Mark: Commentary from bible.org on Mark chapter 3 isat this link. In Mark 3:28-29 we read about the unpardonable sin of blaspheming the Holy Spirit. A great website link with tons of great info about the context of these verses and what it means to us today is at this link: https://www.christiananswers.net/q-eden/unpardonablesin.html.
Mark chapter 3 verses 33-35 make an impact on me each time I read it: “Jesus replied, “Who is my mother? Who are my brothers?” Then he looked at those around him and said, “These are my mother and brothers. Anyone who does God’s will is my brother and sister and mother.” This last sentence is a powerful proclamation from Jesus. If we are obedient to God’s will in our life we are brothers and sisters and mothers of Jesus. Pretty amazing to think about! Jesus is not only our savior – but our brother. And later he calls us friends. Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary puts it this way – “It is a great comfort to all true Christians, that they are dearer to Christ than mother, brother, or sister as such, merely as relations in the flesh would have been, even had they been holy. Blessed be God, this great and gracious privilege is ours even now; for though Christ’s bodily presence cannot be enjoyed by us, his spiritual presence is not denied us.”
Mark chapter 4’s parable of the Farmer scattering seed is a parable that I am sure can convict each of us in various ways. Verses 16 through 18 I am afraid can sometimes represent all too well the “soil” of our hearts… “The rocky soil represents those who hear the message and receive it with joy. But like young plants in such soil, their roots don’t go very deep. At first they get along fine, but they wilt as soon as they have problems or are persecuted because they believe the word. 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, the lure of wealth, and the desire for nice things, so no crop is produced.” The crowding out of the Good News by the cares of this life and the desire for nice things is where I am afraid we miss the mark too often. And when we succumb to theses cares & desires, indeed, no crop is produced. However – I do pray that there are moments in life where we can see the amazing power & truth in verse 20: “But the good soil represents those who hear and accept God’s message and produce a huge harvest–thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times as much as had been planted.” I just pray for more consistency in our lives to live in verse 20 than in the previous verses… How is the soil of your heart? Which verses in this parable are you living in these days? Are you receiving God’s Word into your heart? Will you allowing God’s Word in your heart to produce a huge harvest?
Worship Video: Today’s readings reminded me of the John Mark McMillansong called “How He Loves.” Beautiful song!
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: The passages on the faith of the centurion today are powerful – especially his words in Chapter 7 verse 7 – “Just say the word from where you are, and my servant will be healed.” Can we learn something from the faith of the centurion in our lives today?
Bible.org’s commentary on Luke chapter 7’s readings titled “Jesus the Healer” is at this link.
Wow…. Verse 35 in Luke chapter 7 is such a profound teaching of Jesus' for each of us to consider: "But wisdom is shown to be right by the lives of those who follow it." Take a few moments to really meditate on this verse and what it means. For me this verse is a reminder that sometimes in life we have to move forward in faith on something "wise" we've heard, but maybe not experienced – and then later see that the wisdom is true. I'm not sure if I'm going to explain myself well here… but my thought is that as followers of Jesus, I think we can get lazy in our faith at times. As just one example – maybe we don't think we really need to give financially to our church. We know the wisdom of Malachi 3:10, but maybe we haven't really experienced the wisdom of giving. So, maybe we need to follow the wisdom first – and then we will later know the full truth and beauty of the wisdom. Hope this makes sense? I'd just say that if there is a struggle in your life that God is calling you to leave behind or move forward on – go for it! If you know you should be doing or not doing something – go with that wisdom you know and then it will "shown to be right by the lives of those who follow it." Please follow Wisdom! Please follow Jesus!
A nice image of John the Baptist sending two of his disciples to meet Jesus is below, from verses 18 & 19 – "The disciples of John the Baptist told John about everything Jesus was doing. So John called for two of his disciples, and he sent them to the Lord to ask him, "Are you the Messiah we've been expecting, or should we keep looking for someone else?"
Bible.org's commentary on Luke chapter 7's readings today, titled "John's Problem with Jesus" is at this link.
In Luke chapter 7 today we read about the “immoral” woman who kissed and put perfume on Jesus’ feet. Verse 39 is a powerful testament to Jesus’ character – “When the Pharisee who was the host saw what was happening and who the woman was, he said to himself, “This proves that Jesus is no prophet. If God had really sent him, he would know what kind of woman is touching him. She’s a sinner!”” How ironic… this Pharisee thought that Jesus was not sent from God because he let a sinner touch him – when indeed it is this very act that proves that Jesus was sent from God! Jesus loved everyone – and still loves everyone today – and wants to be in relationship with all of us. No matter what this woman’s sins were. No matter what our sins were or are. Jesus loves us and wants to be in relationship with us. Like the woman in this story, will we humble ourselves and come before the feet of Jesus? And will we ignore those who might suggest we’re not “good enough” to be in relationship with God or Jesus? Remember, Jesus came to call the sinners, the sick – and not the righteous. Let’s not act righteous before Jesus, but come to his feet as we really are and worship Him for who he truly is!
Worship Video: Today’s readings reminded me of the fantastic worship song “Did You Feel the Mountains Tremble?” by Delirious. For some reason every time I hear the lyric “open up the doors and let the music play, let the streets resound with singing” I am reminded of a trip to the Dominican Republic I took several years ago to work on houses with Habitat for Humanity. Walking down the dusty streets of a tiny village in the DR I distinctly remember the doors being open, the music playing and the streets resounding with the singing of children playing. God’s presence was so real and tangible to me on that dusty little village in the DR. I pray you’ve had or will have a similar experience with God walking down “a street that has no 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!
