples' credentials as representatives of that superhuman government, Jesus empowers them to cure the sick and even raise the dead. He instructs them to perform these services free.
Next he tells his disciples not to make material preparations for their preaching tour. "Do not procure gold or silver or copper for your girdles purses, or a food pouch for the trip, or two undergarments, or sandals or a staff; for the worker deserves his food." Those who appreciate the message will respond and contribute food and housing. As Jesus says: "Into whatever city or village you enter, search out who in it is deserving, and stay there until you leave."
Jesus then gives instructions on how to approach householders with the Kingdom message. "When You are entering into the house," he instructs, "greet the household; and if the house is deserving, let the peace you wish it come upon it; but if it is not deserving, let the peace from you return upon you. Wherever anyone does not take you in or listen to your words, on going out of that house or that city shake the dust off your feet.
OF a city that rejects their message, Jesus reveals that the judgment upon it will indeed be severe. He explains: "Truly I say to you, It will be more endurable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah on Judgment Day than for that city." Matthew 9:35-10:15; Mark 6:6-12; Luke 9:1-5.
Next time: Preparation To Face Persecution
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
Wherever Jesus goes, he sees crowds in need of spiritual healing and comfort. they are like sheep without a shepherd, skinned and thrown about, and he feels pity for them. He tells his disciples: "Yes, the harvest is great, but the workers are few. Therefore, beg the Master of the harvest to send out workers into his harvest."
Jesus has a plan of action. He summons the 12 apostles, whom he had chosen nearly a year earlier. He divides them into pairs, making six teams of preachers, and gives them instructions. He explains: "Do not go off into the road of nations, and do not enter into a Samaritan city; but, instead, go continually to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. As you go, preach, saying, 'The kingdom of the heavens has drawn near.' "
This Kingdom that they are to preach about is the one Jesus taught them to pray for in the model prayer. The Kingdom has drawn near in the sense that God's designated King, Jesus Christ, is present. To establish his disciples' credentials as representatives of that superhuman government, Jesus empowers them to cure the sick and even raise the dead. He instructs them to perform these services free.
Next he tells his disciples not to make material preparations for their preaching tour. "Do not procure gold or silver or copper for your girdles purses, or a food pouch for the trip, or two undergarments, or sandals or a staff; for the worker deserves his food." Those who appreciate the message will respond and contribute food and housing. As Jesus says: "Into whatever city or village you enter, search out who in it is deserving, and stay there until you leave."
Jesus then gives instructions on how to approach householders with the Kingdom message. "When You are entering into the house," he instructs, "greet the household; and if the house is deserving, let the peace you wish it come upon it; but if it is not deserving, let the peace from you return upon you. Wherever anyone does not take you in or listen to your words, on going out of that house or that city shake the dust off your feet.
OF a city that rejects their message, Jesus reveals that the judgment upon it will indeed be severe. He explains: "Truly I say to you, It will be more endurable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah on Judgment Day than for that city." Matthew 9:35-10:15; Mark 6:6-12; Luke 9:1-5.
Next time: Preparation To Face Persecution
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
1.28.2009
Conslusion Of Leaving Jairus' Home And Revisiting Nazareth
Pharisees also are present. They cannot deny the miracles, but in their wicked unbelief they repeat their charge as to the source of Jesus' powerful works, saying: "It is by the ruler of the demons that he expels the demons."
Shortly after these events, Jesus returns to his hometown of Nazareth, this time accompanied by his disciples. About a year earlier, he had visited a synagogue and taught there. Although the people at first marveled at his pleasing words, they later took offense at his teaching and tried to kill him. Now, mercifully, Jesus makes another attempt to help his former neighbors.
While in other places people flock to Jesus, here they apparently do not. SO, on the Sabbath, he goes to the synagogue to teach. Most of those hearing him are astounded. "Where did this man get this wisdom and these powerful works? They ask. "Is this not the carpenter's son? Is not his mother called Mary, and his brothers James and Joseph and Simon and Judas? And his sisters, are they not all with us? Where, then, did this man get all these things?"
'Jesus is just a local man like us,' they reason. 'We saw him grow up, and we know his family. How can he be the Messiah?" So despite all the evidence-his great wisdom and miracles-they reject him. Because of their intimate familiarity, even his own relatives stumble at him, causing Jesus to conclude: "A prophet is not unhonored except in his own home territory and among his relatives and in his own house.
Indeed, Jesus wonders at their lack of faith. So he does not perform any miracles there apart from laying his hands on a few sick people and healing them. Matthew 9:27-34; 13:54-58; Mark 6:1-6; Isaiah 9:7.
Next time: Another Preaching Tour Of Galilee
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
Shortly after these events, Jesus returns to his hometown of Nazareth, this time accompanied by his disciples. About a year earlier, he had visited a synagogue and taught there. Although the people at first marveled at his pleasing words, they later took offense at his teaching and tried to kill him. Now, mercifully, Jesus makes another attempt to help his former neighbors.
While in other places people flock to Jesus, here they apparently do not. SO, on the Sabbath, he goes to the synagogue to teach. Most of those hearing him are astounded. "Where did this man get this wisdom and these powerful works? They ask. "Is this not the carpenter's son? Is not his mother called Mary, and his brothers James and Joseph and Simon and Judas? And his sisters, are they not all with us? Where, then, did this man get all these things?"
'Jesus is just a local man like us,' they reason. 'We saw him grow up, and we know his family. How can he be the Messiah?" So despite all the evidence-his great wisdom and miracles-they reject him. Because of their intimate familiarity, even his own relatives stumble at him, causing Jesus to conclude: "A prophet is not unhonored except in his own home territory and among his relatives and in his own house.
Indeed, Jesus wonders at their lack of faith. So he does not perform any miracles there apart from laying his hands on a few sick people and healing them. Matthew 9:27-34; 13:54-58; Mark 6:1-6; Isaiah 9:7.
Next time: Another Preaching Tour Of Galilee
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
1.27.2009
Leaving Jairus' Home And Revisiting Nazareth
THE day has been busy for Jesus- a sea voyage from the Decapolis, healing the woman with the flow of blood,and resurrecting Jairus' daughter. But the day is not over. Evidently as Jesus leaves the home of Jairus, two blind men follow behind, shouting: "Have mercy on us, Son of David."
By addressing Jesus as "Son of David," these men are hereby expressing belief that Jesus is heir to the throne of David, hence, that he is the promised Messiah. Jesus, however, seemingly ignores their cries for help,perhaps to test their persistence. But the men do not give up. They follow Jesus to where he is staying, and when he enters the house, they follow him inside.
There Jesus asks: "Do you have faith that I can do this?" "Yes, Lord," they answer confidently. So touching their eyes, Jesus says: "According to your faith let it happen to you." Suddenly they can see! Jesus then sternly charges them: "See that nobody gets to know it." But filled with gladness, they ignore Jesus' command and talk about him throughout the countryside.
Just as these men leave, people bring in a demon-possessed man whom the demon has robbed of his speech. Jesus expels the demon, and instantly the man begins to talk. The crowds marvel at these miracles, saying: "Never was anything like this seen in Israel.
Next time: Conclusion of Leaving Jairus' Home And Revisiting Nazareth
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
By addressing Jesus as "Son of David," these men are hereby expressing belief that Jesus is heir to the throne of David, hence, that he is the promised Messiah. Jesus, however, seemingly ignores their cries for help,perhaps to test their persistence. But the men do not give up. They follow Jesus to where he is staying, and when he enters the house, they follow him inside.
There Jesus asks: "Do you have faith that I can do this?" "Yes, Lord," they answer confidently. So touching their eyes, Jesus says: "According to your faith let it happen to you." Suddenly they can see! Jesus then sternly charges them: "See that nobody gets to know it." But filled with gladness, they ignore Jesus' command and talk about him throughout the countryside.
Just as these men leave, people bring in a demon-possessed man whom the demon has robbed of his speech. Jesus expels the demon, and instantly the man begins to talk. The crowds marvel at these miracles, saying: "Never was anything like this seen in Israel.
Next time: Conclusion of Leaving Jairus' Home And Revisiting Nazareth
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
1.26.2009
Tears Turned To Great Ecstasy
WHEN Jairus sees the woman with the flow of blood healed, his confidence in Jesus' miraculous powers no doubt increases. Earlier in the day, Jesus had been asked by Jairus to come and help his beloved 12-year old daughter, who lay near death. Now, however, what Jairus fears most occurs. While Jesus is still speaking with the woman, some men arrive and quietly tell Jairus: "Your daughter died! Why bother the teacher any longer?"
How devastating the news is! Just think: "This man, who commands great respect in the community, is now totally helpless as he learns of his daughter's death. Jesus, however, overhears the conversation. So, turning to Jairus, he says encouragingly: "Have not fear, only exercise faith."
Jesus accompanies the grief -stricken man back to his home. When they arrive,they find a great commotion of weeping and wailing. A crowd of people have gathered, and they are beating themselves in grief. When Jesus steps inside, he asks: "Why are you causing noisy confusion and weeping? The young child has not died, but is sleeping."
On hearing this, the people begin to laugh scornfully at Jesus because they know that the girl is really dead. Jesus, however, says that she is only sleeping. By using his God-given powers, he will show that people can be brought back from death as easily as they can be awakened from a deep sleep.
Jesus now has everyone sent outside except Peter,James, John and the dead girl's mother and father. He then takes these five with him to where the young girl is lying. Grasping her by the hand, Jesus says: "Tal'itha cu'-mi," which translated means: "Maiden, I say to you, Get up!" And immediately the girl rises and begins walking! The sight sends her parents nearly out of their minds with great ecstasy.
After instructing that the child be given something to eat, Jesus orders Jairus and his wife not to tell anyone what has happened. But despite what Jesus says, talk about it spreads out into all the region. This is the second resurrection Jesus performs. Matthew 9:18-26; Mark 5:35-43; Luke 8:41-56.
Next time: Leaving Jairus' Home And Revisiting Nazareth
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
How devastating the news is! Just think: "This man, who commands great respect in the community, is now totally helpless as he learns of his daughter's death. Jesus, however, overhears the conversation. So, turning to Jairus, he says encouragingly: "Have not fear, only exercise faith."
Jesus accompanies the grief -stricken man back to his home. When they arrive,they find a great commotion of weeping and wailing. A crowd of people have gathered, and they are beating themselves in grief. When Jesus steps inside, he asks: "Why are you causing noisy confusion and weeping? The young child has not died, but is sleeping."
On hearing this, the people begin to laugh scornfully at Jesus because they know that the girl is really dead. Jesus, however, says that she is only sleeping. By using his God-given powers, he will show that people can be brought back from death as easily as they can be awakened from a deep sleep.
Jesus now has everyone sent outside except Peter,James, John and the dead girl's mother and father. He then takes these five with him to where the young girl is lying. Grasping her by the hand, Jesus says: "Tal'itha cu'-mi," which translated means: "Maiden, I say to you, Get up!" And immediately the girl rises and begins walking! The sight sends her parents nearly out of their minds with great ecstasy.
After instructing that the child be given something to eat, Jesus orders Jairus and his wife not to tell anyone what has happened. But despite what Jesus says, talk about it spreads out into all the region. This is the second resurrection Jesus performs. Matthew 9:18-26; Mark 5:35-43; Luke 8:41-56.
Next time: Leaving Jairus' Home And Revisiting Nazareth
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
1.25.2009
Conclusion of She Touched His Garment
As you can probably appreciate, besides weakening her very much, her ailment is also embarassing and humiliating. One does not generally speak publicly about such an affliction. Moreover, under the Mosaic Law a running discharge of blood makes a woman unclean, and anyone touching her or her blood-stained garments is required to wash and be unclean until the evening.
The woman has heard of Jesus' miracles and has now sought him out. In view of her uncleanness, she makes her way through the crowd as inconspicuously as possible, saying to herself: "If I touch his outer garments I shall get well." When she does so, immediately she senses that her flow of blood has dried up!
"Who was it that touched me?" How those words of Jesus must shock her! How could he know? 'Instructor.' Peter protests 'the crowds are hemming you in and closely pressing you, and do you say, "Who touched me?"
Looking around for the woman, Jesus explains: "Someone touched me, for I perceived that power went out of me." Indeed, it is not ordinary touch, for the healing that results draws on Jesus' vitality.
Seeing That she has not escaped notice, the woman comes and falls down before Jesus, frightened and trembling. In front of all the people, she tells the whole truth about her illness and how she has just been cured.
Moved by her full confession, Jesus compassionately comforts her: "Daughter, your faith has made you well. Go in peace, and be in good health from your grievous sickness." How fine it is to know that the One whom God has chosen to rule the earth is such a warm, compassionate person, who both cares for people and has the power to help them! Matthew 9:18-22; Mark 5:21-34; Luke 8:40-48; Leviticus 15:25-27.
