August 18, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Matthew Chapter 19

1 And it came to pass, that when Jesus had finished these sayings, he departed from Galilee, and came into the coasts of Judaea beyond Jordan;

2 And great multitudes followed him; and he healed them there.

3 The Pharisees also came unto him, tempting him, and saying unto him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife for every cause?

4 And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female,

5 And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh?

6 Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.

7 They say unto him, Why did Moses then command to give a writing of divorcement, and to put her away?

8 He saith unto them, Moses because of the hardness of your hearts suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so.

9 And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery.

10 His disciples say unto him, If the case of the man be so with his wife, it is not good to marry.

11 But he said unto them, All men cannot receive this saying, save they to whom it is given.

12 For there are some eunuchs, which were so born from their mother’s womb: and there are some eunuchs, which were made eunuchs of men: and there be eunuchs, which have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven’s sake. He that is able to receive it, let him receive it.

13 Then were there brought unto him little children, that he should put his hands on them, and pray: and the disciples rebuked them.

14 But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.

15 And he laid his hands on them, and departed thence.

16 And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?

17 And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments.

18 He saith unto him, Which? Jesus said, Thou shalt do no murder, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness,

19 Honour thy father and thy mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.

20 The young man saith unto him, All these things have I kept from my youth up: what lack I yet?

21 Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me.

22 But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful: for he had great possessions.

23 Then said Jesus unto his disciples, Verily I say unto you, That a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of heaven.

24 And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.

25 When his disciples heard it, they were exceedingly amazed, saying, Who then can be saved?

26 But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.

27 Then answered Peter and said unto him, Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed thee; what shall we have therefore?

28 And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.

29 And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name’s sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life.

30 But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction:

Matthew Chapter 19 addresses some of the most important and challenging topics in the Christian faith. It begins with a discussion on marriage, divorce, and celibacy, where Jesus emphasizes the sanctity and permanence of marriage. The chapter continues with the blessing of the children, highlighting the special significance of childlike faith. Finally, Jesus speaks about the danger of wealth and the difficulty for the rich to enter the kingdom of God, as well as the reward of following Him, which outweighs earthly loss with heavenly rewards. This chapter reveals Jesus’ profound teachings about the values and priorities of the kingdom of God.

Commentary:

In Matthew 19, Jesus confronts the Pharisees and His disciples with important teachings about marriage and its indissolubility. He points out that marriage was instituted by God and should not be dissolved lightly. This stands in contrast to the prevailing practice of allowing divorce for trivial reasons at the time. Jesus emphasizes that the hardness of human hearts was the reason for this allowance, but the divine ideal is the inseparable union between man and woman.

Furthermore, the importance of childlike faith is highlighted as Jesus blesses the children and declares that the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these. This underscores the necessity of a humble and simple devotion to God.

The conversation with the rich young man illustrates the danger that wealth poses to spiritual life. Jesus challenges the young man to sell all he has and follow Him, which he is unable to do. This scene demonstrates that wealth often serves as a barrier to God and that true discipleship requires complete dedication to Christ.

Finally, Jesus speaks about the reward of discipleship, explaining that those who leave everything for His sake will be richly rewarded in the kingdom of heaven. He also emphasizes that worldly notions of “first” and “last” are reversed in the kingdom of God.

Summary:

Matthew Chapter 19 teaches important principles about marriage, faith, and discipleship. Jesus underscores the sanctity of marriage and warns against casual divorce. He blesses the children, setting them as examples of faith. Through His interaction with the rich young man, Jesus shows the challenge of wealth in relation to the kingdom of heaven and calls for total dedication. Finally, He assures the disciples that true discipleship will be richly rewarded in the heavenly kingdom, even if it requires earthly sacrifices. The chapter concludes with the admonition that divine values often stand in opposition to worldly standards.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages Chapter 56—Blessing the Children

This chapter is based on Matthew 19:13-15; Mark 10:13-16; Luke 18:15-17.

Read online here

 

Commentary

The chapter “Blessing the Children” highlights one of the most touching scenes in Jesus’ life, where He demonstrates His special love and affection for the smallest among us. This event is not only an expression of Jesus’ affection for children but also a powerful symbol of the appreciation and place they hold in the kingdom of God.