Matthew: Our readings in Matthew chapter 6 today seem to be focusing quite a bit on the interior motives of why we do things – and to do things sometimes in secret, where only God will know what we are doing. And by giving, praying, and fasting with pure interior motives and in secret, God will reward us! I think there is so much truth in this… I think when we give anonymously or pray for others quietly or fast privately, we are really worshipping God. We are in essence saying, “God I am doing these things because of who You are, how great You are, and to let you know how much I love You. I don’t need to let anyone know about this act of worship between me and You. You knowing is more than enough.” Now, I do think there are times for communal giving, praying and fasting – but I love that Jesus challenges us to make sure we find private ways to worship God and God only – and not to bring glory to ourselves by desiring public praise for our “religiosity”…
What a blessing to read the Lord’s Prayer in today’s readings! I have to confess, I don’t say this prayer very often… and Jesus seems to indicate pretty clearly that this is a good way to pray. 🙂 I do pray often throughout the day – but usually it’s pretty immediate stuff – bless this meal, thank you for this day, bless my time at work, etc. etc. What a great thing it would be if I could remember to actually pray the Lord’s Prayer a bit more… I do think it is good to pray things beyond the Lord’s Prayer – in fact, just take a look at the Psalms for some ranges of prayer. You might infer from verse 7 that we should stick only to the Lord’s Prayer when praying: “When you pray, don’t babble on and on as people of other religions do. They think their prayers are answered only by repeating their words again and again.” However – I read a commentary that this verse was admonishing against the polytheistic religions where people prayed to every single god’s name they could think of, and would continue to repeat all of the gods names over and over, in hopes that this “babbling” would work to where one of the gods would respond to their pleading. So – I think God loves and enjoys hearing us pray to Him in whatever way we do so – but we should not neglect the fact that when Jesus gave us the Lord’s Prayer He said (in verse 9): “Pray like this.”
Verse 24 has always always been a verse that’s convicted me and still does today: “No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other, or be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.” There is so much truth here in these 3 little sentences… Who are we serving in our lives today? I once read that one good indicator is to take a look at your monthly budget. Where does the money go each month? Interesting way to look at this. Maybe another way to look at this is how you spend your time each week. How much time is spent at work, volunteering, being with God, being with family/friends, taking a Sabbath, etc. Maybe looking at how we spend our time and money is a good way to see who or what we are worshipping? Do you believe that it is true that we cannot serve two masters? Who are you serving these days?
Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Matthew titled “Jesus on Prayer” is at this link, and “Where Is Your Treasure?” is at this link.
Today in Matthew we continue the Sermon on the Mount! Chapter 6 verse 27 is solid science from Jesus: “Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? Of course not.” Wouldn’t you agree that scientific studies show that severe worrying (anxiety) can actually decrease the longevity of your life? Jesus knew his science! 🙂 Truly… I do think you’ll continue to be amazed by the scientific validity and Truth that is exhibited in the Bible over and over and over again as we read it this year!
Chapter 6 verse 34 (in image above) has always been one of my favorites to remember: “So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today.” Great great truth here. I’m not sure if anyone has ever read a Dale Carnegie book about worrying? It’s called “How to Stop Worrying and Start Living.” It’s been probably 10 years ago since I read this book. But, I remember Dale writing about how he lived his life in what he called “day-tight compartments”. He used a cargo ship analogy, which I won’t be able to explain here well. But, basically, Dale got to the point where he mentally segmented his time off into morning prep time, time with family over breakfast, morning work time, lunch time, afternoon work time, dinner time, family time, time to read, sleeping time. And while he was in the present time of each of these “compartments” of his day he would not worry at all about the other compartments even in that very same day! It’s pretty interesting to think about… when you are at work, you focus on work and you don’t daydream or worry about your personal life – but, once you are off work, you then don’t worry about work at all. I don’t know… maybe this Dale Carnegie “day-tight compartments” is only helpful to me… I recommend you listen to Jesus’ advice on worrying before you listen to Dale or mine! 🙂 But, if you do worry a lot, this Dale Carnegie book may very helpful for you as well.
Matthew chapter 7 verses 1 through 6 are interesting. Jesus clearly says to not judge others – but then in verse 6 he says: “Don’t give what is holy to unholy people.” So, my thought is that we are not to “condemn” people judgmentally – but that we are to be aware of and perceptive of other people’s character traits. I don’t think Jesus is calling for us to walk around blissfully thinking everyone is perfect… but he is saying don’t “condemn” others for their actions. God is the only true judge of anyone’s actions. I think it is still okay for us to take note of how people act or behave. Remember that 1 Thessalonians 5:21 tells us to: “Test everything.” So, I do think it is okay (and even wise) to evaluate a person’s character. Let me know your thoughts on this one in the Comments section below.
Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Matthew titled “Materialism” is at this link, and “Misdirected Effort” is at this link.
Today in Matthew chapter 7 we wrap up the Sermon on the Mount! Not a bad 3 chapters of teaching from Jesus, eh? 🙂 Verse 20 was insightful for me today: “Yes, the way to identify a tree or a person is by the kind of fruit that is produced.” I think this verse goes back to my post yesterday about how we are still to identify or perceive the types of people we come in contact with – without judging them or condemning them. And one good to way to identify someone is by the type of fruit they produce – actions they demonstrate or lives they lead. And while it may sometimes be easier to identify other people’s fruit… maybe we ought to look at our own lives too. What type of fruit is your life producing? Is it life-giving fruit for those you come in contact with? And let us not forget Jesus’ warning in verse 15 today about how we are to identify false teachers. Do you believe there are false teachers in our world today? What are their fruits that you will know them by?
Verse 24 is strong: “Anyone who listens to my teaching and obeys me is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock.” Have you really listened to Jesus’ teaching these past few days as you read through the Sermon on the Mount? And – will you now obey Jesus’ teaching? Would this be wise? Would this be like building a house on solid rock? Will you stay out of the sands of sin?
Matthew 7:25 I think is an important verse for us to meditate upon in our own lives: “Though the rain comes in torrents and the floodwaters rise and the winds beat against that house, it won’t collapse, because it is built on rock.” I never paid too much attention to this verse – I always focused on verse 24 and building a strong foundation on solid rock. But, I had lunch with a friend recently and he shared with me that this verse 25 – and verse 27 too – should be a reminder to each of us that storms will come in our lives. And I think this is so true. Sometimes we go through wonderful seasons of blessing, and we may think that storms will never come our way – but guess what, they will. If we are followers of Jesus – Jesus who endured an unimaginable storm during his passion and crucifixion – storms will come our way too. So, then, the key becomes if we know storms will come, we really should pay attention to verse 24 and build up a strong foundation of faith during the times of calm. It’s kind of like the idea of saving for a rainy day – the day will come when it rains. So let us build up our faith and love in God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit today! So that when the storms of life come our way, we will not collapse, but will remain faithful to the beautiful end. My friends, the storms will come. But with Jesus, we do not need to fear them or collapse under them when they come!
