The Book of Matthew chapters 13-22

Matthew 13
In chapter 13 of the book of Matthew you will find one
of the most important teachings by Christ. We will discover the parable of the
sower and parables of the Kingdom that align with the many mysteries that have
been open to
us. If you have eyes to see and ears to hear. (The understanding of this chapter
is important, or you will not understand any of Christ's parables).
1The
same day went Jesus out of the house, and sat by the sea side. After
Jesus left the house in Capernaum, He sat by the seaside and the crowds gathered
around Him to hear His teachings. (Mark 2:13).
2And
great multitudes were gathered together unto him, so that he went into a ship,
and sat; and the whole multitude stood on the shore. He would use this
area and teach from the boat so the people could hear Him better. Kind of like
an "amphitheater." (Mark 4:1).
3And
he spake many things unto them in parables, saying,
Behold, a sower went forth
to sow; The Sower in the old days would carry a bag of seed and throw
it from side to side by hand. In this parable, the seed represents "the Word of
God." The Sower here would represent "Christ," but we can also include the
twelve apostles, or teachers of the word.
4And
when he sowed, some seeds fell by the way side, and the fowls came and
devoured them up: The wayside was a path that people walked on and was frequently
traveled. The seed would get matted down when trampled on, and would not be good for growing.
So,
the birds just ate up the seed. (Jesus further explains this verse in Matthew
13:18-19).
5Some
fell upon stony places, where they had not much earth: and forthwith they sprung
up, because they had no deepness of earth:
When you have shallow soil, a seed will sprout quickly, but will not take good
root. (Nothing there to support the sprout). When you pass on a truth to someone
and they do not receive or research the truth, it will not mean anything to
them. They lose the truth and it never took, just like the seed never formed a
good root system. Just the opposite of what happens to one who receives the
truth. (Matthew 13:20).
6And
when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they
withered away. They young sprouts just die
because they have no roots to nourish them. (They get scorched in the sun). Again, if someone takes no interest in a
truth of God's Word it will just wither away in their mind. Under
persecution, they can only endure for a while before they are offended and give
up. (Matthew 13:21).
7And
some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprung up, and choked them:
The thorns choke out the good seed. Just like false teachings and traditions of
men will choke out the word of God. But, it is also the cares of the world,
deceitfulness of riches, and lust for other things, that will also choke out the
word and take you away from God. (Matthew 13:22, Mark 4:18-19). Remember how God
cursed the ground with thorns and thistles because Adam listened to Eve and
partook of the tree in the middle of the garden? (Genesis 3:17-18).
8But
other fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some an hundredfold, some
sixtyfold, some thirtyfold. Point being,
when you plant seed, go for the fertile soil. If you find someone who excepts
the truth, keep watering and feeding them slowly till they are able to stand on
their own. They will bring forth good fruit by passing on the truth that they
have received. (Matthew 13:23, Luke 8:15).
9Who
hath ears to hear, let him hear. Did you hear
what God had to say? (Isaiah 55:3, Ezekiel 12:2). Do you hear what Jesus is
saying? (Matthew 13:16, Mark 4:9, 7:16). Does your church hear what Christ is
saying? (Revelation 2:7, 2:11, 2:17, 2:29).
10And
the disciples came, and said unto him, Why speakest thou unto them in parables?
Why do use parables? Why don't you just tell the people what you mean?
11He
answered and said unto them, Because it is given
unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not
given. The disciples were open, and in a
good place to learn the meaning of the mysteries. What are the
mysteries? There are many mysteries in God's word that will be open to you, if
you study, research, and open your eyes and ears to the truth with a humble
heart. They are hidden from the wise and prudent, but He will reveal them to you
as His child if your a believer. (Psalm 25:8-9, Matthew 11:25, 1 Corinthians
2:9-10, 2:14, James 1:5, 1 John 2:27). What are some of these mysteries? "The
key of David." (Revelation 3:7-10). Changing into the spirit body at Christ's
return. (1 Corinthians 15:51-52). The mystery of Godliness. (1 Timothy 3:16). For some God unlocks the
mysteries of the Kingdom, and some are blinded for their own protection. Why?
Because even if they knew the truth they can't handle it, or truly believe it
enough to make a difference. They just set it aside and don't pass it on to
others. "It withers away."
12For
whosoever hath, to him shall be given, and he shall have more abundance: but
whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even that he hath.
If
you search out truth, trust in God, He will give you all the truth you can
handle. But, if you are not searching and listening for truth and shut your
heart to God (Luke 9:26), you won't receive anything. You will even lose what
little understanding you already have. (Matthew 25:29, Mark 4:24-25, Luke 8:18,
Revelation 2:5, 3:15-16).
13Therefore
speak I to them in parables: because they seeing see not; and hearing they hear
not, neither do they understand. Jesus spoke
to them in parables because He knew the hearts of the people. They hear what
Jesus is saying, but don't understand. (They don't really want to understand).
Why? For the most part they have been blinded by the god of this world. (2
Corinthians 4:3-4).
14And
in them is fulfilled the prophecy of Esaias, which saith, By hearing ye shall
hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and shall not perceive:
Christ was quoting from (Isaiah 6:9-10).
If you won't even crack the surface, the seed will not take. You will
never understand God's Word if you do not show interest or search for the truth.
15For
this people's heart is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and
their eyes they have closed; lest at any time they should see with their eyes
and hear with their ears, and should understand with
their heart, and should be
converted, and I should heal them. "Their
hearts are waxed over and have grown fat." Their ears are hard of hearing. Their eyes are closed
because they did not care. Just as many do not care today. They have time for
everything the world has to offer, but little time to study and search for truth
in God's Word. (Its all about getting ahead and gaining wealth in today's
world).
16But
blessed are your eyes, for they see: and your ears, for they hear.
Do you
have eyes to see and ears to hear? That
the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the
spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: (Ephesians 1:17). When you
acknowledge God through His Word, the wisdom of His truth will be opened to you. The
eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope
of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the
saints. (Ephesians 1:18). Your heart will be flooded with light, even to see something of
the future He has called you to share. God has been made rich because we who are
Christ's have been given to Him.
17For
verily I say unto you, That many prophets and righteous men have desired to see
those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things
which ye hear, and have not heard them. Many prophets and Godly men have
longed for the day Messiah would come; to see what the disciples are seeing
right in front of them, but they
still did not get it.
18Hear
ye therefore the parable of the sower. Here is the explanation of the
story I told you about the farmer planting grain.
19When
any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth
it not, then cometh
the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he
which received seed by the way side. The hard path represents the heart
of a person who hears the truth, but does not understand it; then Satan (the
wicked one), comes and snatches it away. (Mark 4:15, Luke 8:12). Satan will always try to put doubt in
your mind. (Deception - false teachings - traditions of men).
20But
he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the
word, and anon with joy receiveth it; One who receives it with joy and is
ready to go; those who will receive anything that sounds good and run with it,
but they have no good foundation in the word and only endure for a short time,
or till affliction arises for the words sake. (Mark 4:16-17).
21Yet
hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or
persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended.
Again, no
foundation! No deep roots or depth in their life for the seeds of truth to sink
into and stay. Most Christians have surface knowledge and faith; after a while when trouble comes, or persecution begins because of what
one believes in, their enthusiasm fades and they drop out. When you stand for
truth, you will get a little persecution at times. It happened to
Christ and it will happen to you. "Don't worry about it, your a soldier for
Christ."
22He
also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the
care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he
becometh unfruitful. The ground covered with thistles represents the man
or woman who hears the message of truth, but the cares and ways of the world, and their longing for money, choke out the Word of God.
(Matthew 6:24, Luke 8:14). They do less and less for
God. Always making time for things of the world that please themselves, always striving to make money,
they become married to their smart phones, but never have any time to study God's
Word. (Psalm 52:7, Mark 4:19, Luke 18:24). "No good fruit produced, just gossip
and greed!"
23But
he that received seed into the good ground is he that heareth the word, and
understandeth it; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an
hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. Remember the seed is the "Word of
God" and the good ground represents the "heart" of the one who listens to the
message and understands it. When the truth is shared with others, it brings thirty, sixty, or
even a hundred others into the Kingdom. It is the producing fruit that is
important; not the amount of fruit. You can have all the knowledge in the world,
but if you do not share it with others, it is useless.
24Another
parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom
of heaven is likened unto a man which sowed good seed in his field:
Now we go into a little deeper teaching of this
parable. The "field" used here represents the world. Note: (Seed here now changes to
"Sperma" Strong's #4687 in the Greek, male sperm, offspring). Good
seed: Son of man (Matthew 13:37).
25But
while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and went his
way. The "enemy" used here is "echthros"
Strong's G2190 hateful adversary, "especially Satan." (1 Peter 5:8). The "tares"
are the children of the "wicked one," Satan. (Matthew 13:38-39). Read our study
topic titled "Son of Cain," for a better understanding of who the children of
the wicked one really are.
26But
when the blade was sprung up, and brought forth fruit, then appeared the tares
also. The children of the wicked one
mixed in real good with the rest of the people. "Their here today and you can
tell them by their works."
27So
the servants of the householder came and said unto him, Sir, didst not thou sow
good seed in thy field? from whence then hath it tares?
If you are not on guard with the gospel armor, children of the "wicked one,"
evil worldly people (James 4:4), will creep into your life, and you won't know
how, or where they came from.
28He
said unto them, An enemy hath done this. The servants said unto him, Wilt thou
then that we go and gather them up? Should we get rid of them?
29But
he said, Nay; lest while ye gather up the tares, ye root up also the wheat with
them. No, Christ would say... You will damage innocent people
if you do. (Never throw out the baby with the bath water).
30Let
both grow together until the harvest: and in the time of harvest I will say to
the reapers, Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to
burn them: but gather the wheat into my barn. Leave the
"tares" alone (the false ones), till the
harvest and I will take care of them. "Almighty God!" The wicked will be
separated from the righteous. (Malachi 3:18, Matthew 25:32). The wheat (the
righteous), will be spared, the tares (the wicked), will be burned. (Matthew
25:41, John 15:6).
31Another
parable put he forth unto them, saying,
The kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed,
which a man took, and sowed in his field:
The mustard
seed is the smallest of the seeds to cultivate in the field. Just as a little
seed of truth can be given to others.
32Which
indeed is the least of all seeds: but when it is grown, it is the greatest among
herbs, and becometh a tree, so that the birds of the air come and lodge in the
branches thereof. The smallest of seed, but grows into the largest of
plants among herbs. Just as a true ministry will grow large with truth. However, you must beware of
the "dirty birds" that will come in and nest. (Your always going to have people
come in and try to mess things up).
33Another
parable spake he unto them;
The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a
woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened.
The leaven is symbolic of "sin." Let a little sin in
through false teachings and traditions of men, and it will spread through the
congregation. This also works the opposite way, when the "spirit of truth" is
taught, it will spread through the congregation just like active yeast in bread.
(John 16:12-13).
34All
these things spake Jesus unto the multitude in parables; and without a parable
spake he not unto them: Why did Jesus speak in such parables? Because it
is not meant for all to understand. (Matthew 13:13).
35That
it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying, I will open my
mouth in parables; I will utter things which have been kept secret from the
foundation of the world. Jesus would open secrets in parables that were
kept secret since the beginning of time. (Psalm 78:2-3). (Foundation here is "Themelios" in the
Greek; at a time of the "Katabole," or overthrow of Satan in the first earth
age). Read our newsletter study topic titled "Three Earth Ages," for a better
understanding.
36Then
Jesus sent the multitude away, and went into the house: and his disciples came
unto him, saying, Declare unto us the parable of the tares of the field.
The disciples didn't get it, so Christ will explain to them what He meant back
in verses 24-30.
37He
answered and said unto them,
He that soweth the good seed is the Son of man;
The "Son of Man" is Christ in the flesh. "He plants the good
seed."
38The
field is the world; the good seed are the children of the kingdom; but the tares
are the children of the wicked one; The field represents the world, and
the good seed are the children of God; but, the tares are the offspring of
Satan. (John 8:44). In John 8:37, Abraham is the father of the "Ethnos" (father
of all), whom Christ would come from. "Christ is the Father of all." (Again, Seed
here is "Sperma" Strong's #4687 in the Greek, male sperm, offspring).
39The
enemy that sowed them is the devil; the harvest is the end of the world; and the
reapers are the angels. Satan (the devil), is the father of the "Kenites,"
or son's of Cain. The harvest is the end of this world age (Matthew 13:49), and the reapers will
be the angels. (Matthew 25:31, 2 Thessalonians 1:7-10).
