August 4, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Matthew Chapter 5

¹ And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him:

² And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying,

³ Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

⁴ Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.

⁵ Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.

⁶ Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.

⁷ Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.

⁸ Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.

⁹ Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.

¹⁰ Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

¹¹ Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.

¹² Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.

¹³ Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.

¹⁴ Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.

¹⁵ Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.

¹⁶ Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

¹⁷ Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.

¹⁸ For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.

¹⁹ Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.

²⁰ For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.

²¹ Ye have heard that it was said of them of old time, Thou shalt not kill; and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment:

²² But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire.

²³ Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee;

²⁴ Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.

²⁵ Agree with thine adversary quickly, whiles thou art in the way with him; lest at any time the adversary deliver thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and thou be cast into prison.

²⁶ Verily I say unto thee, Thou shalt by no means come out thence, till thou hast paid the uttermost farthing.

²⁷ Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery:

²⁸ But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.

²⁹ And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell.

³⁰ And if thy right hand offend thee, cut it off, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell.

³¹ It hath been said, Whosoever shall put away his wife, let him give her a writing of divorcement:

³² But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery.

³³ Again, ye have heard that it hath been said by them of old time, Thou shalt not forswear thyself, but shalt perform unto the Lord thine oaths:

³⁴ But I say unto you, Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God’s throne:

³⁵ Nor by the earth; for it is his footstool: neither by Jerusalem; for it is the city of the great King.

³⁶ Neither shalt thou swear by thy head, because thou canst not make one hair white or black.

³⁷ But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil.

³⁸ Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth:

³⁹ But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.

⁴⁰ And if any man will sue thee at the law, and take away thy coat, let him have thy cloak also.

⁴¹ And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain.

⁴² Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away.

⁴³ Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy.

⁴⁴ But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;

⁴⁵ That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.

⁴⁶ For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same?

⁴⁷ And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so?

⁴⁸ Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.

King James Version. Public Domain

Commentary

Introduction:

Matthew Chapter 5, also known as the Sermon on the Mount, is a central passage in the teachings of Jesus. Here, Jesus presents the way to a life focused on the values of the Kingdom of Heaven. Beginning with the Beatitudes, He offers profound teachings on the true nature of happiness and fulfillment, which are found not in material things, but in spiritual virtues and right relationships with God and others. The Sermon on the Mount challenges listeners to examine their hearts and strive for a higher righteousness that goes beyond mere legal compliance.

Commentary:

In Matthew Chapter 5, Jesus lays the foundation for a way of life that is radically different from worldly norms. The Beatitudes represent a reversal of worldly values, promising the Kingdom of Heaven and comfort to the spiritually poor, the mourners, the meek, and the persecuted. Jesus calls His disciples to be the “salt of the earth” and the “light of the world,” to live as examples of God’s grace and truth.
Jesus does not abolish the law but fulfills and expands it by pointing to the deeper intent behind the commandments. For example, He teaches that the roots of murder lie in anger and that adultery begins with a lustful look. These teachings emphasize that true righteousness begins in the heart, not just in outward actions.
A central point of this teaching is the love of enemies, which stands in stark contrast to typical human reactions. Jesus calls for loving not only one’s neighbors but also one’s enemies, doing good instead of repaying evil, and praying for those who persecute us. This attitude reflects the perfection that Jesus calls His followers to—a perfection that aligns with the character of God.

Summary:

Matthew Chapter 5 reveals the ethical and moral principles of the Kingdom of Heaven that Jesus teaches His followers. The Beatitudes extol spiritual virtues and promise eternal rewards for those who follow God’s path. Jesus urges believers to act as light and salt in the world and to live a righteousness that goes deeper than mere adherence to laws. Through teachings on anger, adultery, retaliation, and love for enemies, He calls us to examine our hearts and align our lives with God’s perfect standards. These teachings are an invitation to live in a way that reflects the character of God and prepares us for eternal life.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages Chapter 52: The Divine Shepherd

This chapter is based on John 10:1-30.

Read online here

 

Commentary

In John 10:1-30, Jesus Christ reveals Himself as the “Good Shepherd,” a metaphor deeply rooted in the culture and hearts of the people of His time. This familiar image of a shepherd lovingly and protectively watching over his flock serves as a powerful parable for the close, personal relationship that Jesus maintains with His believers. He is not just a shepherd, but the Shepherd who is willing to lay down His life for His sheep—an expression of the highest form of love and devotion.