Bible.org’s commentary on our readings in Matthew chapter 7 today titled “Mistaken Identity” is at this link.
Worship Video: Today’s readings in Matthew reminded me of the Delirious song “Majesty!” Here’s a great live version of this song:
Please join me in memorizing and meditating on two verses of Scripture today: “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.”Matthew 7:13-14 NIV
Prayer Point: Pray that God would show you what the narrow gate is in your life. Pray that you would enter through the narrow gate. Pray that Jesus alone is your narrow gate.
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: Okay, today is a big day my friends! We are starting the Sermon on the Mount! Whoo-hoo! (are you cheering here with me?? 🙂 And as we do, let me encourage you in a few ways on what we’ll be reading here. First of all, personally, these 3 chapters of Matthew (5, 6, 7) have been transformative for me over the years. Before I had faith in Jesus, I would continually read these chapters and I kept thinking to myself – “This guy has got some wisdom! I like what he’s saying!” And I do believe that the Spirit was no doubt working on me as I read these chapters. So, I do ask that you would be sensitive to the Spirit as you read The Sermon on the Mount. What is the Spirit speaking to you as you read? Which verses are really jumping out at you – maybe making you think about some areas of your life that might need some tidying up… I know that this happens to me every time I read the Sermon on the Mount. It’s probably because of reading chapter 5 today, and the Beatitudes, that I went into my pride / Tower of Babel thing above… 🙂
Here’s my other big request for you as you read through the Sermon on the Mount – and really all of the gospels. Try to experience what you are reading as something more than just “historical” teachings or “historical” readings. Try to envision yourself maybe down at your local park and maybe imagine that Jesus was actually at that park surrounded by a bunch of your neighbors and imagine that you heard Jesus actually saying these words to you and your neighbors – today. Would this change your perception of what you are reading? Or, maybe imagine that indeed Jesus is not just at your local park – but in your very home saying these words to you. And truly – He is – as you are reading the Bible you are hearing directly from Jesus. I just want to encourage you that the words you read here in the Sermon on the Mount are incredible spiritual food. And I don’t think we can come back to these 3 chapters of Matthew often enough. I pray that you will let the Spirit of Jesus speak directly into your mind and your heart as you read and meditate on the meanings of these 3 chapters of the gospel of Matthew…
We read the Beatitudes today! I would love to share with you the Beatitudes from Eugene Peterson’s paraphrase of the Bible called The Message. I really like the way he looks at the Beatitudes – “”You’re blessed when you’re at the end of your rope. With less of you there is more of God and his rule. “You’re blessed when you feel you’ve lost what is most dear to you. Only then can you be embraced by the One most dear to you. “You’re blessed when you’re content with just who you are–no more, no less. That’s the moment you find yourselves proud owners of everything that can’t be bought. “You’re blessed when you’ve worked up a good appetite for God. He’s food and drink in the best meal you’ll ever eat. “You’re blessed when you care. At the moment of being “carefull,’ you find yourselves cared for. “You’re blessed when you get your inside world–your mind and heart–put right. Then you can see God in the outside world. “You’re blessed when you can show people how to cooperate instead of compete or fight. That’s when you discover who you really are, and your place in God’s family. “You’re blessed when your commitment to God provokes persecution. The persecution drives you even deeper into God’s kingdom.” – Matthew 5:3-10 The Message
I know verses 17 & 18 probably are interpreted in different ways – but a friend of mine has encouraged me when in doubt, just stick to the text, which is wise. So, let’s look at the Jesus’ words here in this text – “Don’t misunderstand why I have come. I did not come to abolish the law of Moses or the writings of the prophets. No, I came to fulfill them. I assure you, until heaven and earth disappear, even the smallest detail of God’s law will remain until its purpose is achieved.” What does the reading of this text say to you?
And now that we’ve looked at the text… I need to dive into a commentary on these verses… 🙂 I’m quoting this from Tyndale’s One Year Bible Companion book – which I have found to be a very helpful commentary to our daily readings: “In the Old Testament, there were 3 categories of law: ceremonial, civil, and moral. 1. The ceremonial law was related specifically to Israel’s worship. Its primary purpose was to point forward to Jesus Christ; these laws are therefore no longer necessary after Jesus’ death and resurrection. However, the principles behind these laws – to worship and love a holy God – still apply. 2. The civil law applied to daily living in Israel and these laws cannot be followed specifically today in our modern society and culture. But the principles behind theses laws are timeless and should guide our conduct. 3. The moral law (such as the Ten Commandments) is the direct command of God, and requires obedience. The moral law reveals the nature and will of God, and it still applies today.” So, there you have it from one evangelical commentary. I know probably different people reading this blog are going to interpret these verses a bit differently. This framework of these 3 categories of laws above and their fulfillment in Jesus I personally have found helpful and agree with. One other commentary I found related to these verses says this: “Christ does not terminate the law. Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid; we establish the law. (Romans 3:31) The law will always be there to point out what sin is, but the law is not the focus, Christ is the focus. Only He can cleanse, and sanctify and change the heart and mind.” Again, I know this can be a hot topic to say the least. I recommend everyone please spend a few minutes reading this wonderful article on this topic from Bible.org titled, “The Mosaic Law: Its Function and Purpose in the New Testament,” at this link.
Bible.org’s commentary on our readings today in Matthew titled “The Beatitudes” is at this link and “A Pinch of Salt in the Recipe for Persecution” is at this link.
Matthew 5:27-30 are Jesus’ teachings about adultery. And really I think these teachings, along with many others in the Sermon on the Mount, are even more so about what is going on inside our hearts. Jesus discusses how the law says clearly how we are “not to do” something – it’s very apparent and very “exterior” if we commit a sin like adultery. Jesus says that the exterior/apparent/obvious sin is wrong for sure – but Jesus is equally as concerned with what’s going on in the “interior” – inside our hearts. Jesus proposes that if we have looked at someone lustfully with our “interior”, we have committed the same sin as if we had actually committed adultery on the “exterior.” Do you see how Jesus’ teachings in today’s readings are really focusing on the condition of our hearts? How is the condition of your heart today when it comes to these teachings?
