Give Us This Day Our Daily Bread - Reflecting On God's Provision

Matthew 6:11b "Give us this day our daily bread."

Luke 11:3 "Give us each day our daily bread."

Introduction: A lesson I learned from a spider

When Debi and I first got married, we lived in an upstairs two bedroom apartment. One day she and I were looking out the back window at the back yard. We both were feeling down due to challenging circumstances. We both prayed but found ourselves still struggling on the inside. As we both kept peering out that window, we noticed a little spider making its way between the outside screen and inside window pane. 

The spider, though small, was bigger than the tiny screen holes. We reasoned that the spider had crawled in between the screen and window at an earlier time. As we watched closer, we noticed little tiny gnats flying in through the screen holes. Remarkably, those little gnats would get caught in the little spider's web. As soon as we witnessed this spectacle of the spider and the gnats, a rainbow appeared across the sky. Both my wife and I were reminded of God's promise to Noah (Genesis 9:13) that He would never again destroy the earth by a flood. Moreover, in seeing the spider, we realized that unless the gnats flew in through the screen, the spider would die. It had no way of getting out to fend for its food. The spider was completely at God's mercy to provide food (see Psalm 104:20-24).  

My wife and I were taught a valuable lesson that day concerning God's provision. We learned that His promises are always in the background of every circumstance (see 2 Peter 1:3-4). Secondly, though He may place what we perceive as restrictions into our lives, the "restrictions" are actual "releases" to free one's faith to trust God rather than themselves. 

Suggested reasons for the two renderings of the Lord's prayer

Whenever one reads the two versions of the Lord's prayer in Matthew 6:9-13 and Luke 11:2-4, the instructions from Jesus on prayer are given on two different occasions. As any good teacher will oft repeat a lesson or topic throughout the course of their teaching - so it is with our Lord. Although the two versions are similar, they contain distinctions.

The petition on requesting God's provision in Matthew 6:11b reads "give us this day, our daily bread". Luke 11:2 states the same petition in this way: "Give us each day our daily bread." Matthew's version had Jesus emphasizing provisions for today - right now. Luke's version deals with the distribution of God's provision for everyday into the future or for however long the need may be. The former addresses my request to God in meeting my immediate needs. The latter version of the prayer is requesting of God in meeting my needs for the long haul. Matthew's version is focused on the little picture of today. Luke's rendering is dealing with the bigger picture. 

I find the priority of these versions remarkable. Matthew's rendering of "gives us this day our daily bread" represents Jesus teaching this lesson in the earlier part of His ministry. He is preaching his first major sermon. When He arrives on this part of the prayer, the challenge to the believer is whether or not to trust God for today. 

Until I can learn the lesson of trusting God for today, I won't be ready for how much He wants to give to me tomorrow. Luke's version reminds us that each day is going require differing amounts and types of provision. Jeremiah writes in Lamentations 3:21-24 - 

"This I recall to my mind,
Therefore I have hope.
22 The Lord’s lovingkindnesses indeed never cease,
For His compassions never fail.
23 They are new every morning;
Great is Your faithfulness.
24 “The Lord is my portion,” says my soul, “Therefore I have hope in Him.”

Jesus reminds us in Matthew 6:34  “So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own."

Thoughts for application: three types of provision

In as much as Jesus uses the term "bread" in His instruction on prayer to refer to request for physical needs, one must not restrict God's provision to the physical realm. Certainly the physical realm is where we begin when considering God's provision (see Philippians 4:19). Physical provision of God covers food (Deuteronomy 8:14-15) and finances (Malachi 3:6-10; Luke 6:38; Philippians 4:19). It is normally  in this first sort of provision that many people conceive of God's provision. 

However, trusting God to provide every need addresses two other areas that are pointed to by the physical realm. The second area has to do with one's emotional needs. Philippians 4:6-7 promises the provision of God's "peace that surpasses all understanding". How often I have found that before the physical provision arrives, God's peace arrives ahead of it. 

Yet, there is one more sort of provision to which physical and emotional provisions point - namely spiritual provisions. Unless our spiritual provisions are met in Christ, physical and emotional provisions will not long satisfy. Whenever Jesus instructs His disciples on prayer in these verses, notice how little space He devotes to petitioning for physical needs - i.e. "daily bread". Jesus devotes the first quarter to one-third of the prayer to the praise of the Heavenly Father. Then, the latter part of the prayer is devoted to protection from temptation and the evil one. 

Closing thoughts

As we pray for God's provision, the drift of our prayer life ought to invert the typical order people follow in terms of their priorities. Rather than dwelling only on physical needs or perhaps graduating to emotional needs and going no further, the reversing of such order ought to follow. Imagine what happens when an individual or church begins with the spiritual need - a need for closer fellowship with God and deeper acquaintance with scripture. As the spiritual needs are prioritized, the emotional and physical needs are more effectively met. Undoubtedly, human experience drives one from dwelling only on the physical to consideration of one's emotional plight and then spiritual need. Traumatic events will call of course for addressing immediate physical and emotional needs - since such needs can lead one to ponder on the state of their soul. Yet, in the normal courses of one's Christian spiritual life, the order should follow the course of spiritual-->emotional-->physical. Consequently, such an approach prioritizes God, then others and lastly - oneself.  As we can see, God's provision covers all the bases. We only need to trust, wait and look to Him who knows what we need, when we need it.   

Let Us Have Great Faith In God - Matthew 1:18-25

Matthew 1:18-21 "Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows: when His mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child by the Holy Spirit. 19 And Joseph her husband, being a righteous man and not wanting to disgrace her, planned to send her away secretly. 20 But when he had considered this, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife; for the Child who has been conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit."

