Chronological Bible Blog

John 8:21-59; Luke 10:1-11:13
~ Click here to read today’s Scripture on Bible Gateway ~
~ Listen to today’s Scripture with The ESV Bible ~

John: I love John 8 verse 29 where Jesus says – “And the one who sent me is with me–he has not deserted me. For I always do those things that are pleasing to him.”  If Jesus always did those things that are pleasing to God, do you think that you and I should do those things that are pleasing to Jesus and to God?   Meaning, it seems to me that Jesus was clearly very intentional with how he spent his time.  He only did those things that are pleasing to God.  How intentional are you and I in how we spend our time?  Do we make sure we are only doing those things that are pleasing to Jesus (who is God) and God the Father?  I know I don’t.  I wish I did.  I pray that I will spend more and more of my time doing those things that are pleasing to God.  Let us pray that Jesus’ personality permeates our personality and all that we do!

John chapter 8 verses 34 through 36 are such powerful teachings for each of us to recognize – “Jesus replied, “I assure you that everyone who sins is a slave of sin. A slave is not a permanent member of the family, but a son is part of the family forever. So if the Son sets you free, you will indeed be free.”  Do you believe it is possible to be a slave of sin?  Do you believe Jesus can set us free from the slavery of sin?  Are you free?

Luke: In Luke chapter 10 verse 2 today we read this teaching from Jesus to the disciples – “These were his instructions to them: “The harvest is so great, but the workers are so few. Pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest, and ask him to send out more workers for his fields.”

I believe verse 58 is one of the most powerful statements Jesus makes in the Gospels – “Jesus answered, “The truth is, I existed before Abraham was even born!””  Or the NIV of this verse is –  “”I tell you the truth,” Jesus answered, “before Abraham was born, I am!”  Jesus is quoting Exodus 3:14 here when Moses asks God who he should say sent him to free the Israelites from Egypt and God says – “I AM.  Tell them I AM sent you.”  Jesus here knows what he is doing when he says that even before Abraham was born, I AM.  Jesus is saying he is God.  And He is.  But, to the religious leaders at this time, this was blasphemy to their ears.  And hence, they attempted to stone Jesus in the very next verse.  Do you believe Jesus when he says, “before Abraham was born, I AM”?

Bible.org’s commentary on our John chapter 8 readings today titled “Like Father, Like Son” is at this link.

Luke chapter 10 verse 20 is an incredible teaching from Jesus for us to heed even today – “But don’t rejoice just because evil spirits obey you; rejoice because your names are registered as citizens of heaven.”  I do think that sometimes we rejoice over the wrong things – secondary things.  The primary thing is our relationship with Jesus.  And then there are secondary good things that perhaps we do or are involved with in the Kingdom.  But, don’t rejoice over those.  Rejoice that you are in an eternal relationship with Jesus Christ.  That is the one thing that matters.

 

Today in Luke chapter 10 verse 21 we read – “At that time Jesus, full of joy through the Holy Spirit, said, “I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. Yes, Father, for this was your good pleasure.” What a great opening line – Jesus, full of joy through the Holy Spirit! In your life today – are you full of joy through the Holy Spirit? Do you want to be? I read a great commentary from the One Year Bible companion on this verse with this wonderful Q & A – “What was Jesus’ relationship to the Holy Spirit? Jesus was conceived by the Holy Spirit, baptized by the Holy Spirit, anointed by the Holy Spirit, guided by the Holy Spirit, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and filled with the Holy Spirit. He lives in union with the Holy Spirit, and was dependent upon the Holy Spirit.” What is your relationship with the Holy Spirit today? Are you dependent upon the Holy Spirit in your life?

If you are interested in studying more about the Ministry of the Holy Spirit in our lives please check out these incredible commentaries from Bob Deffinbaugh at Bible.org on the Holy Spirit –
https://bible.org/page.php?page_id=2383 
https://bible.org/page.php?page_id=2125 
https://bible.org/page.php?page_id=2124

Today we read the famous story of the Good Samaritan.  This story always convicts me to ask myself – “Who is my neighbor?”  Who is your neighbor?  Below is a painting from 1890 by Vincent van Gogh titled “The Good Samaritan”:

Bible.org’s commentary on our Luke chapter 10 readings today titled “The True Source of Joy” is at this link and commentary titled “The Good Samaritan” is at this link.

Today in Luke chapter 10 we read about Jesus visiting Mary & Martha and Martha becoming upset with Mary for sitting at Jesus’ feet and not helping her work in the kitchen.  To which Jesus says to Martha in verses 41 & 42 – “But the Lord said to her, “My dear Martha, you are so upset over all these details! There is really only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it–and I won’t take it away from her.”  What do you think is the one thing worth being concerned about Jesus is referring to?  Is this really the only one thing you are concerned about in your life today?  Or are you possibly being distracted by other “details”?

How often do you pray the Lord’s Prayer?  Once a day?  Once a week?  Once a month?  Think this would be a good prayer to pray regularly, since Jesus himself taught us to pray it?  Bible.org’s commentary on Luke chapter 11’s readings today titled “Teach Us How to Pray” is at this link.

Worship Video:  Today’s readings in Luke reminded me of Michael W. Smith’s song “Secret Ambition:”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2vHedm6ycsY

What’s your secret ambition? Click here for your ambition’s fulfillment!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today: “Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave to sin.” John 8:34 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray that you are not a slave to sin. Pray that Jesus has set you free from slavery to sin, and that you are free indeed! Pray for your friends and family that are enslaved to sin that they will be freed through faith in Jesus and repentance of their sins.

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Chronological Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Chronological Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Chronological Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

John 7:1-9; Luke 9:51-56; Matthew 8:18-22; Luke 9:57-62; John 7:10-8:20
~ Click here to read today’s Scripture on Bible Gateway ~
~ Listen to today’s Scripture with The ESV Bible ~

John: Hmmm… I found John chapter 7 verse 12 intriguing today as it said this about Jesus – “There was a lot of discussion about him among the crowds. Some said, “He’s a wonderful man,” while others said, “He’s nothing but a fraud, deceiving the people.””  Does this verse sound familiar to you at all?  Maybe like something we would hear about Jesus or Christianity in our modern world today?  “Jesus & Christianity is wonderful.  Jesus & Christianity is nothing but a fraud, deceiving people.”  Times really have not changed much have they?