40As
therefore the tares are gathered and burned in the fire; so shall it be in the
end of this world. At the end of this earth age; God will be that
consuming fire. "The tares, children of the wicked one, or Kenites,"
(whatever you call them), will be destroyed with all evil." (Matthew 13:30).
However, a
"Kenite" or follower of Satan, can still convert to God's way
(upon repentance), and they will also
have salvation.
41The
Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom
all things that offend, and them which do iniquity; Nothing evil will be
left in the eternity. (All will be lost for Satan and his followers).
42And
shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of
teeth. All evil destroyed and will be as
they never existed. A lot of people who thought they were on the road to heaven
are going to be in for a surprise. The spiritually lazy, hypocrites,
unbelievers, murderers, whoremongers, idolaters, liars etc. (Revelation 21:8).
43Then
shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Who
hath ears to hear, let him hear. The Godly shall shine as the sun in
their Fathers Kingdom. (Matthew 25:34, James 2:5). Do you have ears to hear and
understand how important this is?
44Again,
the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man
hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath,
and buyeth that field. The field is the world, and there is no greater
treasure in all the world than Gods truth, "if you find it and understand it."
(Matthew 6:21). There is also no greater treasure to our Heavenly Father than
you, "you are His child and greatest treasure." (John 1:12-13, 12:36, Galatians
3:26).
45Again,
the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls:
"Its Priceless."
46Who,
when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and
bought it. Putting nothing else first before
the glory of His Word.
Worldly people will not
understand truth, or put it to good use by researching and sharing it with
others. Again, "God's Word is priceless."
47Again,
the kingdom of heaven is like unto a net, that was cast into the sea, and
gathered of every kind: Gathered the
valuable as well as the worthless. Referring to fishers of men and lost souls.
(Matthew 4:19, Mark 1:17).
48Which,
when it was full, they drew to shore, and sat down, and gathered the good into
vessels, but cast the bad away. The analogy
here is to not partake of scavengers; separate the clean from the unclean, the
good fish from the bad fish. (Just like separating the wheat from the tares).
49So
shall it be at the end of the world: the angels shall come forth, and sever the
wicked from among the just. In the end
times, their will be a separation of the wicked from the Godly. It won't be good
for those who are not written in the "book of life." (Revelation 20:12-15).
50And
shall cast them into the furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of
teeth. These are the wicked people who don't
care, or have been deceived. They never new the working plan
of salvation from God. (The minute they hear a little truth, or need to study
God's Word, they are turned off).
51Jesus
saith unto them, Have ye understood all these
things? They say unto him, Yea, Lord. Christ
wants us to understand "all these things!" Not just for us to pick and choose
what sounds good to us.
52Then
said he unto them, Therefore every scribe
which is instructed unto the kingdom
of heaven is like unto a man that is an householder, which bringeth forth out of
his treasure things new and old. We need the old testament and the new
testament gospel. (The old testament seals the new and the new testament
completes the old).
53And
it came to pass, that when Jesus had finished these parables, he departed
thence. Jesus tied all his stories into one, the same message with a different
analogy so all could understand. Then He left that part of the country.
54And
when he was come into his own country, he taught them in their synagogue,
insomuch that they were astonished, and said, Whence hath this man this wisdom,
and these mighty works? Jesus returned to His home town and went right to
their synagogue and taught. The people were amazed that this son of a carpenter
had so much knowledge, wisdom, and power to do miracles.
55Is
not this the carpenter's son? is not his mother called Mary? and his brethren,
James, and Joses, and Simon, and Judas? How is this possible? This man is
just a carpenters son, and we know his mother and brothers. "They scoffed and
rejected Him." (Try teaching truth in your home town and chances are you will be
rejected also).
56And
his sisters, are they not all with us? Whence then hath this man all these
things? All his sisters live here also. How is this man so great? (The
earthly side of man, can make it hard to see the spiritual within).
57And
they were offended in him. But Jesus said unto them,
A prophet is not without honour, save in his own country, and in his own house. This word offend
used here is "Scandalizo" Strong's #4624 in the Greek. (to scandalize; to
entrap, trip up, entice to sin). They were offended, enough to plot against
Jesus. Christ would go on to say that a prophet is honored everywhere except in
his own country, and among his own people. (Yes its true, how many friends or
family members really accept a truth you have given them). They only see you as
you used to be, not how you are now, doing the work of God.
58And
he did not many mighty works there because of their unbelief.
Christ only
did a few miracles there because of their unbelief. (Mark 6:5-6). You must have faith before
God will answer any of your requests or prayers. "Being an unbeliever won't make
it." Remember, God's truth is the most important thing in the world, and
Satan will take it away from you if you allow him. Don't let Satan destroy your
chance of salvation. "DO NOT BE DECEIVED!"
Matthew 14
1At
that time Herod the tetrarch heard of the fame of Jesus, Herod:
This was Herod Anitipas, son of Herod the great by
Malthace. (Luke 3:1). Tetrarch:
A governor over a
forth part of the country. (Galilee and Perea). He heard about Jesus, His teachings and His miracles,
that were preading throughout the country fast.
2And
said unto his servants, This is John the Baptist; he is risen from the dead; and
therefore mighty works do shew forth themselves in him. Herod is hearing
stories about Jesus, and thinks this might be John the Baptist who had risen
from the dead. Herod kind of
admired John, and at the same time he was a little afraid of him.
3For
Herod had laid hold on John, and bound him, and put him in prison for Herodias'
sake, his brother Philip's wife. Herod had John put in prison because
he wanted his brothers ex-wife. (Herodias, the granddaughter of Herod the
great).
4For
John said unto him, It is not lawful for thee to have her. John the
Baptist had been telling Herod that it was not lawful to marry her. The Herod's
didn't listen.
5And
when he would have put him to death, he feared the multitude, because they
counted him as a prophet. Herod did not like what John had said and
wanted to kill him,
but was afraid of riots because the people believed John was a prophet.
6But
when Herod's birthday was kept, the daughter of Herodias danced before them, and
pleased Herod. How a little seductive dance from a young sweet thing can change the
minds of even kings.
7Whereupon
he promised with an oath to give her whatsoever she would ask.
Feeling
good and falling for the young girl, he promises her anything she wants.
(Thinking with the wrong head).
8And
she, being before instructed of her mother, said, Give me here John Baptist's
head in a charger. Being urged by her mother, the girl wanted John's head
on a platter. Who was behind it? "Satan of course."
9And
the king was sorry: nevertheless for the oath's sake, and them which sat with
him at meat, he commanded it to be given her. Herod was grieved, but
because of his oath, he didn't want to back down in front of his guests, so
he gave the order to behead John.
10And
he sent, and beheaded John in the prison. John the Baptist was beheaded in prison.
11And
his head was brought in a charger, and given to the damsel: and she brought it
to her mother. His head was presented on a platter and given to the young
girl, who took it to her mother. Again, this was another attempt by Satan to stop the truth of the Word
through the prophets.
12And
his disciples came, and took up the body, and buried it, and went and told
Jesus. These were John's disciples that went and told Jesus of what had
happened, not Christ's disciples.
13When
Jesus heard of it, he departed thence by ship into a desert place apart: and
when the people had heard thereof, they followed him on foot out of the cities.
When Jesus hears of the news, He left in a boat to be alone. (It appears
that Jesus was affected by the death of John, after all, they were related).
However, the crowds heard where He was and followed Him by land from many
villages as the crowds grew in number.
14And
Jesus went forth, and saw a great multitude, and was moved with compassion
toward them, and he healed their sick. Even though Jesus had sorrow for
John at the time, He still had compassion for the crowd of people and healed
their sick. (Estimated here at
around 10,000 to 12,000 people).
15And
when it was evening, his disciples came to him, saying, This is a desert place,
and the time is now past; send the multitude away, that they may go into the
villages, and buy themselves victuals. It was getting late in the day
(Jewish evening starts around 3:00 p.m.), and
past time for supper. There was no food food for the people to eat, and the
disciples wanted to send them into the nearby villages for food.
16But
Jesus said unto them,
They need not depart; give ye them to eat.
Jesus
told the disciples to feed them. (Notice that Jesus told the disciples to feed
them, just as we are to spiritually feed the people the word of truth). As stated in (Amos 8:11),
the famine in the end time is not for food or drink, but for hearing the word of
God. "Will they understand what Jesus meant?"
17And
they say unto him, We have here but five loaves, and two fishes.
Five
loves of bread. The bread being symbolic of Christ as the "bread of life." Two
fish. The fish being symbolic of "Christianity." Note that a little boy was the
one had the food. (John 6:9). Jesus always loved to involve the children, after
all, we are all children of God.
18He
said, Bring them hither to me. Christ was about to show them that the
"bread of life" can feed as many as needed, even if it is brought forth by
little children.
19And
he commanded the multitude to sit down on the grass, and took the five loaves,
and the two fishes, and looking up to heaven, he blessed, and brake, and gave
the loaves to his disciples, and the disciples to the multitude.
Again;
Christ blessed what they would partake of, but the disciples fed them. Just as
we are to do today as Christians and teachers of the Word. We are to take the
"word of God," and feed it to the people who are starving for truth. (Amos
8:11). As stated in (Amos 8:12), people are wondering around seeking the truth,
but they are not finding it. (So many different religions and doctrines of man
that they do not know where to turn).
20And
they did all eat, and were filled: and they took up of the fragments that
remained twelve baskets full. Plenty of food left over for all the tribes.
(Mark 8:8-9, Luke 9:17). When you spiritually feed the people the word of God,
it will never run out, and all will be filled and comforted with the truth.
21And
they that had eaten were about five thousand men, beside women and children.
There were around 10,000 to 12,000 people total in the crowd.
22And
straightway Jesus constrained his disciples to get into a ship, and to go before
him unto the other side, while he sent the multitudes away.
After this, Jesus "insisted" the disciples get into the boat while He sent the
crowds home. Hmmm, were the disciples wondering why Jesus sent them away so fast
without Him? "Jesus knew a storm was coming." (Its always calm before the
storm).
23And
when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray:
and when the evening was come, he was there alone. After sunset Christ
went to talk with the Heavenly Father. (Mark 6:46).
24But
the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was
contrary. The disciples were in trouble far from land with rising winds and fighting
the heavy sea. Here comes the storm! (John 6:18).
25And
in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea.
Christ walked to them on the water. The Jews at this time divided the
night into four watches; the first was from six o'clock in the evening till
nine, the second from nine to twelve, the third from twelve till three, and the
fourth from three till six; so it was between 3:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m., before
our Lord came to his disciples. Many critics try to say that when Jesus walked on
the water it was just a reflection from the sun, an illusion, or a mirage. The
problem is with the critics is that there was no sun at this time of the day.
26And
when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is
a spirit; and they cried out for fear. The word "spirit" used here is
Strong's G5326, meaning
"Phantasma" a mere show; phantasm. (Not Pneuma; Breath of Life Spirit),
The disciples thought it was a ghost that they saw.
27But
straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of
good cheer; it is I; be not afraid. Jesus spoke to them, reassuring them not to be afraid
and that it was Him walking on the water.
28And
Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the
water. Peter was always the one who wanted the attention when it came to
serving and trusting in Christ, however this time he had a little doubt in his mind.
"Peter was about to test His faith." (Remember "Peter" means
stone and you know how fast a stone sinks in water).
29And
he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the
water, to go to Jesus. Peter heard Jesus say come, and was focused on
Him. Then he went over the side of the boat and started to walk on water. (His
faith was strong at first).
30But
when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried,
saying, Lord, save me. But, when Peter looked around and seen the high
waves and mighty wind he was terrified and began to sink. "Save me, Lord." he
shouted. (You see; the storm drew Peter's attention off Christ). When trouble
comes your way as a Christian, you must stay focused on Christ, "don't let the
world draw your attention and swallow you up."
31And
immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him,
O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt? Jesus said;
O man of little faith, why did you doubt me?" (If you want troubles in
this world, just take your eyes off Christ, or doubt His Word). On the other
hand, when your in trouble, have faith and call on Jesus Christ. "He will reach
out and save you in your time of need."
32And
when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased. The test of faith was
over and the storm stopped. So; Why this example
with the sea? As you will read in Revelation chapters 13 & 17, it is the people of the
world that rise from the waters. Christ walked on the water to show how it is
possible to walk above the people in this chaotic world. Not that we should be
better than them, but we are able to rise above the troubles in the world, if we stay focused
on Christ and His Word.