The promise that the Good Shepherd knows His sheep by name highlights the deep personal bond that Jesus has with each individual believer. He knows our worries, our fears, and our struggles. In a world full of uncertainties, the Good Shepherd offers security, guidance, and comfort. Jesus contrasts Himself sharply with the false shepherds of His time, who led the people astray and neglected their responsibility to the flock.

Through the image of the shepherd who goes ahead and leads his sheep to safe pastures, Jesus illustrates that the way to God cannot be reached through human wisdom or religious systems, but only through Him. He is the door to life, and only through Him can we find true fulfillment and peace. This image of the Shepherd who fights for and protects His sheep conveys the deep comfort and security found in following Jesus.

The Good Shepherd not only lays down His life for the sheep but also takes it up again to grant them eternal life. This willingness to sacrifice Himself shows the deep love of Jesus, a love that knows no bounds. It is a love that follows us into our darkest moments, rescues us from lostness, and leads us into fellowship with God.

Jesus’ call to follow His voice is an invitation to a life of abundance—a life characterized by His guidance and care. In Him, we find not only protection and provision but also the assurance that He will never abandon us. This Shepherd, who leads us through life, will ultimately bring us to our eternal home, where we will find complete security and joy in His presence.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages Chapter 53: The Last Journey From Galilee

This chapter is based on Luke 9:51-56; Luke 10:1-24.

Read online here

 

Commentary

In Chapter 53 the final journey of Jesus from Galilee to Jerusalem is depicted, a journey marked by both internal and external challenges. With the foreknowledge of His impending suffering and death, Jesus altered His approach, deliberately turning toward the cross. Whereas He had previously avoided the attention of the masses, He now openly presented Himself, preparing the people for the impending climax of His earthly mission.

On this last journey through Galilee, Jesus taught intensively, using many parables to convey His message and prepare His disciples for the coming events. Despite the growing hostility from the religious leaders, Jesus remained steadfast in His mission, resolutely setting His face toward Jerusalem, fully aware that His sacrifice was necessary to save humanity.

The people’s reactions to Jesus’ final journey were mixed. While some readily accepted His teachings, others met Him with rejection and hostility. The Samaritans, who did not receive His message, and the cities that ignored His works and teachings, became cautionary examples of the danger of rejecting God’s offer of salvation.

This chapter highlights Jesus’ determination and obedience to the will of His Father, as well as His deep love and care for humanity. It shows us that the path of obedience and devotion is not always easy, but it ultimately leads to the fulfillment of God’s divine plan. The words and actions of Jesus on this final journey remind us that the true treasure lies in heaven and that if we set our hearts on God, we can become part of His eternal kingdom.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/4-08-2024-matthew-chapter-5-believe-his-prophets/

1.If someone asked you, “What has Jesus freed you from?” what would you say?

Jesus has freed me from the burden of sin and the associated guilt. He has opened my eyes to the truth and led me out of the darkness of doubt and fear. Through his love and grace, he has given me new purpose and meaning in life, freed me from negative behavioral patterns, and given me the strength to live a life of peace, joy, and hope. He has freed me from the constant search for approval and validation from others by showing me that my true identity and worth are found in him. Jesus has also helped me find inner peace and understand that I am valuable and loved in God’s eyes, regardless of my flaws and weaknesses. This liberation through Jesus has transformed my life and given me a new perspective on myself and the world around me.

2.Discuss why God sometimes allows good people like John the Baptist to be imprisoned and executed. What comfort or hope can we find despite these difficult questions?

Why God sometimes allows good people like John the Baptist to be imprisoned and executed:

1. Free Will and Evil in the World:

   • Free Will: God has given people free will, and unfortunately, some choose to do evil. Herod and his family acted out of their free will, leading to John being imprisoned and eventually executed.

   • Existence of Evil: The presence of evil and sin in the world means that even good people suffer. John the Baptist became a victim of others’ evil intentions and intrigues.

2. Divine Plans and Purposes:

   • God’s Greater Plan: Sometimes God’s ways and plans are beyond our understanding. John’s death played a role in God’s larger plan for humanity, including preparing the way for Jesus’ own sacrifice.

   • Testimony and Example: The life and death of John the Baptist serve as a powerful testimony to faith and loyalty to God. His courage and steadfastness inspire other believers to remain true to their faith even in difficult times.

3. Suffering and Persecution as Part of Faith:

   • Persecution of the Righteous: The Bible teaches that persecution and suffering can be part of the life of believers. Jesus said that his followers would face persecution (John 15:20).