I know these can be seen as “hard teachings.” Please note that I do not believe that Jesus is advocating self-mutilation in these readings – he is being figurative, not literal, in his speech about gouging out an eye or cutting off a hand. (someone can be blind and still lust) But he wants the point to be made very strongly. These teachings are obviously important for us to meditate on and learn from and obey. I am sure we all know it is true that what we “think” can often become what we “do”. So, it seems to me that Jesus is trying to stop us from even committing sin at the “thinking” level, because it may later manifest itself into action. Or – even if it does not manifest itself into action the thinking of the sin can actually affect us just adversely as much as the actual doing of the sin. Let us not let our minds wander into cloudy territory, but let us keep our minds clean and focused on Jesus, His Kingdom, and His Righteousness. Jesus’ teachings today in Matthew 5 can certainly keep us from cloudy thinking and the confusion of internal sin:
I do actually want to say a few more things about the whole adultery / lust issue brought up in today’s readings. And it is this – probably many of us have struggled with lust, or are struggling with lust right now. I have. And I know many of my friends who have. I am very saddened by many things I have seen and heard and experienced over the years. However sad I am or have been though, I am sure God grieves for us so much more. I guess I just want to encourage anyone now who is reading this that might be struggling with lust or pornography or adultery or pre-marital sex etc. – there truly is freedom from what you are struggling with. And that freedom ultimately only is found in the healing love of Jesus. I just pray that you will do everything you can to allow Jesus to free you from what’s enslaved you – seek professional counseling, find an accountability partner, confess your sins, read empowering books about freedom from what you are struggling with, avoid R-rated movies or Hollywood entertainment magazines if you need to, avoid situations or locations that will tempt you, and above all pray to Jesus and ask for healing continually. He will heal you. It may take time. But Jesus will heal you. God bless you as you work your way out of this and into amazing freedom! God will get you there! Let the healing begin!
Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Matthew titled “Flames of Desire” is at this link, “Avoiding the Sin of Adultery” is at this link, and “Jesus and the Law of Retaliation (Lex Talionis)” is at this link.
Worship Video: Our Matthew Chapter 5 readings on lust seems an appropriate point to share with you this phenomenal song by Rebecca St. James that she wrote for her future husband called “Wait for Me:”
Please join me in memorizing and meditating on two verses of Scripture today:“You have heard that it was said, ‘Do not commit adultery.’ But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” Matthew 5:27-28 NIV
Prayer Point: Pray that you will not commit adultery in your life. Pray that you will not look at another person lustfully. Pray that if you are committing adultery in your heart right now that you will repent and turn to Jesus for healing.
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: I’m not sure if you noticed this unique thing about Jesus’ healing of the man at the pool of Bethesda today – the man did not seem to have faith in Jesus or know who Jesus was! You’ll recall with many of the healings we read about in the Gospels people yell out to Jesus for healing, or reach for Jesus’ garment, and show some sort of faith or recognition of who Jesus truly is. Well, here in John chapter 5 verse 6 Jesus asks this man at the pool: “Do you want to get well?” And then in the following verses the man still doesn’t realize who Jesus is and doesn’t ask Jesus for healing, but instead frets about not getting into the waters of the pool where he thinks the waters will heal him. Well, come verse 8 Jesus says, “Get up! Pick up your mat and walk.” I find this whole scene awesome and a great example of God’s grace! Perhaps sometimes in our lives when we miss seeing what Jesus is doing, He will still often heal us or care for us! Even sometimes (though I don’t think always…) when we seem to looking for the other “waters” that we think will heal us. Even sometimes when we don’t ask Jesus for healing, he’ll still do it for us.
Bible.org’s commentary on our readings in John chapter 5 today titled “Jesus Heals the man at the Pool of Bethesda” is at this link.
I am intrigued by Jesus’ words in John chapter 5 verse 30 today, particularly in light of the book of Judges that we recently read, which was a dark time in Israel’s history – “But I do nothing without consulting the Father. I judge as I am told. And my judgment is absolutely just, because it is according to the will of God who sent me; it is not merely my own.” I love that Jesus says his judgment is absolutely just. And I believe this is true – 1. that Jesus will judge us and that 2. his judgment is just. I think this is both something to be celebrated – there is no one else I would want to judge me… – and I think this can be sobering – if his judgment is absolutely just, then it is obvious that we cannot “sneak” anything by Jesus. Everything we have ever done or will do will be judged by Jesus. I think ultimately it is very healthy to recognize this. Maybe initially this realization will keep us from sinning because of some fear of judgment – but ideally this realization matures into a love for Jesus that encourages us not to sin because we would not want to disappoint Jesus whom we love with all that we are. Do you believe that Jesus is your judge? Do you believe that Jesus will judge you absolutely justly?
Bible.org’s commentary on John chapter 5’s readings today titled “Like Father, Like Son” is at this link.
Matthew: Today in Matthew chapter 12 we read about Jesus’ teachings surrounding his healing on the Sabbath. Note that in verse 14 the plots to kill Jesus begin: “Then the Pharisees called a meeting and discussed plans for killing Jesus.” Why do you suppose these plots started at this point? I don’t think it was this one incident per se that began the plots in and of itself – but it was probably a culmination of Jesus’ teaching, preaching, and healing ministries up to this point that started murmurs and discussions and finally led to plots. I think Jesus’ wisdom and power and popularity with the people were seen as a threat. Do you suppose that Jesus’ wisdom and power and popularity with the people are seen as a threat by some in our world today?