33Then
they that were in the ship came and worshipped him, saying, Of a truth thou art
the Son of God. They were awestruck with what Jesus had just done, but
did they understand Christ was teaching here, and not just putting on a show so they
would believe He is the Son of God?
34And
when they were gone over, they came into the land of Gennesaret.
"Garden
of the prince." It was at the northern end of the lake and to the west of the
Jordan.
35And
when the men of that place had knowledge of him, they sent out into all that
country round about, and brought unto him all that were diseased;
The people recognized Jesus, the news spread quickly, and the people
came from all around to be healed by Christ.
36And
besought him that they might only touch the hem of his garment: and as many as
touched were made perfectly whole. It was not the garment that healed
them, but their faith in Him. Remember that God does the healing as He gets us
through the fiery trials, but we must have faith and believe in Him. (I Peter
1:7).
Matthew 15
1Then
came to Jesus scribes and Pharisees, which were of Jerusalem, saying,
Some of the Pharisees and teachers of the religious law came to question Jesus
about His teachings.
2Why
do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? for they wash not their
hands when they eat bread. Why do your disciples disobey the ancient
traditions? They were speaking of the ceremonial hand washing before they would
eat. Not a commandment of God, but a tradition and ceremony of man that was
passed down from the old times. And so it is today, with all the traditions and
ceremonies that many church groups practice. Its a show for the people and has
nothing to do with God. God wants your love, not a bunch of rituals that have no
meaning.
3But
he answered and said unto them, Why do ye also
transgress the commandment of God by your tradition? Christ answers them with a question; Why do your
traditions violate the direct commandments of God? Their traditions had nothing
to do with God, they were useless. (Mark 7:6-8, 7:13, Colossians 2:8, 1 Titus
1:14).
4For
God commanded, saying, Honour thy father and mother: and, He that curseth father
or mother, let him die the death. God's law is to honor your father and
mother, and anyone who reviles their parents must die. (Exodus 21:17, Leviticus
20:9, Deuteronomy 21:18-21, Proverbs 20:20, 30:17). Wow! Some pretty strong
stuff here about honoring and respecting your parents. (These laws should be
followed out more today)! Respect for the elders is slowly disappearing from our
society.
5But
ye say, Whosoever shall say to his father or his mother, It is a gift, by
whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me; The church and their
traditions say to give to the church even if your parents are in need. What
they are really saying here is that if you give a gift to the church (called
Corban), then there
is no sin in dishonoring your parents.
But ye say, If a man shall say to his father or mother, It is
Corban, that is to say, a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me;
he shall be free. (Mark 7:11). Again, Corban
is a gift to the church. They say to their parents, "Sorry, I can't help you,
because I have vowed to give to the church what I would have given to you." (It
was common among the Jews that the Pharisees released a child from supporting
his parents; and even deemed it sacrilege if he afterwards gave anything for
their use. What a bunch of rip-offs!
The book of Timothy says it best: But
if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he
hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel. (1 Timothy 5:8). Anyone who won't
care
for his or her own family, does not have the right to say that they are a
Christian. "Such a person is worse than the heathen."
6And
honour not his father or his mother, he shall be
free. Thus have ye made the commandment of God of
none effect by your tradition. By their man made
rules and traditions, they nullify the direct command of God to "honor and care
for your parents." (Jeremiah 8:8, Hosea 4:6, Mark 7:13, Romans 3:31).
7Ye
hypocrites, well did Esaias prophesy of you, saying,
A bunch of hypocrites! Isaiah's prophesy about you was right. What did Isaiah
say?
8This
people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with
their lips; but their heart is far from me. These people say they honor me, but their
hearts are far away. They talk a good religion, but that is all it is, "a big
show."
9But
in vain they do worship me, teaching for
doctrines the commandments of men.
Empty worship! Worthless and a farce because they teach the doctrines of men, instead of God's Word.
Jesus is quoting from (Isaiah 29:13)
Wherefore the Lord
said, Forasmuch as this people draw near me
with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me, but have removed their heart
far from me, and their fear toward me is taught by the precept of men: Do you know the difference
between the truth of God's Word and traditions of men?
10And
he called the multitude, and said unto them,
Hear, and understand:
Listen
and try to understand what I am saying.
11Not
that which goeth into the mouth defileth a man; but that which cometh out of the
mouth, this defileth a man. You are not made unholy by eating certain
food! It is what you say and think that makes you unclean. Real teachers teach
God's Word. Rip-offs build you up with traditions of men, false doctrines,
and whatever makes you feel comfortable and secure. Another mark for rip-offs,
is that they are always begging for money. Never satisfied with what their
congregation provides, they always solicit outside the church for more
donations.
12Then
came his disciples, and said unto him, Knowest thou that the Pharisees were
offended, after they heard this saying? The Pharisees were offended by
what Christ had said to them. O-well, this was tuff stuff for them to handle,
but it was the truth.
13But
he answered and said, Every plant, which my
heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up.
Those like the Pharisees will be rooted up! We are also referring to the "Kenites"
(sons of Cain). Those who are not children of the Heavenly Father, but the tares, who are
"children" of the
devil. (Matthew 13:38-39).
14Let
them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind,
both shall fall into the ditch. "Ignore them." They are blind guides
leading the blind, and both will fall into a ditch. (All we can do with people
like this is to plan a seed. It is up to God if the seed takes or not).
15Then
answered Peter and said unto him, Declare unto us this parable.
Peter
should have understood what Christ was saying, but he didn't. He was still
wrapped up in the old laws and traditions. (It appears everything had to be
proven, explained, or demonstrated to Peter). Was Peter a little slow, or was it
just a lack of faith? I'm not coming down on Pater. Maybe this was an example to
us. Are we a little slow to learn at times?
16And
Jesus said, Are ye also yet without understanding? You still don't
understand what I am saying after all the parables.
17Do
not ye yet understand, that whatsoever entereth in at the mouth goeth into the
belly, and is cast out into the draught? Don't you understand that
anything you eat passes through the digestive track and out again?
18But
those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they
defile the man. Evil words come from an evil heart, and defile the man
who says them. The religious community was teaching that what you eat was more
important for salvation that what you think or feel in your heart.
19For
out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications,
thefts, false witness, blasphemies: These evil thoughts and actions will
get you into big trouble.
20These
are the things which defile a man: but to eat with unwashen hands defileth not a
man. Traditions and rituals have nothing to do with salvation or the
commandments of God. (Traditions and rituals in churches today are all for
show). "If it looks religious, it will draw people in."
21Then
Jesus went thence, and departed into the coasts of Tyre and Sidon.
Christ
wanted nothing to do with their rituals and traditions and left them.
22And,
behold, a woman of Canaan came out of the same coasts, and cried unto him,
saying, Have mercy on me, O Lord, thou son of David; my daughter is grievously
vexed with a devil. This Gentile woman calls Him Son of David. She has an
idea of who Jesus was. (Did this woman here of Him before)? Maybe the devil
within her daughter gave her the clue. Remember that the devils knew who Christ
was back in Matthew 8:29.
23But
he answered her not a word. And his disciples came and besought him, saying,
Send her away; for she crieth after us. Christ did not even answer her,
and the disciples replied that she is bothering us and send her away.
24But
he answered and said, I am not sent but unto the
lost sheep of the house of Israel. Christ told her that He was sent to save the lost sheep of
Israel, not the gentiles. This was only till after the crucifixion, when Christ
and salvation was open to all who will.
25Then
came she and worshipped him, saying, Lord, help me. She pled and
worshipped Him.
26But
he answered and said, It is not meet to take the
children's bread, and to cast it
to dogs. It doesn't seem right to take bread from the children and
cast it to the dogs. This was a kind of slang statement used for a non-believer.
27And
she said, Truth, Lord: yet the dogs eat of the crumbs which fall from their
masters' table. Here the woman is in the presence of the "Bread of Life"
and all she wants is a crumb.
28Then
Jesus answered and said unto her,
O woman, great is thy faith: be it unto thee even as thou
wilt. And her daughter was made whole from that
very hour.
Because of the woman's great faith in taking part of that bread of life, the
demon was cast out and her daughter was healed. "No doubt the woman was
healed also."
29And
Jesus departed from thence, and came nigh unto the sea of Galilee; and went up
into a mountain, and sat down there. He returned back to the city of
Galilee where He started from. Christ walked around 100 miles total for that lesson.
30And
great multitudes came unto him, having with them those that were lame, blind,
dumb, maimed, and many others, and cast them down at Jesus' feet; and he healed
them: He healed them all.
31Insomuch
that the multitude wondered, when they saw the dumb to speak, the maimed to be
whole, the lame to walk, and the blind to see: and they glorified the God of
Israel. They knew who He was and had faith in Him. The crowds marveled
and praised the God of Israel.
32Then
Jesus called his disciples unto him, and said,
I have compassion on the multitude, because they continue
with me now three days, and have nothing to eat: and I will not send them away
fasting, lest they faint in the way.
They crowds were with Jesus for three days and they ran out of food to feed them.
33And
his disciples say unto him, Whence should we have so much bread in the
wilderness, as to fill so great a multitude? After Christ fed the 10,000
in the wilderness, they still wondered where the food was going to come from. Do
I sense a little lack of faith among the disciples? Do we get confused at times
and show our lack of faith?
34And
Jesus saith unto them, How many loaves have ye?
And they said, Seven, and a few little fishes. More than they had before when He fed the multitudes
of people.
35And
he commanded the multitude to sit down on the ground. Christ likes to
keep things in order.
36And
he took the seven loaves and the fishes, and gave thanks, and brake them, and
gave to his disciples, and the disciples to the multitude.
Always give
thanks to God for the things you have. Once again as before, Christ gave the
food to the disciples to give to the multitudes. Just as we as students and
teachers of the Word are to feed the flock. "Spread the Good News."
37And
they did all eat, and were filled: and they took up of the broken meat that was
left seven baskets full. Started with seven loaves of bread and ended up with seven
baskets left over. "Seven meaning spiritual completeness."
38And
they that did eat were four thousand men, beside women and children.
Around 8,000 people in all.
39And
he sent away the multitude, and took ship, and came into the coasts of Magdala.
Then Jesus sent the people home and got into the boat and crossed to Magadan (the
tower). "The old watch tower." Well, maybe the disciples were a little slow at
learning the lesson and lacked a little faith when Jesus fed the multitudes.
Jesus was patient with them, and will be patient with many of us when we are
slow to learn.
Matthew 16
1The
Pharisees also with the Sadducees came, and tempting desired him that he would
shew them a sign from heaven. Here comes the so called higher-ups
(political religious leaders), trying to test Jesus after all the miracles He
had just performed. The Pharisees (separated ones) believed in life after death,
the Sadducees did not. They still wanted Jesus to show them a sign from the
skies to prove that He was the Messiah.
2He
answered and said unto them, When it is evening, ye
say, It will be fair
weather: for the sky is red. Red sky at night, sailors delight.
3And
in the morning, It will be
foul weather to day: for the sky is red and lowering. O
ye hypocrites, ye can discern
the face of the sky; but can ye not discern
the signs of the times? Red sky in morning, sailors take warning.
They knew how to interpret the weather by signs in the sky, but they could not
interpret the signs of the times. Can you
discern the signs of the times? "If you study God's word you can."
4A
wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign
be given unto it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas. And he left them, and
departed. Jonah of the Old Testament being in the belly of the whale
three days and three nights, then he converted Ninevah. (Luke 11:29-32). Just as
Christ would be in the grave 3 days and three nights. (Matthew 12:39-40).
5And
when his disciples were come to the other side, they had forgotten to take
bread. As usual, the disciples were never prepared, always thinking of physical food instead of
spiritual food. (These people liked to eat).
6Then
Jesus said unto them, Take heed and beware of the
leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees. The leaven (yeast), hits every part of the bread
and infects it. (Galatians 5:9). Just as false teachings do when they enter into a congregation or ministry.
(2 Timothy 2:16-17). i.e. Beware of false teachers! (Those who teach traditions
and doctrines of men).
7And
they reasoned among themselves, saying, It is because we have taken no bread.
They thought Christ was upset because they did not bring any bread, or
that He was warning them not to buy bread from the Pharisees and Sadducees.
However, Jesus was warning them about what comes out of the mouth of the
Pharisees and Sadducees in there teachings. (They had a lot of babble).
