THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Part 2

Chapter 24, verse 15-28

Perilous Times

Jesus, having just enumerated the signs of His coming and the events leading up to the end of the age, is now describing what comes after the tribulation of those days:

Matthew 24:15, Therefore when you see the ABOMINATION OF DESOLATION which was spoken of through Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place, let the reader understand, verse 16, then those who are in Judea must flee to the mountains. Verse 17. Whoever is on the housetop must not go down to get things out of his house. Verse 18. And whoever is in the field must not turn back to get his cloak. Verse 19. But woe to those women who are pregnant, and to those who are nursing babies in those days! Verse 20. Moreover, pray that when you flee, it will not be in the winter, or on a Sabbath. Verse 21. For then there will be a great tribulation, such as has not occurred since the beginning of the world until now, nor ever will again.

(Commentary Break): An ‘abomination’ is “something that causes disgust or hatred”; and ‘desolation’ is “a state of complete emptiness or destruction.” Jesus warned that something (or someone) that people detested would stand in the temple someday. When that horror occurred, residents of Judea should seek cover without delay. The Amplified Bible adds the note that the abomination of desolation is “the appalling sacrilege that astonishes and makes desolate.”

Jesus referenced Daniel in His words in the Olivet Discourse. The prophet Daniel mentioned the abomination of desolation in three places:

“He will make a firm, (that is a binding and irrevocable) covenant with many for one week (which is seven years), but in the middle of the week, (that is, after three and one half years) he will put a stop to (the regular Jewish) sacrifice and (grain) offering. And the abomination, (that is, a disgusting thing or person, causing hatred and creating) desolation, (a state of complete emptiness complete and utter destruction), will be on a wing, (or on the pinnacle or the extremity) of the temple until the decreed destruction is (also) poured out on the desolator, (the one who causes these horrors).” (Daniel 9:27).

“Forces shall be mustered by him, and they shall defile the sanctuary fortress; then they shall take away the daily sacrifices, and place there the abomination of desolation” (Daniel 11:31, NKJV).

“From the time that the regular sacrifice is abolished and the abomination of desolation is set up, there will be 1,290 days” (Daniel 12:11, NASB).

The wording in the above translations indicates that the abomination of desolation is an object; in some other translations, the abomination appears to be a person: “On the wing (or at the pinnacle or the height) of abominations shall come one who makes desolate” (Daniel 9:27, ESV).

Regardless of whether the abomination of desolation is a person or a thing, Daniel predicted the following:

 1.  A future ruler will make a treaty with the people of Israel, which should occur sometime before the breaking of the Sixth Tribulation Seal, (see Matthew 24:29-31 and Revelation 6:12-17), which could occur at any time prior to the Second Coming of Christ as written in Matthew 24:30, and the rapture, but only after the “Man of Lawlessness”, the antichrist, is revealed (see 2 Thessalonians 3:4.)

2.  The terms of this treaty will be for a “week”, is taken to be a period of seven years (which is beginning at the breaking of the Sixth Tribulation Seal).

3.  Midway through this time, the ruler will gather his troops and put an end to the sacrifices and offerings in the temple (which occurs at the blowing of the Sixth Tribulation Trumpet).

4.  At that time, the ruler will desecrate the temple, setting up some type of sacrilegious object.

5.  The desecration of the temple will continue until the judgment of God is finally meted out on the ruler and his followers, 1,290 days (3½ years and 1 month) later (at the end of the Seventh Tribulation Bowl).

Daniel’s prophecies about the abomination of desolation had a partial fulfillment in 167 B.C. which was a foreshadowing of what was to come, when a Greek ruler by the name of Antiochus IV desecrated the temple in Jerusalem. Antiochus called himself “Epiphanies” (“illustrious one” or “god manifest”). He set up an altar to Zeus over the altar of burnt offering, and he sacrificed a pig on the altar. Antiochus went even further in his atrocities, slaughtering a great number of the Jews and selling others into slavery. And he issued decrees forbidding circumcision and requiring Jews to sacrifice to pagan gods and eat pig meat.

What Antiochus did certainly qualified as an abomination, but it was not a complete fulfillment of Daniel’s prophecy. Antiochus Epiphanies did not enter a covenant with Israel for seven years, for example. And in Matthew 24 Jesus, speaking some 200 years after Antiochus’s evil actions, spoke of Daniel’s prophecy as having a still future fulfillment.

The abomination of desolation prophecy as still future. In our view, Jesus was referring to the Antichrist who, in the end times, will establish a covenant with Israel for seven years and then break it by doing something similar to what Antiochus Epiphanies did in the temple. The sacrilegious object Jesus called “the abomination of desolation” could be the “image of the beast” that the Antichrist’s right-hand man, the false prophet, will order to be set up and worshiped (Revelation 13:14). Of course, for Matthew 24:15 to be yet future, the temple in Jerusalem will have to be rebuilt before the tribulation begins.

