46 Matthew 8:28-34 Demons & Pigs

46 Matthew 8:28-34 Demons & Pigs

When Jesus heals the demoniacs, we learn Jesus has God-given authority over the powers of darkness and evil.  In the last podcast, we saw that Jesus has God-given authority over the power of nature.  Together they build the case that Jesus is the Messiah.

June Reflections 2022

June Reflections 2022

Foxes, funerals, demons, pigs, fasting and wine skins. That’s all coming in the Gospel of Matthew as we look at various miracles Jesus performed. Lord willing, I plan to cover chapters 8-9 this summer, take a short break and then dive into the next discourse (the sending of the 12).

45 Matthew 8:23-27 Jesus calms the storm

45 Matthew 8:23-27 Jesus calms the storm

When he calms the storm, we learn Jesus brings the power of God to rescue His people from the vast destructive forces of nature. The miracles of Jesus have a message: Jesus brings the mercy of God for healing and deliverance.

44 Matthew 8:18-22 Foxes and Funerals

44 Matthew 8:18-22 Foxes and Funerals

Matthew introduces us to two potential disciples. One says: “I will follow Jesus if it pays off now.”  The other says: “Now is paying off, I’ll follow Jesus later.” The opportunity to decide to follow Jesus is now. One day it will be too late.

Introduction to the Exile & Return

Introduction to the Exile & Return

The period of the divided kingdom ended with the people of Israel being taken into captivity. First, the people of the northern kingdom were conquered by Assyria, leaving Judah to struggle on alone. Finally, the southern kingdom of Judah was conquered by the Babylonians, leaving all the children of Israel in exile from the land. Here is an overview and timeline of the exile of Israel and her return from captivity.

Introduction to the Southern Kingdom

Introduction to the Southern Kingdom

After the death of King Solomon, two of his sons, Rehoboam and Jeroboam, fought for the throne. When Rehoboam harshly raised taxes on the people, the 10 northern tribes rebelled and installed Jeroboam as their king, creating the northern kingdom of Israel. The two southern tribes, Benjamin and Judah, remained with Rehoboam and became the kingdom of J

42 Matthew 7:28-8:13 Authority of Jesus

42 Matthew 7:28-8:13 Authority of Jesus

Matthew has just quoted Jesus as claiming to have authority from God. Now he turns our attention to how Jesus acts with God’s authority, by performing miracles only God can perform. These miracles confront us with a choice to believe Jesus is who he says he is.