Jesus’ words in verse 17 are powerful – “Anyone who wants to do the will of God will know whether my teaching is from God or is merely my own.”  I like that – if we want to do the will of God, we will know whether Jesus’ teaching is from God or is his own.  Do you want to do the will of God?  When you read Jesus’ teachings in John, do you know that his teaching is from God?

I will say this – I am so transformed when I read Jesus’ words in the Gospel of John.  I don’t know what it is about this Gospel…. but for some reason the words speak to me at a deep spiritual level.  Certainly when I read the words of Jesus in the other Gospels, or when I read any other words in the Bible, I know they are true words and I know they are feeding me spiritually. But… there’s something about the Gospel of John.  It is such a blessing to me.  It makes me want to cry with joy!   Really…

Bible.org’s commentary on John chapter 7 readings today titled “Jesus in Jerusalem at the Feast of Tabernacles” is at this link.

John chapter 7 verses 37 & 38 are powerful verses for each of us to meditate upon – ““Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. For the Scriptures declare that rivers of living water will flow from the heart of those who believe in me.”  Wow… these are powerful words from Jesus.  And so true.  I know that I have been very spiritually thirsty in my life in the past and Jesus has most certainly quenched that thirst in my life.  And I do believe that rivers of living water flow from the heart of those that believe in Jesus.  This is the Holy Spirit, which indwells within us when we are in relationship with God the Father through Jesus the Son.  This living water flowing from our hearts – the Holy Spirit – is an intriguing topic.  I know different folks experience the Holy Spirit in different ways.  I do hope that each of us do tangibly experience the Holy Spirit in our hearts and lives each and every day.  I do know there are some days where I really sense and experience the Holy Spirit in my heart and life.  And there are some days where I may not – but I don’t believe the Holy Spirit has departed.  It’s more likely that I’m just caught up in the hustle / bustle of this life and focused on the flesh / world and not the Spirit.  Do you believe that rivers of living water will flow from the heart of those that believe in Jesus?   Are you thirsty?

 

Interesting to see Nicodemus come up in today’s readings in verses 50 & 51 – “Nicodemus, the leader who had met with Jesus earlier, then spoke up. “Is it legal to convict a man before he is given a hearing?” he asked.”  Think Jesus’ conversations with Nicodemus in John chapter 3 changed Nicodemus’ life forever?  Remember that John 3:16 is in that chapter – imagine being the person actually hearing that from Jesus himself!  Oh my goodness… hard to imagine.   I gotta believe that Nicodemus – a Pharisee – was now a Believer…  Not surprising that he’s defending Jesus in these verses today.  Below is a beautiful painting by artist John La Farge from the year 1880 recalling recalling the “Visit of Nicodemus to Christ” from John 3:

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s (and yesterday’s) John chapter 7 readings titled “Jesus in Jerusalem at the Feast of Tabernacles” is at this link.

I love John chapter 8 verse 12 today: “Jesus said to the people, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t be stumbling through the darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.””  Do you believe that Jesus is the light of the world?  Why would we want or need a light in this world?  Do you believe there is darkness in this world?  Do you need the light that leads to life?

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in John titled “The Light of the World” is at this link.

Worship Video: John 7:12 reminded me of the Casting Crowns song “Every Man:”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q1r_olVRE4U

Do you believe there is hope for every man (and woman)? Click here for Hope!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on two verses of Scripture today: “Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.” John 7:37-38 TNIV

Prayer Point: Pray that your spiritual thirst has been quenched by your faith in Jesus. Pray that streams of living water – the Holy Spirit – is flowing within you today and forevermore.

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Chronological Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Chronological Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Chronological Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

Mark 9:14-29; Matthew 17:14-21; Luke 9:37-43; Mark 9:30-32; Matthew 17:22-23; Luke 9:43-45; Matthew 17:24-27; Mark 9:33-37; Matthew 18:1-6; Luke 9:46-48; Mark 9:38-41; Luke 9:49-50; Mark 9:42-50; Matthew 18:7-35
~ Click here to read today’s Scripture on Bible Gateway ~
~ Listen to today’s Scripture with The ESV Bible ~

Matthew: Today in Matthew chapter 17 verse 20 stood out to me: “”You didn’t have enough faith,” Jesus told them. “I assure you, even if you had faith as small as a mustard seed you could say to this mountain, `Move from here to there,’ and it would move. Nothing would be impossible.””  As I think about this verse, I wonder about my own faith.  How much faith do I really have?  Do I have enough faith in Jesus?  And in all of God’s promises?  Or – am I hedging my bets?  Do I also place a lot of faith in my own power?  My own skills?  My own “smarts”?   Do I truly have complete faith in Jesus and Jesus alone?  If so, and if it was Jesus’ will, do I believe that I could move mountains?  Could you?   I don’t think that this idea of not having enough faith means that I need to “try harder” in any way.  I think it means I simply need to depend more – rest more – relax more – give more – to Jesus.  Trust in Jesus.  Trust that his grace is enough…  As a great Chris Tomlin song goes – “All of you is more than Enough, for all of me.”  Is Jesus more than enough for you?

Verses 25 & 26 are awesome as Peter is about to ask Jesus about the Temple Tax: “But before he had a chance to speak, Jesus asked him, “What do you think, Peter? Do kings tax their own people or the foreigners they have conquered?” “They tax the foreigners,” Peter replied. “Well, then,” Jesus said, “the citizens are free!””  Here we see that Jesus is recognizing himself as the King – and his disciples are his citizens who should not have to pay the tax.  But – as to not offend those who did not realize that Jesus was the King, Jesus tells Peter where to find a coin, in the fish’s mouth, to pay the tax. 

Jesus’ teaching in Matthew chapter 18 verses 3 & 4 are something for each of us to consider: “”I assure you, unless you turn from your sins and become as little children, you will never get into the Kingdom of Heaven. Therefore, anyone who becomes as humble as this little child is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven.”  I find it interesting the order of the words – first, turn from your sin.  THEN – after turning from your sins – become as little children.  It seems that we cannot become humble as children without first turning from our sins.  This makes sense if you think about it.  If you are still living in sin, how can you become humble like a child?  You must first repent of the sin before moving toward humility.  I think this teaching is a tough one in our modern age.  It doesn’t sound quite right… become humble like a child?  Why??  But, there is so much wisdom in it.   Do you want to become humble like a child?  Will you ask God to show you how to do this in your life?