Next time: Tears Turned To Great Ecstasy
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
The woman has heard of Jesus' miracles and has now sought him out. In view of her uncleanness, she makes her way through the crowd as inconspicuously as possible, saying to herself: "If I touch his outer garments I shall get well." When she does so, immediately she senses that her flow of blood has dried up!
"Who was it that touched me?" How those words of Jesus must shock her! How could he know? 'Instructor.' Peter protests 'the crowds are hemming you in and closely pressing you, and do you say, "Who touched me?"
Looking around for the woman, Jesus explains: "Someone touched me, for I perceived that power went out of me." Indeed, it is not ordinary touch, for the healing that results draws on Jesus' vitality.
Seeing That she has not escaped notice, the woman comes and falls down before Jesus, frightened and trembling. In front of all the people, she tells the whole truth about her illness and how she has just been cured.
Moved by her full confession, Jesus compassionately comforts her: "Daughter, your faith has made you well. Go in peace, and be in good health from your grievous sickness." How fine it is to know that the One whom God has chosen to rule the earth is such a warm, compassionate person, who both cares for people and has the power to help them! Matthew 9:18-22; Mark 5:21-34; Luke 8:40-48; Leviticus 15:25-27.
Next time: Tears Turned To Great Ecstasy
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
1.24.2009
She Touched His Garment
NEWS of Jesus' return from the Decapolis reaches Capernaum, and a great crowd assembles by the sea to welcome him back. No doubt they have heard that he stilled the storm and cured the demon-possessed men. Now, as he steps ashore, they gather around him, eager and expectant.
One of those anxious to see Jesus is Jairus, a presiding officer of the synagogue. He falls at Jesus' feet and begs over and over: "My little daughter is in an extreme condition. Would you please come and put your hands upon her that she may get well and live." Since she is his only child and just 12 years old, she is especially precious to Jairus.
Jesus responds and, accompanied by the crowd, heads for the home of Jairus. We can imagine the excitement of the people as they anticipate another miracle. But the attention of one woman in the crowd is focused on her own severe problem.
For 12 long years, this woman has suffered from a flow of blood. She has been to one doctor after another, spending all her money on treatments. But she has not been helped; rather, her problem has become worse.
Next time: Conclusion of She Touched His Garment
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
One of those anxious to see Jesus is Jairus, a presiding officer of the synagogue. He falls at Jesus' feet and begs over and over: "My little daughter is in an extreme condition. Would you please come and put your hands upon her that she may get well and live." Since she is his only child and just 12 years old, she is especially precious to Jairus.
Jesus responds and, accompanied by the crowd, heads for the home of Jairus. We can imagine the excitement of the people as they anticipate another miracle. But the attention of one woman in the crowd is focused on her own severe problem.
For 12 long years, this woman has suffered from a flow of blood. She has been to one doctor after another, spending all her money on treatments. But she has not been helped; rather, her problem has become worse.
Next time: Conclusion of She Touched His Garment
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
1.23.2009
Conclusion of An Unlikely Disciple
A herd of about 2,000 swine are grazing nearby on the mountain. So the demons say: "Send us into the swine, that we may enter into them." Evidently the demons get some sort of unnatural sadistic pleasure from invading the bodies of fleshly creatures. When Jesus permits them to enter the swine, all 2,000 of them stampede over the cliff and drown in the sea.
When those taking care of the swine see this, they rush to report the news in the city and in the countryside. At that, the people come out to see what has happened. When they arrive, they see the man from whom the demons came out. Why, he is clothes and in his sound mind, sitting at the feet of Jesus! Eyewitnesses relate how the man was made well. They also tell the people about the bizarre death of the swine. When the people hear this, great fear grips them, and they earnestly urge Jesus to leave their territory. So he complies and boards the boat. The former demoniac begs Jesus to allow him to come along. But Jesus tells him: "Go home to your relatives, and report to them all the things Jehovah has done for you and the mercy he had on you."
Jesus usually instructs those whom he heals not to tell anyone, since he does not want to have people reach conclusions on the basis of sensational reports. But this exception is appropriate because the former demoniac will be witnessing among people that Jesus will probably not have the opportunity to reach. Moreover, the man's presence will provide testimony about Jesus' power to work good, counteracting any unfavorable report that might be circulated over the loss of the swine.
In keeping with Jesus' instruction, the former demoniac goes away. He starts proclaiming throughout the Decapolis all the things Jesus did for him, and the people are simply amazed. Matthew 8:28-34; Mark 5:1-20; Luke 8:26-39; Revelation 20:1-3.
Next time: She Touched His Garment
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
When those taking care of the swine see this, they rush to report the news in the city and in the countryside. At that, the people come out to see what has happened. When they arrive, they see the man from whom the demons came out. Why, he is clothes and in his sound mind, sitting at the feet of Jesus! Eyewitnesses relate how the man was made well. They also tell the people about the bizarre death of the swine. When the people hear this, great fear grips them, and they earnestly urge Jesus to leave their territory. So he complies and boards the boat. The former demoniac begs Jesus to allow him to come along. But Jesus tells him: "Go home to your relatives, and report to them all the things Jehovah has done for you and the mercy he had on you."
Jesus usually instructs those whom he heals not to tell anyone, since he does not want to have people reach conclusions on the basis of sensational reports. But this exception is appropriate because the former demoniac will be witnessing among people that Jesus will probably not have the opportunity to reach. Moreover, the man's presence will provide testimony about Jesus' power to work good, counteracting any unfavorable report that might be circulated over the loss of the swine.
In keeping with Jesus' instruction, the former demoniac goes away. He starts proclaiming throughout the Decapolis all the things Jesus did for him, and the people are simply amazed. Matthew 8:28-34; Mark 5:1-20; Luke 8:26-39; Revelation 20:1-3.
Next time: She Touched His Garment
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
1.22.2009
An Unlikely Disciple
WHAT a frightening sight as Jesus steps ashore! Two unusually fierce men come out from the nearby cemetery and run toward him. They are demon possessed. Since one of them is possibly more violent than the other and has suffered much longer under demon control, he becomes the focus of attention.
For a long time this pitiful man has been living naked among the tombs. Continually, day and night, he cries out and slashes himself with stones. He is so violent that nobody has the courage to pass that way on the road. Attempts have been made to bind him, but he tears the chains apart and breaks the irons off his feet. Nobody has the strength to subdue him.
As the man approaches Jesus and falls at his feet, the demons controlling him make him scream: "What have I to do with you, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I put you under oath not to torment me."
"Come out of the man, you unclean spirit," Jesus keeps saying. But then Jesus asks: "What is your name?"
"My name is Legion, because there are so many of us," is the reply. The demons revel in seeing the sufferings of those they are able to possess, apparently taking delight in ganging up on them in a cowardly mob spirit. But confronted with Jesus, they beg not to be sent into the abyss. We again see that Jesus had great power; he was able to conquer even vicious demons. this also reveals that the demons are aware that their abyssing along with that of their leader, Satan the Devil, is God's eventual judgment for them.
Next time: Conclusion of An Unlikely Disciple
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
For a long time this pitiful man has been living naked among the tombs. Continually, day and night, he cries out and slashes himself with stones. He is so violent that nobody has the courage to pass that way on the road. Attempts have been made to bind him, but he tears the chains apart and breaks the irons off his feet. Nobody has the strength to subdue him.
As the man approaches Jesus and falls at his feet, the demons controlling him make him scream: "What have I to do with you, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I put you under oath not to torment me."
"Come out of the man, you unclean spirit," Jesus keeps saying. But then Jesus asks: "What is your name?"
"My name is Legion, because there are so many of us," is the reply. The demons revel in seeing the sufferings of those they are able to possess, apparently taking delight in ganging up on them in a cowardly mob spirit. But confronted with Jesus, they beg not to be sent into the abyss. We again see that Jesus had great power; he was able to conquer even vicious demons. this also reveals that the demons are aware that their abyssing along with that of their leader, Satan the Devil, is God's eventual judgment for them.
Next time: Conclusion of An Unlikely Disciple
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
1.21.2009
Continue with Silencing A Terrifying Storm
The experienced seamen work frantically to steer the boat. No doubt they have maneuvered through storms before. But this time they are at the end of their resources. Fearing for their lives, they wake Jesus up. 'Master, do you not care? We are sinking!' They exclaim. 'Save us, we are going to drown!'
Rousing himself, Jesus commands the wind and the sea: "Hush! Be quiet!" And the raging wind stops and the sea becomes calm. Turning to his disciples, he asks: 'Why are you so fearful? Do you not yet have any faith?'
At that, an unusual fear grips the disciples. 'Who really is this man?' They ask one another, 'for he orders even the winds and the water , and they obey him.'
What power Jesus displays! How reassuring it is to know that our King has power over the natural elements and that when his full attention is directed toward our earth during his Kingdom rule, all people will dwell in security from terrifying calamities!
Sometime after the storm subsides, Jesus and his disciples arrive safely on the eastern shore. Perhaps the other boats were spared the intensity of the storm and safely returned home. Mark 4:35-5:1; Matthew 8:18; 23-27; Luke 8:22-26.
Next time: An Unlikely Disciple
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
Rousing himself, Jesus commands the wind and the sea: "Hush! Be quiet!" And the raging wind stops and the sea becomes calm. Turning to his disciples, he asks: 'Why are you so fearful? Do you not yet have any faith?'
At that, an unusual fear grips the disciples. 'Who really is this man?' They ask one another, 'for he orders even the winds and the water , and they obey him.'
What power Jesus displays! How reassuring it is to know that our King has power over the natural elements and that when his full attention is directed toward our earth during his Kingdom rule, all people will dwell in security from terrifying calamities!
Sometime after the storm subsides, Jesus and his disciples arrive safely on the eastern shore. Perhaps the other boats were spared the intensity of the storm and safely returned home. Mark 4:35-5:1; Matthew 8:18; 23-27; Luke 8:22-26.
Next time: An Unlikely Disciple
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
1.20.2009
Silencing A Terrifying Storm
JESUS' day has been filled with activity, including teaching the crowds on the beach and afterward explaining the illustrations privately to his disciples. When evening comes, he says: "Let us cross to the other shore."
Over the eastern shore of the Sea of Galilee is the region called the Decapolis, from the Greek de'ka, meaning "ten," and po'lis, meaning "city," the cities of Decapolis are a center of Greek culture, although doubtless they are also the home of many Jews. Jesus' activity in the region, however,is very limited. Even on this visit, as we will see later,he is prevented from staying long.
When Jesus requests that they leave for the other shore, the disciples take him in the boat. Their departure, however, does not go unnoticed. Soon others board their boats to accompany them. It is not very far across. Actually, the Sea of Galilee is just a large lake about 13 miles long and a maximum of 7 1/2 miles wide.
Jesus is understandably tired. So, soon after they shove off, he lies down in the back of the boat, puts his head on a pillow, and falls fast asleep. Several of the apostles are experienced sailors, having fished extensively on the Sea of Galilee. so they take charge of sailing the boat.
But this is not an easy trip. Because of the warmer temperature at the lake's surface, which is about 700 feet below sea level, and the colder air in the nearby mountains, strong winds at times sweep down and create sudden violent windstorms on the lake. This is what now occurs. Soon the waves are dashing against the boat and splashing into it, so that it is close to being swamped. Yet, Jesus continues to sleep!
Next time: Continue with Silencing A Terrifying Storm
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
Over the eastern shore of the Sea of Galilee is the region called the Decapolis, from the Greek de'ka, meaning "ten," and po'lis, meaning "city," the cities of Decapolis are a center of Greek culture, although doubtless they are also the home of many Jews. Jesus' activity in the region, however,is very limited. Even on this visit, as we will see later,he is prevented from staying long.
When Jesus requests that they leave for the other shore, the disciples take him in the boat. Their departure, however, does not go unnoticed. Soon others board their boats to accompany them. It is not very far across. Actually, the Sea of Galilee is just a large lake about 13 miles long and a maximum of 7 1/2 miles wide.
Jesus is understandably tired. So, soon after they shove off, he lies down in the back of the boat, puts his head on a pillow, and falls fast asleep. Several of the apostles are experienced sailors, having fished extensively on the Sea of Galilee. so they take charge of sailing the boat.
But this is not an easy trip. Because of the warmer temperature at the lake's surface, which is about 700 feet below sea level, and the colder air in the nearby mountains, strong winds at times sweep down and create sudden violent windstorms on the lake. This is what now occurs. Soon the waves are dashing against the boat and splashing into it, so that it is close to being swamped. Yet, Jesus continues to sleep!