Those who are alive during the tribulation should be watchful and recognize that the breaking of the covenant with Israel and the abomination of desolation will herald the beginning of the worst 3½ years in history (see Matthew 24:21). “Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man” (Luke 21:36). (Note: Much of the commentary in this one section, but not all, is derived from GotQuestions.Org). (End Commentary Break).

Verse 22. And if those days had not been cut short, no life would have been saved; but for the sake of the elect those days will be cut short. Verse 23. Then, if anyone says to you, ‘Behold, here is the Christ,’ or ‘He is over here,’ do not believe him. Verse 24. For false christs and false prophets will arise and will provide great signs and wonders, so as to mislead, if possible, even the elect. Verse 25. Behold, I have told you in advance. Verse 26. So if they say to you, ‘Behold, He is in the wilderness,’ do not go out; or, ‘Behold, He is in the inner rooms,’ do not believe them. Verse 27. For just as the lightning comes from the east and flashes as far as the west, so will the coming of the Son of Man be. Verse 28. Wherever the corpse is, there the vultures will gather.

(Commentary Break): Verses 22 through 28 tell us of the deadly horrors, the stress and chaos of these days. People will grope for and grasp at any sign of hope of relief, and false christs and false prophets will offer false hope, and Jesus warns they will provide ‘great signs of wonders, so as to mislead’ you. Jesus says, “do not believe them’. Then, Jesus will appear suddenly, at an unexpected time, just like when lightning flashes across the skies, and then, at the sound of the angel’s trumpet, you will be rescued. Therein lies our hope and certainty.

Verse 28 is open to many interpretations, none of which are certain. But one idea that seems to fit nicely, can be found in Revelation 19:11-21, when Jesus appears in the heavens on a white horse, He judges and wages war and His eyes aflame with fire. An angel standing in the sun, cried out with a loud voice, saying to all the birds that fly in mid-heaven, “Come, assemble for the great feast of God, so that you may eat the flesh of kings and the flesh of commanders, the flesh of mighty men, the flesh of horses and of those who sit on them, and the flesh of all people, both free and slaves, and small and great. And those who bore the mark of the beast were killed with the sword which came from the mouth of Him who sat on the horse, and all the birds were filled with their flesh. (End Commentary Break).

Please click on the link below to proceed with Part 2, “Perilous Times”. We will discuss the ABOMINATION OF DESOLATION, which was spoken of through Daniel the prophet. This will be the triggering event for the revealing of the antichrist, the rapture and the transition from the first five tribulation seals, also named the “Birth Pains” of the tribulation, (so named by Jesus), into the final seven years of the Great Tribulation, also known as the Great and Terrible Day of the Lord and The Wrath of The Lamb.

Please click on this link as we conclude Matthew chapter 24, with Part 3, “The Glorious Return, Parable of the Fig Tree, Be Ready for His Coming”. We will peer into the glorious second coming of Jesus, learn from the parable of the Fig Tree and the season of His return, and finally, what it means to get ready and to look at our responsibilities prior to His return.

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young

(Return to Matthew 24:1-14, The Signs of His Comine – Part 1)

THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Part 1

Chapter 24, verses 1-14

The Signs of Christ’s Return

This chapter is one of the best descriptive eschatological synopses of the sign of Jesus’ coming and the End of The Age found in the Bible. It is also one of the best, if not the best book in the New Testament, for instruction, spiritual training and for gaining discernment regarding guidance for understanding and navigating these Last Days, the End of the Age, the coming Great and Terrible Day of the Lord, also known as the coming The Wrath of the Lamb.

 Eschatology is the study of end times. The word ‘eschatology’ comes from Ancient Greek word, éskhatos, meaning ‘last’, and (logy), ‘the study of’ is about the expectations of the end of the present age, human history, or of the world itself. The end of the world or end times. You and every believer and follower of Jesus needs to know these things by heart.

Signs of Christ’s Return

Matthew 24:1 Jesus left the temple area and was going on His way when His disciples came up to point out the temple buildings to Him.

Verse 2. But He responded and said to them, “Do you not see all these things? Truly, I say to you, not one stone here will be left upon another, which will not be torn down.”

Verse 3. And as He was sitting on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to Him privately, saying, “Tell us, when will these things happen, and what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?”

Verse 4. And Jesus answered and said to them, “See to it that no one misleads you”.

(Commentary Break): It might seem a bit odd that such a simple observation of the temple buildings by Jesus’ disciples would provoke this response from Jesus, unless you had just read Matthew chapter twenty-three. Jesus had just had a heated exchange with the Pharisees. In that exchange Jesus denounces the Pharisees, proclaiming 8 woes over them, challenging them as being hypocrites, snakes, offspring of vipers, whitewashed tombs, and murderers of the prophets.

That encounter is reflected in His prophetic response to His disciples, “Do you not see all these things? Truly, I say to you, not one stone here will be left upon another, which will not be torn down”!

Additionally, the disciples would appear to have been taken aback, as they wait until Jesus is alone, sitting on the Mount of Olives, before re-approaching Him to ask, “Tell us, when will these things happen, and what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?”