Verses 19 & 20 are awesome: “I also tell you this: If two of you agree down here on earth concerning anything you ask, my Father in heaven will do it for you. For where two or three gather together because they are mine, I am there among them.” Again, these verses remind me of the importance of being in community with other believers regularly.  The importance of church.  And not just showing up to church on Sundays, but really investing in your church.  Serving.  Giving financially. Being part of a small group.  Doing life together with others.  Being the body of Christ.   I will admit that there have been periods of my life where I really felt like I did not need the church.  That I did not need to be in community.  These have turned out to be lonely or hurried or stressful seasons when I look back on them!  I realize now more than ever that I need the church.  I love my church.  I love everyone in my church – warts and faults and all – and I believe they love me in return, warts and faults and all.   How about you?  Do you have a church that you love?  Do you have a community of believers that you love and that loves you?  If not, will you pray to God to lead you to such a community?  Do you believe that Christian community is important for you?  (Please know that when I say church I am speaking very broadly of the body of Christ and all the various ways it manifest itself as church.  For example, I have many friends who are part of the growing house church movement, which is a wonderful way to do church for many folks.  For others it’s the mega-church and for others the mainline church, and this list of examples of church could go on and on…)

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Matthew chapter 18 titled “Life Under Kingdom Authority” is at this link.

Today in Matthew chapter 18 we read about Jesus’ strong teaching on the need for us to forgive others in our life.  And not just to forgive someone once… but many many many times.  Why?  Because God has been so gracious to us – he has forgiven us for our many many many sins through our faith in Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection.  If God has forgiven us many times over – who are we to not forgive others many times over as well?  Are we better than God?  🙂  We all know the answer to this one.  No.  But, we are all called to forgive as gracefully as God has forgiven us.  We are to forgive, just as we have been forgiven.  Is there someone in your life today that you need to forgive?  Will you? 

Worship Video:  It’s been, oh, about 3 days since I’ve posted up a Casting Crowns video – much too long!  🙂  I definitely love their ministry.  Here’s the song that started it all for them, "If we are the Body."  I was reminded of this song in today’s readings. This is definitely a song worthy of launching a ministry with the powerful lyrics:  "But if we are the Body, why aren’t His arms reaching? Why aren’t His hands healing? Why aren’t His words teaching?  Why is His love not showing them there is a way?  There is a way!"  Jesus is the Way!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DYbGMQ5Y3Uo

Are you part of the Body? Click here and learn that there is a Way!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on two verses of Scripture today: “Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them.” Matthew 18:19-20 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray that you would pray with others regularly. Pray that you would gather with two or three others regularly, coming together in Jesus’ holy name.

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Chronological Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Chronological Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Chronological Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

Mark 8:22-30; Matthew 16:13-20; Luke 9:18-20; Mark 8:31-9:1; Matthew 16:21-28; Luke 9:21-27; Mark 9:2-13; Matthew 17:1-13; Luke 9:28-36
~ Click here to read today’s Scripture on Bible Gateway ~
~ Listen to today’s Scripture with The ESV Bible ~

Matthew: Today we read about Peter’s confession of Christ in Matthew chapter 16. In verse 15 we hear Jesus ask: ““But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?” And then in verse 16 Peter replies – “Simon Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” I believe this is a question that is asked of each of us today as well. Who do you say that Jesus is? Is your answer the same answer as Peter’s? If not, will you pray to God about who Jesus truly is?  Below is a fresco from 1481 by Pietro Perugino of “Christ Giving the Keys to Peter” from verse 19:

In verse 18 we read – “Now I say to you that you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church, and all the powers of hell will not conquer it.”  Praise God for Jesus instituting the body of Christ, Jesus’ church!  And all of the powers of hell will not conquer the body of Christ!   Do you praise Jesus regularly for the church you attend?  Do you pray for the ministry of your church regularly?  Do you pray often for your pastors / ministers / priests?  Do you pray for others that attend your church?  Do you pray for those that will soon be coming to attend your church?  I have to say – I absolutely love my church.  I honestly cannot imagine what my life would be like without the church.  I met first met Jesus thanks to the church about 6 and a half years ago.  And Jesus changed my life forever.  Thank God for the church!  I realize that some of you may feel that some churches have some issues and so you don’t go to church at all at this time. However, I honestly do believe that we are called to be in community with others in a church – be it a big church, small church, house church, etc. – and that you really can find a great church if you search prayerfully.  Trust me, they are out there!  If you are not currently attending church – maybe because of bad experiences you had at another church in the past, will you pray about this with Jesus?  Will you attend a different church again soon?  I honestly believe it will bless you immensely to attend church again on a regular basis. Also, I am reminded of a classic line from Billy Graham – “If you ever find the perfect church, please do not join it. You’ll mess it up!” 🙂 Indeed, there are no perfect people out there, and hence no perfect churches. But let us be the church anyway! The church may be a majestic mess, but it is Majestic indeed! And I do honestly believe that the body of Christ is the “hope of the world”. Please be an active participant in this Hope.

Verses 24 – 26 are so powerful today: “”If any of you wants to be my follower, you must put aside your selfish ambition, shoulder your cross, and follow me. If you try to keep your life for yourself, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for me, you will find true life. And how do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul in the process? Is anything worth more than your soul?”  Wow… there is so much going on in these verses… I pray they speak to you powerfully as well?  Do you want to follow Jesus?  Will you put aside your selfish ambition?  Will you shoulder your cross?  Do you know what your cross is?  Are you trying to “keep your life” in any area of your life?  Or, will you give up all of your life – every area – to Jesus so that you will find true life?  Is there anything that this world has to offer that is worth more than your soul?

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Matthew chapter 16 titled “Peter’s Confession and Christ’s Church” is at this link and commentary on chapter 17 titled “The Transfiguration” is at this link.