Introduction:

Whenever we consider the opening chapter to Matthew's Gospel, we are treated to the truths of grace and faith. Grace is God doing for man what he could not do otherwise for himself. Matthew 1:1-18 deals with how God would manifest His grace by way of the preparatory bloodline of the Messiah. Grace, as it would turn out, was not just an abstract idea. Christ Himself would reveal this attribute of God by inserting Himself into the human family by way of the virgin birth. (see Romans 5:16; Titus 2:11) 

If grace is the gift box presented by God, and Christ is the gift to be treasured, then faith is the wrapping paper used by the Spirit to draw us to Jesus Christ. People that express faith are exercising a receptive trust of God's grace. True faith that takes God at His word is a great faith. Great faith refers to the conviction that nothing is impossible for God. 

Great faith in God is expressed by Job when he states in Job 42:2 “I know that You can do all things, and that no purpose of Yours can be thwarted." Hebrews 11, for instance, lists 17 different people known for their great faith. Great faith can be expressed by God's people, whether young (like David in 1 Samuel 17) or old (such as Abraham in Genesis 12). Today's post will feature Joseph - the man whom God would use to be a father-figure in the human life of the virgin-born Son of God.  

Great faith is possible for any Christ-follower, not just a select few

Great faith is accessible to all Christ-followers as a result of the indwelling Holy Spirit, the Word of God and prayer. How often do we read of the early Christians in Acts exhibiting great faith? James 5:17 compares a prophet like Elijah to so-called "average" Christians today by the statement: "Elijah was a man just like us...". So let the reader be encouraged. Great faith (the focus of this post) is not just for the select few "super-saints". It is the privilege that any follower of Jesus can have in moments that call for it.

Whenever we consider the remainder of Matthew 1:18-25, we find a man by the name of Joseph. The more I read about Joseph in the Gospel's of Matthew, Luke and John - the more impressed I am by the faith he expressed in walking with God. Joseph had a bold faith. He had great faith. We find such faith described by Jesus in the way it trusts God to do the impossible in such passages as Mathew 8:10; 15:28 and Luke 7:9.  

The only way there can be such great faith is if it is initiated by God in the life of the person open to the truth of God. (see Ephesians 2:8-9; James 1:18) As noted already, we want to briefly consider great faith as expressed in the life of Joseph.

1. Joseph's faith was great due to quick obedience. Matthew 1:18-23

Joseph and Mary were betrothed. In 1st century Israel, betrothal was the legal prelude to actual, physical marriage. Other than the physical union of the man and woman, betrothal was considered a moral and legal relationship as binding as marriage. 
The purpose of the 6-12 months of betrothal was to establish the purity of the woman, to prepare for actual married life and for the husband to build a home for the time he and his wife would live together. Any sign of infidelity on the wife's part or proof that she was not a virgin would be grounds for the annulment of the contract.   

Joseph's hearing of Mary's pregnancy during their betrothal placed him in the uncomfortable dilemma. By legal rights Joseph could annul their legal marriage or betrothal. Such an action could be grounds for the death penalty for Mary, since Old Testament legislation included the penalty of stoning for such persons. (see Deuteronomy 20:7; 22:13-29) On the other hand, if Joseph decided to marry her, he would take on the reproach of those accusing her of infidelity and questioning his judgment. We know that the Jews thought such things about Jesus, implying that he had been born as a result of fornication.(see John 8:41)

Joseph was considering the first option of private annulment when angel appeared to him. (Matthew 1:21-23) God knew what Joseph was thinking, reminding us that He is ever omniscient. (see Psalm 139:1-7) God sending Gabriel to Joseph confirms this truth of God's omniscience. The angel's urging of Joseph to: "not be afraid" as to encourage him to take Mary as his wife. So what did Joseph do? He did what the angel told him. Joseph never hesitated. He responded quickly to God's word. We find his great faith in other passages. (Matthew 2:14 and 2:21) So Joseph's faith was great due to its quick response. Now notice a second trait of this great faith....

2. Joseph had great faith by the courage he had to trust God. Matthew 1:24b

Joseph's faith was great due to his quick response to the Word of God. We find another trait of great faith in Joseph's life - namely the courage to trust God. The dilemma explained above required great God-given courage for Joseph. He made the choice to trust God more than care about the opinions of people. To take Mary as his wife meant Joseph would undergo possible ridicule or questions about his character. 

Having the courage to trust God is never popular. In our 21st century world, there are pleas from every quarter to do-away with Christ from Christmas. Moreover, the secular notion that believing in the God of scripture is not merely irrational but immoral characterizes our age. Courage as the backbone of great faith is needed in our day.  

An Old Testament illustration from the book of Joshua can illustrate the place of courage in the life of faith. When Joshua was leading the ancient Jews into the promised land in the Book of Joshua, God told him on several occasions: "be strong and courageous". (see Joshua 1:9) This virtue of courage, valor and inner strength is prized as part of spiritual growth. (2 Peter 1:3-11) In over 200 places in God's Word we are told to "not be afraid". 

Imagine the pressure Joseph felt. Not only from potential pressure from his culture, but also the prospect of being a father-figure to the Savior of the world. Thank the Lord that God had a Joseph to whom He had prepared to have great faith. God is doing this very thing in our 21st century world. In the context of culture pressure, God is preparing His people to act courageously. Courage is the backbone of faith. To have great faith, like Joseph, entails quick obedience, courageous faith and one more characteristic....

3. Joseph's faith was great due to his complete follow-through. Matthew 1:25

We read in Matthew 1:25 "but kept her a virgin until she gave birth to a Son; and he called His name Jesus." Joseph had by this point made the marriage public and official. No longer were he and Mary betrothed or, as the Jews called it in the ancient world, "kiddushim". They were now "physically-married" or "chupah". Joseph was compelled to keep his wife a virgin till the birth of Jesus. Joseph knew his role and place. In Luke 2:22 we see Mary and Joseph bring the eight-day old infant Christ to the temple. The text notes: "And when the days for their purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought Him up to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord." 

Joseph is completing his follow-through. Great faith aims to complete the good work God began. (see Philippians 1:6) We find Joseph mention only a few times more in the New Testament. (see John 6:42) We're not sure when Joseph passed off the scene. What we do know from the New Testament record is that Joseph followed-through in his role as a father-figure to the virgin-born Messiah. It takes great faith to both get on the saddle and to remain in it.