Next time: Continue with Silencing A Terrifying Storm
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
1.19.2009
Conclusion of Bessed With More Instruction
The challenge is placed before Jesus' followers also to sell everything in order to obtain the grand reward of being either a coruler with Christ or an earthly Kingdom subject. Will we consider having a share in God's Kingdom as something more valuable than anything in life, as a priceless treasure or a precious pearl?
Finally, Jesus likens "the kingdom of the heavens" to a dragnet that gathers up fish of every kind. When the fish are separated, the unsuitable are thrown away but the good are kept. So, Jesus says, it will be in the conclusion of the system of things; the angels will separate the wicked from the righteous, reserving the wicked for annihilation.
Jesus himself begins this fishing project, calling his first disciples to be "fishers of men." Under angelic surveillance, the fishing work continues down through the centuries. At last the times comes to haul in the "dragnet," which symbolizes the organizations on earth professing to be Christian.
Although the unsuitable fish are cast into destruction, thankfully we can be counted among the 'good fish' that are kept. By exhibiting the same earnest desire as Jesus' disciples did for more knowledge and understanding, we will be blessed not only with more instruction but with God's blessing of eternal life. Matthew 13:1-52; Mark 4:1-34; Luke 8:4-18; Psalm 78:2; Isaiah 6:9, 10.
Next time: Silencing A Terrifying Storm
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
Finally, Jesus likens "the kingdom of the heavens" to a dragnet that gathers up fish of every kind. When the fish are separated, the unsuitable are thrown away but the good are kept. So, Jesus says, it will be in the conclusion of the system of things; the angels will separate the wicked from the righteous, reserving the wicked for annihilation.
Jesus himself begins this fishing project, calling his first disciples to be "fishers of men." Under angelic surveillance, the fishing work continues down through the centuries. At last the times comes to haul in the "dragnet," which symbolizes the organizations on earth professing to be Christian.
Although the unsuitable fish are cast into destruction, thankfully we can be counted among the 'good fish' that are kept. By exhibiting the same earnest desire as Jesus' disciples did for more knowledge and understanding, we will be blessed not only with more instruction but with God's blessing of eternal life. Matthew 13:1-52; Mark 4:1-34; Luke 8:4-18; Psalm 78:2; Isaiah 6:9, 10.
Next time: Silencing A Terrifying Storm
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
1.18.2009
Continue with Blessed With More Instruction
Jesus next blesses his inquisitive disciples with three more illustrations. First, he says: "The Kingdom of the heavens is like a treasure hidden in the field, which a man found and hid, and for the joy he has he goes and sells what things he has and buys that field."
"Again," he continues, "the Kingdom of the heavens is like a traveling merchant seeking fine pearls. Upon finding one pearl of high value, away he went and promptly sold all the things he had and bought it."
Jesus himself is like the man who discovers a hidden treasure and like the merchant who finds a pearl of high value. He sold everything as it were, giving up an honored position in heaven to become a lowly human. Then, as a man on earth, he suffers reproach and hateful persecution, proving worthy of becoming the Ruler of God's Kingdom.
Next time: Conclusion of Blessed With More Illustration
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
"Again," he continues, "the Kingdom of the heavens is like a traveling merchant seeking fine pearls. Upon finding one pearl of high value, away he went and promptly sold all the things he had and bought it."
Jesus himself is like the man who discovers a hidden treasure and like the merchant who finds a pearl of high value. He sold everything as it were, giving up an honored position in heaven to become a lowly human. Then, as a man on earth, he suffers reproach and hateful persecution, proving worthy of becoming the Ruler of God's Kingdom.
Next time: Conclusion of Blessed With More Illustration
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
1.17.2009
Blessed With More Instruction
After receiving Jesus' explanation of the illustration of the sower, the disciples want to learn more. "Explain to us," they request, "the illustration of the weeds in the field."
How different the attitude of the disciples from that of the rest of the crowd on the beach! Those people lack and earnest desire to learn the meaning behind the illustrations, being satisfied with merely the outline of things set out in them. Contrasting that seaside audience with his inquisitive disciples who have come to him in the house, Jesus says: "With the measure that you are measuring out, you will have it measured out to you, yes, you will have more added to you." The disciples are measuring out to Jesus earnest interest and attention, and so they are blessed with receiving more instruction. Thus, in answer to his disciples' inquiry, Jesus explains: "The sower of the seed is the Son of man; the field is the world; as for the fine seed, these are the sons of the kingdom; but the weeds are the sons of the wicked one, and the enemy that sowed them is the Devil. The harvest is a conclusion of a system of things, and the reapers are angels."
After identifying each feature of his illustration, Jesus describes the outcome. At the conclusion of the system of things, he says that the reapers, or angels, will separate weedlike imitation Christians from the true "sons of the kingdom." Then "the sons of the wicked one" will be marked for destruction, but the sons of God's Kingdom, "the righteous ones," will shine brilliantly in the Kingdom of their Father.
Next time: Continue with Blessed With More Instruction
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
How different the attitude of the disciples from that of the rest of the crowd on the beach! Those people lack and earnest desire to learn the meaning behind the illustrations, being satisfied with merely the outline of things set out in them. Contrasting that seaside audience with his inquisitive disciples who have come to him in the house, Jesus says: "With the measure that you are measuring out, you will have it measured out to you, yes, you will have more added to you." The disciples are measuring out to Jesus earnest interest and attention, and so they are blessed with receiving more instruction. Thus, in answer to his disciples' inquiry, Jesus explains: "The sower of the seed is the Son of man; the field is the world; as for the fine seed, these are the sons of the kingdom; but the weeds are the sons of the wicked one, and the enemy that sowed them is the Devil. The harvest is a conclusion of a system of things, and the reapers are angels."
After identifying each feature of his illustration, Jesus describes the outcome. At the conclusion of the system of things, he says that the reapers, or angels, will separate weedlike imitation Christians from the true "sons of the kingdom." Then "the sons of the wicked one" will be marked for destruction, but the sons of God's Kingdom, "the righteous ones," will shine brilliantly in the Kingdom of their Father.
Next time: Continue with Blessed With More Instruction
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
1.16.2009
Benefiting From Jesus' Illustrations
When the disciples come to Jesus after his speech to the crowds on the beach, they are curious about his new method of teaching. Oh, they have heard him use illustrations before, but never so extensively. So they inquire: "Why is it you speak to them by use of illustrations?"
One reason he does so is to fulfill the prophet's words: "I will open my mouth with illustrations, I will publish things hidden since the founding." But there is more to it than this. His use of illustrations serves the purpose of helping to reveal the heart attitude of people.
Actually, most people are interested in Jesus simply as a masterful storyteller and miracle worker, not as one to be served as Lord and to unselfishly followed. They do not want to be disturbed in their view of things or their way of life. they do not want the message to penetrate to that extent.
So Jesus says: "This is why I speak to them by the use of illustrations, because, looking, they look in vain, neither do they get the sense of it; and toward them the prophecy of Isaiah is having fulfillment which says,' . .. For the heart of this people has grown unreceptive.' "
"However," Jesus goes on to say,"happy are your eyes because they behold, and your hears because they hear. For I truly say to you, many prophets and righteous men desired to see the things you are beholding and did not see them, and to hear the things you are hearing and did not hear them."
Yes, the 12 apostles and those with them have receptive hearts. Therefore Jesus says: "To you it is granted to understand the sacred secrets of the kingdom of the heavens, but to those people it is not granted." Because of their desired for understanding, Jesus provides his disciples with an explanation of the illustration of the sower.
"The seed is the word of God," Jesus says, and the soils is the heart. of the seed sown on the hard roadside surface, he explains: "The Devil comes and takes the word away from their hearts in order that they may not believe and be saved."
On the other hand, seed sown on soil with an underlying rock-mass refers to the hearts of people who receive the word with joy. However, because the word cannot take deep root in such hearts, these people fall away when a time of testing of persecution comes.
As for the seed that fell among the thorns, Jesus continues, this refers to people who have heard the word. These ones, however, are carried away by anxieties and riches and pleasures of this life, so they are completely choked and bring nothing to perfection.
Finally, as for the seed sown on fine soil, Jesus says, these are the ones who, after hearing the word with a fine and good heart, retain it and bear fruit with endurance.
How blessed are these disciples who have sought out Jesus to obtain an explanation of his teachings! Jesus intends that his illustrations be understood in order to impart truth to others . "A lamp is not brought to be put under a measuring basket or under a bed, is it?" He asks. No, "it is brought to be put upon a lampstand." Thus Jesus adds: "Therefore, attention to how you listen."
Next time: Blessed With More Instruction
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
One reason he does so is to fulfill the prophet's words: "I will open my mouth with illustrations, I will publish things hidden since the founding." But there is more to it than this. His use of illustrations serves the purpose of helping to reveal the heart attitude of people.
Actually, most people are interested in Jesus simply as a masterful storyteller and miracle worker, not as one to be served as Lord and to unselfishly followed. They do not want to be disturbed in their view of things or their way of life. they do not want the message to penetrate to that extent.
So Jesus says: "This is why I speak to them by the use of illustrations, because, looking, they look in vain, neither do they get the sense of it; and toward them the prophecy of Isaiah is having fulfillment which says,' . .. For the heart of this people has grown unreceptive.' "
"However," Jesus goes on to say,"happy are your eyes because they behold, and your hears because they hear. For I truly say to you, many prophets and righteous men desired to see the things you are beholding and did not see them, and to hear the things you are hearing and did not hear them."
Yes, the 12 apostles and those with them have receptive hearts. Therefore Jesus says: "To you it is granted to understand the sacred secrets of the kingdom of the heavens, but to those people it is not granted." Because of their desired for understanding, Jesus provides his disciples with an explanation of the illustration of the sower.
"The seed is the word of God," Jesus says, and the soils is the heart. of the seed sown on the hard roadside surface, he explains: "The Devil comes and takes the word away from their hearts in order that they may not believe and be saved."
On the other hand, seed sown on soil with an underlying rock-mass refers to the hearts of people who receive the word with joy. However, because the word cannot take deep root in such hearts, these people fall away when a time of testing of persecution comes.
As for the seed that fell among the thorns, Jesus continues, this refers to people who have heard the word. These ones, however, are carried away by anxieties and riches and pleasures of this life, so they are completely choked and bring nothing to perfection.
Finally, as for the seed sown on fine soil, Jesus says, these are the ones who, after hearing the word with a fine and good heart, retain it and bear fruit with endurance.
How blessed are these disciples who have sought out Jesus to obtain an explanation of his teachings! Jesus intends that his illustrations be understood in order to impart truth to others . "A lamp is not brought to be put under a measuring basket or under a bed, is it?" He asks. No, "it is brought to be put upon a lampstand." Thus Jesus adds: "Therefore, attention to how you listen."
Next time: Blessed With More Instruction
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
1.15.2009
Continue with Teaching With Illustrations
Some today object that there are tinier seeds than mustard seeds. But Jesus is not giving a lesson in botany, of the seeds that Galileans of his day are familiar with, the mustard seed really is the tiniest. So they appreciate the matter of phenomenal growth that Jesus is illustrating.
Finally, Jesus compares "the kingdom of the heavens" to leaven that a woman takes and mixes into three large measures of flour. In time, he says, it permeates every part of the dough.
After giving three illustrations, Jesus dismisses the crowds and returns to the house where he is staying. Soon his 12 apostles and others come to him there.
Next time: Benefiting From Jesus' Illustrations
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
Finally, Jesus compares "the kingdom of the heavens" to leaven that a woman takes and mixes into three large measures of flour. In time, he says, it permeates every part of the dough.
After giving three illustrations, Jesus dismisses the crowds and returns to the house where he is staying. Soon his 12 apostles and others come to him there.
Next time: Benefiting From Jesus' Illustrations
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
1.14.2009
Teaching With Illustrations
JESUS is apparently in Capernaum when he rebukes the Pharisees. Later the same day, he leaves the house and walks to the nearby Sea of Galilee, where crowds of people gather. There he boards a boat, pulls away, and beings teaching the people on the shore about the Kingdom of heavens. He does so by means of a series of parables, or illustrations, each with a setting familiar to the people.
First, Jesus tells of a sower who sows seed. Some seed falls on the roadside and is eaten by birds. Other seed falls on soil with an underlying rock mass. Since the roots lack depth, the new plants wither under the scorching sun. Still other seed falls among thorns, which choke the plants when they come up. Finally, some seed falls on good soil and produces a hundredfold, some sixty-fold, and some thirty-fold.
In another illustration, Jesus compares the Kingdom of God to a man who sows seed. As the days go by, while the man sleeps and when he is awake, the seed grows. The man does not know how, It grows all by itself and produces grain. When the grain ripens, the man harvests it.