8Which
when Jesus perceived, he said unto them, O ye of
little faith, why reason ye among yourselves, because ye have brought no bread? Jesus knew what they
were thinking and asked them why they were so worried because they had no bread.
Here they were in the presence of the "Bread of Life" but still did not
understand. (Their minds were clouded by the teachings of the Pharisees and
Sadducees). Don't let your mind get clouded up and confused by false teachings
and the ways of the world. "Satan loves confusion!"
9Do
ye not yet understand, neither remember the five loaves of the five thousand,
and how many baskets ye took up? These were the (12) baskets of
"fragments" that remained. (Matthew 14:20). Representing one basket
for each of the twelve disciples and twelve tribes.
10Neither
the seven loaves of the four thousand, and how many baskets ye took up?
These were the (7) baskets of fragments that was left. (Matthew 15:37).
One idea would be that the word "fragments" (meaning broken), could
represent those who are spiritually broken. We do not want to leave them behind,
but gather them up so that they will come to the truth. Another meaning of
"fragments" can be like "fragmented garbage" you may find in large groups and
congregations. (Traditions of men and false teachings). They would be gathered
up and separated from the truth. Either way, the disciples should have known
that they did not need to worry about food when they were with Jesus.
11How
is it that ye do not understand that I spake
it not to you concerning bread,
that ye should beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees?
Christ was not talking about food. He was talking about the false
teachings of the Pharisees and Sadducees. Lets compare the two; the Pharisees
believed in the resurrection of the dead, the Sadducees did not. The Pharisees
believed in the supernatural. The Sadducees believed in nothing spiritual. The
Pharisees believed in the entire old testament as the inspired word of God. The
Sadducees only believed in the first five books of the bible (Pentateuch, books
of the law), as being inspired of God. So far apart in their beliefs, but yet
they had one thing in common that Christ was talking about. Hypocrisy!
In
the mean time, when there were gathered together an innumerable multitude of
people, insomuch that they trode one upon another, he began to say unto his
disciples first of all, Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is
hypocrisy. (Luke 12:1). Note that Luke hit it right on the head. These
groups were a bunch of Hypocrites! (They taught one thing, but lived another).
Hypocrisy is growing even more rapidly among the world today. "Do not be
deceived."
12Then
understood they how that he bade them not beware of the leaven of bread, but of
the doctrine of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees. At last they
understood that by "yeast" He meant the "deceptive teachings" of the Pharisees and
Sadducees. "They look so godly." You know the ones; "I had a vision last
night and God spoke to me." This is what happens in large
congregations; confusion, false teaching, and traditions of men work there way
in. If you are a true well learned Christian (no longer a child), you should not
have these problems with false teachings and traditions of men.
That
we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with
every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby
they lie in wait to deceive. (Ephesians 4:14). Then we will not listen to
those who try to turn truth to a lie. But
speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the
head, even Christ. (Ephesians 4:15). Learn and teach the truth,
but better yet, "live the truth."
13When
Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying,
Whom do men say that I the Son of man am? The "Son of
Man." Meaning "Christ in the flesh."
14And
they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others,
Jeremias, or one of the prophets. The
people assumed he was someone else.
15He
saith unto them, But whom
say ye that I am? Now Jesus asked the
disciples.
16And
Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.
Here comes Peter again grabbing all the attention. But, at least he got
it right and answered. The Christ, (anointed one) the Son Jesus (only begotten) of the living God.
The full title Jesus Christ, "Yeshua Messiah." (1 John 5:20).
17And
Jesus answered and said unto him,
Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and
blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven.
God has blessed you Simon (Peter), for my Father in heaven has personally
revealed this to you, this is not from any human force. Note: Jesus named him Peter
(Cephas), but his name was Simon. (Peter meaning "Petros" a piece of rock).
However, this refers to a "movable rock or stone." (John 1:42).
18And
I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my
church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
You are Peter, Greek G4074 "Petros" (piece of rock), a
stone. And upon this "Rock" Greek G4073 "Petra" (meaning mass rock or bolder), an unmovable
rock, I will build my church; and all the powers of hell will not prevail
against it. This is a very controversial scripture between scholars. It is not
Peter that Christ would build the church on, "Christ is the rock that the church
will be built on." Peter and the apostles would
go on to establish the Christian church in Acts 1 and 2, and Peter and Paul
would be the ones who establish the first Christian church in Rome. (Peter was
not the first pope). Now, with that being said, Jesus Christ is the "Unmovable
Rock" that you want to build upon. Not Peter or the church that many claim.
The apostle Paul tells us who the true rock and foundation of the church is.
"Jesus Christ."
For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid,
which is Jesus Christ. (1 Corinthians 3:11).
Jesus Christ is that only
foundation we need to build on. (Matthew 16:18, Acts 4:11-12, Ephesians 2:20).
And the gates of hell shall not prevail against it: i.e. No way in hell will
Satan ever prevail against this "Rock" or "Foundation" which is Christ! (Romans
8:33-39, Revelation 11:15, 21:1-4).
19And
I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou
shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on
earth shall be loosed in heaven. Christ has
given us authority over this world and over Satan. Free yourself through Christ here on
earth, and you will be free in heaven. But, if you bind yourself with the ways
of the world here on earth, you will also be bound in heaven.
20Then
charged he his disciples that they should tell no man that he was Jesus the
Christ. He warned the others about telling He was the Messiah. It was not
time yet for others to know. It was not His time yet for what lies ahead.
21From
that time forth began Jesus to shew unto his disciples, how that he must go unto
Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes,
and be killed, and be raised again the third day. Jesus explained to His
disciples about what was going to happen to Him, and that He would be killed by
the religious political leaders. It was written long ago and Christ new it would happen
that way. Where was it written? Psalm 22 tells all about the crucifixion of
Christ. (Hebrews 2:14 and Hebrews 10 tell why Christ was crucified).
22Then
Peter took him, and began to rebuke him, saying, Be it far from thee, Lord: this
shall not be unto thee. Peter was allowing his love for Christ to go
against the prophecy about Messiah. He knew better, He just did not want to
accept it. Jesus had been warning them for a while about what was ahead for Him.
Sometimes its hard to accept what is ahead in our lives, but if we look to
Christ, He will see us through even the toughest times.
23But
he turned, and said unto Peter, Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offence
unto me: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of
men. Jesus was actually speaking to Satan,
not Peter. Peter was being influenced by Satan here and was only thinking from a human point of view, not from
God's point of view. How often are we influenced by Satan? We need to keep
focused on Christ and think more spiritually, rather than worldly and in the
flesh. (Romans 8:5-8, 1 Corinthians 2:14-15, Philippians 3:19, Colossians 3:2).
24Then
said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come
after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. Christ was not speaking
about some cross around your neck; Christ was speaking of the cross that He was
crucified upon. We need to be that dedicated and willing to suffer the same as
Christ did. Being a Christian will bring test and trials in your life. Are you
willing to suffer a little for Christ? "He gave His life for you." (2 Timothy
3:12).
25For
whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for
my sake shall find it. Anyone you keeps his
life for himself will lose it; and anyone who loses his life for Christ shall find it again.
If you love all the things of this world more than the spiritual things of the
Kingdom you will lose your eternal life. But, if you if you are willing to give
up the things of this world, your own desires, and follow Christ, you will find
eternal life, and peace of mind in this world. (Revelation 12:11).
26For
what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?
or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? There is nothing here
in this world that is worth losing your soul for. (Psalm 49:7-8, Mark 8:37).
27For
the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then
he shall reward every man according to his works. When Christ returns,
everyone will be judged according to their "works" (good deeds). "Not just faith."
Faith will get you saved, but what good are you if you do not work for it. Your
works are the only thing you can take with you when you die. (Revelation 2:23, 14:13,
22:12-15).
28Verily
I say unto you, There be some standing here, which shall not taste of death,
till they see the Son of man coming in his kingdom.
This appears to refer to the mediatorial kingdom which our Lord was about to set
up, by the destruction of the Jewish nation and polity, and the diffusion of the
gospel throughout the world. The King and His
dominion! Christ defeated death in the first advent through the crucifixion and
resurrection when He brought forth His Kingdom open to all who will.
Matthew 17
1And
after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth
them up into an high mountain apart, Jesus loved all the people and had a
great relationship with the crowd. His relationship with the twelve disciples
was even closer. Even though Jesus taught that there was no one greater among
the disciples, He did have His favorites. Peter and the two brothers James and
John went with Jesus everywhere. These are the three Jesus took to the mountain
with Him to be alone. (Three representing spiritual completeness). Three
disciples as His witnesses. (2 Corinthians 13:1).
2And
was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment
was white as the light. Transfigured into another form. Luke tells us
that Jesus began to pray before He was transfigured into the spirit body. (Luke
9:29). The same as it will be in the Lord's Day at Christ's return.
(Revelation 1:13-17, 19:12-13).
3And,
behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias talking with him. Here
we have the "three" talking together transfigured in spirit bodies.
(Again, three representing spiritual completeness).
Why
Moses and Elijah (Elias)? Moses was symbolic of the law and Elijah was the
prophet of all prophets. (Together they represent the Old Testament declaring
who Jesus was). Christ and the disciples would represent the New Testament. Keep
in mind that nobody knows where the bodies of Moses and Elijah are
because they were both taken by the Lord. (Deuteronomy 34:5-6, 2 Kings 2:11-14).
4Then
answered Peter, and said unto Jesus, Lord, it is good for us to be here: if thou
wilt, let us make here three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and
one for Elias. I believe Peter was still
thinking a little in the flesh here. But then again, maybe he didn't realize
where he was, or maybe he was thinking of what Christ said earlier at the end of
chapter 16. Verily
I say unto you, There be some standing here, which shall not taste of death,
till they see the Son of man coming in his kingdom. (Matthew 16:28). Was
this the moment Peter was thinking about?
5While
he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out
of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased;
hear ye him. I think this got the attention of the disciples as the Lord
spoke, "Hear Him!" Literally, "hear and obey Him." Do you hear what Christ has
to say in His Word?
6And
when the disciples heard it, they fell on their face, and were sore afraid.
They heard the voice of God for real and of course they were terrified.
You would be too.
7And
Jesus came and touched them, and said,
Arise, and be not afraid.
This was
their Heavenly Father speaking, and they were afraid. That little lack of faith
and understanding brought on their fear.
8And
when they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no man, save Jesus only.
The three disciples had just seen Moses and Elijah, and heard the voice of the
Heavenly Father, then in a instant, they were gone.
Only Christ was left present. A lesson to us to keep our eyes on Jesus; the living
God.
9And
as they came down from the mountain, Jesus charged them, saying,
Tell the vision to no man, until the Son of man be risen
again from the dead.
Wait till
that moment then tell them. Christ showed Peter, James, and John ahead of time
that He would be resin again in the spirit body, just as He would return in the
future. Perhaps giving them a little exclusive prophecy to build their faith on.
10And
his disciples asked him, saying, Why then say the scribes that Elias must first
come? Why do the Jewish leaders insists Elijah (Elias) must come first
before the Messiah comes?
11And
Jesus answered and said unto them, Elias truly
shall first come, and restore all things. They are right. Elijah must come first and set everything in
order. (Malachi 4:5).
12But
I say unto you, That Elias is come already, and they knew him not, but have done
unto him whatsoever they listed. Likewise shall also the Son of man suffer of
them. Christ told them that Elijah has already come, but wasn't
recognized and mistreated. And I, the Messiah, shall also suffer at their hands.
You see, John the Baptist came in the spirit of Elijah and fulfilled the
prophecy. (Luke 1:17, Matthew 11:13-14), but they did
not receive him.
13Then
the disciples understood that he spake unto them of John the Baptist.
Now
they realized Christ was speaking of John the Baptist. (a voice crying in the
wilderness; prepare ye the way of the Lord).
14And
when they were come to the multitude, there came to him a certain man, kneeling
down to him, and saying, Knelt before Jesus and worshiped him.
15Lord,
have mercy on my son: for he is lunatick, and sore vexed: for often times he
falleth into the fire, and often into the water. Lunar being moon (child
of the night) like Satan; the prince of darkness. "This boy was demon
possessed." (Mark 9:18, Luke 9:39).
16And
I brought him to thy disciples, and they could not cure him.
This one was
different, they were not prepared for this one. (Lack of faith). "They needed
the real deal to heal this boy."