When I think of complete follow-through in the realm of great-faith, I think of my grandmother. She read her Bible through every year while helping to raise my cousins, deal with health issues and tough early years in her marriage. She endured. She persevered. My grandmother got to witness my uncle and grandfather get converted to Jesus Christ. Today, one of my cousins is following the Lord. I thank the Lord for the examples of great faith we not only find in the Bible, but in our lives - if we but look with open eyes and hearts.

Closing thoughts

In today's post we explored the subject of "great faith" as exhibited in the life of Joseph in Matthew's Gospel and other places. We noted that "great faith" is that type of faith that concludes that with God, all things are possible. In describing what such faith looks like, we noted three traits in the life of Joseph.
First, Joseph expressed quick obedience to God's Word. Second, Joseph expressed courage to follow God, no matter what. Lastly, Joseph exhibited complete follow-through in what God called-him to do. Amazingly, Joseph's resolve foreshadowed what Jesus Himself would do in going to the cross and rising from the dead. (see 1 Peter 2:21ff) The take away for you and me is to ask for and live out great faith. Might we be like Joseph during this Christmas season and for the upcoming year. Let us be those who have great faith!  

God's Providence And Grace In Matthew's Genealogy Of Jesus

Matthew 1:17 "So all the generations from Abraham to David are fourteen generations; from David to the deportation to Babylon, fourteen generations; and from the deportation to Babylon to the Messiah, fourteen generations."

Introduction:

The introduction to the New Testament Gospel of Matthew begins with a a genealogy of Jesus. Tracing the bloodline of Jesus' humanity served to establish Him as the legal heir of David's throne. These initial thoughts help us understand the purpose for Matthew's inclusion of 42 names, stretching 2,000 years to the birth of Jesus. Many might wonder if there is anything more to be said of Matthew's genealogy? After all, beyond proving that Jesus is fit to be Israel's Messiah, what theological, spiritual and life-practical purposes do these list of names serve? 

As one ponders on Matthew 1:1-17, several observations can lead to several applications for our lives.

1. God's Providence

God's providence is the exercise of His sovereign power in governing, sustaining and guiding creation and history to achieve His ultimate purpose. The Baptist Faith and Message 2000 comments: 

"God as Father reigns with providential care over His universe, His creatures, and the flow of the stream of human history according to the purposes of His grace."

Several passages express the providential activity of God over and in His creation. (See Nehemiah 9:6-7; Psalm 90; 104; Romans 11:36; Colossians 1:16-17; Hebrews 1:3; Revelation 19). 

Whenever we view Matthew 1:17, we find a summation of two millennia of history. Matthew makes a point in presenting three sets of fourteen generations. Caution of course must be exercised when citing the meaning of certain numbers. However, we could say that some interesting correlations demonstrate God's guiding hand of providence in preparing our world for the arrival of the Messiah.

First, notice the total number of generations - forty two. Forty-two and the number forty are associated with testing and affliction. Think of the curse of sin brought upon humanity as a result of Adam and Eve's treachery in following the serpent. Even in the lives of Abraham, David and all human beings, the shadow of sin spoils our humanity. Israel, the biological cradle of Christ's humanity, was tested and afflicted. We are dead in sin and in need of the voice of the Spirit to call us forth to saving faith from our sin and affliction (see John 1:12-13; 5:24-25; James 1:18; 1 Peter 1:23). 

Second, we find three divisions in the genealogy. The number three is considered by H.L. Wilmington to be the number of unity, accomplishment and the universe (The Complete Book of Bible Lists, page 217). Beyond the number itself, certain themes emerge. The first division is headed by Abraham - the patriarch of promise. The second set is headed by David - the patriarch of God's pledge to Israel's throne. The third division of the genealogy is headed by Jeconiah - the man who would bring about a curse on the remainder of the bloodline. 

We see then a promise, a pledge and a curse. Lest someone step-in to reverse the curse, the promise and the pledge would not come to fulfillment. This design is intentional by Matthew and the Holy Spirit so moving in his personality to write these words.  

Thirdly, we find that each set of Matthew's genealogy of Jesus is divided into fourteen generations. Many commentators have noted that this arrangement by Matthew is intended for memorization. Much like today, we have our social security numbers and driver's licenses to identify ourselves. To the Jew of the first century, recounting one's pedigree would serve as a means of identification and claim of certain rights. 

In exercising caution about the number "fourteen" itself, the number is found often in places where God's purposes or processes for a people are drawing to a completion. In Genesis 31:41, Jacob expresses how he had served his uncle for fourteen years. We know from reading his story that after fourteen years, he got to marry Rachael, who is significant in Israel's history and in prophetic history. 

The Passover celebration, central to Israel's festal cycle and the very night of our Lord's betrayal, occurs on the fourteenth day of the month of Abib (March/April). Both the Passover and Jesus' re-institution of that covenant meal to be the New Covenant meal for his church represent points of accomplishment in Biblical and prophetic history.

These observations demonstrate God's guiding hand of providence on the history of the world - and Israel in particular - leading up to the birth of the Messiah (see Galatians 4:4). Certainly God's guiding hand of providence is active in our lives today. He is ever orchestrating events, times and seasons wherewith He can extend His overtures of grace to sinners (see Matthew 24:14; Acts 14:16-17; 17:20ff). 

2. God's grace

For consideration of time, we will note how God's grace in saving sinners is shown in this remarkable passage. First, the heads of the three divisions of the genealogy represent the profile of all human beings in need of God's grace. Abraham - the former idolater. David - a murderer and adulterer. Jeconiah - a man who was the son of a man who tried to destroy God's Word and was himself a cursed individual (see Jeremiah 36; . 

Secondly, of these three, the first two, by grace, responded in faith to God's grace. We're reminded by the fact that though God's plan of salvation is extended towards sinners, each person is responsible to respond to the Gospel call. 