Jesus tells a third illustration about a man who sows the right kind of seed, but "while men were sleeping," an enemy comes and sows seed among the wheat. The man's servants ask if they should pull out the weeds. But he replies: 'No, you will uproot some of the wheat if you do. Let them both grow together until the harvest. Then I will tell the reapers to sort out the weeds and burn them and put the wheat in the barn.'
Continuing his speech to the crowds on the shore, Jesus provides two more illustrations. He explains that "the kingdom of the heavens" is like a mustard grain that a man plants. Though it is the tiniest of all seeds, he says, it grows into the largest of all vegetables. It becomes a tree to which birds come, finding shelter among its branches.
Next time: Continue with Teaching With Illustrations
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
First, Jesus tells of a sower who sows seed. Some seed falls on the roadside and is eaten by birds. Other seed falls on soil with an underlying rock mass. Since the roots lack depth, the new plants wither under the scorching sun. Still other seed falls among thorns, which choke the plants when they come up. Finally, some seed falls on good soil and produces a hundredfold, some sixty-fold, and some thirty-fold.
In another illustration, Jesus compares the Kingdom of God to a man who sows seed. As the days go by, while the man sleeps and when he is awake, the seed grows. The man does not know how, It grows all by itself and produces grain. When the grain ripens, the man harvests it.
Jesus tells a third illustration about a man who sows the right kind of seed, but "while men were sleeping," an enemy comes and sows seed among the wheat. The man's servants ask if they should pull out the weeds. But he replies: 'No, you will uproot some of the wheat if you do. Let them both grow together until the harvest. Then I will tell the reapers to sort out the weeds and burn them and put the wheat in the barn.'
Continuing his speech to the crowds on the shore, Jesus provides two more illustrations. He explains that "the kingdom of the heavens" is like a mustard grain that a man plants. Though it is the tiniest of all seeds, he says, it grows into the largest of all vegetables. It becomes a tree to which birds come, finding shelter among its branches.
Next time: Continue with Teaching With Illustrations
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
1.13.2009
Jesus Rebukes The Pharisees
IF IT is by Satan's power that he expels the demons, Jesus argues,then Satan is divided against himself. "Either you people make the tree fine and it fruit fine," he continues "or make the tree rotten and its fruit rotten; for by its fruit the tree is known."
It is foolish to charge that the good fruit of casting out demons is a result of Jesus' serving Satan. If the fruit is fine, the tree cannot be rotten. On the other hand, the Pharisees' rotten fruitage of absurd accusations and groundless opposition to Jesus is proof that they themselves are rotten "Offspring of vipers," Jesus exclaims, "how can you speak good things, when you are wicked? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks."
Since our words reflect the condition of our hearts, what we say provides a basis for judgment. "I tell you," Jesus says, "that every unprofitable saying that men speak, they will render an account concerning it on Judgment Day, for by your words you will be declared righteous, and by your words you will be condemned."
Despite all of Jesus' powerful works, the scribes and Pharisees request: "Teacher, we want to see a sign from you." Although these particular men from Jerusalem may not personally have seen his miracles, irrefutable eyewitness evidence regarding them exists. So Jesus tells the Jewish leaders: "A wicked and adulterous generation keeps on seeking for a sign,but no sign will be given it except the sign of Jonah the prophet."
Explaining what he means, Jesus continues: "Just as Jonah was in the belly of the huge fish three days and three nights, so the Son of man will be in the heart of the earth three days and three nights." After being swallowed by the fish, Jonah came our as if resurrected, so Jesus is foretelling that he will die and on the third day will be raised alive. Yet, the Jewish leaders, even when Jesus later is resurrected, reject "the sign of Jonah."
Thus Jesus says that the men of Nineveh who repented at the preaching of Jonah will rise up in the judgment to condemn the Jews who reject Jesus. Similarly, he draws a parallel with the queen of Sheba, who came from the ends of the earth to hear Solomon's wisdom and marveled at what she saw and heard. But, look!" Jesus notes, "something more than Solomon is here."
Jesus then gives the illustration of a man from whom an unclean spirit comes out. the man, however, does not fill the void with good things, so he becomes possessed by seven more wicked spirits. "That is how it will be also with this wicked generation," Jesus says. The Israelite nation had been cleansed and had experienced reformations-like the temporary departure of an unclean spirit. But the nation's rejection of God's prophets, culminating in its opposition to Christ himself, reveals its wicked condition to be much worse than at its beginning.
While Jesus is speaking, his mother and his brothers arrive and take a position at the edge of the crowd. So someone says: "Look! your mother and your brothers are standing outside, seeking to speak to you."
Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?" Jesus asks. Extending his hand toward his disciples, he says: "Look! My mother and my brothers! For whoever does the will of my Father who is in heaven, the same is my brother , and sister, and mother." In this way Jesus shows that regardless of how dear the ties are that bind him to his relatives, dearer still is his relationship with his disciples. Matthew 12:33-50; Mark 3:31-35; Luke 8:19-21.
Next time: Teaching With Illustrations
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
It is foolish to charge that the good fruit of casting out demons is a result of Jesus' serving Satan. If the fruit is fine, the tree cannot be rotten. On the other hand, the Pharisees' rotten fruitage of absurd accusations and groundless opposition to Jesus is proof that they themselves are rotten "Offspring of vipers," Jesus exclaims, "how can you speak good things, when you are wicked? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks."
Since our words reflect the condition of our hearts, what we say provides a basis for judgment. "I tell you," Jesus says, "that every unprofitable saying that men speak, they will render an account concerning it on Judgment Day, for by your words you will be declared righteous, and by your words you will be condemned."
Despite all of Jesus' powerful works, the scribes and Pharisees request: "Teacher, we want to see a sign from you." Although these particular men from Jerusalem may not personally have seen his miracles, irrefutable eyewitness evidence regarding them exists. So Jesus tells the Jewish leaders: "A wicked and adulterous generation keeps on seeking for a sign,but no sign will be given it except the sign of Jonah the prophet."
Explaining what he means, Jesus continues: "Just as Jonah was in the belly of the huge fish three days and three nights, so the Son of man will be in the heart of the earth three days and three nights." After being swallowed by the fish, Jonah came our as if resurrected, so Jesus is foretelling that he will die and on the third day will be raised alive. Yet, the Jewish leaders, even when Jesus later is resurrected, reject "the sign of Jonah."
Thus Jesus says that the men of Nineveh who repented at the preaching of Jonah will rise up in the judgment to condemn the Jews who reject Jesus. Similarly, he draws a parallel with the queen of Sheba, who came from the ends of the earth to hear Solomon's wisdom and marveled at what she saw and heard. But, look!" Jesus notes, "something more than Solomon is here."
Jesus then gives the illustration of a man from whom an unclean spirit comes out. the man, however, does not fill the void with good things, so he becomes possessed by seven more wicked spirits. "That is how it will be also with this wicked generation," Jesus says. The Israelite nation had been cleansed and had experienced reformations-like the temporary departure of an unclean spirit. But the nation's rejection of God's prophets, culminating in its opposition to Christ himself, reveals its wicked condition to be much worse than at its beginning.
While Jesus is speaking, his mother and his brothers arrive and take a position at the edge of the crowd. So someone says: "Look! your mother and your brothers are standing outside, seeking to speak to you."
Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?" Jesus asks. Extending his hand toward his disciples, he says: "Look! My mother and my brothers! For whoever does the will of my Father who is in heaven, the same is my brother , and sister, and mother." In this way Jesus shows that regardless of how dear the ties are that bind him to his relatives, dearer still is his relationship with his disciples. Matthew 12:33-50; Mark 3:31-35; Luke 8:19-21.
Next time: Teaching With Illustrations
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
1.12.2009
A Center Of Controversy
SHORTLY after he is entertained at the home of Simon, Jesus begins a second preaching tour of Galilee. On his previous tour of the territory, he was accompanied by his first disciples, Peter, Andrew, James and John. But now the 12 apostles, as well as certain women, accompany him. These include Mary Magdalene, Susanna and Joanna, whose husband is an officer of King Herod.
As the pace of Jesus' ministry intensifies, so does the controversy regarding his activity. A demon-possessed man, who is also blind and unable to speak, is brought to Jesus. When Jesus cures him, so that he is free of demon control and can both speak and see, the crowds are simply carried away. They begin to say: "May this not perhaps be the Son of David?"
Crowds gather in such numbers around the house where Jesus is staying that he and his disciples cannot even eat a meal. In addition to those who think that he may be the promised "Son of David," there are scribes and Pharisees who have come all the way from Jerusalem to discredit him. When Jesus' relatives hear about the commotion revolving around Jesus, they come to lay hold of him. For what reason?
Well, even Jesus' own brothers do not as yet believe that he is God's Son. Also, the public uproar and strife that he has created is totally uncharacteristic of the Jesus that they knew while he was growing up in Nazareth. Therefore, they believe that something is seriously wrong with Jesus mentally. "He has gone out of his mind, " they conclude, and they want to seize him and take him away.
Yet, the evidence is clear that Jesus healed the demonized man. The scribes and Pharisees know that they cannot deny the actuality of this. So to discredit Jesus they tell people: "This fellow does not expel the demons except by means of Beelzebub, the ruler of the demons."
Knowing their thinking, Jesus calls the scribes and Pharisees to him and says: "Every kingdom divided against itself comes to desolation, and every city or house divided against itself will not stand. In the same way, If Satan expels Satan, he has become divided against himself; how, then, will his kingdom stand?"
What devastating logic! Since, the Pharisees claim that person from their own ranks have cast out demons, Jesus also asks: "If I expel the demons by means of Beelzebub, by means of whom do your sons expel them?" In other words, their charge against Jesus should just as well be applied to them as to him. Jesus then warns: "But if it is by means of God's spirit that I expel the demons, the kingdom of God has really overtaken you."
To illustrate that his casting out of demons is evidence of his power over Satan, Jesus says: "How can anyone divide the house of a strong man and seize his movable goods, unless first he binds the strong man? And then he will plunder his house. He that is not on my side is against me, and he that does not gather with me scatters." The Pharisees clearly are against Jesus, demonstrating themselves to be Satan's agents. they are scattering Israelites away from him.
Consequently, Jesus warns these satanic opposers that "the blasphemy against the spirit will not be forgiven." He explains: "Whoever speaks a word against the Son of man, it will be forgiven him; but whoever speaks against the holy spirit, it will not be forgiven him, no, not in this system of things nor in that to come." Those scribes and Pharisees have committed that unforgivable sin by maliciously attributing to Satan what is plainly a miraculous operation of God's holy spirit. Matthew 12:22-32; Mark 3:19-30; John 7:5.
Next time: Jesus Rebukes The Pharisees
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
As the pace of Jesus' ministry intensifies, so does the controversy regarding his activity. A demon-possessed man, who is also blind and unable to speak, is brought to Jesus. When Jesus cures him, so that he is free of demon control and can both speak and see, the crowds are simply carried away. They begin to say: "May this not perhaps be the Son of David?"
Crowds gather in such numbers around the house where Jesus is staying that he and his disciples cannot even eat a meal. In addition to those who think that he may be the promised "Son of David," there are scribes and Pharisees who have come all the way from Jerusalem to discredit him. When Jesus' relatives hear about the commotion revolving around Jesus, they come to lay hold of him. For what reason?
Well, even Jesus' own brothers do not as yet believe that he is God's Son. Also, the public uproar and strife that he has created is totally uncharacteristic of the Jesus that they knew while he was growing up in Nazareth. Therefore, they believe that something is seriously wrong with Jesus mentally. "He has gone out of his mind, " they conclude, and they want to seize him and take him away.
Yet, the evidence is clear that Jesus healed the demonized man. The scribes and Pharisees know that they cannot deny the actuality of this. So to discredit Jesus they tell people: "This fellow does not expel the demons except by means of Beelzebub, the ruler of the demons."
Knowing their thinking, Jesus calls the scribes and Pharisees to him and says: "Every kingdom divided against itself comes to desolation, and every city or house divided against itself will not stand. In the same way, If Satan expels Satan, he has become divided against himself; how, then, will his kingdom stand?"
What devastating logic! Since, the Pharisees claim that person from their own ranks have cast out demons, Jesus also asks: "If I expel the demons by means of Beelzebub, by means of whom do your sons expel them?" In other words, their charge against Jesus should just as well be applied to them as to him. Jesus then warns: "But if it is by means of God's spirit that I expel the demons, the kingdom of God has really overtaken you."
To illustrate that his casting out of demons is evidence of his power over Satan, Jesus says: "How can anyone divide the house of a strong man and seize his movable goods, unless first he binds the strong man? And then he will plunder his house. He that is not on my side is against me, and he that does not gather with me scatters." The Pharisees clearly are against Jesus, demonstrating themselves to be Satan's agents. they are scattering Israelites away from him.