The disciple’s question is representative of what many, Christians, Jesus disciples, have been asking over the ages: when will these things happen, and what will be the sign of His coming and of the end of the age?

I want to prepare you, the reader, to understand that, every word which Jesus spoke on this matter in these verses, are literal, although He may use a simile to make a distinction.

Jesus begins His answer with, “See to it that no one misleads you”. I want to emphasize that ‘no one’ includes people and organizations. This will become increasing relevant as the Church begins to stray, and Jesus prophetic warning of the coming apostasy. We are to be diligent, alert and able to discern or test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world (see 1 John 4:1). (End Commentary Break).

Verse 5. For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and they will mislead many people.

(Commentary Break): I have heard many Christians, including pastors, preachers and Bible teachers say that we need to beware of those who would come along and claim to be Jesus, and that is good advice.

But, Jesus’ words are, that many will come in His name, saying, ‘I am the Christ’. Again, they will come in His Name, not necessarily using His Name. This can mean they will claim to be the Messiah, or the Anointed One, not necessarily Jesus reincarnated. Yes, the Greek word for Jesus is the transliteration of Yehoshua or Jehoshua, which means ‘Yahweh Saves’, but He is the One long anticipated by the Jews and most people will not connect the Name of Jesus specifically with the claim that they are the anticipated Messiah.

This may seem like a lesser point, but considering the prophesied great apostasy which is well under way, the rampant and spreading false teachings about God and the Bible, the spreading of false Gospels, and the millions being misled in these postmodern days, it is a significant issue.

Jesus is warning against both frauds claiming to be Him, as well as false prophets and false messiahs, whether they are individuals or groups of individuals or organizations of individuals (such as churches) claiming they are Jesus, or that they have the same authority as Jesus or that they speak for Jesus. (Examples would be the Mormons, the Jehovah’s Witnesses, The Emergent church leaders, the Worldwide Church of God (Herbert and Garner Ted Armstrong, and the scores of frauds and even those who actually claimed to be Jesus reincarnated.) (End Commentary Break).

Verse 6. And you will be hearing of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for those things must take place, but that is not yet the end.

Verse 7. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be famines and earthquakes in various places.

Verse 8. But all these things are merely the beginning of birth pains.

Verse 9. Then they will hand you over to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations because of My name.

Verse 10. And at that time many will fall away, and they will betray one another and hate one another.

Verse 11. And many false prophets will rise up and mislead many people.

Verse 12. And because lawlessness is increased, most people’s love will become cold. Verse 13. But the one who endures to the end is the one who will be saved. Verse 14. This gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all the nations, and then the end will come.

(Commentary Break): Let’s itemize this summary of events shown here in Matthew chapter 24, as well as the world conditions as we move toward what will be the sign of Jesus’ coming, and of the end of the age.

1. Many will come using the name of Jesus to mislead many. (Matthew verse 5).
2. There will be wars and rumors of war. (Matthew verse 6).
   1. Also see Revelation 6:4, “And another, a red horse, went out; and to him who sat on it, it was granted to take peace from the earth, and that people would kill one another; and a large sword was given to him”).
3. But that is not yet the end.
4. Then they will hand you over to tribulation, and you will be hated because of Jesus’ Name.
   1. And, they will kill you. (Also see Revelation 6:7-9, “When the Lamb broke the fourth seal, I heard the voice of the fourth living creature saying, “Come!” I looked, and behold, an ashen horse; and the one who sat on it had the name Death, and Hades was following with him. Authority was given to them over a fourth of the earth, to kill with sword, and famine, and plague, and by the wild animals of the earth. When the Lamb broke the fifth seal, I saw underneath the altar the souls of those who had been killed because of the word of God, and because of the testimony which they had maintained).
5. Many will die from famines and earthquakes. (Matthew 24:7)
6. At that time, many will fall away from the faith. (Matthew 24:10).
7. Many of you will hate one another and will betray one another. (Matthew 24:10)
8. Many false prophets will rise up and mislead many people. (Matthew 24:11).
9. Lawlessness will increase.
10. Many people’s love will grow cold.
11. These things are just the beginning of the ‘Birth Pains’ of the tribulation – Seals One through Five. (End Commentary Break).

Please click on the link below to proceed with Part 2, “Perilous Times”. We will discuss the ABOMINATION OF DESOLATION, which was spoken of through Daniel the prophet. This will be the triggering event for the revealing of the antichrist, the rapture and the transition from the first five tribulation seals, also named the “Birth Pains” (phase) of the tribulation, (so named by Jesus), into the final seven years of the Great Tribulation, also known as the Great and Terrible Day of the Lord and The Wrath of The Lamb.

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young

PREVIOUS: THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Chapter 23, Hypocrisy Explained, The Eight Woes

NEXT: THE BOOK OF MATTHEW 24:15-28, Part 2 – Perilous Times.

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THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Chapter 23

Hypocrisy Exposed, The Eight Woes, Grieving Over Jerusalem.