In the context of the Jewish society of that time, where children were often viewed as the property of their parents rather than as independent individuals with spiritual significance, Jesus’ actions were revolutionary. The disciples, who attempted to dismiss the mothers with their children, likely believed that Jesus’ mission was too important to be interrupted by such seemingly trivial concerns. However, Jesus made it clear that these “trivial” matters are of utmost importance in the kingdom of God. His words, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them; for to such belongs the kingdom of God” (Luke 18:16), reflect a profound truth: Children embody the kind of innocence, openness, and trust that adults should also strive for in their faith.

The incident also underscores the far-reaching significance of Jesus’ blessing. The mothers who brought their children to Him did so in hope of divine grace and protection for their little ones. Jesus did not disappoint these expectations. Instead, He blessed the children not only physically but spiritually, providing the mothers with great comfort and hope. This blessing was not just a simple gesture but a profound affirmation that their children are valuable in God’s eyes and that their efforts to raise them in faith are supported and blessed by God Himself.

The commentary also highlights the responsibility of parents to raise their children in the Christian faith. This responsibility is portrayed not merely as a parental duty but as a sacred calling, where parents act as instruments of God. By leading their children to Christ, they help lay the foundation for a life of faith and grace. Parents are to open their children’s hearts to the truths of the Gospel and teach them in ways that are understandable to them. The image of parents as “gardeners,” nurturing the young plants of their children with love and care, is a powerful metaphor that describes the fragility and potential of the child’s soul.

Jesus’ interaction with the children also shows us how we should approach children today. It is a reminder that children should not only be seen as future members of the church but as current, valuable members of God’s community. Their spiritual education begins not only when they reach adulthood but from their earliest years. Therefore, it is the responsibility of parents, teachers, and the entire Christian community to shape these young hearts, encourage them, and guide them to Christ.

Furthermore, it is comforting to see that Jesus’ care and love for children extend beyond that time. The commentary makes it clear that even today, Jesus knows the concerns and struggles of mothers and supports them in their task of raising their children in faith. His love and understanding for the trials and challenges of parenthood are a comforting thought for all who seek support and encouragement in raising their children.

Overall, this chapter provides a profound reflection on the significance of blessing children in the Christian faith and the central role that children play in the kingdom of God. It is a call to all who bear responsibility for children to raise them with love and with an eye towards their spiritual development, and it serves as a reminder that Jesus still holds the same love and affection for the smallest among us today as He did then.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages Chapter 57—“One Thing Thou Lackest”

This chapter is based on Matthew 19:16-22; Mark 10:17-22; Luke 18:18-23.

Read online here

 

Commentary

This chapter describes the deeply moving encounter between Jesus and a young man known in the Gospels as the rich young ruler. It is a story that speaks not only to the heart but also to the mind, as it addresses central issues of discipleship, obedience, and devotion to God. The encounter reveals the difficulty Jesus presents to the young man: the call to total self-denial and dedication to God in exchange for eternal life.

The rich young ruler symbolizes many people who earnestly seek spiritual fulfillment and the kingdom of God but are held back by the worldly things they hold dear. His desire to gain eternal life is genuine and profound, as evidenced by his urgent approach to Jesus, kneeling before Him, and asking his pressing question. However, when Jesus reveals the true cost of eternal life, the inner struggle of the young man becomes apparent.

Jesus asks him to sell his wealth and give the money to the poor to gain treasure in heaven. This request is not a general rule Jesus sets for all believers but a specific test for this young man. Jesus recognizes that his heart is attached to his possessions and shows him that true discipleship requires letting go of all worldly securities and attachments. It is not merely about relinquishing material wealth but about the willingness to give up anything that keeps the heart from serving God.

The tragedy of this story lies in the young man’s reaction. He is sad because he is not willing to pay the high price Jesus demands. His wealth is too precious to him, and thus he chooses not to follow Jesus. This decision reveals a profound truth: even the best intentions and the most sincere desire for God can be overwhelmed by love for the things of this world.

Jesus’ call to give up everything and follow Him is an invitation to find true freedom in total devotion to God. It is a call that still reaches out today to anyone who seeks eternal life. The story of the rich young ruler shows that the path to God involves the cross of self-denial, and that true fulfillment and eternal life can only be attained if one is willing to leave all earthly things behind.

This incident serves as a reminder that worldly wealth and earthly securities cannot compare with the treasure of heaven. It is a call to reflect on the things that may be hindering us from true discipleship. Whatever our “one thing that we lack” may be, it stands between us and complete communion with God. The rich young ruler had a choice, and that choice also lies before us: Will we be willing to give up everything for Christ, or will we, like him, leave sadly because the worldly things are too important to us?