Thirdly, we see four women in Christ's genealogy that represent the plight of humanity. The first two women, Tamar (1:3) and Rahab (1:5), were Harlots. Ruth, David's great-grandmother, was a Moabittess, an ethnic group regarded as outside the covenant (see Deuteronomy 23). Bathesheba (1:6), was violated by David and was involved in an act that brought ruin on both she and David. Who of us can say we have a past that is not checkered? No one in the human race deserves salvation. Yet, God saw fit to include people of all sorts in the blood-line of the Messiah.

Fourthly, we see a reminder of Israel's failure - most prominently portrayed in the naming of the third-division of the genealogy. Matthew mentions in 1:11-12 of the deportation to Babylon. Jerusalem's exile to Babylon in 586 b.c. was a watershed moment of tragedy in Israel's history. Due to sin, idolatry and not trusting in God - the people of God ended up spending 70 years in that land. Much like Adam and Eve being exiled from Eden, Israel was exiled from the promised land. Only Jesus could bring about the reversal of the pain of sin and its collateral damage.   

Closing thoughts:

God's providence and grace figure prominently in Matthew's opening genealogy of Jesus. We ought to be thankful for how God is ever working, by His Spirit, Providentially and Graciously calling sinners to salvation. The purpose for which Christ came over 2,000 years ago was to save people from their sins (Matthew 1:21-23). 

The Path To Christian Spiritual Growth Requires Active Obedience - Matthew 28

Matthew 28:6-8 "He is not here, for He has risen, just as He said. Come, see the place where He was lying. 7 Go quickly and tell His disciples that He has risen from the dead; and behold, He is going ahead of you into Galilee, there you will see Him; behold, I have told you. 8 And they left the tomb quickly with fear and great joy and ran to report it to His disciples."

Introduction:

When it comes to the path to Christian spiritual growth, we undoubtedly need to know God's purpose. In our last post we defined God's purpose as: "God's designated destination". Purpose gives the overall direction to which I am to live my life. Jesus Christ, the Captain of my soul, sets the course. A closely related concept, "vision", is defined as God's preferred future that is clear and compelling in moving God's people towards what He wants them to do. 

We also saw in the last post how Jesus had a purpose for His disciples: "get to the mountain in Galilee, where I will meet with you." When God is wanting to work forth His purposes in our lives, He not only considers the destination, but the process. 

The goal is to attain a greater level of illumination of God's character and identity as revealed in the Person of Jesus Christ. The disciples needed to interact with the post-resurrection Jesus. They had known Jesus as He had ministered and as they saw him on the cross. However, the manifestation of Christ physically in the flesh as the post-resurrection Jesus had not yet been experienced by them. Once they reached this intended purpose, they could say like Job in Job 42:1-5 

Then Job answered the Lord and said,

2 “I know that You can do all things,
And that no purpose of Yours can be thwarted. 3 ‘Who is this that hides counsel without knowledge?’ Therefore I have declared that which I did not understand, Things too wonderful for me, which I did not know. 4 ‘Hear, now, and I will speak; I will ask You, and You instruct me. 5 “I have heard of You by the hearing of the ear; But now my eye sees You." 

The path of spiritual growth requires our active obedience

So with God's purpose in view, what else is needed for Christian spiritual growth? Active obedience. We turn again to Matthew 28. Why this text? Matthew 28, particularly verses 18-20, comprise what is known as the "Great Commission". Those verses are Jesus' final instructions to His Apostles and ultimately to His church concerning the overall mission that is to be carried forth until the close of this present age with His second coming. 

In order for the Great Commission to be carried forth, the apostles needed to be present and positioned to receive it. Furthermore, they needed to be in the mode of active obedience if they were to carry out the Great Commission and encourage others to do the same. When we consider the nature of the active obedience found in Matthew 28, we can note the following characteristics and cross references....

1. Active obedience must be quick obedience. 

Notice how quick the women were to obey the angel's instructions in Matthew 28:6-7  "Go quickly and tell His disciples that He has risen from the dead; and behold, He is going ahead of you into Galilee, there you will see Him; behold, I have told you. 8 And they left the tomb quickly with fear and great joy and ran to report it to His disciples." Or again, Matthew 28:11a "Now while they were on their way....". We have a saying in our home: "slow obedience is no obedience". The active obedience we need for effective Christian growth must be quick. When God called Abraham in Genesis 12 to go to a country that he had never visited, Abraham never hesitated. He left Ur of the Chaldees. Hebrews 11:8 reminds us: "By faith Abraham, when he was called, obeyed by going out to a place which he was to receive for an inheritance; and he went out, not knowing where he was going." 

Think of the godly king Josiah in 2 Kings 23. As soon as he heard the book of God's law read concerning where the nation ought to be spiritually, he wasted no time. Josiah's reforms and revival was the most dramatic move of God in Israel's history during the reigns of the kings. Or how about the Apostle Paul's testimony in Acts 26:19 to King Agrippa of how he followed through after his encounter with the post-resurrected Jesus on the road to Damascus. His obedience was quick.

But now notice a second trait of active obedience for growing in the path to spiritual growth, namely, consistency.

2. Active Obedience must be consistent obedience. 

As one compares the disciple's response of active obedience, we find it being consistent. There is no wavering. God's power and presence (the definition of blessing) attends us when we are consistent in our obedience. Notice what God says of Abraham in Genesis 22:18 "In your seed all the nations of the earth shall be blessed, because you have obeyed My voice.” Sometimes the best way to see a truth in God's Word is to consider its opposite. In Matthew 28:11-15, we find consistency among the enemies of God's people who were being disobedient to God. They followed their leadership to the letter. They emulated the character of those leading them. Their aim of course was completely different, with a contrasting message and opposing heart. But the trait of consistency ran through the plots of the opposing forces conspiring against the disciples. This trait of consistency ought to characterize the obedience of God's people who look to Jesus as their King. 