Jesus’ engagement with the Pharisees had become a confrontation and is now at a boiling point. This is not just a report on an incident between Jesus and the Pharisees and the Jewish religious establishment of that day, this is a grave warning, a demonstration and a lesson for all future generations who would assume the name of pastor, priest, teacher, leader, rabbi or father in order to rule over others while pretending to shepherd the sheep of God.

Hypocrisy Exposed

Matthew23:1, Then Jesus spoke to the crowds and to His disciples, verse 2, saying: “The scribes and the Pharisees have seated themselves in the chair of Moses. Verse 3, Therefore, whatever they tell you, do and comply with it all, but do not do as they do; for they say things and do not do them. Verse 4. And they tie up heavy burdens and lay them on people’s shoulders, but they themselves are unwilling to move them with so much as their finger. Verse 5. And they do all their deeds to be noticed by other people; for they broaden their phylacteries and lengthen the tassels of their garments. Verse 6. And they love the place of honor at banquets, and the seats of honor in the synagogues, verse 7, and personal greetings in the marketplaces, and being called Rabbi by the people. Verse 8. But as for you, do not be called Rabbi; for only One is your Teacher, and you are all brothers and sisters. Verse 9. And do not call anyone on earth your father; for only One is your Father, He who is in heaven. Verse 10. And do not be called leaders; for only One is your Leader, that is, Christ. Verse 11. But the greatest of you shall be your servant. Verse 12. Whoever exalts himself shall be humbled, and whoever humbles himself shall be exalted.

(Commentary Break): These religious leaders may feign being nice and polite – at the right moments. But dare you disagree with them or step outside the boundaries of their self-righteous, self-crafted rules and you will feel the grind of the heel of their religious boot on your neck.

The Jewish people have complied with and endured this religious despotism for about two hundred years, and Jesus is in the process of breaking their legalistic hold, and will soon dispatch them, their influence, their rule and their very presence from the scene in Jewish life.(They will be dissolved by the year 73 A.D.)

More importantly, we should note that Jesus is dismantling the obstacles erected by religious authoritarians which prevent people’s direct access to God. Jesus is not just removing the religious-middleman, He is defining and redefining the role, posture and character of pastors, preachers, priests, theologians and Bible teachers. They are to be servants of The One True and Living God appointed to be servants in the likeness and type as Jesus. Protectors and shepherds of God’s people, The Church.

(I am astounded, as I read this, to see and hear our modern and postmodern churches violate these very mandates proclaimed by Jesus. I pray you will share my dismay and outrage as I share the outrage of Jesus. Our churches divide the ‘clergy from laity’, and elevate the former from the latter. Our churches call pastor, elders, deacons and teachers, “Leaders”, in direct disobedience to Jesus’ Words. Some churches call their pastors, “Father”, as an affront to Christ and The Fathers. Others call themselves “Rabbi”, despite the Words of Jesus.)

It is not the use of certain words that is so egregious. It is the attitude of defiance  and ignorance toward Jesus and His teaching, that is offensive.

This ignorant defiance has been and continues to be like a spreading virus, infecting the attitudes and behaviors of the Body of Christ. (And, if you or I fail to see and share the outrage of Jesus, then we likely share in the attitude of the Pharisees.)

Jesus makes it clear that to be first, one must put themself last. Only God is worthy to hold the premier position. (End Commentary Break).

Eight Woes

Verse 13. “But woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites, because you shut the kingdom of heaven in front of people; for you do not enter it yourselves, nor do you allow those who are entering to go in.

Verse 15. “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites, because you travel around on sea and land to make one proselyte; and when he becomes one, you make him twice as much a son of hell as yourselves.

Verse 16. “Woe to you, blind guides, who say, ‘Whoever swears by the temple, that is nothing; but whoever swears by the gold of the temple is obligated.’ Verse 17. You fools and blind men! Which is more important, the gold or the temple that sanctified the gold? Verse 18. And you say, ‘Whoever swears by the altar, that is nothing; but whoever swears by the offering that is on it is obligated.’ Verse 19. You blind men, which is more important, the offering or the altar that sanctifies the offering? Verse 20. Therefore, the one who swears by the altar, swears both by the altar and by everything on it. Verse 21. And the one who swears by the temple, swears both by the temple and by Him who dwells in it. Verse 22. And the one who swears by [v]heaven, swears both by the throne of God and by Him who sits upon it.

Verse 23. “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you tithe mint and dill and cumin, and have neglected the weightier provisions of the Law: justice and mercy and faithfulness; but these are the things you should have done without neglecting the others. Verse 24. You blind guides, who strain out a gnat and swallow a camel!

Verse 25. “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you clean the outside of the cup and of the dish, but inside they are full of robbery and self-indulgence. Verse 26. You blind Pharisee, first clean the inside of the cup and of the dish, so that the outside of it may also become clean.

Verse 27. “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs which on the outside appear beautiful, but inside they are full of dead men’s bones and all uncleanness. Verse 28. So you too, outwardly appear righteous to people, but inwardly you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness.

