Matthew 4:18-25
Reflect
Have you ever called out for the power of Jesus to come in intensity and immediately change your circumstances? I have, almost daily.
This is a fascinating passage as Jesus reveals His most regular mode of operation. In ancient Israel a rabbi would establish his whereabouts and his students would come to him. Jesus, the Rabbi, breaks all the norms and goes and calls His disciples.
Who are they? Most likely people of little notable power and influence.
Then Jesus goes to the backwoods of the land and touches the afflicted with the power of His love. Something no respectable rabbi would have done.
Not with a flash of lightning. Rrather, with a steady movement, the crowds are gathering to see this man who lives like no other. Even those in the “unclean” region of Syria (think Golan Heights) are receiving Jesus prior to the religious establishment in the splendour of Jerusalem.
The tactic is scandalous, the recipients are scandalous, the results are scandalous, the announcement of "the gospel of the kingdom" is scandalous. Everything about this passage is scandalous. That is the perfect setting for what Jesus is about to unleash on “the Mount”. Buckle up as we dive into the greatest teaching of all time for how we are to be in covenant with Him and the world.
How is your life scandalous for the glory of God and the furtherance of His kingdom?
Pastor Dan
Pray
- Pray for our Prime Minister and Premier, Mayor Sohi, your MP, your MLA, and any other government officials God brings to your mind.
- Pray for our Worship Ministries Assistant, Daniel Zander.