Worship God:  Today’s readings in Matthew 16:24-25 about taking up our crosses and following Jesus reminded me of the beautiful song by Leeland called “Follow You:”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HlmyaZT9yE0

Are you following God?  Click here to follow Him!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on two verses of Scripture today: “Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will find it.” Matthew 16:24-25 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray that you are following Jesus, denying yourself and taking up your cross daily. Pray that you have lost your life for Jesus.

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Chronological Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Chronological Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Chronological Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

Mark 7:24-30; Matthew 15:21-28; Mark 7:31-37; Matthew 15:29-31; Mark 8:1-10; Matthew 15:32-16:4; Mark 8:11-21; Matthew 16:5-12
~ Click here to read today’s Scripture on Bible Gateway ~
~ Listen to today’s Scripture with The ESV Bible ~

Mark: Mark chapter 7 opens up with a gentile woman begging Jesus to release her daughter from the control of a demon.  Verses 27 through 29 are a fascinating look at Jesus’ ministry –  “Jesus told her, “First I should help my own family, the Jews. It isn’t right to take food from the children and throw it to the dogs.” She replied, “That’s true, Lord, but even the dogs under the table are given some crumbs from the children’s plates.” “Good answer!” he said. “And because you have answered so well, I have healed your daughter.”  Here we see that Jesus’ ministry was initially to the Jews, but here he heals a gentile woman’s daughter because of her humility and faith.  And of course as we get to the Great Commission at the end of the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus’ ministry is clearly for “all nations”.  In fact, Mark’s Gospel is a good indicator of how Jesus’ ministry quickly expanded beyond the Jews as Mark likely wrote this Gospel in Rome and to a primarily Roman gentile believer audience.  Jeff Miller from Bible.org’s commentary on Mark chapter 7 is at this link.

Today in chapter 7 verses 32 through 34 we read – “A deaf man with a speech impediment was brought to him, and the people begged Jesus to lay his hands on the man to heal him. Jesus led him to a private place away from the crowd. He put his fingers into the man’s ears. Then, spitting onto his own fingers, he touched the man’s tongue with the spittle. And looking up to heaven, he sighed and commanded, “Be opened!” Instantly the man could hear perfectly and speak plainly!” I love this image below based on these verses… please meditate on this image for a few moments…  What do you think is going through this man’s mind at this moment?  What is he experiencing?

Matthew: In Matthew chapter 16 verses 11 & 12 stood out to me today: “So again I say, `Beware of the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees.’ ” Then at last they understood that he wasn’t speaking about yeast or bread but about the false teaching of the Pharisees and Sadducees.”  And I wonder today – are there false teachings that we should beware of today?   I believe there are…  and there have been times in my life where I have bought into false teaching’s.  How can we know if a teacher is false?  That is a great question.  I would say that each of you are doing an amazing thing to help discern whether a teacher is false by reading the entire Bible.  I believe the Bible to be the ultimate Truthful teaching that we can read – and thus, if you come across teachers that differ radically or go against the teachings of the Bible, you need to be wary.  Don’t get me wrong – every pastor / minister / priest is going to have some different takes or views or interpretations of the Bible.  By slight degrees…  If there are major differences, then you should be worried.  In addition to knowing the Bible relatively well, the key to discerning false teachers will be the Holy Spirit.  If you are getting bad “gut feelings” (hopefully coming from the Holy Spirit) over and over again about a teacher, there might be an issue.  Pray to God about this and ask for his guidance.  I realize this can be a sensitive issue!  I’d say don’t freak out about this and start wondering if your pastor is a false teacher….  🙂  But, be aware.  I do believe there are still false teachers out and about today unfortunately.  If you ever feel like you are being confused by someone today, keep your eye on the way out of confusion through God’s Word!

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Matthew chapter 15 titled “A Lesson in Hermeneutics” is at this link.

Worship Video:  Today’s readings reminded me of Lincoln Brewster’s awesome song "Everlasting God:"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gT0UodmNhKk

Do you know our God who reigns forever? Click here for your strong deliverer!

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Chronological Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Chronological Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Chronological Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

John 6:22-71; Mark 7:1-23; Matthew 15:1-20
~ Click here to read today’s Scripture on Bible Gateway ~
~ Listen to today’s Scripture with The ESV Bible ~

John: Wow… verses 28 & 29 in John chapter 6 are so beautiful and simple that I think it is easy to miss the strong meaning behind this conversation between the crowd & Jesus – “They replied, “What does God want us to do?” Jesus told them, “This is what God wants you to do: Believe in the one he has sent.””  Check out that very last sentence.  This is what God wants you to do.  Believe.  That’s it.  It’s that simple.  Believe.  Not give away all your money to the poor.  Not do thousands of good deeds.  Not become a perfect person over night.  Just believe.  Believe.  Yeah, okay, maybe God will ask you to give away some money and do good and become better person after you believe…  🙂  But the key is first and foremost to Believe.  Do you Believe in Jesus, the One whom God sent?

And verse 35 is so powerful as well – “Jesus replied, “I am the bread of life. No one who comes to me will ever be hungry again. Those who believe in me will never thirst.”  Jesus saying he is the bread of life is similar to him saying he is the Door or the Vine.  Bread is a beautiful metaphor that Jesus supplies divine nourishment to us spiritually.  For me, this verse also reminds me of The Lord’s Supper in our churches today.

Okay, so John chapter 6 verses 53 through 58 are some verses that get interpreted several different ways – some saying these verses speak of the Lord’s Supper and some saying they speak only of faith in Jesus because the Lord’s Supper had not yet been instituted by Jesus at this time.  I think the key for us to focus on is that Jesus is our nourishment – our literal spiritual food if we have faith in him. It is interesting to note that many disciples turned away from Jesus after this teaching.  I love Peter’s reply to Jesus in verses 68 & 69 after Jesus asks if the Twelve will leave too – “Simon Peter replied, “Lord, to whom would we go? You alone have the words that give eternal life. We believe them, and we know you are the Holy One of God.””  True words indeed Peter.  True words indeed.  If not Jesus, to whom would you go?  Does anyone else have the words that give eternal life?

Bible.org’s commentary on our John chapter 6 readings today titled “The Bread of Life” is at this link.