(Commentary Break): Should we substitute the name “Pharisee” and replace it with Pastor, Preacher, Bible teacher, Elder, Deacon, Father, Priest or Rabbi, at times in the  various churches? (End Commentary Break).

Verse 29. “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you build the tombs for the prophets and decorate the monuments of the righteous, verse 30, and you say, ‘If we had been living in the days of our fathers, we would not have been partners with them in shedding the blood of the prophets.’ Verse 31. So you testify against yourselves, that you are sons of those who murdered the prophets. Verse 32. Fill up, then, the measure of the guilt of your fathers. Verse 33. You snakes, you offspring of vipers, how will you escape the sentence of hell?

Verse 34. “Therefore, behold, I am sending you prophets and wise men and scribes; some of them you will kill and crucify, and some of them you will flog in your synagogues, and persecute from city to city, verse 35, so that upon you will fall the guilt of all the righteous blood shed on earth, from the blood of righteous Abel to the blood of Zechariah, the son of Berechiah, whom you murdered between the temple and the altar. Verse 36. Truly I say to you, all these things will come upon this generation.

(Commentary Break): There are many faithful and committed Pastors, Preachers, Elders, theologians and Bible Teachers who are faithful and true followers of Jesus. You will know them by their fruit. They will tell you that Jesus came into this world as a sacrifice for many. His sheep knew His voice and followed Him. He did not accumulate wealth, influence, fame, possessions or gold.

So, how about you, Christian? Pastor? Preacher? How about you? What are you accumulating?

Are you and those in ‘your church’ following you or are they following you because you are following Jesus? (End Commentary Break).

Grieving over Jerusalem

Verse 37. “Jerusalem, Jerusalem, who kills the prophets and stones those who have been sent to her! How often I wanted to gather your children together, the way a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, and you were unwilling. Verse 38. Behold, your house is being left to you desolate! Verse 39. For I say to you, from now on you will not see Me until you say, ‘BLESSED IS THE ONE WHO COMES IN THE NAME OF THE LORD!’”

(Commentary Break): Matthew, while recording the words used by Jesus, “Oh, Jerusalem, Jerusalem”, spoken in the Hebrew form, desired to reproduce the actual sound of the Savior’s loving lament. And, with these words of tender and divine sorrow, Jesus completes His earthly mission. (End Commentary Break).

It is appropriate that, as Jesus concludes His earthly ministry, in chapter 24 we will see and hear Jesus’ disciples ask the question that has been on everyone’s mind, even to this day, “Tell us, when will these things happen, and what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?”

Coming up, Matthew Chapter 24, Jesus gives a synopsis and an outline of the tribulation period, beginning with the ongoing “Birth Pains” phase of the tribulation, and leading up to the Great Tribulation, also known as the Great and Terrible Day of the Lord and the Wrath of the Lamb.

We will read about the sign of the coming of the Son of man, immediately preceded by cosmological and astronomical disturbances, and followed by the rapture of the elect from the four winds, from one end of the sky to the other.

Pray and prepare your heart, mind, soul and spirit for what is now upon us!

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young

NEXT: THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Part 1, Chapter 24, verses 1-14, The Signs of Christ’s Return.

PREVIOUS:  THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Chapter 22, The Marriage Feast, The Poll-tax, Jesus and the Sadducees.

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THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Chapter 22

The Marriage Feast, The Poll-tax, Jesus and the Sadducees.

 Parable of the Marriage Feast

Matthew 22:1, Jesus spoke to them again in parables, saying, verse 2, “The kingdom of heaven is like a king who held a wedding feast for his son. Verse 3. And he sent his servants to call those who had been invited to the wedding feast, and they were unwilling to come. Verse 4. Again he sent other servants, saying, ‘Tell those who have been invited, “Behold, I have prepared my dinner; my oxen and my fattened cattle are all butchered and everything is ready. Come to the wedding feast!”’ Verse 5. But they paid no attention and went their separate ways, one to his own farm, another to his business, verse 6, and the rest seized his servants and treated them abusively, and then killed them. Verse 7. Now the king was angry, and he sent his armies and destroyed those murderers and set their city on fire. Verse 8. Then he said to his servants, ‘The wedding feast is ready, but those who were invited were not worthy. Verse 9. So go to the main roads, and invite whomever you find there to the wedding feast.’ Verse 10. Those servants went out into the streets and gathered together all whom they found, both bad and good; and the wedding hall was filled with dinner guests.

Verse 11. “But when the king came in to look over the dinner guests, he saw a man there who was not dressed in wedding clothes, verse 12, and he said to him, ‘Friend, how did you get in here without wedding clothes?’ And the man was speechless. Verse 13. Then the king said to the servants, ‘Tie his hands and feet, and throw him into the outer darkness; there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth in that place.’ Verse 14. For many are called, but few are chosen.”

(Commentary Break): These verses seem to be a continuation from Matthew chapter 21, as Jesus is warning the Jews.