Jesus’ behavior in this story is also a lesson for all who are engaged in pastoral care. He meets the young man with love and compassion, even though he conveys a harsh truth. His love is not sentimental but demands the truth and the best for the person, even if it means that the path is painful. This approach should also guide those who accompany others on their journey to God.

Ultimately, the story of the rich young ruler shows that following Jesus requires radical decisions. It is a call to total dedication, the renunciation of all idols, and the acceptance of the cross. However, the reward Jesus promises is incomparable: eternal life and the treasure in heaven that far surpasses any earthly joy and security.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/18-08-2024-matthew-chapter-19-believe-his-prophets/

Despite historical challenges to religious freedom, there have always been people who have chosen to be faithful to God and His Word. In this episode, join Pastor Ted Wilson, president of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, as he discusses part two of chapter 35 of The Great Controversy by Ellen White.

Join as he delves deeper into prophecy, highlighting the rise of the Roman Church and its impact on future religious liberty. Watch to learn more.

Read The Great Controversy by Ellen White at https://greatcontroversyproject.org/.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/the-great-controversy-chapter-35-pt-2-liberty-of-conscience-threatened-pastor-ted-wilson/

1.Read Mark 8:27–29 again. How often do you confess your faith in Jesus as the Christ before others?

Mark 8:27–29 describes a pivotal moment when Jesus asks His disciples who people say He is and then who they believe He is. Peter answers, “You are the Christ.” This confession is a crucial expression of faith and recognition of Jesus as the promised Messiah. This passage prompts us to reflect on our own confession of faith. Here are some questions and considerations to help deepen this reflection:

1. How often do I confess my faith in Jesus to others? Consider the situations in which you openly speak about your faith. Does your confession of faith show up in conversations, actions, or the way you live?

2. How do I express my faith? Confessions of faith can take many forms—through words, actions, decisions, and the way you lead your life. Think about how you make your faith visible in your daily life.

3. What challenges or fears do I have when it comes to confessing my faith? Often, there are fears or uncertainties that prevent us from speaking openly about our faith. Reflect on the specific challenges you face and how you might address them.

4. How can I strengthen my confession? Consider the steps you can take to confess your faith more consciously. Perhaps there are ways you can be more active and open about Jesus in your personal environment or social context.

Confessing Jesus as the Christ is a central aspect of the Christian life. It’s not just about having a personal conviction but also about living and sharing this conviction boldly and authentically. By reflecting on your own confession, you can find ways to deepen your relationship with Jesus and demonstrate what your faith means to you.

2.What is the right balance between experiencing communion with Christ on the mountaintop and serving the needs of others in the valley?

Finding the right balance between experiencing communion with Christ on the mountaintop and serving the needs of others in the valley is a fundamental question for the Christian life. This balance is important because both aspects represent different but complementary dimensions of faith.

1. Mountaintop Experiences (Communion with Christ): The “mountaintop experience” refers to times of intense closeness to God, spiritual enlightenment, and deep communion with Christ. These moments are often formative and provide us with strength, clarity, and inspiration. Examples include personal prayer experiences, communal worship, intensive Bible study, or special spiritual encounters.

2. Valley Experiences (Serving Others): The “valley experience” refers to the everyday reality of dealing with the needs of others and actively serving them. This involves the practical challenges of faith, integrating our beliefs into daily life, and engaging in social justice and charity.

Finding the Right Balance:

1. Nourishment and Source of Strength: Communion with Christ on the mountaintop provides the spiritual nourishment and strength needed for effective service. These moments are crucial for personal renewal and growth in faith. They help us build a deeper relationship with God and experience His guidance. Without this regular renewal, we might feel exhausted or burnt out.

2. Application of Faith: Serving the needs of others in the valley is the expression of our spiritual experiences and beliefs. It’s the practical application of the faith that has been strengthened and renewed on the mountaintop. Service challenges us to make our faith concrete and visible in real-life situations.

3. Integration of Both Dimensions: It’s important to integrate both dimensions. Mountaintop experiences should not be isolated or self-serving. They should motivate us to be active in the valley and to live our faith through our actions. Conversely, serving others should not merely be a duty but should flow from a deep, personal faith rooted in communion with Christ.