   • Testing and Strengthening of Faith: Suffering and trials can strengthen a person’s faith and draw them closer to God. They provide opportunities to deepen one’s faith and trust in God’s faithfulness.

Comfort and Hope Despite Difficult Questions:

1. God’s Presence and Faithfulness:

   • God’s Nearness: God promises to be with us even in the darkest times. His presence comforts and strengthens us (Psalm 23:4).

   • God’s Faithfulness: We can trust that God is faithful and has a plan, even if we don’t always understand it (Romans 8:28).

2. Hope of Resurrection:

   • Eternal Life: Death is not the end. John the Baptist and all believers have the hope of resurrection and eternal life with God (John 11:25-26).

   • God’s Justice: God will one day judge all injustice and restore righteousness (Revelation 21:4).

3. Example in Suffering:

   • Example of Jesus: Jesus himself suffered persecution and death to redeem us. His example shows us that suffering can have a purpose and that God can turn it for good.

   • Example of Saints: Stories of people like John the Baptist encourage us to remain steadfast in our own faith and trust in God’s ultimate justice.

4. Community and Support:

   • Community of Believers: In times of suffering, we find comfort and support in the community of believers who help us strengthen our faith and encourage one another (Galatians 6:2).

Summary: Although we do not always understand why God allows good people like John the Baptist to suffer, we can find comfort and hope in God’s presence, faithfulness, the hope of resurrection, the example of Jesus, and the community of believers. These elements help us remain steadfast in times of suffering and preserve our faith.

3.What can a church with limited resources learn from the feeding of the 5000?

Lessons for a church with limited resources from the feeding of the 5000:

The story of the feeding of the 5000 in Mark 6:34-44 offers valuable lessons, especially for churches with limited resources. Here are some important teachings that such a church can draw from this story:

1. Trust in God’s Provision:

   • God’s Supernatural Power: The story shows that Jesus can miraculously multiply the few available resources – five loaves and two fish. This teaches us to trust in God’s ability to multiply even our limited means and provide abundantly for our needs.

   • Prayer and Trust: A church should persist in prayer and trust in God’s provision rather than be discouraged by seemingly insufficient resources.

2. Willingness to Share What Is Available:

   • Sharing Despite Scarcity: The disciples willingly gave what little they had, and Jesus multiplied it. This attitude of sharing, even when resources are scarce, can work wonders in the church and lead to unexpected blessings.

   • Belief in Community: Sharing and mutual support strengthen the community and create an atmosphere of trust and cooperation.

3. Organization and Cooperation:

   • Structured Distribution: Jesus organized the crowd by seating them in groups, which facilitated the distribution of food. This shows the importance of organization and efficient use of available resources.

   • Teamwork: The disciples worked together to distribute the food. In a church, teamwork is crucial to overcoming challenges together and serving effectively.

4. Small Contributions Matter:

   • Every Contribution Is Valuable: The story shows that even a small contribution – like the five loaves and two fish – can make a big difference when placed in God’s hands. This encourages every church member to contribute, no matter how small it may seem.

   • Utilizing Diverse Gifts: Every person in the church has talents and resources that can be used for the common good. Encouraging these gifts can maximize the collective impact of the church.

5. Faith in God’s Plan and Timing:

   • Patience and Trust: The disciples had to trust that Jesus knew what he was doing, even when the situation seemed hopeless. This teaches us to be patient and trust in God’s plan and timing, even if we do not see the solution immediately.

   • Openness to Miracles: A church should be open to the supernatural and to the miracles God can work when we give ourselves to him in trust and obedience.

6. Gratitude and Encouragement:

   • Thanksgiving: Jesus gave thanks to God for the food before distributing it. This shows the importance of gratitude, even in difficult situations. A thankful attitude can strengthen and encourage the hearts and minds of the church.

   • Sharing Testimonies: Sharing stories of God’s provision and miracles in the church can strengthen faith and encourage members.

Summary: The feeding of the 5000 teaches a church with limited resources to trust in God’s supernatural provision, willingly share what is available, work in an organized and cooperative manner, value small contributions, be patient with God’s plan, and maintain an attitude of gratitude. By applying these principles, the church can experience how God multiplies their limited means and wonderfully meets their needs.

4.Compare popular views of Jesus today with the image of Him in Mark 5 and 6. That is, what about those who use Jesus to gain political power and dominate others?