17Then
Jesus answered and said,
O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be
with you? how long shall I suffer you? bring him hither to me.
Again,
Christ charging them with little faith.
18And
Jesus rebuked the devil; and he departed out of him: and the child was cured
from that very hour. Ordered him out! Don't mess around with the devil
and his demons. "Order them out!" If you have the faith.
19Then
came the disciples to Jesus apart, and said, Why could not we cast him out?
Why can't we do it? Good question for many preachers today who lack
faith and power of the Holy Spirit.
20And
Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for
verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say
unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and
nothing shall be impossible unto you. They could not do it because of their non-belief and little faith
in God to do amazing thing. You see, you may have knowledge and faith, but it
can't be faith in yourself or any man. You must believe (have faith), that "God"
has the ability to do amazing things through the "Holy Spirit," not through you
or any other man. (1 Corinthians 12:9, Luke 1:37, 18:27).
21Howbeit
this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.
This was no ordinary demon, he was a tough one. The point being, some things in
life are going to require more faith than others to overcome. It takes time to
build up real faith, and the only way to increase your faith is through the
study of God's Word. For them it was a lifestyle of prayer and fasting. We need
the same lifestyle if we are going to handle this type of situation. (Acts
14:23, Ephesians 6:18).
22And
while they abode in Galilee, Jesus said unto them,
The Son of man shall be betrayed into the hands of men: It's going to happen.
23And
they shall kill him, and the third day he shall be raised again. And they were
exceeding sorry. They were really sad and filled with grief. But, did
they take in what He had just said. Jesus is preparing them for what lies ahead
with His death by crucifixion, but it seems that they were still surprised when
it actually happens. (God warns us what is ahead in His word, but we must pay
attention, or we may be surprised).
24And
when they were come to Capernaum, they that received tribute money came to
Peter, and said, Doth not your master pay tribute? This tribute seems to
have been the half shekel which every male among the Jews paid yearly for the
support of the temple. (Exodus 30:13).
25He
saith, Yes. And when he was come into the house, Jesus prevented him, saying,
What thinkest thou, Simon? of whom do the kings of the earth take custom or
tribute? of their own children, or of strangers? The Kings would take
tribute from strangers, not their own children or princes.
26Peter
saith unto him, Of strangers. Jesus saith unto him,
Then are the children free.
In other words, those who are part of the Kingdom do not pay tribute, they are
free. They were in the presence of the King and they wanted to tax Him. Just as
you are free today because Christ paid the price on the cross.
27Notwithstanding,
lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast an hook, and take up
the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt
find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for me and thee.
Trying to take tribute from God Himself. Jesus said to pay them so they are not
offended and to keep the peace. Protecting His credibility, just as we need to
do at times today.
Matthew 18
Chapter 18 in the book of Matthew show us how
to be a good servant of God and a good Christian. It shows teachers of the
Word; to be humble, patient, not to offend, and to mildly correct when necessary.
1At
the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the
kingdom of heaven? Asking Christ which one of them would be the greatest
in heaven. Mark tells us a little bit on how they led up to this question. (Mark
9:33-34). When they were on the road to Capernaum with Jesus, the disciples were
arguing among themselves about who would be the greatest. Typical among men,
always wanting to be the most important. Typical among churches, always wanting
to be the only true church. "Peter established our church, well Paul established
our church." Don't you think that the lesson Christ will be teaching here
applies to the churches also? Of course it does... No one church or ministry is
greater than the other, "they only think they are." We are all part of the many
member body of Christ. (Different strokes for different folks).
2And
Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them,
This would be a lesson to the disciples.
Why a little child? Because they are wide-eyed and innocent, ready to absorb
knowledge like a sponge.
3And
said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be
converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of
heaven. For the lost
sinner, you must turn to God from your sins and become as little children.
(Clean slate to start with). For
the Christian; you need to get rid of all the excess spiritual baggage.
(Religious junk, false teachings, and traditions of men cluttering your mind).
"Empty your mind, so it can be filled with truth." Just as a child has a fresh mind, we should also be the same in
absorbing the truth of His Word.
4Whosoever
therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the
kingdom of heaven. Again, Jesus uses a
little child as an example. The disciples were arguing about who would be the
greatest. Jesus called the child and put him in the middle of the group. The
child would be the least likely in the group to be called the greatest. But
Jesus tells them that they should be more like the child "the least in the
group." (Then you will be the greatest in the kingdom). God loves it when you humble yourself as a child.
(Luke 14:11, James 4:10).
5And
whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me.
To be
humble and kind to others when it is possible. Sometimes we don't realize that
their may be great works ahead for one of Gods children in the ministry. We may
not pay attention to the "humble ones" who might have more knowledge and truth
than the rest of the congregation. Most churches are always looking to bring in
more people, Jesus is looking for that one child (humble one), to bring forth
the truth in His Word.
6But
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. This word offend here is "scandalize" in the Greek
#4624 (to trip-up or entice to sin). If you cause someone to trip-up, or lose
their faith, you are asking for trouble. God will not allow people to pick on
His children.
7Woe
unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but
woe to that man by whom the offence cometh! There is always temptations
in the world to do wrong, but someone who does the tempting or causes another to
fall is in big trouble. This happens many times when someone becomes a bad or
evil teacher. BEWARE OF FALSE TEACHERS! (2 Peter 2:2).
8Wherefore
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. This represents the
many member body of the church, not to physically cut off a human limb. If you
have false teachers or troublemakers within the church, cut them off and get rid
of them. (Those who are into false teachings and traditions of men).
9And
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. Those who claim to be prophets. God has shown us all
things through the prophets in His Word. There is no need for modern day
prophets. Christ should be the eye of the church to stay focused on. Again, this
is not about mutilating yourself. It is about doing whatever it takes to get the
sin out of the church, as well as the individual.
10Take
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.
The "little ones," children of God. Those who God has called to serve Him. If you are serving
God, there are angels who will watch over you. (Psalm 91:11). We call them
Guardian Angels.
11For
the Son of man is come to save that which was lost. Christ came to save
the lost sinner. Never be afraid to hang around sinners; Christ did. He came for
the lost, "not the saved." (Matthew 9:12-13, Luke 19:10).
12How
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? Just a natural
reaction to go off and save the lost one because of our compassion.
13And
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. Rejoices
because he found the lost one. Just as the angels rejoice when another lost soul
is saved.
14Even
so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these
little ones should perish. It is Gods will to save all the lost. (II
Peter 3:9).
15Moreover
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.
If a brother or sister sins against you, go to them in private and confront them
peacefully. If they admit it and apologize, you have won back a friend.
16But
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. If they do not
listen and deny it, then take along two witnesses with you. (To establish what
is being said).
17And
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.
If they still do not listen, take it to the church, and if they refuse to hear
the church, take them to court.
18Verily
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.
Whatever
you hold onto on earth will be held in heaven and what you forgive on earth will
be forgiven in heaven. (Matthew 16:19, John 20:23).
19Again
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.
We are speaking of those who serve God. Those
asking for spiritual gifts and knowledge. (Things to further the ministry).
Ye have
not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and
bring forth fruit, and
that
your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye
shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.
(John 15:16). Keep in mind, "Christ does the calling." Therefore, when you want to further
something in the ministry, ask in "Jesus name" and the Heavenly Father will
supply what you need. (John 14:13-14).
20For
where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of
them. In Jesus name! This means doing the work of
God. Gathered together to bring forth the word. "God is right there among you." God will supply
you with what is important to the ministry.
21Then
came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and
I forgive him? till seven times? In the old law you
were to forgive someone three times. Peter pumped himself up a little and said
he would forgive someone seven times. (Luke 17:3-4). Peter though he was going
beyond what most would do.
22Jesus
saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven
times: but, Until seventy times seven. In other words,
if someone wrongs you and they repent, forgive them, no matter how many times
they sin against you. It may take some
time to build trust with that person again, but if they repent, forgive them.
(Matthew 6:14-15, Mark 11:25-26, Romans 12:21, Ephesians 4:26, Colossians 3:13).
23Therefore
is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account
of his servants. The king wanted to bring his
accounts up to date. (Collect what is owed to him).
24And
when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, which owed him ten
thousand talents. Ten
thousand: Strong's G3463 "murioi" meaning "innumerably or countless." A talent is around 750 ounces of
silver or gold. (Approximately $4,500,000 in silver or $72,000,000 in gold).
This immense sun represents our boundless obligations to God, and our utter
incapacity, as sinners infinitely indebted to Divine justice, of paying one mite
out of the talent. (Psalm 38:4).
25But
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.
Cleaned him out; the master ordered him sold along with
his wife, children, and everything he owned.
26The
servant therefore fell down, and worshipped him, saying, Lord, have patience
with me, and I will pay thee all. He was willing to
pay the debt if he had more time.
27Then
the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave
him the debt. The king was filled with compassion
and forgave his debt. Our Heavenly Father has a lot compassion and patients
towards us, that we all come to repentance. (Psalm 145:8, 1 John 1:9, 2 Peter
3:9). He forgives our mountain of debt know as sin!
28But
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. After this guys huge debt
was forgiven by the king, he went out and tried to collect about $2,000 that was
owed to him. He went as far as to grab the guy by the neck and demanded payment.
(What a guy).
29And
his fellowservant fell down at his feet, and besought him, saying, Have patience
with me, and I will pay thee all. This fellow
servant was also willing to pay the debt if he was given a little time.
30And
he would not: but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt.
The greedy man would not wait and cast him into prison till the debt was paid.
31So
when his fellowservants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and
told unto their lord all that was done. The mans
friends were upset and went and told the king what had just happened.
32Then
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:
The king called the man before him and told him; "You evil
hearted servant!" I
forgave you all that tremendous debt, just because you asked me to.
33Shouldest
not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on
thee? Shouldn't you have mercy on others as I had
on you.
34And
his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all
that was due unto him. The angry king sent the man
to the torture chamber until he had paid every last penny due. (Its the rack for
him)!
35So
likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts
forgive not every one his brother their trespasses.
The Heavenly Father shall do the same to those
who do not forgive their brothers and sisters in Christ. Christ gave us this
example to show us how important it is to forgive others just as we are forgiven
by our Heavenly Father for our sins. If we repent, we are forgiven. If someone
repents for a wrong they have committed against us, we should forgive them. The
deeper meaning of this parable refers back to verse 22, about forgiving 490
times. If a brother, sister, family member, or friend does you wrong and
repents, forgive them. However, don't be a fool. If they keep doing you wrong
over and over again and don't repent, you no longer need to forgive them.
Forgive yourself and stay away from them. (You don't want it eating at you to
make you miserable). You are not the one who is wrong here, they were. I have
had personal experience with family members and friends who would just try to
always make a fool out of me by conning and lying all the time. I would forgive
them, but it would keep going on and would make me upset at times. Finally, I
had to step up and put them aside in order for me to get on with my own life. I
am sure many of you have experienced the same thing.
Matthew 19
1And
it came to pass, that when Jesus had finished these sayings, he departed from
Galilee, and came into the coasts of Judaea beyond Jordan.
Jesus' ministry moves from Galilee down to the region of Judea as He
heads towards Jerusalem.
2And
great multitudes followed him; and he healed them there. They knew He was
the real deal as He healed their sick.
3The
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? The Pharisees (religious
community), came to Christ trying to trap Him into saying something that would ruin
Him. Do you permit divorce for any reason they asked?
4And
he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read,
that he which made them
at the beginning made them male and female,
Here is how Jesus will answer them. It's right
in the beginning of the bible that God made them male and female, haven't you read
it? (Genesis 1:27).
5And
said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to
his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh? They are joined together and
spiritually become one. (Genesis 2:24).
6Wherefore
they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together,
let not man put asunder. No "man" may divorce what God has joined
together. However, "with God all things are possible." God does not like
divorce, but one can divorce and be forgiven. God is a divorcee himself when He
divorced Israel. (Jeremiah 3:7-8). Remember at this time Christ had not been
crucified yet; but after His crucifixion, He paid the price for all. The sin of
divorce can be forgiven upon repentance. Do not let any man or religious
denomination ever tell you that you are living in sin when you are divorced.
Then some will tell you that you may never re-marry after divorce. "They are flat out liars."
7They
say unto him, Why did Moses then command to give a writing of divorcement, and
to put her away? Why is it written in the law of Moses that a man may
divorce? (Deuteronomy 24:1).
8He
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.
Because of
your hearts it was allowed, but it was not what God had originally intended.