4. Regular Reflection and Balance: Regularly reviewing and reflecting on our balance between these two dimensions is necessary. It involves ensuring that we are not only living in spiritual communion without forgetting practical application and vice versa. It requires a conscious effort to maintain a balanced relationship between prayer and action, worship and service.

Practical Steps:

• Schedule Time for Silence and Prayer: Regularly create times of silence and prayer to strengthen your spiritual connection with God.

• Active Participation in Service: Engage actively in church services or social projects that help you put your faith into practice.

• Self-Reflection: Regularly check how your spiritual experiences influence your actions and vice versa, to ensure you maintain a healthy balance.

• Community with Others: Seek fellowship with other believers for mutual encouragement and support, helping to maintain the balance.

The right balance between communion with Christ and serving others is crucial for a healthy and fulfilling faith life. It helps us remain deeply rooted in our faith while being effective in practical expressions of this faith.

3.Discuss the answer to the question of greatness at the end of the Wednesday section. What is the difference between what the world considers greatness and what God considers greatness? Which people does the world consider great that God might not? Conversely, whom might God consider great, whom the world ignores or even despises? What does this difference tell us about how distorted and twisted the ideals of this world really are?

The question of greatness and the difference between worldly and divine views of greatness is central to understanding the Christian faith and our values.

Difference Between Worldly and Divine Greatness:

• Worldly Greatness: In the world, greatness is often defined by external attributes such as power, wealth, influence, and prestige. Those who are considered great are often those in high societal positions, those with significant wealth, fame, or considerable influence. The world measures greatness by the ability to influence or dominate others and by the level of personal success.

• Divine Greatness: God defines greatness quite differently. In the kingdom of God, true greatness is characterized by humility, service, and love. Jesus taught that the greatest in the kingdom of God is the one who serves and cares for others, especially the weak and needy. Greatness, in divine terms, means being a servant, putting others’ needs above one’s own ambitions.

People the World Considers Great but God Might Not:

• Wealthy and Influential Figures: Individuals with great material wealth or influential positions are often seen as great. However, God looks at the heart and values people based on their character and actions, not external success or status.

• Celebrities and Public Figures: People who gain fame through media and entertainment are often considered great. Yet, God’s measure is not fame or public recognition but the depth of faith and how they use their talents and resources for the good of others.

People God Might Consider Great, Whom the World Ignores or Despises:

• Poor and Unremarkable Individuals: People often overlooked or deemed insignificant by the world, such as the poor, widows, orphans, and generally less privileged individuals, might be of great importance in God’s eyes. Their humility and faith are often deeper and more authentic.

• Hidden Servants: Those who do not receive public acclaim but serve faithfully and quietly are considered great in God’s eyes. Their love and dedication are invaluable, even if they work behind the scenes without recognition.

• Kindness and Selflessness: Individuals who selflessly care for others and put their needs before their own show the kind of greatness that God honors.

What This Difference Tells Us About the Distortion of Worldly Ideals:

• Distorted Values: Worldly ideals often focus on external attributes and short-term success, leading to the neglect or ignorance of true values like humility, love, and service. This distortion reflects a superficial view that misses the depth and true significance of human life and faith.

• Superficiality: The world tends to set superficial standards for greatness that do not account for inner qualities and character. God’s true greatness often lies in unassuming and selfless actions that do not always receive public recognition.

• Changed Perspective: The difference shows the need to shift our perspective and move away from worldly standards. It reminds us that God’s values often contrast with what the world considers important. We are called to align our values and priorities with divine standards and view life from God’s perspective.

Overall, this contrast teaches us that true greatness from God’s perspective is often entirely different from worldly views and that we should not be guided by superficial ideals. Instead, we should strive for humility, service, and genuine faith, reflecting God’s true greatness.

4.How can you learn to take sin so seriously that, as Jesus said, you would be better off enduring physical harm than sinning?

To learn to take sin so seriously that you would prefer to endure physical harm rather than sin, consider the following approaches:

1. Understanding the Seriousness of Sin:

   • Reflect on the Impact: Begin by reflecting on the serious consequences of sin for your life, your relationship with God, and others. Sin can significantly impact not just your spiritual life but also your everyday life.

   • Study Scripture: Read and meditate on biblical teachings about sin. The Bible describes sin as something that destroys the relationship with God and leads to a life away from Him.

2. Recognize Personal Responsibility:

   • Self-Examination: Regularly examine your own life and actions. Ask yourself if there are areas where you are neglectful about sin or accommodating temptations.