Mark: How very interesting that today’s readings in Mark are about “Clean and Unclean” – based on all of our Leviticus readings recently about this subject.  Today we read about Jesus confronting the Pharisees about their “own traditions”.  I read in NIV Study Bible and OYB Companion commentaries that after the Babylonian exile (we’ll read about this late this year in the One Year Bible), Jewish rabbis began to make meticulous rules and regulations governing the daily life of people.  And that these rules were added to God’s law and essentially elevated to the same sacred status by the Pharisees.  In 200 A.D. these traditions of the elders were put into writing in the Mishnah.  I think what Jesus gets at here in this chapter is that the Pharisees were allowing the “rules & regs” to overshadow the spirit of God’s law.  They were not honoring their parents because of the practice of Corban – giving $ to the temple.  Which is a good thing… but at the expense of a great thing of caring for your parents?   I know we all could probably go round and round on what is the greatest good – how should we spend our time and our money and our lives.  I like that Jesus basically takes us to the heart.  What is the heart of the matter?  No matter what the matter is – taking care of your parents, giving to your church, following God’s laws, receiving God’s grace – what is the heart of the matter?   One thing that I have been so blessed to learn over the past few years is that the condition of our hearts matters.  Immensely.  The motives of why we do something – anything – matters.  Immensely.  We are called in Proverbs to “guard our hearts, for it is the wellspring of life.”   If we do not care for the state of our hearts, we can become very regimented or insensitive in our thinking and doing.  We might even get to the point in verse 8 of this chapter where Jesus quotes from Isaiah – “`These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far away.”  How is the state of your heart today?  Is it close to God?

Jesus continues to speak about the importance of what is in our hearts in verses 20-23 today –  “It is the thought-life that defiles you. For from within, out of a person’s heart, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, wickedness, deceit, eagerness for lustful pleasure, envy, slander, pride, and foolishness. All these vile things come from within; they are what defile you and make you unacceptable to God.”  I think this takes us back again to the Sermon on the Mount – where Jesus teaches us in one example that yes, it is wrong to commit adultery.  But, if you commit adultery in your heart, it is just as wrong.  Because if you commit adultery in the heart, you have essentially defiled your own heart.  And from the heart could come the actual act of committing adultery – which would then shatter several lives.  But it all starts in the heart….   So – the good news?  Jesus can heal our hearts!  Jesus is in the business of heart-healing!  Maybe in your life, you might need to refocus a little bit less on some external actions and start focusing on the state of your heart?   Maybe by focusing on what’s going no inside your heart, the external actions will ultimately change?   Maybe allow Jesus to heal your heart – and then your external life will be healed as well?  I’m not sure you can go about this the other way – trying to work from the outside back in…  I think you may need to start on the inside first and work your way out.  But don’t do this alone – let Jesus walk this healing path with you.

Matthew: In Matthew chapter 15 today we read about Jesus confronting the Pharisees on their “age-old traditions.”  I read in Zondervan’s & Tyndale’s commentaries that after the Babylonian exile (we’ll read about the exile late this year in the One Year Bible), Jewish rabbis began to make meticulous rules and regulations governing the daily life of people.  And that these rules were added to God’s law and were essentially elevated to the same sacred status by the Pharisees.  In 200 A.D. these traditions of the elders were put into writing in the Mishnah.  I think what Jesus gets at here in this chapter is that the Pharisees were allowing the “rules & regulations” to overshadow the spirit of God’s law.  They were not honoring their parents because of the practice of Corban – giving $ to the temple.  Which, giving $ to the temple is a good thing… but at the expense of the great thing of caring for your parents?   I know we all could probably go round and round on what is the greatest good – how should we spend our time and our money and our lives.  I like that Jesus basically takes it to the heart.  What is the heart of the matter?  No matter what the matter is – taking care of your parents, giving to your church, obediently following God’s will, receiving God’s grace – what is the heart of the matter?   One thing that I have been so blessed to learn over the past few years is that the condition of our hearts matters.  Immensely.  The motives of why we do something – anything – matters.  Immensely.  We are called in Proverbs to “guard our hearts, for it is the wellspring of life.”  If we do not care for the state of our hearts, we can become very regimented or insensitive in our thinking and doing.  We might even get to the point in verse 8 of this chapter where Jesus quotes from Isaiah: “`These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far away.”  How is the state of your heart today?  Is it close to God?  Does your heart yearn for Jesus?

Jesus continues to speak about the importance of what is in our hearts in verses 18-20 today: “But evil words come from an evil heart and defile the person who says them. For from the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, all other sexual immorality, theft, lying, and slander. These are what defile you.”  I think this takes us back again to the Sermon on the Mount – where Jesus teaches us in one example that yes, it is wrong to commit adultery.  But, if you commit adultery in your heart, it is just as wrong.  Because if you commit adultery in the heart, you have defiled your own heart.  And from the heart could come the actual act of committing adultery – which would then shatter several lives.  But it all starts in the heart….   So – the good news?  Jesus can heal our hearts!  Jesus is in the business of heart-healing!  Maybe in your life, you might need to refocus from some external actions and start focusing on the state of your heart?   Maybe by focusing on what’s going on inside your heart, the external actions will ultimately change?   Maybe allow Jesus to heal your heart – and then your external life will be healed as well?  I’m not sure you can go about this the other way – trying to work from the outside back in…  I think you need to start on the inside first and work your way out.  But don’t do this alone – let Jesus walk this healing path with you.  Let Jesus tattoo your heart with his healing love!  (very interesting name of the theater in the image below, based on our Genesis readings today… 🙂

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Matthew chapter 15 titled “Jesus and the Traditions of the Elders” is at this link and “The Faith of a Canaanite Woman” is at this link.

Worship Video:  Today’s readings reminds me of the fantastic Matthew West song “More!”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YJ1GIcnmLD0

Do you know our God of More?  Click here for More!