Consequently, Jesus warns these satanic opposers that "the blasphemy against the spirit will not be forgiven." He explains: "Whoever speaks a word against the Son of man, it will be forgiven him; but whoever speaks against the holy spirit, it will not be forgiven him, no, not in this system of things nor in that to come." Those scribes and Pharisees have committed that unforgivable sin by maliciously attributing to Satan what is plainly a miraculous operation of God's holy spirit. Matthew 12:22-32; Mark 3:19-30; John 7:5.
Next time: Jesus Rebukes The Pharisees
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
1.11.2009
A Lesson In Mercy
JESUS may still be in Nain where he recently resurrected a widow's son, or perhaps he is visiting a city nearby. A Pharisee named Simon desires a closer look at the one who is performing such remarkable works. So he invites Jesus to have a meal with him.
Viewing the occasion as an opportunity to minister to those present, Jesus accepts the invitation, even as he has accepted invitations to eat with tax collectors and sinners. Yet, when he enters Simon's house, Jesus does not receive the cordial attention usually accorded guests.
Sandal clad feet become hot and dirty as a result of traveling dusty roads, and it is a customary act of hospitality to wash the feet of guests with cool water. But Jesus' feet are not washed when he arrives. Neither does he receive a welcoming kiss, which is common etiquette. And the customary oil of hospitality is not provided for his hair.
During the coarse of the meal, while the guests are reclining at the table, an uninvited woman quietly enters the room. She is known in the city to be living an immoral life. Likely she has heard Jesus' teachings, including his invitation for 'all those who are loaded down to come to him for refreshment.' And being deeply moved by what she has seen and heard, she has now sought out Jesus.
The woman comes up behind Jesus at the table and kneels at his feet. As her tears fall on his feet, she wipes them off with her hair. She also takes perfumed oil from her flask, and as she tenderly kisses his feet, she pours the oil on them. Simon watches with disapproval. "This man, if her were a prophet," he reasons, "would know who and what kind of woman it is that is touching him, that she is a sinner."
Perceiving his thinking, Jesus says: "Simon, I have something to say to you." "Teacher, say it!" He responds. Two men were debtors to a certain lender," Jesus begins. "The one was in debt for five hundred denari, but the other for fifty. When they did not have anything with which to pay back, he freely forgave them both. Therefore, which of them will love him the more?"
"I suppose," says Simon, perhaps with an air of indifference at the seeming irrelevance of the question, "it is the one to whom he freely forgave the more." "You judged correctly," Jesus says. And then turning to the woman, he says to Simon: "Do you behold this woman entered into your house; you gave me no water for my feet. But this woman wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. You gave me no kiss; but this woman, from the hour that I came in, did not leave off tenderly kissing my feet. You did not grease my head with oil; but this woman greased my feet with perfumed oil."
The woman has thus given evidence of heartfelt repentance for her immoral past. So Jesus concludes, saying: "By virtue of this, I tell you, her sins, many though they are, are forgiven, because she loved so much; but he who is forgiven little, loves little."
Jesus is in no way excusing or condoning immorality. Rather, this incident reveals his compassionate understanding of people who make mistakes in life but who then manifested that they are sorry for these and so come to Christ for relief. Providing true refreshment to the woman, Jesus says: "Your sins are forgiven . . .Your faith has saved you: go your way in peace." Luke 7:36-50; Matthew 11:28-30.
Next time: A Center Of Controversy
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
Viewing the occasion as an opportunity to minister to those present, Jesus accepts the invitation, even as he has accepted invitations to eat with tax collectors and sinners. Yet, when he enters Simon's house, Jesus does not receive the cordial attention usually accorded guests.
Sandal clad feet become hot and dirty as a result of traveling dusty roads, and it is a customary act of hospitality to wash the feet of guests with cool water. But Jesus' feet are not washed when he arrives. Neither does he receive a welcoming kiss, which is common etiquette. And the customary oil of hospitality is not provided for his hair.
During the coarse of the meal, while the guests are reclining at the table, an uninvited woman quietly enters the room. She is known in the city to be living an immoral life. Likely she has heard Jesus' teachings, including his invitation for 'all those who are loaded down to come to him for refreshment.' And being deeply moved by what she has seen and heard, she has now sought out Jesus.
The woman comes up behind Jesus at the table and kneels at his feet. As her tears fall on his feet, she wipes them off with her hair. She also takes perfumed oil from her flask, and as she tenderly kisses his feet, she pours the oil on them. Simon watches with disapproval. "This man, if her were a prophet," he reasons, "would know who and what kind of woman it is that is touching him, that she is a sinner."
Perceiving his thinking, Jesus says: "Simon, I have something to say to you." "Teacher, say it!" He responds. Two men were debtors to a certain lender," Jesus begins. "The one was in debt for five hundred denari, but the other for fifty. When they did not have anything with which to pay back, he freely forgave them both. Therefore, which of them will love him the more?"
"I suppose," says Simon, perhaps with an air of indifference at the seeming irrelevance of the question, "it is the one to whom he freely forgave the more." "You judged correctly," Jesus says. And then turning to the woman, he says to Simon: "Do you behold this woman entered into your house; you gave me no water for my feet. But this woman wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. You gave me no kiss; but this woman, from the hour that I came in, did not leave off tenderly kissing my feet. You did not grease my head with oil; but this woman greased my feet with perfumed oil."
The woman has thus given evidence of heartfelt repentance for her immoral past. So Jesus concludes, saying: "By virtue of this, I tell you, her sins, many though they are, are forgiven, because she loved so much; but he who is forgiven little, loves little."
Jesus is in no way excusing or condoning immorality. Rather, this incident reveals his compassionate understanding of people who make mistakes in life but who then manifested that they are sorry for these and so come to Christ for relief. Providing true refreshment to the woman, Jesus says: "Your sins are forgiven . . .Your faith has saved you: go your way in peace." Luke 7:36-50; Matthew 11:28-30.
Next time: A Center Of Controversy
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
1.10.2009
The Proud And The Lowly
AFTER mentioning the virtues of John the Baptizer, Jesus turns attention to the proud, fickle people who are around him. "This generation," he declares, "is like young children sitting in the marketplaces who cry out to their playmates, saying, 'We played the flute for you, but you did not dance; we wailed, but you did not beat yourselves in grief.' "
What does Jesus mean? He explains: "John came neither eating or drinking, yet people say, 'He has a demon;' the Son of man did come eating and drinking, still people say, 'Look! a man gluttonous and given to drinking wine, a friend of tax collectors and sinners.' "
It is impossible to satisfy people. Nothing pleases them. John has lived an austere life of self-denial as a Nazarite, in keeping with the angel's declaration that "he must drink no wine and strong drink at all." And yet the people say he is demonized. On the other hand, Jesus lives like other men, not practicing austerity, and he is accused of excesses.
How hard to please people are! They are like playmates, some of whom refuse to respond with dancing when other children play the flute or with grief when their fellows wail. Nevertheless, Jesus says: "Wisdom is proved righteous by its works." Yes, the evidence-the works-make clear that the accusations against both John and Jesus are false.
Jesus goes on to single out for reproach the three cities of Chorazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum, where he has performed most of his powerful works. If he had done those works in the Phoenician cities of Tyre and Sidon, Jesus says, these cities would have repented in sackcloth and ashes. Condemning Capernaum, which apparently has been his home base during the period of his ministry, Jesus declares: "It will be more endurable for the land of Sodom on Judgment Day than for you."
Jeus next publicly praises his heavenly Father. He is moved to do so because God conceals precious spiritual truths from wise and intellectual ones but reveals these marvelous things to lowly ones, to babes, as it were.
Finally, Jesus gives the appealing invitation: "Come to me, all you who are toiling and loaded down, and I will refresh you. Take my yoke upon your and learn from me, for I am mild-tempered and lowly in heart, and you will find refreshment for your souls. For my yoke is kindly and my load is light."
How does Jesus offer refreshment? He does so by providing freedom from the enslaving traditions with which the religious leaders have burdened the people, including, for example, restrictive Sabbath-keeping regulations. He also shows the way of relief to those who feel the crushing weight of domination by the political authorities and to those who feel the weight of their sins through an afflicted conscience. He reveals to such afflicted ones how their sins can be forgiven and how they can enjoy a precious relationship with God.
The kindly yoke Jesus offers is one of complete dedication to God, being able to serve our compassionate, merciful heavenly Father. And the light load Jesus offers to those who come to him is that of obeying God's requirements for life, which are His commandments recorded in the Bible. And obeying these is not at all burdensome. Matthew 11:16-30; Luke 1:15; 7:31-35; 1 John 5:3.
Next time: A Lesson In Mercy
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
What does Jesus mean? He explains: "John came neither eating or drinking, yet people say, 'He has a demon;' the Son of man did come eating and drinking, still people say, 'Look! a man gluttonous and given to drinking wine, a friend of tax collectors and sinners.' "
It is impossible to satisfy people. Nothing pleases them. John has lived an austere life of self-denial as a Nazarite, in keeping with the angel's declaration that "he must drink no wine and strong drink at all." And yet the people say he is demonized. On the other hand, Jesus lives like other men, not practicing austerity, and he is accused of excesses.
How hard to please people are! They are like playmates, some of whom refuse to respond with dancing when other children play the flute or with grief when their fellows wail. Nevertheless, Jesus says: "Wisdom is proved righteous by its works." Yes, the evidence-the works-make clear that the accusations against both John and Jesus are false.
Jesus goes on to single out for reproach the three cities of Chorazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum, where he has performed most of his powerful works. If he had done those works in the Phoenician cities of Tyre and Sidon, Jesus says, these cities would have repented in sackcloth and ashes. Condemning Capernaum, which apparently has been his home base during the period of his ministry, Jesus declares: "It will be more endurable for the land of Sodom on Judgment Day than for you."
Jeus next publicly praises his heavenly Father. He is moved to do so because God conceals precious spiritual truths from wise and intellectual ones but reveals these marvelous things to lowly ones, to babes, as it were.
Finally, Jesus gives the appealing invitation: "Come to me, all you who are toiling and loaded down, and I will refresh you. Take my yoke upon your and learn from me, for I am mild-tempered and lowly in heart, and you will find refreshment for your souls. For my yoke is kindly and my load is light."
How does Jesus offer refreshment? He does so by providing freedom from the enslaving traditions with which the religious leaders have burdened the people, including, for example, restrictive Sabbath-keeping regulations. He also shows the way of relief to those who feel the crushing weight of domination by the political authorities and to those who feel the weight of their sins through an afflicted conscience. He reveals to such afflicted ones how their sins can be forgiven and how they can enjoy a precious relationship with God.
The kindly yoke Jesus offers is one of complete dedication to God, being able to serve our compassionate, merciful heavenly Father. And the light load Jesus offers to those who come to him is that of obeying God's requirements for life, which are His commandments recorded in the Bible. And obeying these is not at all burdensome. Matthew 11:16-30; Luke 1:15; 7:31-35; 1 John 5:3.
Next time: A Lesson In Mercy
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
1.09.2009
Did John Lack Faith?
JOHN the Baptizer, who has been in prison about a year now, receives the report about the resurrection of the widow's son at Nain. But John wants to hear directly from Jesus regarding the significance of this, so he sends two of his disciples to inquire: "Are you the Coming One or are we to expect a different one?"
That may seem a strange question, especially since John saw God's spirit descend upon Jesus and heard God's voice of approval when baptizing Jesus nearly two years before. John's question may cause some to conclude that his faith has grown weak. But this is not so. Jesus would not speak so highly of John, which he does on this occasion, if John has begun to doubt. Why, then, does John ask this question?
John may simply want a verification from Jesus that He is the Messiah. This would be very strengthening to John as he languishes in prison. But apparently there is more to John's question than that. He evidently wants to know if there is to be another one coming, a successor, as it were, who will complete the fulfillment of all the things that were foretold to be accomplished by the Messiah.
According to Bible prophecies with which John is acquainted, the Anointed One of God is to be a King, a deliverer. Yet, John is still being held as a prisoner, even many months after Jesus' baptism. So John evidently is asking Jesus: 'Are you really the one to establish the Kingdom of God in outward power, or is there a different one, a successor, for whom we should wait to fulfill all the wonderful prophecies relating to the Messiah's Glory?'
Instead of telling John's disciples, 'of course I am the one who was to come!' Jesus in that very hour puts on a remarkable display by healing many people, curing them of all kinds of diseases and ailments. Then he tells the disciples: "Go your way, report to John what you saw and heard: the blind are receiving sight, the lame are walking, the lepers are being cleansed and deaf are hearing, the dead are being raised up, the poor are being told the good news."