9And
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. In a unbelievers world this would be true.
But in a believers world, Christ can forgive all sins including divorce. (1 John
1:9).
10His
disciples say unto him, If the case of the man be so with his wife, it is not
good to marry. It would be better if one could live the Christian life
and not be married.
11But
he said unto them, All
men cannot receive this
saying, save they to whom it is given. But, all men cannot live the life of celibacy; but only those whom
God helps. (If God hasn't called you to be single, its going to be a tough life
to live without sinning, or you will be miserable).
But if they cannot contain, let them marry: for it is better to marry
than to burn.
(1 Corinthians 7:9).
If you
can’t control yourself, it is better to marry than to burn with passion. (1
Corinthians 7:2).
12For
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. Some choose this life as eunuchs
(emasculated or castrated), and some refuse to marry for the sake of the Kingdom
of Heaven. (There choice to live a celibate life). But, this lifestyle should
only be chosen by those whom God helps. "Those given the gift of celibacy."
(Matthew 19:11).
13Then
were there brought unto him little children, that he should put his hands on
them, and pray: and the disciples rebuked them. Christ was tired and the
disciples wanted to send the children away not to bother Him.
14But
Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them
not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.
Christ was trying to explain that to enter into Heaven, you must become as a
little child. (Matthew 18-2-4). Open minded and free from all the traditions of
men, church doctrine, and false teachings that pile up over the years.
15And
he laid his hands on them, and departed thence. He blessed the children
before He left.
16And,
behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do,
that I may have eternal life? What must I do to have eternal life. This
man was thinking of just works; but salvation and eternal life does not come from works, but by
faith. (John 3:15, 4:14, 5:39, 6:47, 1 Timothy 6:19, Titus 3:7). However, once we are saved, God wants us to do His good works by spreading the
gospel "to the lost souls."
17And
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.
If you want
to enter into eternal life, keep the commandments. (Do your best to follow these
commandments of God). Many will tell you that the
law was done away with when Christ came; but Christ came to fulfill the law, not
destroy it. Yes we are saved by faith, but once saved, it should be easier to
follow the commandments of God. "When we mess-up, we still have repentance."
18He
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,
The man asked which commandments should be kept, and Christ answered him.
19Honour
thy father and thy mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
The ten commandments are divided into two groups.
The first four commandments are regarding mans relationship with God.
(Deuteronomy 5:7-15). The last six commandments deal with our relationship with
others. (Deuteronomy 5:16-21). This is where Jesus will be quoting and teaching
from, "our relationship with others." Note: Jesus does throw a commandment of
morality in the mix. "Love thy neighbor as thyself." (Leviticus 19:18). One
commandment that summarizes the last six of the ten commandments.
20The
young man saith unto him, All these things have I kept from my youth up: what
lack I yet? The young man said to Christ that he had kept all those laws.
How many times have we heard that one from people or preachers. Jesus knows the
mans heart, and He is going to confront this man with the last commandment, "you
shall not covet," (Deuteronomy 5:21), the commandment that deals with greed.
Lets see how this man reacts.
21Jesus
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.
If you want to be perfect like you say, go and sell all you have and give it to
the poor and build your treasures in heaven. (Jesus knows this mans weak spot).
22But
when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful: for he had great
possessions. The man was rich with estate possessions. (Probably through
coveting other peoples goods). "The tenth commandment." This man could not let the riches go.
"It's always about the
money."
23Then
said Jesus unto his disciples, Verily I say unto
you, That a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of heaven.
It is almost impossible for a rich man to get into the Kingdom of Heaven. (A man
that is rich with God's blessings may have no problem, but the money cannot
become the top priority in his life, or be from corrupt gains).
24And
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.
During this
time there were two gates to the walled cities. The large main gate for during
the day, and the small entrance gate called (the needle gate), for the evening
when the main gate was closed. A camel would not fit through the needle gate
unless it was first unloaded of it's goods. It is the same for one who must
unload all their financial gains to enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Some
will, but many will not. Again, it is all about the money to them. Jesus is just
showing how hard it is for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God, but it is
still possible.
25When
his disciples heard it, they were exceedingly amazed, saying, Who then can be
saved? Who can be saved, the disciples asked?
26But
Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men
this is impossible; but with God all things are possible. It is impossible for you to save yourself, but
with God, all things are possible. That is why God gave His only begotten Son to
die and be sacrificed for all the sins of the world.
27Then
answered Peter and said unto him, Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed
thee; what shall we have therefore? Peter said to Christ; we left
everything to follow you, what do we get out of it?
28And
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.
When I the Messiah, shall sit upon my glorious throne in the Kingdom, you my
disciples will sit with me to judge the twelve tribes of Israel. (Revelation
21:12-14).
29And
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.
If you put yourself out for me and put me first over family, friends, money and
property, you will inherit eternal life. (You will have a new spiritual family
in Christ).
30But
many
that are first shall
be last; and the last
shall be first.
Many who think they are so important here on earth will be the least in the
Kingdom of God. (Luke 6:24). "This includes many priests, pastors, and teachers
of the word." (Many have received their consolation). But, "the little ones"
(those who go unnoticed), who are least important here on earth, will be the
greatest in the Kingdom. (Those with humble hearts, struggling in this world,
but still follow Christ and keep the works of God).
Matthew 20
1For
the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is an householder, which went out
early in the morning to hire labourers into his vineyard.
Another
illustration of what the Kingdom of Heaven is like. We are going to see a
landowner hire the "first" workers for his vineyard early in the morning.
(Around 6:00 a.m.). This parable was intended to illustrate the equity of God's
dealings, even when "the first are placed last, and the last first."
2And
when he had agreed with the labourers for a penny a day, he sent them into his
vineyard. The common pay at this time. ("A denarius," the payment for a
day's labor; equivalent to $20 in modern times).
3And
he went out about the third hour, and saw others standing idle in the
marketplace, This would be around 9:00 a.m.
when the landowner hired more
workers from the market place.
4And
said unto them; Go ye also into the vineyard, and whatsoever is right I will
give you. And they went their way. The
landowner would pay them what was right at the end of the day.
5Again
he went out about the sixth and ninth hour, and did likewise.
This would
be around 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. when he hired these two groups of workers.
6And
about the eleventh hour he went out, and found others standing idle, and saith
unto them, Why stand ye here all the day idle? Now it is around 5:00 p.m.
when he hired the last group of workers. Remember these were the "last" workers
he hired in relation to the "first."
7They
say unto him, Because no man hath hired us. He saith unto them, Go ye also into
the vineyard; and whatsoever is right,
that shall ye receive.
These men
were standing idle; not that they did not want to work, but because no one ever
hired them. However, they are still good workers willing to work. Spiritually
speaking this group would represent those who never had the truth but were
willing to learn. Keep in mind we are talking about the Kingdom of God here.
(Ephesians 6:8). "God is always fair."
8So
when even was come, the lord of the vineyard saith unto his steward, Call the
labourers, and give them
their hire,
beginning from the last unto the first.
Again "God is always fair." Our Heavenly Father is about to give a spiritual
lesson here that they did not understand.
9And
when they came that were hired
about the eleventh hour, they received every man a penny. The last workers hired received
a denarius (their $20).
10But
when the first came, they supposed that they should have received more; and they
likewise received every man a penny. The men hired earlier in the day
also received a denarius (their $20), but they thought they should receive more.
11And
when they had received
it, they murmured against the goodman of the house,
They started to complain, but that is what they agreed upon earlier in
the day. "A days wages."
12Saying,
These last have wrought but one hour, and thou hast made them equal unto us,
which have borne the burden and heat of the day. They thought that
because they worked a little longer, that they should get more pay. Well,
according to today's hourly work standards they would be right. But, these were
standards at the time for a days pay. Again, keep in mind that we are speaking
spiritual here (money of no value), and who would be more worthy in the Kingdom
of God.
13But
he answered one of them, and said, Friend, I do thee no wrong: didst not thou
agree with me for a penny? This is what you
agreed upon when you were
hired to work all day.
14Take
that thine
is, and go thy way: I will give unto this last, even as unto thee.
It is my desire to pay all the workers the same. Again, "God is always fair."
15Is
it not lawful for me to do what I will with mine own? Is thine eye evil, because
I am good? It is lawful to do what I wish with my own money and you
should not be angry because I am kind to others. They still did not get the spiritual
message. "No one is greater in the Kingdom of God."
16So
the last shall be first, and the first last: for many be called, but few chosen.
Referring to the last chapter when Peter asked about their rewards.
(Matthew 19:27-30). All those who "obey Gods call" will get the "same reward" in
the end. (In the Kingdom of God). For the deeper student, we can also refer to those who overcame in the first earth age.
(2 Thessalonians 2:13-14). They were first
then, but will be called last at the end of this world age because God can count
on them to stand against antichrist at the proper time. (Read our study topic
titled, "Three Earth Ages," for a better understanding. Many be called, but few
are chosen: Many were called to work for the landowner, but only those willing
to work were chosen. So it is in the Kingdom of Heaven; many will be called, but
not everyone responds to the calling. (James 1:23-25).
17And
Jesus going up to Jerusalem took the twelve disciples apart in the way, and said
unto them, Jesus spoke to the twelve apostles in private.
18Behold,
we go up to Jerusalem; and the Son of man shall be betrayed unto the chief
priests and unto the scribes, and they shall condemn him to death,
Betrayed to the leaders of the religious community.
19And
shall deliver him to the Gentiles to mock, and to scourge, and to crucify
him:
and the third day he shall rise again.
Handed over to the Romans to be crucified. But, will rise again and death will be
defeated. Here Jesus is telling the disciples exactly what will happen to Him.
"Do they believe Him, or will they be shocked when it happens?"
20Then
came to him the mother of Zebedees children with her sons, worshipping him, and
desiring a certain thing of him. Both sons came and worshipped Him and
their mother asking a favor.
21And
he said unto her, What wilt thou? She saith unto him, Grant that these my two
sons may sit, the one on thy right hand, and the other on the left, in thy
kingdom. She wanted her two sons to sit on both side of Christ. We know
that the bible tells us that only God sits next to Christ. She wanted one of her
sons to take the place of God. I don't think she even realized what she was
asking.
22But
Jesus answered and said, Ye know not what ye ask. Are ye able to drink of the
cup that I shall drink of, and to be baptized with the baptism that I am
baptized with? They say unto him, We are able. Christ asked them if they
could go through what was about to happen to Him? They said they could do it.
(Don't think James and John knew what they were getting into).
23And
he saith unto them, Ye shall drink indeed of my
cup, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with: but to sit on my
right hand, and on my left, is not mine to give, but
it shall be given to them
for whom it is prepared of my Father. Your going to die that death, it is written. But, only God can
decide who will sit with Him on the throne. Never insult God by trying to
get to the top of the list in Heaven.
24And
when the ten heard it, they were moved with indignation against the two
brethren. The other disciples were angered when they heard what James and
John had asked for. They felt they have been wronged. (Everyone wants to be
Jesus' right hand man). God sits on the throne, Christ sits on the right hand of
God. If anyone else is honored enough to sit beside them, I am pretty sure it
will be "Moses and Elisha." Not the apostles. We will wait and see.
25But
Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye
know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that
are great exercise authority upon them. They lord it over those beneath them.
To get ahead in this world, people step on, and over other people. (Whatever it
takes to get ahead).
26But
it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be
your minister; Among you it will be different. Anyone wanting to be a
leader among you must first be your servant. Christ came to serve the people, we
should learn to serve others more than we want to be served.
27And
whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:
And if you
want to be right at the top, you must be a slave to God first. (You must desire
to serve God as a slave). This applies in daily life. If you are a leader in the
world today, you must also learn to serve the people.
28Even
as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give
his life a ransom for many. You must have an attitude as Christ when He
came. He did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life for many.
Why? "To defeat death and the Devil." (Hebrews 2:14).
29And
as they departed from Jericho, a great multitude followed him.
Vast
crowds followed Him because they like what He said and did.
30And,
behold, two blind men sitting by the way side, when they heard that Jesus passed
by, cried out, saying, Have mercy on us, O Lord, thou son of David.
They
knew He was the Messiah.
31And
the multitude rebuked them, because they should hold their peace: but they cried
the more, saying, Have mercy on us, O Lord, thou son of David.
The crowds
told them to be quite, but they only yelled out louder to Christ. Why? Because
they knew He was the Messiah and they had faith in Him to heal them.