Jesus, as is His way, holds nothing back when speaking to matters of urgency. And in this case, He is warning the Jews, in no uncertain terms, of their fate if they do not repent and turn from their ways.

Let’s put these terms and images into perspective. The kingdom of heaven is being compared to a King.

(#1), There is only one King and He is God.

(#2), The wedding feast is the wedding feast of the Lamb (Jesus and His Church).

(#3), The servants are Jesus’ Apostles.

(#4), Those who have been invited are the Jews, those who are the nation of Israel by lineage, birthright and descendancy.

(#5), Those who were then called as guests to the wedding feast are the gentiles.

(#6), The wedding guest who had no wedding clothes is any man or woman who would feign to be a friend of Jesus, a follower of Jesus, mixing with the Body of believers.

Jesus is the long anticipated Jewish Messiah, who has been rejected by the Jews. So when the time comes for the wedding feast or the marriage supper of The Lamb, the eternal joining together of the Church with Christ in the heavens, those who have rejected Him, (those who are unwilling to come or have ignored the invitation), will be left behind. They not only refused the invitation, however, but they seized Jesus’ servants, treated them badly and killed them. Therefore, God has become angry with the Jews and “He has sent armies and destroyed those murderers and set their city on fire”. This can be seen throughout history, and will be seen again in the Last Days, before God intervenes.

There will be those who are not true followers of Christ, but are tares (unbelievers), mixed among the wheat, (Christians), also known as goats who are separate from the sheep of God, both Jew and gentile, who will be found out and their fate is to be “cast into the outer darkness where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth”.

The wedding guest who had no wedding clothes is any man or woman who would feign to be a friend of Jesus, a follower of Jesus, mixing with the Body of believers. but he or she is not clothed ‘in the righteousness of Christ’; therefore, they are not wearing the required attire for this occasion and will be ‘tied up and also cast into the outer darkness.

Let’s not forget that we, gentile believers, Christians, have been grafted into the Olive Tree, (the Jewish lineage and heritage), and are held accountable, the same as the Jews in the parable. (End Commentary Break).

Poll-tax to Caesar

Verse 15. Then the Pharisees went and plotted together how they might trap Him in what He said. Verse 16. And they sent their disciples to Him, along with the Herodians, saying, “Teacher, we know that You are truthful and teach the way of God in truth, and do not care what anyone thinks; for You are not partial to anyone. Verse 17. Tell us then, what do You think? Is it permissible to pay a poll-tax, (which is a tax levied on every person in the census), to Caesar, or not?” Verse 18. But Jesus perceived their malice, and said, “Why are you testing Me, you hypocrites? Verse 19. Show Me the coin used for the poll-tax.” And they brought Him a denarius. Verse 20. And He said to them, “Whose image and inscription is this?” Verse 21. They said to Him, “Caesar’s.” Then He said to them, “Then pay to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s; and to God the things that are God’s.” Verse 22. And hearing this, they were amazed; and they left Him and went away.

(Commentary Break): This should be viewed at face value. However, it has strong implications about the interaction and the separation of earthly and heavenly matters. Scriptures tell us that we are not to entangle ourselves in the matters of this world, for we are only in this world and not part of it.

When it comes to matters of politics, for example, the scriptures define and direct how we are to approach those matters. Those things are not our fight, so to speak. Our fight is of a spiritual nature and not one of flesh and blood. We are to follow the laws of the land, so as not to become entangled with them. We will have enough trouble with this world as we walk in the ways of Jesus, so we do not need to add to them or to be distracted by them. (End Commentary Break).

Jesus Answers the Sadducees

Verse 23. On that day some Sadducees (who say there is no resurrection) came to Jesus and questioned Him, verse 24, saying, “Teacher, Moses said, ‘If a man dies having no children, his brother as next of kin shall marry his wife, and raise up children for his brother.’ Verse 25. Now there were seven brothers among us; and the first married and died, and having no children, he left his wife to his brother. Verse 26. It was the same also with the second brother, and the third, down to the seventh. Verse 27. Last of all, the woman died. Verse 28. In the resurrection, therefore, whose wife of the seven will she be? For they all had her in marriage.”

Verse 29. But Jesus answered and said to them, “You are mistaken, since you do not understand the Scriptures nor the power of God. Verse 30. For in the resurrection they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels in heaven. Verse 31. But regarding the resurrection of the dead, have you not read what was spoken to you by God: Verse 32. ‘I AM THE GOD OF ABRAHAM, THE GOD OF ISAAC, AND THE GOD OF JACOB’? He is not the God of the dead, but of the living.” Verse 33. When the crowds heard this, they were astonished at His teaching.

Verse 34. But when the Pharisees heard that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees, they gathered together. Verse 35. And one of them, a lawyer, asked Him a question, testing Him: Verse 36. “Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law?” Verse 37. And He said to him, “‘YOU SHALL LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD WITH ALL YOUR HEART, AND WITH ALL YOUR SOUL, AND WITH ALL YOUR MIND.’ Verse 38. This is the great and foremost commandment. Verse 39. The second is like it, ‘YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.’ Verse 40. Upon these two commandments hang the whole Law and the Prophets.”