   • Serious Self-Analysis: Be willing to face uncomfortable truths about your behavior and motives. This can be done through prayer, self-reflection, or discussions with a trusted spiritual advisor.

3. Take Radical Measures:

   • Avoid Temptations: Identify situations or circumstances that lead you into temptation and try to avoid or change them. This might mean avoiding certain behaviors or environments that lead you to sin.

   • Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries to protect yourself from temptation. This might also involve distancing yourself from people or situations that lead you into temptation.

4. Practice Spiritual Disciplines:

   • Prayer and Repentance: Use prayer and repentance to strengthen your relationship with God and to find the spiritual strength to resist sin. Regular prayer and confession help you recognize your dependence on God and seek His help.

   • Study Scripture: Regularly read the Bible to develop a deeper understanding of God’s will and the importance of holiness. The Scriptures provide guidance and wisdom on how to live a life pleasing to God.

5. Seek Healthy Community:

   • Support from Other Believers: Engage with other believers who can encourage and support you in living a life of holiness and integrity. Sharing challenges and praying for each other can help you remain steadfast.

   • Mentors and Role Models: Find spiritual mentors or role models whose lives and handling of sin inspire and challenge you. Their experiences and insights can help you develop a serious attitude towards sin.

6. Pursue a Consistent Lifestyle:

   • Long-Term Change: Work towards making permanent changes in your life, not just short-term solutions. Develop a long-term plan for spiritual growth and holiness.

   • Reflect on Lifestyle: Regularly review your lifestyle and priorities to ensure you live in accordance with God’s will and take sin seriously.

By implementing these approaches, you can learn to take sin seriously and understand the urgency Jesus conveyed about dealing with sin. It’s about recognizing the reality and consequences of sin and taking radical steps to lead a life that honors God and strengthens your faith.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-7-teaching-disciples-part-1-7-7-questions-the-book-of-mark-living-faith/

August 17, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Matthew Chapter 18

¹ At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?

² And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them,

³ And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.

⁴ Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.

⁵ And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me.

⁶ But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.

⁷ Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh!

⁸ Wherefore if thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off, and cast them from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life halt or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet to be cast into everlasting fire.

⁹ And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire.

¹⁰ Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven.

¹¹ For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost.

¹² How think ye? if a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray?

¹³ And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray.

¹⁴ Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish.

¹⁵ Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.

¹⁶ But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.

¹⁷ And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.

¹⁸ Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.

¹⁹ Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven.

²⁰ For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.

²¹ Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times?

²² Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.

²³ Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants.

²⁴ And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, which owed him ten thousand talents.

²⁵ But forasmuch as he had not to pay, his lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife, and children, and all that he had, and payment to be made.

²⁶ The servant therefore fell down, and worshipped him, saying, Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay thee all.

²⁷ Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt.

²⁸ But the same servant went out, and found one of his fellowservants, which owed him an hundred pence: and he laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying, Pay me that thou owest.

²⁹ And his fellowservant fell down at his feet, and besought him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all.

³⁰ And he would not: but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt.

³¹ So when his fellowservants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told unto their lord all that was done.

³² Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me:

³³ Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee?

³⁴ And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him.

³⁵ So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

Matthew Chapter 18 presents a central teaching of Jesus that deals with the structure and ethics of the Christian community. It begins with a question from the disciples about rank and greatness in the kingdom of heaven, and Jesus uses this opportunity to teach profound principles about humility, sin, forgiveness, and community. This passage highlights the importance of having a childlike heart in following Jesus and the indispensability of forgiveness in the Christian fellowship.

Commentary

The Disciples’ Dispute over Rank (Verses 1-5):

The disciples approach Jesus with the question of who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. This question reveals their misunderstandings about the nature of God’s kingdom. Jesus responds by placing a child in their midst and pointing out that greatness in the kingdom of heaven is determined by humility and the willingness to lower oneself like a child. In this teaching, children represent innocence, dependence, and trust—qualities that are also central in following Jesus.

Warning Against Leading Others Astray (Verses 6-9):

Jesus gives a stern warning against leading the “little ones” astray, referring to those who are weak in faith. The drastic imagery of cutting off a hand or plucking out an eye underscores the seriousness of this warning. It highlights the need for radical measures to avoid sin and temptation. This passage makes clear the severe consequences of sin for both the community and the individual.

