63 Matthew 12:1-14 Two Sabbath stories

63 Matthew 12:1-14 Two Sabbath stories

The Sabbath played a big role in the worsening relationship between Jesus and the Pharisees. Matthew gives us only these two stories. By the end of the second story, we learn that Pharisees are planning to kill Jesus partly because of his views on the Sabbath.

November 2022 Reflections

November 2022 Reflections

Why did so many people reject Jesus when they saw him face to face? For people who are self-satisfied and indifferent to God, miracles change nothing. They believe they already have wisdom.

Old Testament Maps

Old Testament Maps

Old Testament Maps: Here are my favorite maps related to the Old Testament and where to find them from Wednesday in the Word.

62 Matthew 11:25-30 Take my yoke

62 Matthew 11:25-30 Take my yoke

For people who are self-satisfied and indifferent to God, miracles change nothing. They believe they already have wisdom and they reject Jesus. But those who are know they are needy and weary understand the miracles and embrace the wisdom of Jesus teaching. To them Jesus promises rest.

Should Christians fast today?

Should Christians fast today?

My study of fasting in Scripture taught me two things. 1) If you want to fast as a religious ritual, do it from a heart that is expressing a genuine faith and sincere desire to know and love God; and 2) Don’t use fasting as a test to reject your fellow believers and/or impress other people.

New Testament Maps

New Testament Maps

New Testament Maps: Here are my favorite maps related to the New Testament and where to find them from Wednesday in the Word.

61 Matthew 11:16-24 Woe to unrepentant cities

61 Matthew 11:16-24 Woe to unrepentant cities

What Malachi predicted is finally happening.  This generation finally stands in the presence of the herald and the Messiah.  How does this generation receive that message?  Jesus explains with an analogy: Jesus and John are like children sitting in the marketplace playing the flute and calling to their friends to dance, but their friends refuse

Marks of false Teachers

Marks of false Teachers

A vital part of your Bible study arsenal is learning to recognize false teachers. Here are three interesting lists — both modern and classic — on how to discern a true teacher from a false teacher. Notice the similarities.

60 Matthew 11:7-15 John the Baptist’s role

60 Matthew 11:7-15 John the Baptist’s role

Jesus was so different from the Messiah people expected, even John the Baptist had moments where he wondered if Jesus was the Messiah. If he’s really a prophet, how could John become confused?  In this passage, Jesus answers that question.