Jesus speaks about the trappings of money and possessions.
The disciples probably weren’t the only ones astonished.
God himself is the treasure. Any other treasure tends to end up as competition.
Mankind still has trouble seeing the value of God’s kingdom.
Mankind still has trouble seeing the value of God’s kingdom.
This conversation is still as relevant as ever. Earthy treasure is so temporary.
Jesus, you are the priceless treasure. You are worthy!
Jesus answers a question about divorce.
Jesus’ answer was at odds with some Jewish tradition/interpretation of the day.
God is serious about covenants. When one is demeaned the reputation of the others are offended.
Mankind twist truths to fit their own desires.
Treasure covenants.
This hot button question was asked to stir up divisiveness around whatever Jesus said. This still happens today.
Father, thank you for your unconditional promised that never fade.
Jesus explains forgiveness and restoration.
Unlike the religions of the day Jesus focuses on restoration of relationship being the end goal- not penance or punishment.
God expects those who have received great mercy and forgiveness to give great mercy. and forgiveness.
People generally want to repay evil with evil but receive generous grace and mercy.
Care about the restoration of souls. In the power of the Holy Spirit, have the necessary but awkward conversation. Listen. Humbly share truth. Show extravagant grace and mercy. Trust God.
Restoration of people’s relationships with each other and God is the goal.
Father, some of this is dicey to put into practice, at least from my limited human perspective. When do I need to have the conversation? Do I need to have it at all? Am I waiting on you to intervene or are you using me to intervene? I’m trusting you day by day to lead my heart in helping people be restored with each other and you for their good and your glory.
The disciples and Jesus had different ideas about greatness and prestige.
This talk of humility was so opposite to the religions and culture of the day.
God is looking for humility and simple faith.
Our sin nature bends us to try to find our identity and value in what we do…pride.
Value who God values. God is able to rescue anyone.
The story of the stray sheep is telling of the character of both man and God.
Father, I don’t want to be a stumbling block. Help me be about your business your way.
Jesus predicts his death and once again shows his deity.
Two predictions here and Jesus was correct in both- his upcoming betrayal & death and finding the temple tax coin.
Jesus is focused on the pinnacle of his mission.
The disciples still do not comprehend how Jesus can be the Messiah yet die.
Jesus is never caught off guard or flustered. Rest in that.
Jesus’ predictions are faith building. And Jesus’ sense of humor was on point (v. 24-27).
Jesus, help me to rest in you.
Jesus heals a demon possessed boy and gives a lesson about faith.
Jesus’ command over the supernatural is amazing.
God values faith.
At times exercising faith is difficult- even after a mountain top experience.
Remember what Jesus has done.
The subplot of the faith failure of the disciples is strangely encouraging. Jesus does not abandon them, but encourages them.
Lord Jesus, I believe…help my unbelief.
Peter, James, & John see Jesus in his transfigured glory.
The significance of seeing Jewish heroes Moses and Elijah cannot be overstated.
Jesus is God.
Mountain top experiences can be faith building.
Recognize that Jesus is the central character throughout scripture.
This meeting of Jewish patriarchs / prophets and Jesus is who these two were longing to see God’s promised fulfilled.
Jesus, it’s all about you.
Jesus begins speaking more about his future suffering and death.
Jesus’ mission is clear. This is not what most were expecting in the Messiah.
The Kingdom call is to die to self and embrace Jesus & his mission.
Men’s hearts are naturally repelled at suffering- but Jesus knows it is necessary.
Take up your cross daily and follow Jesus.
This call by Jesus is not easy, but excellent conversation. Jesus does not encourage on living “our best lives now”; rather, focusing on our best lives for later.
Father, help me live in a way that pleases you.
Peter answers Jesus correctly.
This interaction clearly shows Jesus claiming to be the Messiah.
Jesus is the foundation of the Church.
Peter wasn’t always the sharpest, but God revealed this truth to him and he embraced it fully.
Always recognize exactly who Jesus is and let that truth propel you to action.
The church is built on Jesus, not Peter. The wordplay here is excellent…so don’t miss it.
Lord Jesus, you are the Rock, and in you there is no shifting.
Jesus is questioned by religious leaders and he warned his disciples about their warped teachings.
Jesus all out said the religious leaders of the day were way off track in their teaching. This was a strong indictment.
God is looking for faith in Jesus.
The theology of these religious leaders was not totally wrong. But how they applied their knowledge of God to their lives was terribly broken.
Obey! Theological knowledge might make a scholar but it takes adding obedience to make a disciple.
Faith being built is a supernatural thing that occupies a space between knowledge of God and action.
Father, your kingdom come, your will be done, on Earth (and in my heart), as it is in Heaven.