The Parable of the Lost Sheep (Verses 10-14):

The parable of the lost sheep emphasizes God’s immeasurable love, showing that He does not want any of His “little ones” to be lost. It demonstrates that God actively seeks and rejoices when even one of His sheep is found. This narrative reveals the value of each individual in God’s eyes and calls the community to avoid despising anyone.

Correction and Prayer in the Church (Verses 15-20):

Here, Jesus provides clear instructions on how to handle sin and conflicts within the church. The process of correction should be done in love and with the goal of restoring the sinner. Prayer and unity within the church are emphasized, and it is assured that where two or three are gathered in Jesus’ name, He is in their midst.

On Forgiveness (Verses 21-35):

The final teaching on forgiveness is one of the strongest in the New Testament. Peter asks how many times he must forgive, and Jesus responds with “seventy times seven,” indicating an unlimited willingness to forgive. The parable of the unmerciful servant illustrates the consequences of failing to forgive. It underscores that the mercy we receive must also be extended to others.

Summary

Matthew 18 teaches essential principles for living in the Christian community: humility, avoidance of sin, the importance of each individual, responsible correction, and, above all, the necessity of unlimited forgiveness. Jesus emphasizes that true greatness in the kingdom of heaven is determined by a childlike heart and a willingness to forgive. These teachings challenge believers to reflect the principles of the kingdom of heaven in their actions and interactions with one another.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages Chapter 54—The Good Samaritan

This chapter is based on Luke 10:25-37.

Read online here

 

Commentary

Introduction

Chapter 54 of “The Life of Jesus” delves into the Parable of the Good Samaritan, a story that conveys profound lessons about true religion and neighborly love. Jesus uses this parable to emphasize the importance of compassion and practical love, which go beyond mere formalism. It demonstrates that the true expression of faith lies in the willingness to help others, regardless of their cultural or religious differences. In a time when self-righteousness and exclusion were prevalent, Jesus places the commandment of love above all other commandments.

Commentary

The Parable of the Good Samaritan is one of Jesus’ most profound and instructive parables, revealing the essence of true religion. It is not about outward rituals or formal religious practices, but about the active exercise of love, compassion, and mercy towards others, regardless of their background, faith, or social status. Jesus uses this story to expose the hypocritical attitude of the religious leaders of his time and to highlight the central importance of neighborly love.

The Good Samaritan represents the contrast between theoretical religiosity and practical, living love for one’s neighbor. While the priest and the Levite—religious authorities—pass by the injured man, it is the Samaritan, an outsider, who demonstrates true divine mercy. The parable underscores that true piety is not about distancing oneself from others but about caring for those in need and standing by them in their distress.

Through this parable, Jesus challenges his listeners and all believers to live out God’s love not just in words but in actions. He shows that a true neighbor is not just someone close to us, but anyone who needs our help. This teaching is a call to break down barriers of prejudice and self-righteousness and to cultivate an attitude of impartial mercy.

Summary

The Parable of the Good Samaritan powerfully illustrates the necessity of placing love for one’s neighbor and mercy above formal religious practices. Jesus makes it clear that true religion is not in the mere observance of rituals but in actively helping those in need. The Samaritan, who shows compassion despite cultural hostility, serves as a model of genuine divine love. The parable challenges us to break down barriers and see every person as our neighbor, whom we can help. This teaching remains a timeless reminder that love for God and our neighbor is the essence of the law and the life of faith.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages Chapter 55—Not With Outward Show

This chapter is based on Luke 17:20-22.

Read online here

 

Commentary

Chapter 55 focuses on Jesus’ central message that the Kingdom of God is not manifested through outward signs or worldly power, but rather begins within the individual. This teaching sharply contrasted with the expectations of the Pharisees and many Jews, who were anticipating a visible, earthly kingdom. Jesus emphasized that the Kingdom of God is a spiritual state that grows in the hearts of believers, independent of external circumstances or worldly forms of government.

Jesus taught his disciples that the true glory of his mission does not lie in worldly splendor, but in the spiritual renewal of individuals through the Holy Spirit. It was only after his ascension and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit that the disciples fully grasped the scope of Jesus’ mission. They came to understand that Christ’s kingdom is not established through earthly laws or power structures, but through the transformation of the heart and the following of Christ.

This message remains relevant today: the Kingdom of God is not built through political power or external reforms, but through inner renewal and living according to the teachings of Christ. Believers are called to seek not worldly glory, but to walk in humility and self-denial, following the path of Christ, who brought true light and life into the world.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/17-08-2024-matthew-chapter-18-believe-his-prophets/