I read an interesting commentary on verses 11 & 12 today: “And he (Jesus) answered, “If you had one sheep, and it fell into a well on the Sabbath, wouldn’t you get to work and pull it out? Of course you would. And how much more valuable is a person than a sheep!” The commentary said that in this verse Jesus contrasts the worth of an animal with that of a human being. I think for most of us, we would agree that a human life is more valuable than an animal life. However – interestingly, not everyone in our world today feels that way. I recently heard a radio talk show host ask a woman if she saw both her beloved dog and a stranger drowning in a lake and she could only save one of the two, who would she save. And the woman basically said her dog – she hemmed and hawed about saying that straightforwardly, but basically she said her dog was her family… And so the stranger – the human – would lose out in that situation. What about you – if you could only save your beloved pet or a stranger (human) from drowning, who would you save? Who would God save? Do you think God places a higher value on human life than animal life? (since we just read the creation narrative in Genesis, this should be a slam-dunk answer! 🙂
I love the Isaiah prophecy in today’s readings, summarizing the quiet aspects of the ministry of Jesus! Verse 21 makes me tear up to really meditate upon: “And his name will be the hope of all the world.” How does this verse strike you? Do you believe that Jesus’ name is the hope of the world? Is Jesus’ name the hope of your own personal world?
Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Matthew chapter 12 titled “The Lord of the Sabbath” is at this link.
Worship Video: Today’s readings remind me of For King & Country’s song “For God is With Us:”
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 5:1-11; Mark 1:40-45; Matthew 8:1-4; Luke 5:12-16; Mark 2:1-12; Matthew 9:1-8; Luke 5:17-26; Mark 2:13-17; Matthew 9:9-13; Luke 5:27-32; Mark 2:18-22; Matthew 9:14-17; Luke 5:33-39 ~ Click here to read today’s Scripture on Bible Gateway ~ ~ Listen to today’s Scripture with The ESV Bible ~
Luke: In Luke chapter 5 verses 10 & 11 we read – “From now on you’ll be fishing for people!” And as soon as they landed, they left everything and followed Jesus.” Can you imagine being called by Jesus like this? If you were called by Jesus to stop your “work” that you are doing now and instead work to bring people closer to God, would you do so? Can you imagine yourself today being like these disciples and leaving everything and following Jesus?
Bible.org’s commentary on Luke chapter 5’s readings today entitled “How to Hook a Fisherman” is at this link.
In Luke chapter 5 we read one of my favorite healings’ of Jesus – where he heals the paralyzed man on the mat – in very large part because of the paralyzed man’s friends who carry him to Jesus! I love that his friends did this. I pray if I was paralyzed I would have friends like these! Check out verses 18 through 20 – “Some men came carrying a paralyzed man on a sleeping mat. They tried to push through the crowd to Jesus, but they couldn’t reach him. So they went up to the roof, took off some tiles, and lowered the sick man down into the crowd, still on his mat, right in front of Jesus. Seeing their faith, Jesus said to the man, “Son, your sins are forgiven.”” I am fascinated by this – “seeing their faith” – I don’t know if this is a quirk of the New Living Translation or if indeed Jesus literally saw the faith of the paralyzed man’s friends. My hunch is that he did. And this makes me realize that sometimes when our faith is at a low point, maybe our friends can help carry us along and bring us closer to Jesus. And maybe we should act like these friends for someone in our life who is “paralyzed” by something…. Is there someone in your life that you can help “carry the mat for” and in doing so bring them closer to Jesus? Wow. I pray I have friends like this – and I pray I can be a friend like this to others…
Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Luke chapter 5 titled “Stretcher Carriers and Sermon Critics” is at this link.
Today in Luke chapter 5 verses 31 & 32 we read this teaching from Jesus: “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” How does this verse speak to you? Are you healthy or sick? Are you righteous or a sinner? Do you need Jesus? Are you heeding his call to repentance? Do you believe that Jesus is the one true Doctor who can heal you for eternity? Below is a painting of Jesus at the house of Levi by the Italian painter Paolo Veronese from the year 1573: (with of course the Pharisees looking on…)
Bible.org’s commentary on Luke chapter 5’s readings today titled “On Eating, Drinking, and Being Merry” is at this link.
Worship Video: Luke chapter 5 reminds me of Steven Curtis Chapman’s great song “For the Sake of the Call:”
Please join us in memorizing and meditating on two verses of Scripture today:“Then Jesus said to Simon, “Don’t be afraid; from now on you will catch men.” So they pulled their boats up on shore, left everything and followed him.” Luke 5:10-11 NIV
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 1:14-15; Matthew 4:12-17; Luke 3:23; John 4:46-54; Luke 4:16-30; Mark 1:16-20; Matthew 4:18-22; Mark 1:21-28; Luke 4:31-37; Mark 1:29-34; Matthew 8:14-17; Luke 4:38-41; Mark 1:35-39; Luke 4:42-44; Matthew 4:23-25 ~ Click here to read today’s Scripture on Bible Gateway ~ ~ Listen to today’s Scripture with The ESV Bible ~
Apologies, short post today… Back to a full post tomorrow!
YouTube – Today’s readings somehow reminded me of the movie starring Kirk Cameron called Fireproof. Have you seen this movie yet? It is terrific! It is an awesome movie about marriage and God. Below is the trailer:
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: Today in John chapter 3 we will read about Jesus’ interactions with Nicodemus, a member of the Pharisees. This is obviously a powerful chapter, as Jesus’ words in this chapter include the famous John 3:16. In verse 3 we will read this from Jesus – “I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again.” And to this Nicodemus asks in verse 4 – “How can a man be born when he is old? Surely he cannot enter a second time into his mother’s womb to be born?” What do these verses mean to you? Do you understand Jesus’ statement in verse 3? Do you understand Nicodemus’ confusion and why he asked the question like he did in verse 4? Jesus later goes on in chapter 3 to say that he is referring to being born again in “the Spirit.” It is not a physical rebirth Jesus is referring to in verse 3, but a Spiritual rebirth. I do think this is an appropriate time in our One Year Bible readings – the gospel of John and John chapter 3 in particular – for each of us to ask ourselves if we have been born again in the Spirit? If not, do you want to be born again in the Spirit? Will you pray today to God and Jesus for this Spiritual rebirth?
Bible.org’s commentary on John chapter 3 titled “The Doctrine of Salvation” is at this link and commentary on “Jesus and Nicodemus” is at this link and at this link.