Verse 41. Now while the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus asked them a question: Verse 42. “What do you think about the Christ? Whose son is He?” They said to Him, “The son of David.” Verse 43. He said to them, “Then how does David in the Spirit call Him ‘Lord,’ saying,

Verse 44. ‘THE LORD SAID TO MY LORD,

“SIT AT MY RIGHT HAND,

UNTIL I PUT YOUR ENEMIES UNDER YOUR FEET”’? Verse 45. Therefore, if David calls Him ‘Lord,’ how is He his son?” Verse 46. No one was able to offer Him a word in answer, nor did anyone dare from that day on to ask Him any more questions.

(Commentary Break): These are interesting and useful dialogues. But I will leave them to you, the reader. (End Commentary Break).

Jesus’ encounters with the Pharisees and the Sadducees is heating up and will be coming to a climax in the next chapter. We should learn from these encounters that there is no room for compromise or syncretism, or ecumenicalism. We are not a war with other religions even though they be at war with us. We are to avoid those religions while offering them the Hope we have in Christ.

Be aware that, in addition to the emerging One World Government, there is an emerging One World Religion and Church, and it must be avoided at all costs. It is known as the Abrahamic Family House, located in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Introducing themselves as a “Human Fraternity”, Pope Francis, head of the Catholic Church, and His Eminence Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, issue and sign the Document on “Human Fraternity for World Peace and Living Together”, in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The Zayed Award for Human Fraternity is jointly bestowed on His Holiness Pope Francis and His Eminence Ahmed Al-Tayeb.

We are approaching chapter 24 which brings us to the great question of our day, “When will these things happen, and what will be the sign of Jesus’ coming and the End of The Age?”

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young

NEXT: (coming soon): THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Chapter 23, Hypocrisy Explained, The Eight Woes.

PREVIOUS:  THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Chapter 21, Jesus’ Triumphal Entry, Jesus Cleanses the Temple, The Barren Fig Tree, Authority Challenged, Parable of the Landowner.

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THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Chapter 21

Jesus’ Triumphal Entry, Jesus Cleanses the Temple, The Barren Fig Tree, Authority Challenged, Parable of the Landowner

It may be time to reiterate that the purpose of this study and of this commentary. This is not meant to be an exhaustive commentary on the Greek language and words used; and, this is not meant to be an exhaustive commentary on each and every metaphor, simile, or ritual practice of that day; nor is it about the socio-political or geopolitical conditions of that day.

The purpose of this study and of this commentary is for us as His disciples and followers to learn to walk in the steps of Jesus. This is about gaining understanding coupled with wisdom for application.

We have been commissioned and sent into all the world, to make disciples. We are to tell people about Him. We are to teach them to obey His words, and to baptize them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. The Book of Matthew presents us with the model and methods of Jesus, which are to be our models and methods in order to accomplish our mission.

Secondly, the purpose of this study is to concurrently seek and find the prophetic words of Jesus, in order to pursue and apply them to our lives. This task and exercise will lead us to call on and to walk in the Holy Spirit with His guidance and power.

Finally, Jesus has told us we are to do the Works He has done and greater works than these, as He has gone to the Father.

If you are wondering about ‘these works’, you are not alone. The crowds that followed Jesus also asked, “What are we to do, so that we may habitually be doing the works of God?”  Jesus answered, “This is the Work of God: that you believe, [adhere to, trust in, rely on, and have faith] in the One whom He has sent.” (See John 6:28 & 29).

It is by this method – walking by faith, in the prophetic – that we are prepared and empowered to allow God to do His Works and even greater works – though our mortal bodies and through our lives.

(Please note: The entire book of Matthew is the Breathed Word of God, and all of it is important. That said,

Chapters 1 – 3 establish the lineage of Jesus the Christ, the birth of Jesus, the announcement of Jesus, and the baptism of Jesus. (This may seem tedious at times, but is the vital groundwork, not to just know about Him, but to actually know Him).

Chapters 4 through 28 give us the model, the mission, the purpose and the plan of God, through His Son, Jesus, as the Anointed One, to bring the Good News of Hope and the Way of Salvation to the world. (This is the exciting teachings and demonstration of the power of God).

Chapters 4 though 28 also give us our mission, purpose and plan. We, the Body of Christ, must be obedient and available for Him to do His Works though us, until the end of the age. This is where we intentionally intersect with the Person and the Power of Jesus.(This is where you and I get personally involved, following Jesus).

Please read the chapters and the commentaries carefully, study them diligently and pray and meditate on them deeply. This is The Way!