3. Active obedience must be complete obedience 

We have seen how active obedience is necessary for proceeding forward on the path to spiritual growth. It needs to be quick and consistent. But notice a third truth: it needs to be complete. When the disciples arrived at the mountain Jesus had designated, they "worshiped Him". The whole point of this exercise was to see their Lord and then to worship Him. True obedience to God is only complete when we are worshiping Him in Spirit and in truth. 

Going through the mechanics of church life and the Christian life may look like obedience, but in reality, its mere outward conformity. Only when we have attained a heart of worship will our obedience be complete. I find it interesting that the text doesn't go into detail as to how long they worshiped, whether they sang to Jesus or remained silent or if anything was said by them. The Greek verb translated "worship" speaks of "bowing down". It is a word that is meant to convey a closeness, a proximity to Christ that is tantamount in terms of tenderness and intensity like when a bride and groom kiss for the first time. 

Closing thoughts:

Just as God saved Israel from Egypt to go into the desert to commune with Him in worship at the mountain, so too did Jesus provide salvation and raise from the dead so that His followers could worship Him at the mountain we see in Matthew 28. Active obedience is so crucial to progressing on the path to Christian spiritual growth. Active obedience must be quick, consistent and completed in worship. 

The Path To Christian Spiritual Growth Requires God's Purpose and Vision

Matthew 28:16-20 "But the eleven disciples proceeded to Galilee, to the mountain which Jesus had designated. 17 When they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some were doubtful. 18 And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

Introduction:

The path to spiritual growth includes the important "p" of purpose. God's purpose is defined as God's designated destination. Just as Jesus had the disciples meet Him at the designate mountain in Galilee in Matthew 28, God has a designated destination for every Christ-follower. If the Christian can understand God's purpose for their life as revealed in God's Word - the Bible - the path to spiritual growth will proceed. Today we want to explore further on this important subject by noting the relationship between God's purpose and vision. 

Distinguishing purpose and vision

When it comes to God's purposes in the path to spiritual growth, such purposes will incorporate the ability to discern His vision for my life. A vision is a distinct impression of God's preferred future as gleaned from His word. I read the Bible, meditate on it, pray on it, live it out and discover the overall direction which my life is to take. Vision and purpose are closely related. Vision speaks of the drive, the impulse that is being used of God to pull me in the direction He has laid out for me, while purpose is that designated designation I'm aware of at the present time. 

God's purposes will involve a spiritual battle to keep hold of them

As we pursue the spiritual path of growth in Jesus Christ, we mustn't forget the spiritual battle that ever wages against the Christ-follower. Jesus told His followers in Matthew 28:10 to "not be afraid". Why would Jesus remind them of such things? Because fear, trouble and discouragement will dog us as we strive to grow in our faith. As a matter of fact, while the disciples where on their way to meet up with Jesus to receive greater insights, a parallel plotting against them was underway in Matthew 28:11-15

"Now while they were on their way, some of the guard came into the city and reported to the chief priests all that had happened. 12 And when they had assembled with the elders and consulted together, they gave a large sum of money to the soldiers, 13 and said, “You are to say, ‘His disciples came by night and stole Him away while we were asleep.’ 14 And if this should come to the governor’s ears, we will win him over and keep you out of trouble.” 15 And they took the money and did as they had been instructed; and this story was widely spread among the Jews, and is to this day."

The news of Jesus' resurrection was no doubt the most important truth delivered in the Bible. There was excitement. Fervor. Zeal. God's purpose for His people was being made manifest in the lives of His people. The path of spiritual growth is rooted in the resurrection power of Jesus Christ (see Romans 8:11; Philippians 3:7-10; Colossians 1:27). But mark this: it is one thing to receive new-found illumination from God, it's quite another matter to walk it out and to retain it. 

So was there any affect on any of Jesus' followers that developed from the spiritual battles? We know that those who gathered at the mountain to behold Jesus were among those 500 witnesses that saw Jesus all at once (1 Corinthians 15:6). But then we read of others in Matthew 28:17 "When they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some were doubtful." The underlined verb in verse 17 refers to "hesitating or wavering". There is only one other place where this verb is found in the entire New Testament, the familiar scene of Peter walking on the water. Notice Matthew 14:31, where Jesus says to Peter: "Immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and took hold of him, and said to him, “You of little faith, why did you doubt?” Was the nature of this doubt the type that led to final and decisive unbelief? Not in Peter's case. The presence of overwhelming circumstances challenged what He was seeing. His faith flickered as a flame in the wind, however, the flame was not extinguished. Jesus took hold of Peter, pulled him up and brought him into the boat. 

Whenever we see the witnesses present at Jesus' post-resurrection appearance, what are we to make of those that "doubted"? Did they defect? Did they walk away? I would draw similar conclusions about the people in Matthew 28:17 as with what we just observed about Peter and his flickering faith in Matthew 14. Noted commentator Matthew Henry confirms this conclusion:

"But some doubted, some of those that were then present. Note, Even among those that worship there are some that doubt. The faith of those that are sincere, may yet be very weak and wavering. They doubted, they hung in suspense, as the scales of a balance, when it is hard to say which preponderates. These doubts were afterward removed, and their faith drew up to a full assurance, and it tended much to the honor of Christ, that the disciples doubted before they believed."

Henry then concludes:

"for they first questioned, and proved all things, and then held fast that which was true, and which they found to be so."

God's purpose in our path to spiritual growth must be a conviction if we are to make progress

As we close out today's post, God's purpose was defined as being: "God's designated destination". His purpose in the Christian life cannot remain a preference - instead, it must become a conviction. The only way for a preference to become a conviction is when we are faced with the prospect of what we claim we believe as not being true. The disciples were tested. There was already some alternative explanation spun out by the enemies of the Christian faith. Yet, God's people came to that mountain desiring to see their risen Lord and came away with the type of faith that could not be shaken. This purpose set them on a path to spiritual growth that would set the stage for the emergence of the early church. 