An image is below for verses 14 & 15 as Jesus says this to Nicodemus – “And as Moses lifted up the bronze snake on a pole in the wilderness, so I, the Son of Man, must be lifted up on a pole,so that everyone who believes in me will have eternal life.”
Wow… I love John the Baptist’s words about Jesus in John chapter 3 today! Great stuff. Please read these verses again and meditate upon them in your life today. The verse that really stood out to me today was verse 30 when John said this about Jesus – “He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less.” How very true and how very applicable to our lives today. We must let Jesus become greater and greater in our lives, hearts, and actions, and our individualism / selfishness must become less and less. How are you doing on this? Are you allowing Jesus to become greater and greater in your life and are “you” becoming less and less?
Bible.org’s commentary on John chapter 3’s readings today titled “John’s Joy and his Disciples Jealousy” is at this link.
Wow. The Jacob’s Well story in John chapter 4 today is beautiful on so many levels. I definitely recommend you check out Bible.org’s commentary on this chapter at this link if you aren’t familiar with all of the meanings of this story.
I love Jesus’s words in verse 34 – “My nourishment comes from doing the will of God, who sent me, and from finishing his work.” If this is true for Jesus – think this might be true for us too? Do you believe that our nourishment comes from doing the will of God?
Worship Video Our readings in John 3 today reminded me of MercyMe’s song “All of Creation:”
Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today:“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16 NIV
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!
Three days ago, we began the New Testament! I’ll highlight each of the 4 Gospels overviews these first 4 days, with John today. One thing I’ll recommend to everyone, if you have a chance this next week, is to watch the movie “The Gospel of John”. Have you seen it? It is incredibly well done. It was released in theaters on a limited basis a few years ago, and I was fortunate enough to have caught it in the theater. It is a 3 hour movie that goes word-for-word through the Gospel of John, based on the Good News Bible translation. Or, perhaps you’ll want to read the Biblical text first and then watch the movie later. Either way. I definitely recommend this film. You can hopefully pick it up at a video rental store. A friend of mine was surprised to have found it at the local supermarket little video rental section recently. And, actually, I have the first 10 minutes of the movie in the YouTube below today, and it looks like you can watch the entire movie now on YouTube.
The Gospel of John Author: John Place: Ephesus Date: A.D. 85-96 Content: The Gospel of John was written many years after Jesus’ death and resurrection by the apostle John so that those who read it might believe in Christ and thus have life through his name. John begins with a prologue unique to this Gospel where Jesus’ preexistent life with the Father is depicted to show that Jesus was not simply a great man, but God. Miracles of Jesus as well as many of Jesus’ teachings not found elsewhere are then described. A long section in John chapters 14 through 17 describes Jesus’ teaching to his apostles before his death. After Jesus’ death and resurrection, special place is given to Jesus’ appearance to his apostles. Theme: The Gospel of John more than any other Gospel stresses the deity of Christ and provides us with an interpretation of his life. He is explained in figurative terms as light, truth, love, good shepherd, the door, the resurrection and the life, living water, true bread, and more. The beautiful material found in John chapters 14 through 17 shows the deep love of Jesus for the believer and the peace that comes from faith in Christ. (Above commentary is from “The One Year Bible Companion” pp. 22-23) Great commentary on John by Bob Deffinbaugh at bible.org is at this link: https://bible.org/page.php?page_id=2348
John: I absolutely love John chapter 1 verse 29 – “The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look! There is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!” Do you believe Jesus is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world?
Verses 45 & 46 I find so truthful, along with Nathanael’s reply being amusing – but mostly Nathanael’s reply demonstrates how very humble of a background Jesus came from – “Philip went off to look for Nathanael and told him, “We have found the very person Moses and the prophets wrote about! His name is Jesus, the son of Joseph from Nazareth.” “Nazareth!” exclaimed Nathanael. “Can anything good come from there?” Are we ever like Nathanael – having preconceived notions about places or things or maybe even Jesus? Can we leave our preconceived notions about things behind us and move forward in the spirit of truth, particularly when it comes to Jesus and who He is?
Bible.org’s commentary on John chapter 1 titled “The Witness of John” is at this link and commentary titled “The First Disciples” is at this link.
John chapter 2 verse 11 is of note – “This miraculous sign at Cana in Galilee was Jesus’ first display of his glory. And his disciples believed in him.” It is interesting that John refers to Jesus’ miracles as “signs.” Signs seems to indicate the significance of Jesus’ actions, rather than the marvel. What do you think Jesus’ miracles might have been “signs” of? Below is “The Marriage of Cana” by the Florentine Italian painter Giusto de’ Menabuoi from the year 1378, and this fresco is located in the baptistry of the Cathedral in Padua:
Tyndale’s One Year Bible Companion has a very interesting commentary on John chapter 2 verse 14 – “In the Temple area he saw merchants selling cattle, sheep, and doves for sacrifices; and he saw money changers behind their counters.” Tyndale answered the question of why there were merchants & money changers in the temple as follows: “The temple tax had to be paid in local currency, so foreigners had to have their money changed. But the moneychangers would often charge exorbitant exchange rates. The people were also required to make sacrifices for sins. Because of the long journey, many could not bring their own animals. The price of sacrificial animals was much higher in the temple than elsewhere.” It is understandable why Jesus was upset with all of this. Thank goodness we do not have this system still in place for us today – with moneychangers & merchants for tax & animal sacrifices… thank you Jesus! Below is a fresco of “The Money-Changers in the Temple” by the Italian artist Giotto from the year 1306:
Bible.org’s commentary on John chapter 2 titled “The First Sign: Jesus Turns Water into Wine” is at this link and commentary titled “The Cleansing of the Temple” is at this link.
Matthew:Now – I think what happens just after Jesus’ baptism in yesterday’s readings is something each of us should take heed of – the devil comes in full force after Jesus. I heard someone tell me just before I was baptized about 6 years ago that whenever we make a public declaration that we love God: the Father, Jesus the Son, & the Holy Spirit and that we want to follow Him, the devil and temptation very likely will appear. The devil isn’t happy when we are moving forward in our love of Jesus and loving others – and he wants to derail it. And that’s what we see here in Matthew chapter 4 – God: the Father, Jesus the Son, & the Holy Spirit have just declared “Game On!” with Jesus’ public ministry via the baptism – and then who should show up coming after Jesus? If the devil showed up to tempt Jesus, don’t you think he might try to show up in our lives when we are starting something big in our faith walk? Fortunately, Jesus gives us all the answers we need in chapter 4 to thwart the devil’s attacks.