Popular views of Jesus today vary greatly and are often shaped by individual and cultural perspectives. Some people see Jesus as a moral teacher, a spiritual leader, or a social reformer. In some cases, Jesus is even used to gain political power or to dominate others. These modern conceptions stand in stark contrast to the image of Jesus portrayed in Mark 5 and 6.

In Mark 5 and 6, Jesus is depicted as someone who does not seek political power or to dominate others. Instead, he reveals himself as the compassionate healer and the powerful Lord over nature and demons. Here are some key aspects that highlight these differences:

1. Healing and Deliverance:

   • Mark 5: Jesus heals the demon-possessed man, the bleeding woman, and raises Jairus’ daughter from the dead. These acts demonstrate his care for the well-being of people and his power to overcome suffering and death.

   • Popular Views Today: Some people use the image of Jesus to further their own interests, often by tailoring his message to their political or social agendas. They might try to manipulate his teachings to gain power and influence.

2. Humility and Service:

   • Mark 6: Jesus feeds 5000 people with five loaves and two fish, showing his care and willingness to serve. He sends the disciples out to proclaim the gospel and heal people without material security, relying on God’s provision.

   • Popular Views Today: In some cases, Jesus is misused as a symbol for power and domination. Instead of serving humbly, his name is used to consolidate power and control others.

3. Rejection and Path of Suffering:

   • Mark 6: Jesus is rejected in his hometown of Nazareth, showing that his message and identity are often misunderstood and rejected. Additionally, the death of John the Baptist reminds us that true discipleship often involves suffering and sacrifice.

   • Popular Views Today: Some contemporary views present Jesus as someone who brings success and prosperity, ignoring the aspects of his suffering and self-sacrifice.

Conclusion: The contrast between the image of Jesus in Mark 5 and 6 and some modern views of him is clear. While Jesus is portrayed in the Gospels as a serving, healing, and suffering Messiah, he is often misused today for political purposes and to gain power. A correct understanding of Jesus requires recognizing his true nature and mission – proclaiming the Kingdom of God through service, humility, and self-sacrifice.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-5-miracles-around-the-lake-5-7-questions-the-book-of-mark-living-faith/

August 3, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Matthew Chapter 4

¹ Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil.

² And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungred.

³ And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread.

⁴ But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.

⁵ Then the devil taketh him up into the holy city, and setteth him on a pinnacle of the temple,

⁶ And saith unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone.

⁷ Jesus said unto him, It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God.

⁸ Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them;

⁹ And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me.

¹⁰ Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.

¹¹ Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him.

¹² Now when Jesus had heard that John was cast into prison, he departed into Galilee;

¹³ And leaving Nazareth, he came and dwelt in Capernaum, which is upon the sea coast, in the borders of Zabulon and Nephthalim:

¹⁴ That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying,

¹⁵ The land of Zabulon, and the land of Nephthalim, by the way of the sea, beyond Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles;

¹⁶ The people which sat in darkness saw great light; and to them which sat in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up.

¹⁷ From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.

¹⁸ And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers.

¹⁹ And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.

²⁰ And they straightway left their nets, and followed him.

²¹ And going on from thence, he saw other two brethren, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in a ship with Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and he called them.

²² And they immediately left the ship and their father, and followed him.

²³ And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people.

²⁴ And his fame went throughout all Syria: and they brought unto him all sick people that were taken with divers diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatick, and those that had the palsy; and he healed them.

²⁵ And there followed him great multitudes of people from Galilee, and from Decapolis, and from Jerusalem, and from Judaea, and from beyond Jordan.

King James Version. Public Domain

Commentary

Introduction:

The fourth chapter of the Gospel of Matthew depicts key events at the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry. This chapter is divided into three main sections: the temptation of Jesus in the wilderness, the beginning of His ministry in Galilee, and the calling of the first disciples. The chapter highlights important aspects of spiritual warfare, the fulfillment of prophetic promises, and the radical discipleship that Jesus demands from His followers.

Commentary:

The first section of this chapter describes the temptation of Jesus in the wilderness. After a forty-day fast, Jesus is tempted by the devil. The devil presents Jesus with three tests: turning stones into bread, leaping from the temple to demonstrate God’s power, and offering all the kingdoms of the world in exchange for worship. Jesus resists each of these temptations with quotes from Scripture, demonstrating His unwavering commitment to God’s will. This episode symbolizes the spiritual battle that every believer faces and shows that true power and life do not come from material things, but from obedience to God’s Word.