32And
Jesus stood still, and called them, and said, What
will ye that I shall do unto you? Jesus was
ready to serve them because of their faith.
33They
say unto him, Lord, that our eyes may be opened. They were blind and
wanted to see.
34So
Jesus had compassion on them, and touched their eyes: and immediately their eyes
received sight, and they followed him. Jesus touched them and instantly
they could see, and followed Him. Their eye were also spiritually opened. These
two were physically blind but they still knew that He was the Messiah because of
their faith. Many today can physically see, but they are spiritually blind. We
must remove the blinders from traditions of men and false teachings. We must
have faith in the Word and never doubt God, and our spiritual eyes will be
opened.
Matthew 21
1And
when they drew nigh unto Jerusalem, and were come to Bethphage, unto the mount
of Olives, then sent Jesus two disciples, Bethphage meaning the "house of
figs."
2Saying
unto them,
Go into the village over against you, and straightway ye
shall find an ass tied, and a colt with her: loose
them, and bring
them unto me.
The two disciples Jesus sent ahead went to the village to bring Him the donkey
and its colt.
3And
if any man say ought unto you, ye shall say, The Lord hath need of them; and
straightway he will send them. Tell them the master needs them and there
will be no problem. (All prearranged by God).
4All
this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet,
saying, This was prophecy being fulfilled. Christ fulfilling
the scriptures so we have no doubt.
5Tell
ye the daughter of Sion, Behold, thy King cometh unto thee, meek, and sitting
upon an ass, and a colt the foal of an ass. Tell Jerusalem her King is
coming to her. This was written in the Old Testament (Zechariah 9:9), speaking of
the first advent. Zechariah 9:10 goes on to speak of the second advent. The
first advent Christ came for salvation, in the second advent He comes to rule
with an iron rod on a white horse.
6And
the disciples went, and did as Jesus commanded them, They obeyed Him and
did what He had said.
7And
brought the ass, and the colt, and put on them their clothes, and they set him
thereon. They threw their garments over the colt for Him to ride on.
8And
a very great multitude spread their garments in the way; others cut down
branches from the trees, and strawed them in the way. They paved the way
with their garments and tree branches. (Probably branches from a date palm or
oak tree).
9And
the multitudes that went before, and that followed, cried, saying, Hosanna to
the son of David: Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord; Hosanna in
the highest. Hosanna meaning "save now." (Psalm 118:24-26).
Praise for the Son of David! "Jesus was the rightful heir to the throne of
David."
10And
when he was come into Jerusalem, all the city was moved, saying, Who is this?
The entire city of Jerusalem was in an uproar as Jesus entered.
11And
the multitude said, This is Jesus the prophet of Nazareth of Galilee.
Something different to the people. It was common
during this time for the religious leaders to come from Jerusalem to Galilee to
teach the people. Now we have a prophet coming out of Galilee to teach the
people of Jerusalem. (The religious leaders are not going to like that). Jesus
came from a small town called Nazareth in Galilee. (Matthew 2:23). Once asked by
Nathanael, can any good thing come from Nazareth? (John 1:45-46).
12And
Jesus went into the temple of God, and cast out all them that sold and bought in
the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them
that sold doves, He came to the temple and it was filled with a bunch of
scammers. (the money changers). The money exchange was a rip-off. (the exchange
was way to high). If you were too poor to sacrifice an expensive lamb or goat,
you could buy a clean dove as a sacrifice from the temple. (The sacrifices were
to be approved by the priests). However, these guys were selling mite infested
doves in the streets for a cheaper price. (Rip-offs then, rip-offs today).
13And
said unto them, It is written, My house shall be
called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves. Turned the temple of God into a
house of thieves! Many churches do it today. (Always begging for money). There are a
few good churches out there that teach the truth of God's Word (full gospel
of God), leaving out church doctrines and traditions of men.
14And
the blind and the lame came to him in the temple; and he healed them. The
religious leaders were there to make money and cater to the wealthy. The common
people came to Jesus because He was the real deal. (Jesus reached out to the
poor and heal the broken). Not like a bunch of phony healers you will find
today. "Just send us a donation and you will be financially blessed and
physically healed."
15And
when the chief priests and scribes saw the wonderful things that he did, and the
children crying in the temple, and saying, Hosanna to the son of David; they
were sore displeased, The children loved Jesus and praised His name in
the Temple. The chief priests and scribes were upset when they heard this.
(People love when you are good with their children, and Jesus loved the
children). Again, this did not make Him popular among the religious leaders.
16And
said unto him, Hearest thou what these say? And Jesus saith unto them,
Yea; have
ye never read, Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings thou hast perfected
praise? Quoting from (Psalms 8:2). For the deeper student, He was also
talking about that little babe David who slew Goliath. Goliath received the
deadly wound symbolic of the deadly wound the one world political and religious
system receives in the book of revelation. (Revelation 13:3).
17And
he left them, and went out of the city into Bethany; and he lodged there.
Bethany also called the "house of dates."
18Now
in the morning as he returned into the city, he hungered.
After a hard day and night with the crowds, Jesus was hungry in the morning.
19And
when he saw a fig tree in the way, he came to it, and found nothing thereon, but
leaves only, and said unto it, Let no fruit grow on
thee henceforward for ever. And presently the fig
tree withered away. It was not the season to
harvest figs, it was spring time. (He was looking for the "early fig," tiny
fruit that appears in the spring). The fig tree represents Israel. When Jesus
entered Jerusalem, He was looking for the good fruits of Israel. However, the
good fruit (truth in the word), was lacking and Israel was not producing. (Just
withering away). "The religious leaders were not producing, they were just
taking."
20And
when the disciples saw it, they marvelled, saying, How soon is the fig tree
withered away! How did the fig tree wither so quickly they asked?
21Jesus
answered and said unto them, Verily I say unto you,
If ye have faith, and doubt not, ye shall not only do this
which is done to the
fig tree, but also if ye shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be
thou cast into the sea; it shall be done. If
you have faith, not doubt, and never waver. (James 1:6).
22And
all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.
Anything you ask of to do His work and believe, you shall receive. We are not
talking here of the luxuries of man. "God will grant to those doing the work of
the Lord." God will always supply the the blocks, but you need to do the
building.
23And
when he was come into the temple, the chief priests and the elders of the people
came unto him as he was teaching, and said, By what authority doest thou these
things? and who gave thee this authority? The chief priests and religious
elders wanted to know by what authority Jesus did all
these things? (taught the crowds, healed the people, cleansed the temple). They
were not happy when Jesus chased away the money changers and ruined their
business for the day. Again, all about the money!
24And
Jesus answered and said unto them,
I also will ask you one thing, which if ye tell me,
I in like wise will tell you by what authority I do these things.
I'll tell you if you can answer one question.
(Proverbs 26:4-5). You see,
Christ was very wise and knew how to put people on the spot when He needed to.
(Colossians 4:6).
25The
baptism of John, whence was it? from heaven, or of men? And they reasoned with
themselves, saying, If we shall say, From heaven; he will say unto us, Why did
ye not then believe him? They would of excepted
John if they believed. But they were caught up in their own traditions and
doctrine. (John was from heaven, a man sent by God).
26But
if we shall say, Of men; we fear the people; for all hold John as a prophet.
John was the prophet of prophets. He proved it! The
religious leaders were caught in their own
disbelief.
27And
they answered Jesus, and said, We cannot tell. And he said unto them,
Neither tell I you by what authority I do these things.
They could not answer the question. Christ shut them up
real quick with His wisdom, and He did not need to answer their question.
28But
what think ye? A certain man had two sons; and he came to the first, and said,
Son, go work to day in my vineyard. Here comes
another parable for the religious leaders to try and understand. A man with two
sons asked the older son to go work in the vineyard. (The older son represents
the tax collector and the sinner).
29He
answered and said, I will not: but afterward he repented, and went.
The son would not go at first, but later changed his mind and went.
(The older son repented and obeyed his father).
30And
he came to the second, and said likewise. And he answered and said, I
go, sir:
and went not. The youngest son said he would go,
but didn't go at all. (The youngest son
represents the religious leaders).
31Whether
of them twain did the will of his father? They say unto him, The first. Jesus saith
unto them, Verily I say unto you, That the
publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you. Which of the
sons obeyed his father Christ asked? They replied "the first son, of course."
Christ answered them and said that tax collectors and prostitutes will get into
the Kingdom before you do. Why? The lesson here is repentance. Neither of the
two sons obeyed their father at first, but the oldest son repented and then went to the
vineyard to work. The youngest son (representing the chief priests and religious leaders) should have know
better. If they had read the scriptures, they would have received John the
Baptist, knowing that He was from God to call all sinners to repentance.
"Prepare ye the way of the Lord." (Isaiah 40:3, Matthew 3:1-4).
32For
John came unto you in the way of righteousness, and ye believed him not: but the
publicans and the harlots believed him: and ye, when ye had seen
it, repented
not afterward, that ye might believe him. John the
Baptist told the chief priests and religious leaders to repent and turn to God, and
they wouldn't listen. Evil men and prostitutes listened to John and repented.
And even when the chief priests and religious leaders saw this happening, they
still refused to repent, and so they couldn't believe. (Revelation 2:21).
Just like the younger son who would not listen to his father. God wants you to
follow Him, not traditions and doctrines of men.
33Hear
another parable: There was a certain householder, which planted a vineyard, and
hedged it round about, and digged a winepress in it, and built a tower, and let
it out to husbandmen, and went into a far country:
In this parable, in its primary sense, the householder denotes the Supreme
Being; the family, the Jewish nation; the vineyard, Jerusalem; the fence, the
Divine protection; the wine-press, the law and sacrificial rites; the tower, the
temple; and the husbandmen, the priests and doctors of the law.
34And
when the time of the fruit drew near, he sent his servants to the husbandmen,
that they might receive the fruits of it. He
expected something in return at harvest from his servants. (a peace of the
action).
35And
the husbandmen took his servants, and beat one, and killed another, and stoned
another. The priests,
doctors of law, and religious leaders, persecuted many of the prophets over the
years. (Nehemiah 9:26, Jeremiah 2:30, Luke 13:33-34, Acts 7:52, 1 Thessalonians
2:15-16, Revelation 6:9).
36Again,
he sent other servants more than the first: and they did unto them likewise.
More were sent and they were treated the same way.
Even the last of the prophets before Christ's advent, "John the Baptist," was
rejected and killed.
37But
last of all he sent unto them his son, saying, They will reverence my son.
Christ was sent by the Heavenly Father for reverence
(to be loved), but was rejected also.
38But
when the husbandmen saw the son, they said among themselves, This is the heir;
come, let us kill him, and let us seize on his inheritance.
They wanted to kill the Son (which they did), and take everything over.
Written in (Psalms
2:2-8).
39And
they caught
him, and cast
him out of the vineyard, and slew him.
Jesus speaking of His death. (They crucified Him)!
40When
the lord therefore of the vineyard cometh, what will he do unto those
husbandmen? What will our Heavenly Father do to
those responsible. They were murderers! They produced no fruit and no truth in
the Word. Churches and ministries are to bring forth truth (good fruit), not
traditions of men and false teachings. These murderers are the tares that are
going to the lake of fire.
41They
say unto him, He will miserably destroy those wicked men, and will let out his
vineyard unto other husbandmen, which shall render him the fruits in their
seasons. The priests and religious leaders reply
with a reasonable answer, "the householder (lord of the vineyard), will put them
to death." Sounds good! However, they did not understand that Christ was
talking about them.
42Jesus
saith unto them, Did ye never read in the scriptures, The stone which the
builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner: this is the Lord's
doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes? Have Ye
Not Read The Scriptures? The chief cornerstone they rejected was Christ, the
Savior. (Psalms 118:22-24). I think Christ is getting their attention now.
43Therefore
say I unto you, The kingdom of God shall be taken from you, and given to a
nation bringing forth the fruits thereof. The
Kingdom of God will be taken away from them, and will be given to a nation (or
those), who will produce the proper fruit. "Believers who follow Him and His
way." (Those who have the truth and
please the Father).
44And
whosoever shall fall on this stone shall be broken: but on whomsoever it shall
fall, it will grind him to powder. All who stumble
on this rock of truth shall be broken, but those it falls on will be scattered
as dust and destroyed in judgment. God is not happy with those who abuse or take
advantage His children. (A warning to all religious leaders).
45And
when the chief priests and Pharisees had heard his parables, they perceived that
he spake of them. They finally realized that Christ
was speaking against them. (They were the wicked farmers).