Chapter 4 verse 4 I believe is one of the most important verses for us to commit to memory in all of the Bible: “But Jesus told him, “No! The Scriptures say, `People need more than bread for their life; they must feed on every word of God.’” (NLT). Or, you might recognize this verse a bit better in NIV format: “Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” This is such a powerful spiritual truth that Jesus is conveying – we will not live full and true lives if we live simply on bread alone. We need spiritual nourishment – food – from every Word of God. Where do we get this Word of God? You got it – the Bible. And note that Jesus says “every” word of God. This means the whole Bible is spiritual food for us. All of it. Not just the parts we like the best. 🙂 We can learn something and be nourished by even the long genealogies! Seriously. So – I want to applaud you for going through the One Year Bible – you will be getting nourishment from “every” Word of God this year! Below is an oil painting by Juan De Flandes from 1504 – (he actually painted this piece for Queen Isabella of Spain’s private altar at that time):
One other important point to make in Matthew 4:4 and the 2 other temptations in this chapter. We see the devil tempting Jesus with things that may look enticing to Jesus or to us. But they are lies. And note – this is important – how Jesus fends off the devil’s temptations and lies – by quoting Scripture! Jesus knew Scripture (well, yes, technically He is Scripture…:) The point is this. I do believe that we need to do more than just read the Bible. We need to memorize many portions of the Bible to protect us when the devil is attacking. If we have Scripture memorized, when we are tempted, we can quickly call to mind a verse or two that will bring us back into right state of mind – focusing back on God: the Father, Jesus the Son, & the Holy Spirit and their love and strength available through the Holy Spirit. If we don’t have Scripture memorized, as Jesus clearly did in this chapter, we are at risk of falling prey to the deception and lies of the temptation. So – I am mostly preaching this to myself! 🙂 But, I really want to do more memorization of Scripture this year. I have several verses down – but not enough. Proverbs 3:5-6 certainly comes to mind for me often when I am worried or stressed and it transforms my state of mind immediately! What can you apply in your life today based on how Jesus rebuked the devil’s temptations?
Very important to note is what happened when Jesus rebuked the devil’s temptations with Scripture, the Word of God, in verse 11: “Then the Devil went away.” Amen to that! 🙂
Bible.org’s commentary on our readings today in Matthew titled “The Baptism of Jesus” is at this link, “The Temptation of Jesus, Part 1” is at this link, “Satan’s “Leap of Faith”” is at this link, and “The Third Temptation of Jesus” is at this link.
Luke: Today we read about the temptation of Jesus in Luke. This is a powerful narrative for each of us to consider. We all obviously face temptations in our life. Jesus faced temptations as well. The difference of course is that Jesus did not give into the temptations. He did not sin. I love the fact that Jesus combated the devil’s temptations with the Word of God, the Bible. We each would do well to pay attention to how powerful the Word is in thwarting the devil’s temptations of us today. Here’s a very amazing image I found below, with a look at Jesus being tempted by the devil. Check out the cloud of temptation above him… the devil. Ever feel this cloud of temptation hovering above you? I know I have… And I know that faith in Jesus, calling upon Jesus’ name, and bringing to mind the Word of God in times of darkness & temptation can send this cloud away from us!
Bob Deffinbaugh at Bible.org has 4 great commentaries on the temptation of Jesus in the Gospel of Luke at this link, and at this link, and at this link, and at this link. And his look at verses 14 through 30 in Luke chapter 4 titled “On Prophets and Popularity” is at this link.
Worship Video: I mention the Gospel of John movie in my comments above. Here’s the trailer, below:
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!
Two days ago, we began the New Testament! I’ll highlight each of the 4 Gospels overviews these first 4 days, with Mark today.
~Mark~ Author: Mark Place: Rome Date: A.D. 60-65 Content: John Mark was a companion of the apostle Paul. He finally settled in Rome where he wrote down the remembrances of the apostle Peter. Thus Mark’s Gospel reflects the words of an eyewitness of the events he describes. Mark’s purpose was to put together an expanded Gospel message. Hence it centers upon the acts of Jesus rather than his words and devotes a disproportionately large amount of material to the last week of Jesus’ life. Mark’s Gospel begins with Jesus’ public ministry and preaching of the gospel of the Kingdom of God. Several explicit predictions of his coming death are made (Mark 8:31; 9:31; 10:33-34, 45) and then Jesus goes to the cross to die for the sins of the world. Theme: Mark depicts Jesus as the Servant of God who came to do God’s will. The miracles, healings, victory over demons, and personal power show the world that Jesus was no ordinary servant, but was truly the Son of God (Mark 15:39). Jesus’ resurrection authenticated all that he did, and now we await his return in glory from heaven. Mark also wrote to encourage the Roman Christians in a time of persecution. (Above commentary is from Tyndale Publishers “The One Year Bible Companion” pages 21-22) Excellent commentary on the Gospel of Mark is at this link.
You’ll notice in Mark chapter 1 today that there is no nativity narrative – Mark and John’s Gospels do not have the nativity narrative. Verse 1 (which we read 2 days ago) starts off powerfully with: “Here begins the Good News about Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God.” (Good News = Gospel. Gospel comes from the Old English word godspel, which means “good story” or “good tidings” or “good news” and accurately translates the original Greek word: evangelion.) And what is the Good News? It is that God has provided salvation through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This is very Good News indeed!
Matthew Chapter 2 verse 6 is very powerful in that the 2010 One Year Bible crew recently read about the prophet Micah’s prophesying of Jesus being born in Bethlehem: “O Bethlehem of Judah, you are not just a lowly village in Judah, for a ruler will come from you who will be the shepherd for my people Israel.” Here again you can see Matthew writing for his Jewish audience – quoting an Old Testament prophet and also focusing in on the town of “Bethlehem of Judah” – the City of David. This was to demonstrate again that Jesus was from the lineage of King David.