In the second section, Jesus begins His public ministry in Galilee after John the Baptist is imprisoned. He moves to Capernaum, thereby fulfilling the prophecy from Isaiah that the people living in darkness would see a great light. This action underscores the significance of fulfilling prophetic Scriptures in Jesus’ life and work. Jesus begins to preach the message of repentance and the nearness of the Kingdom of Heaven, marking the start of His active ministry.

The third section describes the calling of the first disciples. Jesus calls Simon Peter and Andrew, as well as James and John, two pairs of brothers who are fishermen. They immediately leave their nets and their father to follow Jesus. This radical willingness to leave everything behind to follow Jesus illustrates the total commitment that He expects from His followers. The mention that Jesus will make these men “fishers of men” hints at the future mission of bringing others into the Kingdom of God.

The final part of the chapter describes Jesus’ ministry of healing in Galilee. Jesus heals many people of various diseases, leading to His fame spreading throughout the region and many people following Him. These healings are a sign of the coming Kingdom of God and the comprehensive restoration that comes through Jesus.

Summary:

Matthew chapter 4 provides deep insight into the early phase of Jesus’ ministry. The temptation in the wilderness shows Jesus’ steadfastness against satanic temptations and His fidelity to God’s Word. The beginning of His ministry in Galilee fulfills prophetic promises and establishes the message of the Kingdom of Heaven. The calling of the first disciples and the healings Jesus performs emphasize the radical nature of discipleship and the healing power of the Gospel. This chapter thus lays the foundation for Jesus’ subsequent work and the spread of His message.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages Chapter 51: The Light of Life

This chapter is based on John 8:12-59; John 9.

Read online here

 

Commentary

Introduction: Jesus as the Light of the World (John 8:12)

Jesus declares in the temple that He is the light of the world and promises that those who follow Him will not walk in darkness but will have the light of life. This statement is made during the Feast of Tabernacles, where large lamps in the temple courtyard illuminate Jerusalem and remind the people of the pillar of fire that guided Israel in the wilderness. Jesus uses this symbol to highlight His mission as a spiritual light meant to illuminate the darkness of the world.

The Significance of Light in the Bible

Light is a recurring symbol in the Bible for God’s presence and revelation. From the light of creation to the pillar of fire that guided Israel in the wilderness and the light that accompanied the dedication of Solomon’s temple, light stands for God’s guidance and proximity. Jesus, as the light of the world, embodies God’s essence and His relationship with humanity. He is the true light that enlightens every person (John 1:9).

Jesus and Abraham (John 8:56-58)

Jesus emphasizes His eternal existence and His relationship with Abraham, which the Pharisees perceive as presumptuous. He explains that Abraham rejoiced at the prospect of Jesus’ day. By saying, “Before Abraham was, I am,” Jesus claims divine existence and identity, which the Pharisees see as blasphemy and therefore want to stone Him.

The Healing of the Man Born Blind (John 9)

In John 9, Jesus heals a man who was born blind. This healing demonstrates that God’s works are revealed through Jesus. The disciples and the Pharisees inquire about the cause of the blindness, but Jesus shifts the focus to the outcome: the revelation of God’s power and grace. This healing occurs on the Sabbath, prompting the Pharisees to again condemn Jesus as a lawbreaker.

The Pharisees’ Reaction

The Pharisees attempt to deny the miracle and intimidate the healed man and his parents. However, the formerly blind man bravely defends Jesus and points to the obvious divine origin of his healing. This defense leads to his expulsion from the synagogue. Jesus seeks him out and fully reveals Himself to him, whereupon the man worships Jesus as the Son of Man.

Spiritual Blindness of the Pharisees

Jesus uses the healing of the man born blind to highlight the spiritual blindness of the Pharisees. They claim to see, but they reject the true light that Jesus offers. Their self-righteousness and pride prevent them from recognizing the truth, thus their sin remains.

Summary

Chapter 51 underscores the profound significance of Jesus’ declaration, “I am the light of the world.” Jesus brings not only physical but also spiritual light into the world, revealing God’s truth and saving people from the darkness of sin. The healing of the man born blind serves as a practical example of Jesus’ mission and the necessity of accepting spiritual light. The Pharisees, however, remain trapped in their self-righteousness and reject the life-changing light that Jesus offers.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/3-08-2024-matthew-chapter-4-believe-his-prophets/