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Chronological Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Chronological Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Chronological Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

Luke 9:7-9; Mark 6:14-29; Matthew 14:1-21; Mark 6:30-44; Luke 9:10-17; John 6:1-15; Mark 6:45-52; Matthew 14:22-33; John 6:16-21; Mark 6:53-56; Matthew 14:34-36
~ Click here to read today’s Scripture on Bible Gateway ~
~ Listen to today’s Scripture with The ESV Bible ~

Matthew: Today we read about the beheading of John the Baptist.  I found this painting below by the Italian artist Caravaggio from the year 1610 titled “Salome with the Head of St. John the Baptist.”  I almost hesitated to post this painting up, but I think it’s worth us considering.  This is what happened to the man who proclaimed Jesus’ ministry was coming.  This is what happened to the man who baptized Jesus in the Jordan.  And of course this brutality pales in comparison to what Jesus went through on the road to Golgotha.  This painting below and thinking about Jesus’ passion, suffering, and death just made me think that sometimes following God does not lead strictly to “health and wealth.”  But sometimes truly following God leads to suffering and poverty.  But – and here’s the key but – it also leads to eternal life!  So, no, perhaps many/most/all of us will not go through what John went through in today’s readings or in this painting below.  But you know what, if we are truly following God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit, I think we need to realize that this type of thing can happen.  But if this type of thing happens while pursuing and loving Jesus with all that you are, then it’s of course worth it because Jesus will raise you up on the other side!

In Matthew chapter 14 today we read about two miracles – Jesus feeding the 5,000 (or really 10,000 to 15,000 counting men, women & children – Matthew just counted men, as his Gospel was written to a Jewish audience, which had men eat separately from women and children at that time/place) and Jesus walking on water.  While these 2 miracles are amazing and again confirming that Jesus is God – a couple of other things stood out me.  First was verse 23: “Afterward he went up into the hills by himself to pray.”  If Jesus did this – do you think we should do the same?   How often do we get away from the “crowds” or even the “disciples” or loved ones in our life to be by ourselves and pray?  Do you do this at least for a few minutes each day?  Do you do this for longer periods of time too? 

Verses 29 & 30 also stood out to me today: “All right, come,” Jesus said. So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus. But when he looked around at the high waves, he was terrified and began to sink. “Save me, Lord!” he shouted.”  These verses made me wonder in our own lives – Are there times or areas our lives where Jesus has said, “Come”, and we’ve moved forward in faith.  But then – the waves came… the challenges came… the doubts came… the insults came…. and we started to waver in our faith?  Maybe we got scared – and started to sink?  Well – I do admire that Peter did cry out to Jesus to save him in this situation – and we then get the reassuring verse 31: “Instantly Jesus reached out his hand and grabbed him.”  If you feel like there are some areas in your life where you are sinking – will you cry out to Jesus to save you?  Do you believe he will instantly reach out his hand and grab you?

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Matthew chapter 14 titled “The Feeding of the Five Thousand” is at this link.

Mark: Today we read in Mark Chapter 6 verse 46: “Afterward he (Jesus) went up into the hills by himself to pray.” What a beautiful verse for each of us to meditate upon! Jesus went by himself to pray to God. It is interesting to note that this took place just after Jesus fed the 5,000. Jesus had been working hard – he is God and yet he still felt the call to pray to the Father. I think this verse is such a great reminder that you and I need to follow Jesus’ example in this verse. And we’re so not God! 🙂 So, think about how much more crucial it is for us to pray. Jesus knew that God was his source of strength. His comfort. His wisdom. And prayer was the one sure fire way for Jesus to really connect and spend time with God. How is your prayer life these days? Are you finding a good amount of time each day to be by yourself and pray? If not, can you schedule this time into your calendar each day?

Worship Video: Today’s readings in Mark 6 about Jesus praying and Psalm 40 about David praying reminded me of the Casting Crowns song “What If His People Prayed.” Here’s a great live version:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lF-lXgjEHo0

Are you praying? Click here and pray!

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Chronological Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Chronological Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Chronological Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

Matthew 9:27-34; Mark 6:1-6; Matthew 13:53-58; Matthew 9:35-38; Mark 6:7-13; Matthew 10:1-42; Luke 9:1-6
~ Click here to read today’s Scripture on Bible Gateway ~
~ Listen to today’s Scripture with The ESV Bible ~

Matthew: In Matthew chapter 9 we read about Jesus healing in response to people’s faith. It is amazing to remember that the Old Testament prophet Isaiah predicted these types of healings would take place in the Messianic age.  Check out Isaiah chapter 35 verses 5 & 6: “Then will the eyes of the blind be opened and the ears of the deaf unstopped. Then will the lame leap like a deer, and the mute tongue shout for joy.”  This image below of the woman reaching for Jesus’ tassels from today’s readings is one of my favorite images of faith.  Have you ever reached out in faith to Jesus like this woman did?

Verses 37 & 38 are so powerful in today’s readings: “He said to his disciples, “The harvest is so great, but the workers are so few. So pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest; ask him to send out more workers for his fields.”  I think each of us can reflect on this teaching from Jesus.  Do you agree with Jesus that the harvest is so great?  And the workers are few?  Will you pray to God for more workers for his kingdom work?  Are you one of God’s workers in his kingdom work?

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Matthew chapter 9 titled “The Authority to Give Sight” is at this link.

In Matthew chapter 10 Jesus sends out the twelve disciples!  Verse 7 stands out: “Jesus sent the twelve disciples out with these instructions: “Don’t go to the Gentiles or the Samaritans, but only to the people of Israel–God’s lost sheep.”  Gentiles are anyone who is not a Jew.  Samaritans are a race that resulted in intermarriage between Jews and Gentiles after the Old Testament exiles and captivities – as we see in 2 Kings 17:24 – “The king of Assyria brought people from Babylon, Cuthah, Avva, Hamath and Sepharvaim and settled them in the towns of Samaria to replace the Israelites. They took over Samaria and lived in its towns.” The Matthew 10 verse 7 above does indicate that Jesus’ disciple’s ministry was first to the Jews, but soon thereafter the ministry and the gospel message clearly was for all people.  As we see in Acts 10:34-35 – “Then Peter began to speak: “I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts men from every nation who fear him and do what is right.” And certainly as we see in the Great Commission at the end of Matthew, in chapter 28 verses 19 & 20: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”  Below is a Spanish wood panel painting by an unknown artist from the early 12th century of Jesus and the twelve disciples:

One interesting note on the listing of names of the 12 disciples in Matthew.  Peter is listed first and Judas Iscariot last.  We’ll read various listings of the 12 disciples throughout the New Testament.  And numbers 2 through 11 always vary in order of how the disciples are listed.  But in all of the listings, Peter is first.  And Judas Iscariot is always listed last.  Below is a painting titled ” The Sending of the Twelve” by Duccio di Buoninsegna from the early 14th century – (looks to me like Duccio only painted in 11 here… )

Matthew 10 verse 16 stands out: “”Look, I am sending you out as sheep among wolves. Be as wary as snakes and harmless as doves.”  This is good advice for us today as well.  Jesus is still sending us out today as his followers.  And I do think this teaching is wise – for us to be wary and harmless at the same time.  It’s an interesting line to walk, but I believe a very wise one.  I believe the only way to really walk this line well is through the blessing of the Holy Spirit.  I don’t think we can do it on our own…

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Matthew chapter 10 titled “Wise as Serpents” is at this link.

Matthew chapter 10 closes out today with what might be considered some “hard teachings” of Jesus.  I think what stands out in my mind in reading these teachings is that while Jesus is certainly the Prince of Peace, he also has come into a world that is full of darkness – and the darkness fights against Jesus’ light.  So, if we decide to align ourselves with Jesus, and his eternal goodness and light, the darkness will also then fight against us – just as it fights against Jesus.  As students and servants of Jesus, we will face the same persecutions that Jesus did.  And while this is certainly true, think about the alternative – not following Jesus… and not walking in the light of God’s love.  I’d much rather spend 1 day in Jesus’ light than 1 thousand days elsewhere…  How about you?

Verse 38 is the first mention of the word cross in the gospel of Matthew: “If you refuse to take up your cross and follow me, you are not worthy of being mine.”   What strikes me about this verse is that Jesus is teaching that we do have a cross to bear.  And we have a choice to make of whether we will take up the cross and follow Jesus.  So, now may be a good time to ask yourself – what is your cross in your life?  Do you think you know what it is?  If not, will you ask Jesus to reveal to you what your cross is?  And then, will you bear it daily?  And will you follow Jesus daily?

Worship Video: Today’s readings in Matthew chapter 10 today about Jesus remind me of the beautiful Jason Castro song, “You Are:”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kUkCrSTYGA8

Is Jesus the One for you?  Click here for the One!

Please join me in memorizing and meditating on two verses of Scripture today: “Whoever acknowledges me before men, I will also acknowledge him before my Father in heaven. But whoever disowns me before men, I will disown him before my Father in heaven.” Matthew 10:32-33 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray that you acknowledge Jesus before men in all ways in all of your days.

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Chronological Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Chronological Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Chronological Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

Mark 5:1-20; Matthew 8:28-34; Luke 8:26-39; Mark 5:21-43; Matthew 9:18-26; Luke 8:40-56
~ Click here to read today’s Scripture on Bible Gateway ~
~ Listen to today’s Scripture with The ESV Bible ~

Mark: I love the parable of the growing seed in Mark chapter 4 verses 26-29.  This parable only occurs in the Gospel of Mark.  I equate the seed to be the Gospel, which is filled with so much power and truth and life that “the seeds sprouted and grew without the farmer’s help, because the earth produces crops on its own.”  The Gospel message is so powerful on its own that it will produce a bountiful crop.  Or – maybe the Bible is another way to look at the seed.  Reading and studying the Bible will ultimately produce a bountiful crop in our lives.  It can’t help but not do so.  What do you think the seed represents in this parable?  I’ll share with you that I have been thinking more and more about farming these days – and the wisdom in how farming works.  You plant, you water, you care for the soil, you wait, the plant grows.   And this takes time.  You reap what you sow.  And I contrast this with our society today – or myself – and how everything moves so fast.  We want instant gratification.  Now!  🙂  We don’t like to wait on anything.  We don’t like the concept of farming…  and I’m afraid that this speed of life today can really be unhealthy – or maybe superficial is the word I’m looking for.  In any case, I think the patience and process of farming is something that has so much value for us still today.  If we are struggling with sins or sadness or whatever, I think we absolutely need to take these things to Jesus for healing – but, we would do well to realize that Jesus may want to do some farming in our hearts.  He may want to plant some seeds, and give the seeds some time to grow.  Sure, maybe sometimes we’ll get an instant gratification healing or answer. But I think more often than not we should be ready for some farming to occur in our hearts.  And to thank God for the wisdom of this process!

I think my little tangent on farming and being patient during the process, above, might play in well to Jesus’ next parable of the mustard seed in verses 30 through 32: “Jesus asked, “How can I describe the Kingdom of God? What story should I use to illustrate it? It is like a tiny mustard seed. Though this is one of the smallest of seeds, it grows to become one of the largest of plants, with long branches where birds can come and find shelter.””  I think if we can have faith in the seed that Jesus plants in our hearts – be it the Gospel, the Bible, healing, patience, faith – we will see an amazing plant grow that will ultimately bless others.  From the tiniest beginnings, with patience and faith, can come the largest of plants.  Will you let Jesus plant a needed mustard seed in your heart?  And will you be patient and allow the seed time & space to grow?

Commentary from Bob Deffinbaugh at Bible.org on Mark chapter 4 titled “The Meaning of the Miracles” is at this link.  Commentary from Bible.org on Jesus healing a demon possessed man in Mark chapter 5 titled the “Gerasene Demoniac” is at this link.  Below is an image for the end of chapter 4 where we read about Jesus calming the storm:

The structure of today’s readings in Mark chapter 5 are amazing!  The narrative starts with Jairus asking Jesus to heal his daughter who is about to die – but, then, in the middle of the narrative Jesus’ journey is stopped by a woman who simply wants to touch Jesus’ robe so that she will be healed from a 12-year suffering.  And verse 34 in this portion is just so beautiful as Jesus says to the now healed woman: “”Daughter, your faith has made you well. Go in peace. You have been healed.”” 