Matthew 2:10 is a brief verse showing us the reaction of the magi in being led to Jesus: “When they saw the star, they were filled with joy!” The magi were also Gentiles and likely astrologers – following a star might lead one to think this… 🙂 But no matter where they were from and what they believed prior, they were filled with joy at being led to the Messiah, Jesus. And they gave him gifts and worshipped him. And for us today – are we filled with joy in reading about the birth of Jesus? Do we realize what this meant back then – and still means today? That Immanuel was born – that God came to be with us. (Note that some Biblical scholars say that contrary to popular tradition, it is believed that the magi did not visit Jesus at the manger on the night of his birth, as did the shepherds, but that the magi came months later and visited him as “child” in his “house” – see verse 11.)
In Matthew today we read about The Escape to Egypt. Two things stood out to me in Joseph’s behavior in today’s readings. In verse 13 an angel tells Joseph to “get up and flee to Egypt” – and Joseph responds by leaving THAT NIGHT with the family, as we see in verse 14. That’s beautiful obedience. Then, in verse 21 we see Joseph respond similarly when he is told by an angel to return to Israel – he leaves with the family “immediately.” I like this – Joseph is acting obediently to God’s will in his life – and he is acting pronto! He’s not sitting around worrying or fretting or thinking that he’ll get to it tomorrow. He goes that night! He returns immediately! Can we learn from Joseph’s amazing obedience in these readings? Is God calling you to do something in your life that you are hemming and hawing about? Is God calling you to forgive someone? To love someone? To serve someone? To encourage someone? Will you be like Joseph and obey God’s call for your life immediately? Since we’ve turned the new year, I hope you don’t mind if I post up my favorite image demonstrating obedience below… 🙂 Do you have obedience like this when it comes to God’s will for your life?
Today in Matthew chapter 3 we are introduced to John the Baptist! I don’t know exactly what it is about John the Baptist – but I love reading about him and his life. He is just on fire for God and Jesus and he is encouraging others to get on fire too! I guess I like that in a person. 🙂 Another thing about John is that he is so focused on his mission to call others to repentance and to baptize them, that he really does not care about worldly things – like how he looks or what he wears or what he eats. None of that really matters to him. It is the message of the coming of Jesus that matters to him. Maybe it is verse 4 that really stands out to me about John: “John’s clothes were woven from camel hair, and he wore a leather belt; his food was locusts and wild honey.” I think this is really saying that John lived a simple life. He did not “major in minor things” – he “majored in the major thing” – Jesus! Is there something we can learn from John the Baptist in our lives today? Are you perhaps focusing too much on things of this world and not enough on God and Jesus? Are you truly loving God and loving people like John did? Or are you spending your life “majoring in minor things”? Will you instead “major on the major thing” that John is calling you to even today – complete passion and love for God: the Father, Jesus the Son, the Holy Spirit; and other people?
Bible.org’s commentary on our readings today in Matthew titled “The Slaughter of the Infants and Innocent Suffering” is at this link and “John the Baptist and Jesus” is at this link.
Today’s Matthew readings are incredible on so many levels. We begin by reading about John the Baptist scolding the Pharisees and Sadducees! John is not joking around here… I think one verse that really stood out to me was verse 8: “Prove by the way you live that you have really turned from your sins and turned to God.” and verse 10: “Yes, every tree that does not produce good fruit will be chopped down and thrown into the fire.” I think what I hear John saying here is that we are called to truly repent and change our ways. Not just to say some nice words or just show up to church on Sundays – but to be transformed. Our lives should be visibly different from our past if we have really turned from our sins and turned to God. And this change will be evident by our lives producing “good fruit” – examples of which can certainly be seen in any of the Ten Commandments or loving our neighbor as ourselves and above all loving God with all our hearts, minds, soul and strength. Our lives should look very different from our past. Do they? Does yours? Below is a stained glass image of John the Baptist used by permission and copyright held by cambridge2000.com/gallery:
Verses 16 & 17 are phenomenal as we see the three persons of the Trinity interacting with each other! God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit: “After his baptism, as Jesus came up out of the water, the heavens were opened and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and settling on him. And a voice from heaven said, “This is my beloved Son, and I am fully pleased with him.”” Jesus’ baptism is very significant because it is the act that opens up the public ministry phase of Jesus’ life.
In Luke chapter 2 today we read about Jesus’ wisdom at the young age of 12. How’s this for a profound statement from Jesus to Mary & Joseph when they found him in the Temple in verse 49 – “But why did you need to search?” he asked. “You should have known that I would be in my Father’s house.” I like that! And I like that Jesus was paying such respect for the Temple as well – essentially calling it the house of God. I do believe this can be carried forward today to Jesus’ love for his body, the church. I often think to myself, when I’m on my way to church, that “I’m going to the house of God.” Do you believe that we can find Jesus today in his Father’s house? Or are you searching elsewhere? I do believe of course Jesus can be found outside of church… but I also know that I oftentimes experience his presence so profoundly at church – and Communion in church clearly being one such a time & place where I cannot help but find Jesus in a profound way. Below is “Jesus in the Temple at Twelve” by Duccio di Buoninsegna from the early 14th century:
Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Luke titled “The Day Jesus went AWOL” 🙂 is at this link..
I always love reading about John the Baptizer! John is sometimes referred to as the “last Old Testament prohet.” Jesus said this about John in Luke 16:16 – “The Law and the Prophets were proclaimed until John.” Jesus is the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophets, priests and kings. I find it very helpful to know Jesus is my Prophet, Priest and King. Prophets in the Old Testament typically preached repentance from sins, and John was no exception to this rule in our readings in Luke chapter 3 today. John preached repentance! Have you repented from your sins? Is your life showing the fruits of your repentance?
Commentary from Bible.org on Luke chapter 3’s readings today titled “John the Baptizer” is at this link.
Worship Video: Today’s readings in Luke today reminded me of Josh Wilson’s song “I Refuse:”
Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today:“And the Holy Spirit descended on Jesus in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.” Luke 3:22 NIV
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!
Chronological Bible Blog 