Well, this chapter is all about healing and cleansing. The leper - he was cleansed. In cleansing him Jesus touched him. The centurion's servant - paralyzed, Jesus heals him from a distance. Jesus is impressed by the centurion's faith. And expresses a truth, that the kingdom of God will include Jews and Gentiles. And many … Continue reading Matthew 8. →

This rings true. 28 When Jesus finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed by his teaching, 29 because he taught them like one who had authority, not like their experts in the law. Matthew 7:28 In the past, I think I've treated these verses almost like a throwaway line. But in reality, these are amazing teachings. And yes, the … Continue reading Matthew 7. →

Again we have a chapter that is filled with so much good and hard teaching. Something I have been thinking about is what we call the Lord's prayer. I have taught and used it as a model for prayer, rather than as a direct recital, recognizing Jesus says "in this way". But I have recited … Continue reading Matthew 6. →

This chapter has so much stuff in it. Blessed are … You have heard that it was said … I can't really fully imagine what one would look like, living this out. Let alone actually living it out. This requirement: 20 For I tell you, unless your righteousness goes beyond that of the experts in the … Continue reading Matthew 5. →

In our time, we have developed a number of ways of inviting people to connect with Jesus. Not all of those ways get everything correct. We can't miss Jesus' first message, and the starting point of our relationship with him ... 17 From that time Jesus began to preach this message: “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven … Continue reading Matthew 4. →

I'm with John. Jesus needs to be baptized? But Jesus said yes, to fulfill righteousness. And God the Father affirmed it saying, “This is my one dear Son; in him I take great delight." (v.3:17)

Jesus' birth and early moments on earth are wrapped in fulfilled prophecy. While angels directed a lot of the action, and God used dreams also, I give Joseph credit for paying attention too. 22 But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning over Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there. After being … Continue reading Matthew 2. →

Matthew says of Joseph, "Because Joseph, her husband to be, was a righteous man, ..." This may well have meant Joseph was a "tsadiq", one who was a serious student of Torah, and who diligently followed the law. Matthew continues, "... and because he did not want to disgrace her ...." This was a kind … Continue reading Matthew 1. →