Then, the narrative cuts back to Jairus, but it sounds like it’s too late for Jesus to come to the house.  Messengers report that the little girl has died.   Jesus simply tells Jairus in verse 36 – “Just trust me.”  (which is something so powerful that I believe Jesus says to you and me today too – “Just trust me.”  Don’t worry about anything else in this passing life.  “Just trust me.”)  And then in verses 40 & 41 we read: “Then he took the girl’s father and mother and his three disciples into the room where the girl was lying. Holding her hand, he said to her, “Get up, little girl!” 

Commentary from Bob Deffinbaugh at bible.org on today’s readings in Mark chapter 5 entitled “Where there is Death there is Hope” is at this link.

Worship Video:  Today’s readings reminded me of the Rush of Fools’ song "Undo."  This is one of my favorite songs!  "Jesus, you are the only one who can undo what I’ve become…"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v0fbtr2eeb8

Have you been Undone?  Click here for a spiritual "Undo!"

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Chronological Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Chronological Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Chronological Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

Matthew 13:10-23; Luke 8:9-18; Mark 4:21-29; Matthew 13:24-30; Mark 4:30-34; Matthew 13:31-52; Mark 4:35-41; Matthew 8:23-27; Luke 8:22-25
~ Click here to read today’s Scripture on Bible Gateway ~
~ Listen to today’s Scripture with The ESV Bible ~

Matthew: Matthew chapter 13 verses 11 & 12 are important for us to consider: “Then he (Jesus) explained to them, “You have been permitted to understand the secrets of the Kingdom of Heaven, but others have not. To those who are open to my teaching, more understanding will be given, and they will have an abundance of knowledge. But to those who are not listening, even what they have will be taken away from them.”  There is so much truth in these last 2 sentences.  This is why personally I feel so blessed to be reading the One Year Bible each and every day – currently in my 8th year of doing so – and God-willing, for all of my years to come.  I personally absolutely need the grace and wisdom that comes from being in God’s Word every day – and truly, more and more understanding and knowledge of God and Jesus and the Holy Spirit does come my way I believe each day – even if (and especially if!) I am reading the Bible again for the 8th time.  The repetition is not repetitive, but really allows for insights to soak in and to be revealed.  I can’t quite say that I feel like I have an abundance of knowledge… 🙂  But – I know that I am on that road by reading the Bible each day and I so look forward to gaining more and more knowledge of God’s story as I go.  And – to grow deeper into relationship with God and Jesus and the Holy Spirit.  So – the knowledge itself is great, but the relationship and peace and grace that comes from the Trinity – even better.  I pray that you too see the value in reading the Bible each day and being open to Jesus’ teachings so that more understanding will come your way?

Verse 22 in this chapter is convicting for me, as I have experienced this in my life in the past….  “The thorny ground represents those who hear and accept the Good News, but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the cares of this life and the lure of wealth, so no crop is produced.” …. and I still struggle with the “cares of this life” crowding out the Good News in my life today!  I think in some ways this might be a life long struggle.  How are you doing on this verse?  Where is God’s seed of the Good News being sown in your life?  In the good soil of your heart?

In today’s Matthew readings we go through 5 parables that begin “The Kingdom of Heaven is like…”   Great way to start these parables!  They do indeed give us a glimpse of what the Kingdom of Heaven is like.  Do these parables speak to you as you read through them?  I know they do for me.  Sometimes in encouraging ways.  Sometimes in convicting ways.  I love verses 31 & 32: “The Kingdom of Heaven is like a mustard seed planted in a field. It is the smallest of all seeds, but it becomes the largest of garden plants and grows into a tree where birds can come and find shelter in its branches.”  I think if we cultivate the seed that Jesus plants in our hearts – the Gospel – we will see an amazing plant grow that will ultimately bless others.  From the tiniest beginnings, with patience and faith, can come the largest of plants.  If you haven’t yet, will you let Jesus plant a mustard seed in your heart?  And will you be patient and allow the seed time & space to grow?  And will you water and care for the seed of the Gospel planted in your heart so that one day it will be a beautiful tree of life for yourself and others you come in contact with?  Will you allow Jesus to grow a mustard seed tree with your life?

I love the last 2 parables in today’s readings!  The treasure buried in a field and the pearl of great price.  And the thought of being willing to give up absolutely everything to be a part of the Kingdom of Heaven.  How about for you?  Are you willing to give up absolutely everything to be a part of the Kingdom of Heaven?  Is there a price too high that you would not be willing to pay?   I will share with you this somewhat related tangent.  I had this really interesting jog several years ago.  And it was before I was a Christian, so I didn’t equate my thinking with the “Kingdom of Heaven” at this time.  But, here were my thoughts that night on the jog.  As I was jogging I thought to myself – I am a “billionaire”!  Why?  Because I am blessed with this opportunity to jog, and to check out the beautiful night air around me, and more than anything because of this wonderfully complex thing in my skull called the brain. 🙂   The brain that allows me to do all these things and to simply think and enjoy life.  And I thought to myself – at what price would I give up the ability to use my brain?  Would I sell my brain for 1 billion dollars?  And the answer is obviously no – because there would then be no point to living in this life without the brain.  So – I reasoned with myself, well – “Then I am a billionaire!”  I have a billion dollar asset in my skull!  🙂   I hope this isn’t too random of a tangent.  Maybe you’ll realize that you are a billionaire today too though?  🙂  To tie this back to the Kingdom of Heaven.  Would I sell of my rights to the Kingdom of Heaven for 1 billion dollars.  No.  So – I guess then technically, I am a multi-billionaire now!  1 billion asset value for the brain + 1 billion asset value for the Kingdom of Heaven!  The point being…   or maybe the question to you.  Which would you prefer  – 1 billion in cash, or the Kingdom of Heaven?   Is there any price you would place on giving up the Kingdom of Heaven?   If not – will you pursue the Kingdom of Heaven with all of your worth?  And will you then share this amazing “pearl of great price” with others around you?

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Matthew chapter 13 titled “The Parables of Matthew 13” are at this link.

Worship Video: Today’s readings reminded me of the Jeremy Camp song “Jesus Saves.” Here is a great video KLOVE radio and its listeners put together, with signs sharing what Jesus saved them from. What has Jesus saved you from?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d-dDZtm8yjM

Has Jesus Saved you?  Click to be Saved!

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Chronological Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Chronological Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Chronological Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!