In other words, John's question may imply an expectation that Jesus will do more than he is doing and will perhaps free John himself. Jesus, however, is telling John not to expect more than the miracles Jesus is performing.
When John's disciples leave, Jesus turns to the crowds and tells them that John is the "messenger" of Jehovah foretold in Malachi 3:1 and is also the prophet Elijah foretold in Malachi 4:5, 6. He thus extols John as being the equal of any prophet who lived before him, explaining: "Truly I say to you people, among those born of women there has not been raised up a greater prophet than John the Baptizer; but a person that is a lesser one in the kingdom of the heavens is greater than he is. but from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of the heavens is the goal toward which men press."
Jesus is here showing that John will not be in the heavenly Kingdom, since a lesser one there is greater than John. John prepared the way for Jesus but dies before Christ seals the covenant, or agreement, with his disciples, for them to be co-rulers with him in his Kingdom. That is why Jesus says that John will not be in the heavenly Kingdom. John will instead be an earthly subject of God's Kingdom. Luke 7:18-30; Matthew 11:2-15.
Next time: The Proud And The Lowly
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
That may seem a strange question, especially since John saw God's spirit descend upon Jesus and heard God's voice of approval when baptizing Jesus nearly two years before. John's question may cause some to conclude that his faith has grown weak. But this is not so. Jesus would not speak so highly of John, which he does on this occasion, if John has begun to doubt. Why, then, does John ask this question?
John may simply want a verification from Jesus that He is the Messiah. This would be very strengthening to John as he languishes in prison. But apparently there is more to John's question than that. He evidently wants to know if there is to be another one coming, a successor, as it were, who will complete the fulfillment of all the things that were foretold to be accomplished by the Messiah.
According to Bible prophecies with which John is acquainted, the Anointed One of God is to be a King, a deliverer. Yet, John is still being held as a prisoner, even many months after Jesus' baptism. So John evidently is asking Jesus: 'Are you really the one to establish the Kingdom of God in outward power, or is there a different one, a successor, for whom we should wait to fulfill all the wonderful prophecies relating to the Messiah's Glory?'
Instead of telling John's disciples, 'of course I am the one who was to come!' Jesus in that very hour puts on a remarkable display by healing many people, curing them of all kinds of diseases and ailments. Then he tells the disciples: "Go your way, report to John what you saw and heard: the blind are receiving sight, the lame are walking, the lepers are being cleansed and deaf are hearing, the dead are being raised up, the poor are being told the good news."
In other words, John's question may imply an expectation that Jesus will do more than he is doing and will perhaps free John himself. Jesus, however, is telling John not to expect more than the miracles Jesus is performing.
When John's disciples leave, Jesus turns to the crowds and tells them that John is the "messenger" of Jehovah foretold in Malachi 3:1 and is also the prophet Elijah foretold in Malachi 4:5, 6. He thus extols John as being the equal of any prophet who lived before him, explaining: "Truly I say to you people, among those born of women there has not been raised up a greater prophet than John the Baptizer; but a person that is a lesser one in the kingdom of the heavens is greater than he is. but from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of the heavens is the goal toward which men press."
Jesus is here showing that John will not be in the heavenly Kingdom, since a lesser one there is greater than John. John prepared the way for Jesus but dies before Christ seals the covenant, or agreement, with his disciples, for them to be co-rulers with him in his Kingdom. That is why Jesus says that John will not be in the heavenly Kingdom. John will instead be an earthly subject of God's Kingdom. Luke 7:18-30; Matthew 11:2-15.
Next time: The Proud And The Lowly
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
1.08.2009
Jesus Dispels A Widow's Grief
SHORTLY after healing the army officer's servant, Jesus leaves for Nain, a city over 20 miles to the southwest of Capernaum. His disciples and a great crowd accompany him. It is probably toward evening when they approach the outskirts of Nain. Here they meet a funeral procession. The dead body of a young man is being carried out of the city for burial.
The mother's situation is especially tragic, since she is a widow and this is her only child. When her husband died, she could take comfort in the fact that she had her son. Her hopes, desires and ambitions became wrapped up in his future. But now there is no one in whom to find consolation. Her grief is great as the townspeople accompany her to the place of burial.
When Jesus catches sight of the woman, his heart is touched by her extreme sadness. So with tenderness, and yet with a firmness that imparts confidence, he says to her: "Stop weeping." His manner and action arrest the crowd's attention. So when he approaches and touches the bier on which the body is being carried, the bearers stand still. All must wonder what he is going to do.
It is true that those accompanying Jesus have seen him miraculously heal many persons of diseases. But apparently they have never seen him raise anyone from the dead. Can he do such a thing? Addressing the body, Jesus commands: "Young man, I say to you, Get up!" And the man sits up! He starts to speak, and Jesus gives him to his mother.
When the people see that the young man truly is alive, they begin to say: "A great prophet has been raised up among us." Others say: "God has turned his attention to his people." Quickly the news concerning this amazing deed spreads out into Judea and all the surrounding country.
John the Baptizer is still in prison, and he wants to learn more about the works that Jesus is able to perform. John's disciples tell him about these miracles. What is his response? Luke 7:11-18.
Next time: Did John Lack Faith?
The mother's situation is especially tragic, since she is a widow and this is her only child. When her husband died, she could take comfort in the fact that she had her son. Her hopes, desires and ambitions became wrapped up in his future. But now there is no one in whom to find consolation. Her grief is great as the townspeople accompany her to the place of burial.
When Jesus catches sight of the woman, his heart is touched by her extreme sadness. So with tenderness, and yet with a firmness that imparts confidence, he says to her: "Stop weeping." His manner and action arrest the crowd's attention. So when he approaches and touches the bier on which the body is being carried, the bearers stand still. All must wonder what he is going to do.
It is true that those accompanying Jesus have seen him miraculously heal many persons of diseases. But apparently they have never seen him raise anyone from the dead. Can he do such a thing? Addressing the body, Jesus commands: "Young man, I say to you, Get up!" And the man sits up! He starts to speak, and Jesus gives him to his mother.
When the people see that the young man truly is alive, they begin to say: "A great prophet has been raised up among us." Others say: "God has turned his attention to his people." Quickly the news concerning this amazing deed spreads out into Judea and all the surrounding country.
John the Baptizer is still in prison, and he wants to learn more about the works that Jesus is able to perform. John's disciples tell him about these miracles. What is his response? Luke 7:11-18.
Next time: Did John Lack Faith?
1.07.2009
An Army Officer's Great Faith
WHEN Jesus gives his Sermon on the Mount, he has reached about the halfway point in his public ministry This means he has only a year and nine months left to complete his work on earth.
Jesus now enters the city of Capernaum, a kind of home base for his activities. Here older men of the Jews approach him with a request. They have been sent by an officer in the Roman Army who is a Gentile, a man of different race than the Jews.
The army officer's beloved servant is about to die from a serious illness, and he wants Jesus to heal his servant. The Jews earnestly plead in behalf of the officer: "He is worthy of your conferring this upon him," they say,"for he loves our nation and he himself built the synagogue for us."
Without hesitation, Jesus leaves with the men. However, when they get near, the army officer sends out friends to say: "Sir, do not bother, for I am not fit to have you come in under my roof. For that reason I did not consider myself worthy to come to you."
What a humble expression for an officer who is accustomed to ordering others! But he is also probably thinking of Jesus realizing that custom prohibits a Jew from having social connections with non-Jews. Even Peter said: "You well know how unlawful it is for a Jew to join himself to or approach a man of another race."
Perhaps not wanting Jesus to suffer the consequences of violating this custom, the officer has his friends request of him: "Say the word, and let my servant be healed. For I too am a man placed under authority, having soldiers under me, and I say to this one, 'Be on your way!' and he is on his way, and to another, 'Come!' And he comes, and to my slave, 'Do this!' And he does it."
Well, when Jesus hears this, he marvels. "I tell you the truth," he says, 'with no one in Israel have I found so great a faith." After healing the officer's servant, Jesus uses the occasion to relate how non-Jews of faith will be favored with blessings that are rejected by faithless Jews.
"Many," Jesus says, "from eastern parts and western parts will come and recline at the table with Abraham and Isaac and Jacob in the kingdom of the heavens; whereas the sons of the kingdom will be thrown into darkness outside. There is where their weeping and gnashing of their teeth will be."
"The sons of the kingdom . . .thrown into the darkness outside" are natural Jews who do not accept the opportunity offered first to them of being rulers with Christ. Abraham, Isaac and Jacob represent God's Kingdom arrangement. Thus Jesus is relating how Gentiles will be welcomed to recline at the heavenly table, as it were, "in the kingdom of the heavens." Luke7:1-10; Matthew 8:5-13; Acts 10:28.
Next time: Jesus Dispels A Widow's Grief
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
Jesus now enters the city of Capernaum, a kind of home base for his activities. Here older men of the Jews approach him with a request. They have been sent by an officer in the Roman Army who is a Gentile, a man of different race than the Jews.
The army officer's beloved servant is about to die from a serious illness, and he wants Jesus to heal his servant. The Jews earnestly plead in behalf of the officer: "He is worthy of your conferring this upon him," they say,"for he loves our nation and he himself built the synagogue for us."
Without hesitation, Jesus leaves with the men. However, when they get near, the army officer sends out friends to say: "Sir, do not bother, for I am not fit to have you come in under my roof. For that reason I did not consider myself worthy to come to you."
What a humble expression for an officer who is accustomed to ordering others! But he is also probably thinking of Jesus realizing that custom prohibits a Jew from having social connections with non-Jews. Even Peter said: "You well know how unlawful it is for a Jew to join himself to or approach a man of another race."
Perhaps not wanting Jesus to suffer the consequences of violating this custom, the officer has his friends request of him: "Say the word, and let my servant be healed. For I too am a man placed under authority, having soldiers under me, and I say to this one, 'Be on your way!' and he is on his way, and to another, 'Come!' And he comes, and to my slave, 'Do this!' And he does it."
Well, when Jesus hears this, he marvels. "I tell you the truth," he says, 'with no one in Israel have I found so great a faith." After healing the officer's servant, Jesus uses the occasion to relate how non-Jews of faith will be favored with blessings that are rejected by faithless Jews.
"Many," Jesus says, "from eastern parts and western parts will come and recline at the table with Abraham and Isaac and Jacob in the kingdom of the heavens; whereas the sons of the kingdom will be thrown into darkness outside. There is where their weeping and gnashing of their teeth will be."
"The sons of the kingdom . . .thrown into the darkness outside" are natural Jews who do not accept the opportunity offered first to them of being rulers with Christ. Abraham, Isaac and Jacob represent God's Kingdom arrangement. Thus Jesus is relating how Gentiles will be welcomed to recline at the heavenly table, as it were, "in the kingdom of the heavens." Luke7:1-10; Matthew 8:5-13; Acts 10:28.
Next time: Jesus Dispels A Widow's Grief
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
1.06.2009
The Way To Life
The way to life is that of abiding by Jesus' teachings. But this is not easy to do. the Pharisees, for example, tend to judge others harshly, and likely many imitate them. so as Jesus continues his Sermon on the Mount, he gives this admonition: "Stop judging that you may not be judged; for with what judgment are you judging, you will be judged."
It is dangerous to follow the lead of the overly critical Pharisees. According to Luke's account, Jesus illustrates this danger by saying: "A blind man cannot guide a blind man can he? Both will tumble into a pit, will they not?"
Being too critical of others, magnifying their faults and picking on them, is a serious offense. So Jesus asks: "How can you say to your brother, 'allow me to extract the straw from your eye;' when, look! a rafter is in your own eye? Hypocrite! First extract the rafter from your own eye,and then you will see clearly how to extract the straw from your brother's eye."
This does not mean that Jesus' disciples are to use no discernment in connection with other people, for he says: "Do not give what is holy to dogs, neither throw your pearls before swine." The truths from God's Word are holy. They are like figurative pearls. But if some individuals, who are like dogs or swine, show no appreciation for these precious truths, Jesus' disciples should leave those people and seek out those who are more receptive.
Although Jesus has discussed prayer earlier in his Sermon on the Mount, he now stresses the need to persist in it. "Keep on asking," he urges, "and it will be give you." to illustrate God's readiness to answer prayers, Jesus asks: "Who is the man among you whom his son asks for bread-he will not hand him a stone, will he? . . .Therefore,if you, although being wicked, know how to give food gifts to your children, how much more so will your Father who is in the heavens give good things to those asking him?"
Next Jesus provides what has become a famous rule of conduct, commonly called the Golden Rule. He says: "All things, therefore, that you want men to do to you, you also must likewise to to them." Living by this rule involves positive action in doing good to others, treating them as you want to be treated.