46But
when they sought to lay hands on him, they feared the multitude, because they
took him for a prophet. The chief priest and religious leaders wanted to get rid of Him, but were afraid to try because of
the crowds, for the people accepted Jesus as a prophet. (Matthew 21:11).
Matthew 22
1And
Jesus answered and spake unto them again by parables, and said,
Here we are going to cover the parable of the wedding
feast. The reason Christ spoke in parables is because it was not meant for everyone to hear at that
time. (Matthew 13:10-11, Mark 4:33-34). Christ came as savior, it was not time for them to know the full truth
yet. (Luke 8:10).
2The
kingdom of heaven is like unto a certain king, which made a marriage for his
son, This is the wedding story
as an example on how to prepare for the kingdom of God.
3And
sent forth his servants to call them that were bidden to the wedding: and they
would not come. The
majority would not come when His servants invited them. Just as many servants
(prophets), were sent before Christ, and no one accepted them. (John the Baptist
was sent by God, but they rejected him).
4Again,
he sent forth other servants, saying, Tell them which are bidden, Behold, I have
prepared my dinner: my oxen and my fatlings
are killed, and all things
are
ready: come unto the marriage. All things were made
ready by the King for the feast. Just as God has made everything ready for the
Kingdom and the wedding feast for Christ. (Luke 14:17). The Son paid the price
and we are all invited to the marriage of the Lamb. We are like the servants who
invite people to the wedding when we share the Gospel with others. Will they
listen, will they accept the invitation?
5But
they made light of it, and went their ways, one to his farm, another to his
merchandise: They just ignored the calling and went
on with their professions making money. "No time for God." To busy making money
and partying. (1 Timothy 6:9-10). Common in the world today when you try to
bring one the truth. They may listen to you just to be kind, but as soon as the
conversation is over, they are right back to their worldly ways. (1 John
2:15-16).
6And
the remnant took his servants, and entreated
them spitefully, and slew
them.
The messengers were treated shamefully, some beat and killed. Many were
treated this way in the past trying to bring forth the message of God. You will
be treated much the same way when you teach the truth. (Matthew 5:11, 10:17-18,
John 15:19-20). "Many people can't handle the truth, and will disregard what
they have heard."
7But
when the king heard
thereof, he was wroth: and he sent forth his armies, and
destroyed those murderers, and burned up their city.
God does not like murderers, and they will pay for their
actions. (Possibly speaking of the coming destruction of Jerusalem fulfilled in
70 AD by Titus).
8Then
saith he to his servants, The wedding is ready, but they which were bidden were
not worthy. Those invited and refused are not
worthy of the wedding. "They will not be worth of the Kingdom or to stand before
Christ." (Luke 21:36). Spiritually speaking, there was no wedding at the first
advent, but there will be at the second advent when Christ returns.
9Go
ye therefore into the highways, and as many as ye shall find, bid to the
marriage. Go to the
streets and invite everyone you see. "Those who will take interest and seek the
truth." (Proverbs 9:4-6, Isaiah 55:6, Mark 16:15-16). Reference to the wedding feast of the Lamb at the second advent.
(Revelation 19:7-8, 22:17).
10So
those servants went out into the highways, and gathered together all as many as
they found, both bad and good: and the wedding was furnished with guests. The
servants brought in everyone they could find. (The good, the bad, the ugly).
They excepted the invitation, believed and repented, and attended the wedding.
(Matthew 25:10).
11And
when the king came in to see the guests, he saw there a man which had not on a
wedding garment: Spiritually speaking, the robe being the righteous acts
of God's children. (Revelation 19:8).
12And
he saith unto him, Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding
garment? And he was speechless. The man had
no righteous acts, so he had no reply. He had no repentance, so he had no
salvation. (Isaiah 61:10).
13Then
said the king to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take
him away, and
cast him into outer darkness, there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
Just as it will happen to many who will face the second death.
(Revelation 20:12-15).
14For
many are called, but few are chosen.
You may have been called, but called to
what? Are you called to truth, or traditions of men and church doctrine? God does not want us to follow the
ways of the world, their philosophies, or traditions of men. (Colossians 2:8).
"Follow Christ."
15Then
went the Pharisees, and took counsel how they might entangle him in his talk.
The Pharisees were going to try and trick Christ into saying something they
could arrest Him for. "No way!"
16And
they sent out unto him their disciples with the Herodians, saying, Master, we
know that thou art true, and teachest the way of God in truth, neither carest
thou for any man: for thou regardest not the person of men.
The Herodians were a Jewish political party and government officials (Supportive
of the Herod kings), and there power came from Rome which ruled over them. The Herodians
are trying their best to butter up Jesus and trap Him.
17Tell
us therefore, What thinkest thou? Is it lawful to give tribute unto Caesar, or
not? Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar? Keep in mind that there were
Jews that worked for Rome who were tax collectors. Matthew was a tax collector.
(Matthew 9:9). The tax collectors were required to pay a certain set tax to Rome
for each person they collected from. (Anything over that amount that they
collected they could keep for themselves). The Jews didn't like the idea that
they had to pay a taxes to a foreign power (Rome). If Jesus says that the people
should pay the tax, the crowds will be upset. If Jesus says that the people
should not pay taxes to Caesar, the Herodians would be upset and arrest Jesus.
(That's what they were looking for). Lets see how Jesus handles their question.
18But
Jesus perceived their wickedness, and said,
Why tempt ye me,
ye hypocrites?
Hypocrites, phony play actors, "who are you trying to fool with your trick
question?"
19Shew
me the tribute money. And they brought unto him a penny. Show me a coin
from your pouch.
20And
he saith unto them,
Whose
is this image and
superscription?
Who's name is
beneath the picture Jesus asked?
21They
say unto him, Caesar's. Then saith he unto them,
Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are
Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's.
Give to Caesar if it is his, and give to God everything that belongs to God.
Always pay your taxes and stay legal. This protects your right to serve God.
(Romans 13:7). Keep in mind that God has His image on us also, after all, we
were created in the image of God (Genesis 1:26-27), and we belong to Him. Giving
our life and good works to God is like rendering unto God what is His.
This conclusion is drawn from their own maxims and premises. They held that
"wherever the money of any king is current, there the inhabitants acknowledge
that king for their lord." Now, by admitting that this was Cesar's coin, and by
consenting to receive it as the current coin of their country, they in fact
acknowledged their subjection to his government, and of course their obligation
to pay the tribute demanded of them. This answer was full of consummate wisdom,
and it completely defeated the insidious designs of his enemies. He avoided
rendering himself odious to the Jewish people by opposing their notions of
liberty, or appearing to pay court to the emperor, without exposing himself to
the charge of sedition and disaffection to the Roman government.
22When
they had heard these words, they marvelled, and left him, and went their way.
His reply amazed the government officials and they went away. Always let
the Holy Spirit give you the wisdom to answer hard questions. (Luke 21:15, Acts
6:10, Colossians 4:6).
23The
same day came to him the Sadducees, which say that there is no resurrection, and
asked him, Jesus handled the Pharisees, now come here comes the
Sadducees. The high priests who did not believe in the resurrection. They only
believed that the first five books of the Old Testament (the Pentateuch), were
inspired by God. They knew the Old Testament and the Law of Moses. Well, at
least they think they did. Lets see if they can trap Jesus?
24Saying,
Master, Moses said, If a man die, having no children, his brother shall marry
his wife, and raise up seed unto his brother. The Sadducees are going to
try and butter up Jesus by addressing Him as Master (great teacher). Raise up:
Strong's G450 "anistemi," to stand, arise, lift up, raise up. (Referring to the
resurrection). "Possibly making a little fun of those who believe in the
resurrection." (Their idea of resurrection here involves the raising up of
offspring). They asked Him a question from
the "Law of Moses." (Deuteronomy 25:5-10).
25Now
there were with us seven brethren: and the first, when he had married a wife,
deceased, and, having no issue, left his wife unto his brother:
Here we
have a family of seven brothers, and the first of them married and died without
children, so the widow became the second brother's wife.
26Likewise
the second also, and the third, unto the seventh. This brother also died
without children, and the wife was passed to the next brother, and so on till
she became the wife of all seven brothers.
27And
last of all the woman died also. After all the passing around, then the woman
finally died.
28Therefore
in the resurrection whose wife shall she be of the seven? for they all had her.
They wanted to know who's wife she would be in the resurrection.
(Poking a little fun at an unusual situation).
29Jesus
answered and said unto them, Ye do err, not knowing
the scriptures, nor the power of God. Jesus answers
the Sadducees; your problem is that you don't know the scriptures. God has the power to do
whatever He wills. He can raise the dead and is the God of the living.
(Ecclesiastes 12:7, Luke 1:37, Acts 26:8). "They had no clue of the real power
of God." Their error was their ignorance of the
scriptures, they thought they knew it all. (Romans 15:4, 2 Timothy 3:16-17). Did
you ever come across someone like that? One who thinks they have all the answers
in God's word? The Word is constantly growing, and no one has all the answers.
That's why we are doing this book of Matthew the second time around. Every time
we cover a book of the bible, we discover new meanings and mysteries that the
Holy Spirit reveals to those who are willing to learn.
30For
in the resurrection they neither marry, nor are given in marriage, but are as
the angels of God in heaven. In the resurrection there is no marriage;
everyone is as the angels in heaven. (Spiritual bodies, angelic beings). We are
spiritually married to the Lamb. (Luke 20:34-37).
Even Moses (whom the Sadducees believed), knew He was a God of the living. (Mark 12:26-27).
31But
as touching the resurrection of the dead, have ye not read that which was spoken
unto you by God, saying, Don't you ever read the scriptures? It is
written.
32I
am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob? God is not
the God of the dead, but of the living. God of the living.
Not I was, "I Am," the God of
Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. (Exodus 3:6, 15-16). They are still alive in their
spirit bodies, that is why He is the "God of the living."
33And
when the multitude heard this, they were astonished at his doctrine.
Astonished at His teachings because it was written.
34But
when the Pharisees had heard that he had put the Sadducees to silence, they were
gathered together. The Pharisees who believed in life after death were
feeling pretty good now because they felt they were on the right track and that
the Sadducees were totally wrong. However, they met together to question Jesus
again. (They are going to double team Jesus now).
35Then
one of them, which was a lawyer, asked him a question, tempting him, and saying,
Now here comes their best scripture lawyer (religious scholar), to try and
trip up Jesus again. "Not a chance!"
36Master,
which is the great commandment in the law? Which is the most important
command in the law of Moses. Trying to trip up God on His own law.
37Jesus
said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all
thy soul, and with all thy mind. This covers
the first five commandments. (the spiritual commandments).
38This
is the first and great commandment. This
first greatest commandment refers to and covers the first five commandments.
39And
the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
All
the last five commandments are covered with this statement. (the civil
commandments).
40On
these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets. Christ covered
all the ten commandments in these two commandments. (all the law of the prophets
are fulfilled in these two commandments). Jesus, always so wise in His answers.
Fulfilling these two commandments, fulfils all the commandments. If you love
God, you won't break the first five commandments. (Deuteronomy 5:7-16). If you
love your neighbor, you won't break the last five commandments. (Deuteronomy
5:17-21).
41While
the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus asked them, Remember that the
Pharisees believed in life after death, so they felt they had something in
common with the teachings of Christ. Jesus turns the table on them and asked
them a question.
42Saying,
What think ye of Christ? whose son is he?
They say unto him, The son of David.
It was know to them that the Messiah would come from the line of David.
(The human part). They replied, "the son of David." However, they did not want to believe that Christ was the Son of God.
(The spiritual part). So, Jesus responds to their answer.
43He
saith unto them,
How then doth David in spirit call him Lord, saying,
Then why does David under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, call Him Lord?
44The
LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, till I make thine enemies thy
footstool? For David said, "God said to my Lord, sit at my right hand
until I put your enemies beneath you feet." Quoting from (Psalm 110:1).
45If
David then call him Lord, how is he his son? Since David called Him
"Lord," how can He be merely his Son? The messiah would be the "Son of God."
(John 8:58, Romans 1:3-4, Revelation 22:16). Jesus is a descendant of David
through his mother Mary, however, He is also the Son of God, born of a virgin.
46And
no man was able to answer him a word, neither durst any man from that day forth
ask him any more questions. They had no answers. After that no one dared ask Him any more questions.
They still didn't get it; He was the Son of Man, as well as the Son of God.
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