Coupled with the power of the Holy Spirit in the Book of Acts, the early Christians had a God-given purpose to grow spiritually in Christ. Christians today have these same exact conditions and components. Whenever we grab hold of God's purpose in the path of spiritual growth, nothing will be able to stop the forward momentum.

God's Plan For Spiritual Growth Is For You To Grab Hold Of His Purpose For Your Life

Matthew 28:6-7 "He is not here, for He has risen, just as He said. Come, see the place where He was lying. 7 Go quickly and tell His disciples that He has risen from the dead; and behold, He is going ahead of you into Galilee, there you will see Him; behold, I have told you.”

Introduction:

It was not to long ago that I had been running my first half-marathon. I had set some personal goals and had some friends who were in the race with me. The course was well marked and I had everything I needed to do a good race. All was going well until the last turn. I was getting tired and another race was being conducted at the same time as the half-marathon. The runners of the other race were returning from having completed a turn-around on their course. In my confusion, I mistook the runners of the other race with those in the half-marathon and ended up missing the final turn. Before it was all said and done, I ran an extra mile out of my way! Even though I still finished with an o.k time - imagine how much better I would had finished if I had not gotten distracted by the other race.

Understanding God's Purpose For The Christian Life Is Essential To Following His Prescribed Path To Spiritual Growth

When it comes to the path to spiritual Christian growth, many followers of Jesus Christ find themselves getting off the well-marked path. There are so many distractions in our world and numerous things that the enemy of our soul uses to discourage our spiritual growth. Oftentimes, the Christian's lack of spiritual growth can be due to their own inattentiveness to prayer, daily Bible study and other spiritual disciplines. 

God's Word certainly cannot be faulted, since the entirety of sacred scripture was revealed to thoroughly equip God's people for every good work (see 2 Timothy 3:17). What is involved in the path to Christian spiritual growth? When I look at that word "path", the first letter of that word - "p" - brings to my mind the term "purpose". 

Whenever we consider where to look when discerning the path to spiritual growth in Jesus Christ, the go-to text is none other than Matthew 28:18-20. This passage is what is referred to as "the great commission". Matthew 28:18-20 is Jesus' final instructions to His disciples and really, the church, prior to His ascension into Heaven. Jesus states the following in Matthew 28:18-20 

"And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

This passage ought to be familiar to anyone who reads the Bible or to those desiring to know the central truths about Jesus' ministry. The context that comes before these verses give the pathway of spiritual growth mentioned earlier. As I already stated, one's purpose is essential when understanding what it means to grow spiritually in Jesus Christ. 

What Exactly Is Meant By The Term "Purpose"?

When one backs up to Matthew 28:6, we find the women gathered at the doorway of the empty tomb. Jesus has just risen from the dead and the angels are instructing them on what they need to do next. The whole narrative of Matthew 28:6-17 is about getting the women and the disciples to go meet Jesus at a designated mountain in Galilee. In Matthew 28:7 the angel tells the women: "Go quickly and tell His disciples that He has risen from the dead; and behold, He is going ahead of you into Galilee, there you will see Him; behold, I have told you.” Later on, the post-resurrected Jesus meets the women in their hastening to the disciples and says the following to them in Matthew 28:10 Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid; go and take word to My brethren to leave for Galilee, and there they will see Me.” It is then in Matthew 28:16 we behold the disciples and the women reaching the designated destination: "But the eleven disciples proceeded to Galilee, to the mountain which Jesus had designated."

Whenever we consider the above verses, it is very clear that the purpose of God had been laid out for the disciples. Whenever I use the term "purpose" as so described here, I'm referring to "God's designated destination". In everyday life we can understand the place of "purpose". Although a purpose speaks of the end of a process or a journey, nevertheless we typically consider the "purpose" of something at the beginning of our planning. When going on a trip, we want to know the "designated destination", that is - the address or the city. I know when I'm preparing a sermon to be preached on a given Sunday, the conclusion or purpose of the message is planned first. Why? If I don't know the "designated destination" of the message, then I won't know how to begin it. 

Clearly the place that the angels and Jesus had told the women and the disciples to go was a "designated place" (see Matthew 28:16). Below is a picture of Mount Tabor (source, wikimedia commons),  the place speculated to be the spot where the post-resurrected Jesus has the disciples to come and meet with Him.

If this mountain, or one like it in Northern Israel, was the spot where the disciples went, there is no doubt concerning its distinctiveness. The mountain is clearly observed in comparison to the surrounding geography. I'm sure climbing a mountain such as the one in the photograph would not be easy. Do you realize that whenever a Christian makes the effort to trust God and follow His purposes, its never easy. Despite whatever difficulties come, following God's purposes is always worth it! 

Why Palm Sunday Is Important - Reflections From Matthew's Gospel About Palm Sunday

Matthew 21:1-3 "When they had approached Jerusalem and had come to Bethphage, at the Mount of Olives, then Jesus sent two disciples, 2 saying to them,“Go into the village opposite you, and immediately you will find a donkey tied there and a colt with her; untie them and bring them to Me. 3 If anyone says anything to you, you shall say, ‘The Lord has need of them,’ and immediately he will send them.”

Introduction:

This weekend will be a time where many Christians the world over will celebrate what has been historically called: "Palm Sunday". I can recall as a child receiving little "palm branches" to take home after a Palm Sunday celebration in Sunday School and at church. We have been viewing Jesus' triumphal entry in Luke 19 these last couple of posts. I felt today it would benefit readers to consider some thoughts about the significance of Palm Sunday from Matthew's portrayal of this same event. Please note the following points...

1. Preparation. Matthew 21:1-3

Jesus was preparing for what would be the week leading up to His crucifixion. In the cycle of Jewish festivals, Passover Week was getting underway. The day in which Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a Donkey was the day the Passover lambs were officially chosen by each Jewish family to begin preparation for what would be their slaughter by Thursday night of that week. 