That the way to life is through the narrow gate; because broad and spacious is the road leading off into destruction, and many are the ones going in through it; whereas narrow is the gate and cramped the road leading off into life, and few are the ones finding it."
The danger of being misled is great, so Jesus warns: "Be on the watch for false prophets that come to you in sheep's covering, but inside they are ravenous wolves." Even as good trees and bad trees can be recognized by their fruits, Jesus notes, false prophets can be recognized by their conduct and teachings.
Going on, Jesus explains that it is not simply what a person says that makes him His disciple but what he does. Some people claim that Jesus is their Lord, but if they are not doing the will of his Father, he says: "I will confess to them: I never knew you! Get away from me, you workers of lawlessness."
Finally, Jesus gives the memorable conclusion to his Sermon. He says: "Everyone that hears these sayings of mind and does them will be likened to a discreet man, who built his house upon the rock-mass. And the rain poured down and the floods came and the winds blew and lashed against that house, but it did not cave in, for it had been founded upon the rock-mass."
On the other hand, Jesus declares: "Everyone hearing these sayings of mine and not doing them will be likened to a foolish man, who built his house upon the sand. And the rain poured down and the floods came and the winds blew and struck against that house and it caved in, and its collapse was great."
When Jesus finishes his sermon, the crowds were astounded at his way of teaching, for he teaches them as a person having authority and not as their religious leaders. Luke 6:132-23; Matthew 5:1-12; Luke 6:24-26; Matthew 5:13-48; 6:1-34; 26:36-45; 7:1-29; Luke 6:27-49.
Next time: An Army Officer's Great Faith
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
It is dangerous to follow the lead of the overly critical Pharisees. According to Luke's account, Jesus illustrates this danger by saying: "A blind man cannot guide a blind man can he? Both will tumble into a pit, will they not?"
Being too critical of others, magnifying their faults and picking on them, is a serious offense. So Jesus asks: "How can you say to your brother, 'allow me to extract the straw from your eye;' when, look! a rafter is in your own eye? Hypocrite! First extract the rafter from your own eye,and then you will see clearly how to extract the straw from your brother's eye."
This does not mean that Jesus' disciples are to use no discernment in connection with other people, for he says: "Do not give what is holy to dogs, neither throw your pearls before swine." The truths from God's Word are holy. They are like figurative pearls. But if some individuals, who are like dogs or swine, show no appreciation for these precious truths, Jesus' disciples should leave those people and seek out those who are more receptive.
Although Jesus has discussed prayer earlier in his Sermon on the Mount, he now stresses the need to persist in it. "Keep on asking," he urges, "and it will be give you." to illustrate God's readiness to answer prayers, Jesus asks: "Who is the man among you whom his son asks for bread-he will not hand him a stone, will he? . . .Therefore,if you, although being wicked, know how to give food gifts to your children, how much more so will your Father who is in the heavens give good things to those asking him?"
Next Jesus provides what has become a famous rule of conduct, commonly called the Golden Rule. He says: "All things, therefore, that you want men to do to you, you also must likewise to to them." Living by this rule involves positive action in doing good to others, treating them as you want to be treated.
That the way to life is through the narrow gate; because broad and spacious is the road leading off into destruction, and many are the ones going in through it; whereas narrow is the gate and cramped the road leading off into life, and few are the ones finding it."
The danger of being misled is great, so Jesus warns: "Be on the watch for false prophets that come to you in sheep's covering, but inside they are ravenous wolves." Even as good trees and bad trees can be recognized by their fruits, Jesus notes, false prophets can be recognized by their conduct and teachings.
Going on, Jesus explains that it is not simply what a person says that makes him His disciple but what he does. Some people claim that Jesus is their Lord, but if they are not doing the will of his Father, he says: "I will confess to them: I never knew you! Get away from me, you workers of lawlessness."
Finally, Jesus gives the memorable conclusion to his Sermon. He says: "Everyone that hears these sayings of mind and does them will be likened to a discreet man, who built his house upon the rock-mass. And the rain poured down and the floods came and the winds blew and lashed against that house, but it did not cave in, for it had been founded upon the rock-mass."
On the other hand, Jesus declares: "Everyone hearing these sayings of mine and not doing them will be likened to a foolish man, who built his house upon the sand. And the rain poured down and the floods came and the winds blew and struck against that house and it caved in, and its collapse was great."
When Jesus finishes his sermon, the crowds were astounded at his way of teaching, for he teaches them as a person having authority and not as their religious leaders. Luke 6:132-23; Matthew 5:1-12; Luke 6:24-26; Matthew 5:13-48; 6:1-34; 26:36-45; 7:1-29; Luke 6:27-49.
Next time: An Army Officer's Great Faith
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
1.05.2009
Prayer, And Trust In God
As Jesus proceeds with his sermon, he condemns the hypocrisy of people who make a show of their supposed godliness. "When you go making gifts," he says, "do not blow a trumpet ahead of you, just as the hypocrites do.'
"Also," Jesus continues, "When you pray, you must not be as the hypocrites; because they like to pray standing in the synagogues and on the corners of the broad ways to be visible to men." Rather, he instructs: "When you pray, go into your private room and, after shutting your door, pray to your Father who is in secret." Jesus himself said public prayers, so he is not condemning these. What he is denouncing are prayers that are said to impress listeners and draw their admiring compliments.
Jesus further counsels: "When praying, do not say the same things over and over again, just as the people of the nations do." Jesus does not mean that repetition in itself is wrong. Once, he himself repeatedly used "the same word" when praying. But what he disapproves of is the saying of memorized phrases "over and over again," the way those do who finger beads as they repeat their prayers by rote.
To help his listeners pray, Jesus provides a model prayer that includes seven petitions. T he first three rightly give recognition to God's sovereignty and his purposes. They are requests for God's name to be sanctified, his Kingdom to come, and his will to be done. The remaining four are personal requests, namely, for daily food, for forgiveness of sins, not to be tempted beyond one's endurance and to be delivered from the wicked one.
Going on, Jesus addresses the snare of putting undue emphasis on material possessions. He urges: "Stop storing up for yourselves treasures upon the earth, where moth and rust consume, and where thieves break in and steal." not only are such treasured perishable but they build up no merit with God.
Hence, Jesus says: "Rather, store up for yourselves treasures in heaven." This is done by putting God's service first in your life. Nobody can take away the merit thus accumulated with God or its grand reward. Then Jesus adds: "Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."
Further addressing the snare of materialism, Jesus gives the illustration: "The lamp of the body is the eye. If, then, your eye is simple, your whole body will be bright; but if your eye is wicked, your body will be dark." The eye that functions properly is to the body like a lighted lamp in a dark place. But to see correctly, they eye must be simple, that is, it must focus on one thing. An out-of-focus eye leads to a mistaken estimate of things, to putting material pursuits ahead of service to God, with the results that the "whole body" becomes dark.
Jesus climaxes this matter with the powerful illustration: "No one can slave for two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will stick to the one and despise the other. You cannot slave for God and for Riches."
After giving his counsel, Jesus assures his listeners that they need not be anxious about their material needs if they put God's service first. "Observe intently the birds of the heaven," he says, "because they do not sow seed or reap or gather into storehouses; still your heavenly Father feeds them." Then he asks: "Are you not worth more than they are?"
Next, Jesus points to the lilies of the field and notes that "not even Solomon in all his glory was arrayed as one of these. If, now," he continues, "God thus clothes the vegetation of the field . . . will he not much rather clothe you, you with little faith?" Therefore Jesus concludes: "Never be anxious and say, "What are we to eat?' or, 'What are we to drink?' or, 'What are we to put on? . . . For your heavenly Father knows you need these things. Keep on, then, seeking first the kingdom and his righteousness., and all these other things will be added to you."
Next time: The Way Of Life
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
"Also," Jesus continues, "When you pray, you must not be as the hypocrites; because they like to pray standing in the synagogues and on the corners of the broad ways to be visible to men." Rather, he instructs: "When you pray, go into your private room and, after shutting your door, pray to your Father who is in secret." Jesus himself said public prayers, so he is not condemning these. What he is denouncing are prayers that are said to impress listeners and draw their admiring compliments.
Jesus further counsels: "When praying, do not say the same things over and over again, just as the people of the nations do." Jesus does not mean that repetition in itself is wrong. Once, he himself repeatedly used "the same word" when praying. But what he disapproves of is the saying of memorized phrases "over and over again," the way those do who finger beads as they repeat their prayers by rote.
To help his listeners pray, Jesus provides a model prayer that includes seven petitions. T he first three rightly give recognition to God's sovereignty and his purposes. They are requests for God's name to be sanctified, his Kingdom to come, and his will to be done. The remaining four are personal requests, namely, for daily food, for forgiveness of sins, not to be tempted beyond one's endurance and to be delivered from the wicked one.
Going on, Jesus addresses the snare of putting undue emphasis on material possessions. He urges: "Stop storing up for yourselves treasures upon the earth, where moth and rust consume, and where thieves break in and steal." not only are such treasured perishable but they build up no merit with God.
Hence, Jesus says: "Rather, store up for yourselves treasures in heaven." This is done by putting God's service first in your life. Nobody can take away the merit thus accumulated with God or its grand reward. Then Jesus adds: "Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."
Further addressing the snare of materialism, Jesus gives the illustration: "The lamp of the body is the eye. If, then, your eye is simple, your whole body will be bright; but if your eye is wicked, your body will be dark." The eye that functions properly is to the body like a lighted lamp in a dark place. But to see correctly, they eye must be simple, that is, it must focus on one thing. An out-of-focus eye leads to a mistaken estimate of things, to putting material pursuits ahead of service to God, with the results that the "whole body" becomes dark.
Jesus climaxes this matter with the powerful illustration: "No one can slave for two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will stick to the one and despise the other. You cannot slave for God and for Riches."
After giving his counsel, Jesus assures his listeners that they need not be anxious about their material needs if they put God's service first. "Observe intently the birds of the heaven," he says, "because they do not sow seed or reap or gather into storehouses; still your heavenly Father feeds them." Then he asks: "Are you not worth more than they are?"
Next, Jesus points to the lilies of the field and notes that "not even Solomon in all his glory was arrayed as one of these. If, now," he continues, "God thus clothes the vegetation of the field . . . will he not much rather clothe you, you with little faith?" Therefore Jesus concludes: "Never be anxious and say, "What are we to eat?' or, 'What are we to drink?' or, 'What are we to put on? . . . For your heavenly Father knows you need these things. Keep on, then, seeking first the kingdom and his righteousness., and all these other things will be added to you."
Next time: The Way Of Life
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
1.04.2009
A High Standard For His Followers
The religious leaders consider Jesus a transgressor of God's Law and recently have even conspired to kill him. So as Jesus continues in his Sermon on the Mount, he explains: "Do not think I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I came, not to destroy, but to fulfill.
Jesus has the highest regard for God's Law and encourages others to have such also. In fact, he says: "Whoever,therefore, breaks one of these least commandments and teaches mankind to that effect, he will be called 'least' in relation to the kingdom of the heavens," meaning that such a person would not get into the Kingdom at all.
Far from disregarding God's Law, Jesus condemns even the attitudes that contribute to a person's breaking it. After noting that the Law says, "You must not murder." Jesus adds: "However, I say to you that everyone who continues wrathful with his brother will be accountable to the court of justice.
Since continuing wrathful with an associate is so serious, perhaps leading to murder, Jesus illustrates the extent to which one should go to achieve peace. He instructs: "If, then, you are bringing your [sacrificial]gift to the altar and you there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar, and go away; first make your peace with your brother, and then, whey you have come back, offer up your gift."
Turing attention to the seventh of the Ten Commandments, Jesus continues: "You heard that it was said, 'You must not commit adultery.' " However, Jesus condemns even the steady attitude toward adultery. "I say to you that everyone that keeps on looking at a woman so as to have a passion for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart."
Jesus in not here speaking merely about a passing immoral thought but about 'keeping on looking.' Such continued looking arouses passionate desired, which, if opportunity affords, can culminate in adultery. How can a person prevent this from happening? Jesus illustrates how extreme measures may be necessary, saying: "If, now, that right eye of yours is making you stumble, tear it out and throw it away from you . . .Also, if your right hand is making you stumble, cut it off and throw it away from you."
People are often willing to sacrifice a literal limb that is diseased in order to save their lives. But according to Jesus, it is even more vital to 'throw away' anything, even something as precious as an eye or a hand, to avoid immoral thinking and actions. Otherwise, Jesus explains, such persons will be thrown into Gehenna (a burning rubbish heap near Jerusalem), which symbolizes eternal destruction.