This particular day was part of the original liturgy of the first Passover week instituted by Yahweh to the people through Moses in Exodus 12:3-6 - "Speak to all the congregation of Israel, saying, ‘On the tenth of this month they are each one to take a lamb for themselves, according to their fathers’ households, a lamb for each household. 4 Now if the household is too small for a lamb, then he and his neighbor nearest to his house are to take one according to the number of persons in them; according to what each man should eat, you are to divide the lamb.5 Your lamb shall be an unblemished male a year old; you may take it from the sheep or from the goats. 6 You shall keep it until the fourteenth day of the same month, then the whole assembly of the congregation of Israel is to kill it at twilight."

The lamb would be raised for an entire year and named by the family. When the lamb was "selected", that meant that the lamb was deemed "ready" for the Passover. Jesus came as "the Lamb of God" - i.e as the "Choice Lamb" Who was prepared from before the foundation of the world by the Father (John 1:29; Revelation 5:6). The Son came willingly and is described in passages such as 1 Corinthians 5:7 as the lamb of God. 

2. Prophetic Fulfillment Matthew 21:4-5

Matthew records that when Jesus rode into Jerusalem, that his efforts were not just some random activity. The purpose for Jesus' riding into Jerusalem was to fulfill prophecy. Zechariah 9:9, composed by Divine inspiration some 520 years prior to this event, is quoted by Matthew in Matthew 21:4-5 - "This took place to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet: 5 'Say to the daughter of Zion, ‘Behold your King is coming to you, Gentle, and mounted on a donkey, Even on a colt, the foal of a beast of burden.’” Everything that Jesus did was not random nor accidental - but intentional. He was yielding Himself to His Father's will as He made His way to Calvary.

3. Presentation Matthew 21:6-9

Just as those lambs were formally prepared, they were also presented. When Jesus came riding into Jerusalem on a Donkey, He was presenting Himself as Israel's King. Many people in that scene were asking questions regarding Jesus' identity. One of the aims of Jesus' actions was to send a message to the Jewish leadership and to the people of Israel - "here is your King!".

According to passages like Isaiah 53, He would be not only be the Lamb of God, but also a rejected Savior. This idea once again reminds us that when Jesus had rode through on that first "Palm Sunday", He was fulfilling prophecy. The people who were crying "Hosanna" would within a week's time shout "crucify Him." 

4. Passion Matthew 21:10-11

Matthew 21:10-11 records - "When He had entered Jerusalem, all the city was stirred, saying, “Who is this?” 11 And the crowds were saying, “This is the prophet Jesus, from Nazareth in Galilee.” Once Jesus had rode into Jerusalem, it was His way of officially concluding the public ministry phase of His first coming and entering into what many theologians call His "passion" (from a Latin root passio meaning "suffering"). 

Luke's version includes the following detail of Jesus weeping over Jerusalem following His triumphal entry in Luke 19:41-43  "When He approached Jerusalem, He saw the city and wept over it,42 saying, “If you had known in this day, even you, the things which make for peace! But now they have been hidden from your eyes. 43 For the days will come upon you when your enemies will throw up a barricade against you, and surround you and hem you in on every side,44 and they will level you to the ground and your children within you, and they will not leave in you one stone upon another, because you did not recognize the time of your visitation.” These chilling and heart breaking laments are recorded by Matthew in Matthew 23:37-39.

Jesus' weeping was due to His foresight into what would be the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 A.D. Readers can consult historic works such as Flavius Josephus (a first century Jewish Historian), who records the horrendous details of that sequence of events that were fulfilled as Jesus had predicted. Jesus' emotional anguish over the people rejecting God's plans and purposes through Him would get deeper by the end of the week. 

The emotional anguish would turn into physical agony on the cross and spiritual agony that He would endure in His humanity while at the same time experiencing the anguish of the pains of sin-bearing as the Divine Son. As the God/man, Jesus would passionately face crucifixion. Praise be to God though, the true triumph of the pending "holy week" would not lie ultimately in His riding into Jerusalem, but rather in His death on the the cross and triumphal resurrection three days later outside the Holy City!

The Sweeping Message Of The Last Seven Sayings Of Jesus From The Cross

Hebrews 12:2-3 "fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart."

Introduction: The Seven Sayings of Jesus

    Today's post features the seven statements that Jesus uttered from the cross during His six hours of crucifixion. First, let's consider all seven sayings in their chronological order:

1. “But Jesus was saying, ‘Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.’ And they cast lots, dividing up His garments among themselves.” Lk 23:34 

2. “And He said to him, “Truly I say to you, today you shall be with Me in Paradise.” Lk 23:43 

3. “When Jesus then saw His mother, and the disciple whom He loved standing nearby, He said to His mother, “Woman, behold, your son!” 27 Then He said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother!” From that hour the disciple took her into his own household.” Jn 19:26-27

4. About the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, “Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?” that is, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” Mt 27:46. Compare Mk 15:34. 

5. “After this, Jesus, knowing that all things had already been accomplished, to fulfill the Scripture, said, “I am thirsty.” John 19:28 

6. “Therefore when Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, “It is finished!” And He bowed His head and gave up His spirit.” John 19:30 

7. And Jesus, crying out with a loud voice, said, “Father, into Your hands I commit My spirit.” Having said this, He breathed His last.” Luke 23:46 

Considering the whole message of the seven-sayings of Jesus from the cross.

    These "sayings" occupy a total message that is strung together like seven perfect pearls. Writers have noted the pattern and have found meditating upon these sayings a valuable exercise for the Christian's faith and spiritual vitality. The great 19th century Baptist preacher C.H Spurgeon has deemed the seven sayings as follows:

1. The First Word (Forgiveness)
2. The Second Word (Salvation)
3. The Third Word (Affection)
4. The Fourth Word (Anguish)
5. The Fifth Word (Suffering)
6. The Sixth Word (Victory)
7. The Seventh Word (Contentment)

As Spurgeon comments in his book on the seven sayings - "Christ's Words From The Cross": 

"There are many other ways in which these words might be read, and they would be found to be full of instruction. Like the steps of a ladder or the links of a golden chain, there is a mutual dependence and interlinking of each of the cries, so that one leads to another and that to a third. Separately or in connection, our Master's words overflow with instruction to thoughtful minds."

    To give one more example of how various authors have considered these seven sayings of Jesus as a collection, Andrew W. Blackwood notes in his book - "The Voice From The Cross", the following headings for each saying:

1. The Prayer of Forgiveness
2. The Promise Of Life
3. The Word of Kindness
4. The Cry Of Derelection
5. The Call For Help
6. The Shout Of Triumph
7. The Prayer of Trust

Here again, we see the sayings portrayed as a shimmering string of pearls. 

How we can understand these seven sayings in light of considering the major themes of the four Gospels. 

    In look at these sayings and considering what various authors have written about them, one must take into mind the intentions of each of the Gospel authors. Sayings #1, #2 and #7 derive from Luke's Gospel, which aimed to show Jesus as the perfect Son of Man (see Luke 19:10). Sayings #3, #5 and #6 derive from John's Gospel, whose aim is to present Jesus Christ as God in Human flesh or the Perfect Son of God (see John 1:14; 20:30-31). Then there is that middle saying, saying #4, which is found in Matthew and Mark's Gospels. 

    Matthew presents Jesus Christ as the royal King coming to save His people from their sins (Matthew 1:23; 20:28; 28:18-20). Mark presents Jesus as the suffering servant willing to give His life a ransom for many (see Mark 10:45). 
    Such considerations of the Four Gospel writers can aid us in understanding how these seven sayings incorporate a full-orbed view of Jesus Christ as the King, Suffering Servant, Perfect Son of Man and God in human flesh.

Final thoughts and reflections on the seven sayings of Jesus

    When we look at the sayings together, there is undoubtedly a plot-line and symmetry. The plot-line proceeds from Jesus crying out as the propitiatory sacrifice in saying #1 (i.e satisfying or staying God's wrath on sinners) to having full confidence that His offering for sins is fully accepted in saying #7 as the atonement for sins. The others sayings touch upon pieces of human experience (loneliness in saying #3; forsakeness in saying #4 and thirst in saying #5). 

    These particular sayings remind us that Jesus was truly man and was indeed fulfilling the prophetic picture of the suffering Messiah in Isaiah 53. This was no supposed suffering. Rather, this was a genuine suffering by the Person of the Son in true humanity. Sayings #2 and #6 reminds us of Christ's Divine authority. The whole Person of Christ was on the cross. It was His humanity that had the nails and lashes of the whip driven in and brutally applied. In His Deity, the inestimable value of the atonement was paid. The totality of all that Jesus did is carried forth on these seven sayings. 

How Jesus' birth connects to His crucifixion and resurrection

Matthew 1:21 “She will bear a Son; and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.”

Introduction:
My aim today is to draw as many parallels as possible between the birth narratives of Matthew and Luke to the crucifixion and resurrection accounts of the Lord Jesus Christ as found in John's Gospel. The crucifixion and resurrection narratives are found in all four Gospels, and so further parallels could just as easily be discovered. Nevertheless, for brevity's sake we will focus on what the Apostle John, writing under the divine inspiration of the Holy Spirit, has to record regarding the details of Christ's death on the cross and subsequent resurrection. John 18, 19 and 20 will be our main text for the crucifixion and resurrection accounts, with connecting points being drawn from the infancy narratives of Matthew and Luke.   

1. The Shepherds told about the Savior born, who would die for the people
Luke 2:11 "for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord."


John 18:14 "Now Caiaphas was he, which gave counsel to the Jews, that it was expedient that one man should die for the people."

What links these two passages together is the fact we see Jesus, our Good Shepherd. 


2. He was Born and Died "The King of the Jews." 
Matthew 2:2 “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we saw His star in the east and have come to worship Him.”

John 19:19 "And Pilate wrote a title, and put it on the cross. And the writing was, JESUS OF NAZARETH THE KING OF THE JEWS."

What links these two passages together is the fact we see Jesus our True King.

3. The Roman Empire was included in His birth and death.
Luke 2:1 "Now in those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus, that a census be taken of all the inhabited earth."

John 19:23 "Then the soldiers, when they had crucified Jesus, took his garments, and made four parts, to every soldier a part; and also his coat: now the coat was without seam, woven from the top throughout."

What links these two passages together is the fact we see Jesus the Ultimate Ruler. 

4. The Prediction of Mary's agony at His death spoken after his birth
Luke 2:35 "and a sword will pierce even your own soul—to the end that thoughts from many  hearts may be revealed.”

John 19:26-27 "When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son! 27 Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother! And from that hour that disciple took her unto his own home."

What links these two passages together is the fact we see Jesus the obedient Son.

5. The presence of Myrrh in the accounts of His birth and death
Luke 2:11 "After coming into the house they saw the Child with Mary His mother; and they fell to the ground and worshiped Him. Then, opening their treasures, they presented to Him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh."

John 19:39 "And there came also Nicodemus, which at the first came to Jesus by night, and brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about an hundred pound weight."

What links these two passages together is the fact we see Jesus as the propitiation or satisfaction of the Father's wrath against sin.

6. Angels were present at His birth and resurrection
Luke 2:13-14 "And suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host  praising God and saying, 14 “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased.”

John 20:12-14 "and she saw two angels in white sitting, one at the head and one at the feet, where the body of Jesus had been lying. 13And they said to her, “Woman, why are you  weeping?” She said to them, “Because they have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid Him.” 14When she had said this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, and did not know that it was Jesus. "

What links these two passages together is the fact we see Jesus the victorious Savior.

Closing thoughts
Today we briefly considered the links found between the birth accounts of Jesus humanity in Matthew and Luke to the crucifixion and resurrection accounts found in John's Gospel. The six links discovered today highlighted the following truths about Jesus Christ:

1. He is our Good Shepherd
2. He is our True King
3. He is our Ultimate Ruler
4. He is the Obedient Son
5. He satisfies the Father's wrath
6. He is the victorious Savior