Jesus also discusses how to deal with people who cause injury and offense. "Do not resist him that is wicked." is his counsel. "But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other also to him." Jesus does not mean that a person should not defend himself or his family if attacked. A slap is not delivered to hurt another physically but, rather, to insult. So, what Jesus is saying is that if anyone tries to provoke a fight or an argument, either by literally slapping with an open hand or by stinging with insulting words, it would be wrong to retaliate.
After drawing attention to God's Law to love one's neighbor, Jesus states: "However, I say to you: Continue to love your enemies and to pray for those persecuting you: Providing a powerful reason for doing so, he adds: "[Thus]you may prove yourselves sons of your Father who is in the heavens, since he makes his sun rise upon wicked people and good."
Jesus concludes, this portion of his sermon by admonishing "You must accordingly be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect." Jesus does not mean that people can be perfect in the absolute sense. Rather, they can, by imitating God, expand their love to embrace even their enemies. Luke's parallel account records Jesus' words: "Continue becoming merciful, just as your Father is merciful."
Next time: Prayer, And Trust In God
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
Jesus has the highest regard for God's Law and encourages others to have such also. In fact, he says: "Whoever,therefore, breaks one of these least commandments and teaches mankind to that effect, he will be called 'least' in relation to the kingdom of the heavens," meaning that such a person would not get into the Kingdom at all.
Far from disregarding God's Law, Jesus condemns even the attitudes that contribute to a person's breaking it. After noting that the Law says, "You must not murder." Jesus adds: "However, I say to you that everyone who continues wrathful with his brother will be accountable to the court of justice.
Since continuing wrathful with an associate is so serious, perhaps leading to murder, Jesus illustrates the extent to which one should go to achieve peace. He instructs: "If, then, you are bringing your [sacrificial]gift to the altar and you there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar, and go away; first make your peace with your brother, and then, whey you have come back, offer up your gift."
Turing attention to the seventh of the Ten Commandments, Jesus continues: "You heard that it was said, 'You must not commit adultery.' " However, Jesus condemns even the steady attitude toward adultery. "I say to you that everyone that keeps on looking at a woman so as to have a passion for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart."
Jesus in not here speaking merely about a passing immoral thought but about 'keeping on looking.' Such continued looking arouses passionate desired, which, if opportunity affords, can culminate in adultery. How can a person prevent this from happening? Jesus illustrates how extreme measures may be necessary, saying: "If, now, that right eye of yours is making you stumble, tear it out and throw it away from you . . .Also, if your right hand is making you stumble, cut it off and throw it away from you."
People are often willing to sacrifice a literal limb that is diseased in order to save their lives. But according to Jesus, it is even more vital to 'throw away' anything, even something as precious as an eye or a hand, to avoid immoral thinking and actions. Otherwise, Jesus explains, such persons will be thrown into Gehenna (a burning rubbish heap near Jerusalem), which symbolizes eternal destruction.
Jesus also discusses how to deal with people who cause injury and offense. "Do not resist him that is wicked." is his counsel. "But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other also to him." Jesus does not mean that a person should not defend himself or his family if attacked. A slap is not delivered to hurt another physically but, rather, to insult. So, what Jesus is saying is that if anyone tries to provoke a fight or an argument, either by literally slapping with an open hand or by stinging with insulting words, it would be wrong to retaliate.
After drawing attention to God's Law to love one's neighbor, Jesus states: "However, I say to you: Continue to love your enemies and to pray for those persecuting you: Providing a powerful reason for doing so, he adds: "[Thus]you may prove yourselves sons of your Father who is in the heavens, since he makes his sun rise upon wicked people and good."
Jesus concludes, this portion of his sermon by admonishing "You must accordingly be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect." Jesus does not mean that people can be perfect in the absolute sense. Rather, they can, by imitating God, expand their love to embrace even their enemies. Luke's parallel account records Jesus' words: "Continue becoming merciful, just as your Father is merciful."
Next time: Prayer, And Trust In God
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
1.03.2009
Who Are Truly Happy?
Everyone wants to be happy. Realizing this, Jesus begins his Sermon on the Mount by describing those who are truly happy. As we can imagine, this immediately captures the attention of his vast audience. And yet his opening words must seem contradictory to many.
Directing his comments to his disciples, Jesus begins : "Happy are you poor, because yours is the kingdom of God. Happy are you who hunger now, because you will be filled. "Happy are you who weep now, because you will laugh. Happy are you whenever men hate you . . .Rejoice in that day and leap, for look! Your reward is great in heaven."
This is Luke's account of the introduction of Jesus' sermon. But according to Matthew's record, Jesus also says that the mild-tempered, the merciful, the pure in heart, and the peaceable are happy. These are happy, Jesus notes, because they will inherit the earth, they will be show mercy, they will see God, and they will be called sons of God.
What Jesus men as by being happy, however, is not simply being jovial or mirthful,as when one is having fun. True happiness is deeper, carrying the though of contentment., a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment in life.
So, those who are truly happy, Jesus shows, are people who recognize their spiritual need, are saddened by their sinful condition, and come to know and serve God. Then, even if they are hated or persecuted for doing God's will, they are happy because they know they are pleasing God and will receive his reward of everlasting life.
However, many of Jesus' listeners, just like some people today, believe that being prosperous and enjoying pleasures is what makes a person happy. Jesus knows otherwise. Drawing a contrast that must surprise many of his listeners, he says.
"Woe to you rich persons, because you are having your consolation in full. woe to you who are filled up now, because you will go hungry. Woe, you who are laughing now, because you will mourn and weep. Woe, whenever all men speak well of you, for things like these are what their forefathers did to the false prophets."
What does Jesus mean? Why do having riches, laughingly pursing pleasures, and enjoying the plaudits of men bring woe? It is because when a person has and cherishes these things, then service to God, which alone brings true happiness is excluded from his life. At the same time, Jesus did not mean that simply being poor, hungry and mournful makes a person happy. Often, however, such disadvantaged persons may respond to Jesus' teachings, and they thereby are blessed with true happiness.
Next, addressing his disciples, Jesus says: "You are the salt of the earth." He does not mean, of course, that they literally are salt. Rather, salt is a preservative. A large heap of it lay near the altar at Jehovah's temple, and priests officiating there used it to salt the offerings.
The disciples of Jesus are "the salt of the earth" in that they have a preserving influence on people. Indeed, the message they bear will preserve lives of all who respond to it! It will bring into the lives of such persons the qualities of permanence, loyalty, and faithfulness, preventing any spiritual and moral decay in them.
"You are the light of the world," Jesus tells his disciples. A lamp is not put under a basket but is set on a lampstand, so Jesus says: "Likewise let your light shine before men." Jesus' disciples do this by their public witnessing, as well as by serving as shining examples of conduct that accords with Bible principles.
Next time: A High Standard For His Followers
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
Directing his comments to his disciples, Jesus begins : "Happy are you poor, because yours is the kingdom of God. Happy are you who hunger now, because you will be filled. "Happy are you who weep now, because you will laugh. Happy are you whenever men hate you . . .Rejoice in that day and leap, for look! Your reward is great in heaven."
This is Luke's account of the introduction of Jesus' sermon. But according to Matthew's record, Jesus also says that the mild-tempered, the merciful, the pure in heart, and the peaceable are happy. These are happy, Jesus notes, because they will inherit the earth, they will be show mercy, they will see God, and they will be called sons of God.
What Jesus men as by being happy, however, is not simply being jovial or mirthful,as when one is having fun. True happiness is deeper, carrying the though of contentment., a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment in life.
So, those who are truly happy, Jesus shows, are people who recognize their spiritual need, are saddened by their sinful condition, and come to know and serve God. Then, even if they are hated or persecuted for doing God's will, they are happy because they know they are pleasing God and will receive his reward of everlasting life.
However, many of Jesus' listeners, just like some people today, believe that being prosperous and enjoying pleasures is what makes a person happy. Jesus knows otherwise. Drawing a contrast that must surprise many of his listeners, he says.
"Woe to you rich persons, because you are having your consolation in full. woe to you who are filled up now, because you will go hungry. Woe, you who are laughing now, because you will mourn and weep. Woe, whenever all men speak well of you, for things like these are what their forefathers did to the false prophets."
What does Jesus mean? Why do having riches, laughingly pursing pleasures, and enjoying the plaudits of men bring woe? It is because when a person has and cherishes these things, then service to God, which alone brings true happiness is excluded from his life. At the same time, Jesus did not mean that simply being poor, hungry and mournful makes a person happy. Often, however, such disadvantaged persons may respond to Jesus' teachings, and they thereby are blessed with true happiness.
Next, addressing his disciples, Jesus says: "You are the salt of the earth." He does not mean, of course, that they literally are salt. Rather, salt is a preservative. A large heap of it lay near the altar at Jehovah's temple, and priests officiating there used it to salt the offerings.
The disciples of Jesus are "the salt of the earth" in that they have a preserving influence on people. Indeed, the message they bear will preserve lives of all who respond to it! It will bring into the lives of such persons the qualities of permanence, loyalty, and faithfulness, preventing any spiritual and moral decay in them.
"You are the light of the world," Jesus tells his disciples. A lamp is not put under a basket but is set on a lampstand, so Jesus says: "Likewise let your light shine before men." Jesus' disciples do this by their public witnessing, as well as by serving as shining examples of conduct that accords with Bible principles.
Next time: A High Standard For His Followers
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
1.02.2009
The Most Famous Sermon Ever Given
THE scene is one of the most memorable in Bible history: Jesus seated on a mountainside, delivering his famous Sermon on the Mount. The site is near the Sea of Galilee, probably close to Capernaum. After spending the whole night in prayer, Jesus has just chosen 12 of his disciples to be apostles. Then, along with all of them, he comes down to this level place on the mountain.
By now, you would think, Jesus would be very tired and would want some sleep. But great crowds have come, some all the way from Judea and Jerusalem, 60 to 70 miles away. Others have come from the seacoast of Tyre and Sidon located to the north. They have come to hear Jesus and to be healed of their sicknesses. There are even persons who are troubled by the demons, the wicked angels of Satan.
As Jesus comes down, sick people draw close to touch him, and he heals all of them. Afterward, Jesus apparently climbs to a higher place on the mountain. There he sits down and begins teaching the crowds spread out on the level place before him. And think of it! Now there is not even one person in the entire audience who is suffering from a serious infirmity!
The people are eager to hear the teacher who is able to perform these amazing miracles. Jesus, however, delivers his sermon mainly for the benefit of his disciples, who are probably gathered around closest to him. But so that we can benefit too, both Matthew and Luke have recorded it. Matthews' account of the sermon is about four times as long as Luke's. Moreover, portions of what Matthew records, Luke presents as being said by Jesus at another time during his ministry, as can be noted by comparing Matthew 6:9-13 with Luke 11:1-4, and Matthew 6:25-34 with Luke 12:22-31. Yet this should not be surprising. Jesus obviously taught the same things more than once, and Luke chose to record some of these teachings in a different setting.
What makes Jesus' sermon so valuable is not only the depth of his spiritual contents but the simplicity and clarity with which he presents these truths. He draws on ordinary experiences and uses things familiar to people, thus making his ideas easily understood by all who are seeking a better life in God's way.
Next time: Who Are Truly Happy
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
By now, you would think, Jesus would be very tired and would want some sleep. But great crowds have come, some all the way from Judea and Jerusalem, 60 to 70 miles away. Others have come from the seacoast of Tyre and Sidon located to the north. They have come to hear Jesus and to be healed of their sicknesses. There are even persons who are troubled by the demons, the wicked angels of Satan.
As Jesus comes down, sick people draw close to touch him, and he heals all of them. Afterward, Jesus apparently climbs to a higher place on the mountain. There he sits down and begins teaching the crowds spread out on the level place before him. And think of it! Now there is not even one person in the entire audience who is suffering from a serious infirmity!
The people are eager to hear the teacher who is able to perform these amazing miracles. Jesus, however, delivers his sermon mainly for the benefit of his disciples, who are probably gathered around closest to him. But so that we can benefit too, both Matthew and Luke have recorded it. Matthews' account of the sermon is about four times as long as Luke's. Moreover, portions of what Matthew records, Luke presents as being said by Jesus at another time during his ministry, as can be noted by comparing Matthew 6:9-13 with Luke 11:1-4, and Matthew 6:25-34 with Luke 12:22-31. Yet this should not be surprising. Jesus obviously taught the same things more than once, and Luke chose to record some of these teachings in a different setting.
What makes Jesus' sermon so valuable is not only the depth of his spiritual contents but the simplicity and clarity with which he presents these truths. He draws on ordinary experiences and uses things familiar to people, thus making his ideas easily understood by all who are seeking a better life in God's way.
Next time: Who Are Truly Happy
The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991
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