The Triumphant Entry

Matthew21:1, When they had approached Jerusalem and had come to Bethphage, at the Mount of Olives, Jesus then sent two disciples, verse 2, saying to them, “Go into the village opposite you, and immediately you will find a donkey tied there and a colt with it. Untie them and bring them to Me. Verse 3. And if anyone says anything to you, you shall say, ‘The Lord needs them,’ and he will send them on immediately.” Verse 4. Now this took place so that what was spoken through the prophet would be fulfilled:

Verse 5. “SAY TO THE DAUGHTER OF ZION,

‘BEHOLD YOUR KING IS COMING TO YOU,

HUMBLE, AND MOUNTED ON A DONKEY,

EVEN ON A COLT, THE FOAL OF A DONKEY.’” (see Zechariah 9:9).

Verse 6. The disciples went and did just as Jesus had instructed them, verse 7, and brought the donkey and the colt, and laid their cloaks on them; and He sat on the cloaks. Verse 8. Most of the crowd spread their cloaks on the road, and others were cutting branches from the trees and spreading them on the road. Verse 9. Now the crowds going ahead of Him, and those who followed, were shouting,

“Hosanna to the Son of David;

BLESSED IS THE ONE WHO COMES IN THE NAME OF THE LORD;

Hosanna in the highest!” Verse 10. When He had entered Jerusalem, all the city was stirred, saying, “Who is this?” Verse 11. And the crowds were saying, “This is Jesus the prophet, from Nazareth in Galilee.”

(Commentary Break): Read this carefully and at its face value and try to gain its full meaning and significance. “When He had entered Jerusalem, all the city was stirred, saying, “Who is this?” All the city, or at the very least, most all the city, had no idea about Jesus. Some of the people considered Him to be a ‘prophet’. Others had no idea, and none of them, apparently knew Him as their long awaited Messiah! Ah, But the ’miracles’ of crowd hysteria! They were excited. Most of the crowd spread their cloaks on the road before Him and others were cutting branches and putting them on the road before Him. And yet they were shouting ‘Hosanna’, which translates, “save now, we pray”. It was an intense cry both of happiness and a cry for help. One would expect the symbolism and the cries of the crowd would remind the Jews of the prophecies of the coming Messiah! But, alas, they have eyes and cannot see, and ears but cannot hear. How about you? Do you remember? Do you know? Do you believe all that He has said? (End Commentary Break).

Cleansing the Temple

Verse 12. And Jesus entered the temple area and drove out all those who were selling and buying on the temple grounds, and He overturned the tables of the money changers and the seats of those who were selling doves. Verse 13. And He said to them, “It is written: ‘MY HOUSE WILL BE CALLED A HOUSE OF PRAYER’; but you are making it a DEN OF ROBBERS.”

(Commentary Break): There are two things I would point out. First, it takes planning and forethought to braid cords into whips (the devices Jesus used), so this was not spontaneous. Jesus thought this through. This is a calculated and a well thought out response. And, secondly, the only times you see Jesus acting or behaving as if He is angry, is when anyone or anything obstructs the path and access to God, and this is one of those times. This is a perversion of the purpose, intention and symbolism of the Temple. And sadly, even tragically, we still see this in our churches today, but on a grander scale. What does this say? Think about it! What is your response to this type of defiance of God? (End Commentary Break).

Verse 14. And those who were blind and those who limped came to Him in the temple area, and He healed them. Verse 15. But when the chief priests and the scribes saw the wonderful things that He had done, and the children who were shouting in the temple area, “Hosanna to the Son of David,” they became indignant, verse 16, and they said to Him, “Do You hear what these children are saying?” And Jesus said to them, “Yes. Have you never read, ‘FROM THE MOUTHS OF INFANTS AND NURSING BABIES YOU HAVE PREPARED PRAISE FOR YOURSELF’?” (see Psalm 8:2) Verse 17. And He left them and went out of the city to Bethany, and spent the night there.

(Commentary Break): The children may not have understood the full significance of their words and actions. They may have been repeating what they had seen in others or reacting to what they had been told, that Jesus was and is the One True Living God. Hosanna! This is significant on so many levels.

Jesus has told us that if we will train our children up in the way they should go so when they are old they will not depart from it; and that unless we believe as a child, we will not enter the kingdom of heaven.

We, Christians in the twenty first century church, whether we are willing to admit it or not, are generally ‘politely proud’, ‘surreptitiously arrogant’ and the result is that we are left weak and impotent in the ways of God. It would seem that it is more important to us that our preachers have a masters of divinity degree or a doctorate from a seminary than if he walks humbly in the ways of our Lord; showing the way by preaching the Gospel as Jesus preached, laying hands on the sick, healing the lame and blind, caring for the widow and the orphan, visiting those in our prisons. Instead, they take their place at the head table and send others to do the works. (End Commentary Break).

The Barren Fig Tree

Verse 18. Now in the early morning, when He was returning to the city, He became hungry. Verse 19. And seeing a lone fig tree by the road, He came to it and found nothing on it except leaves alone; and He said to it, “No longer shall there ever be any fruit from you.” And at once the fig tree withered.

Verse 20. Seeing this, the disciples were amazed and asked, “How did the fig tree wither all at once?” Verse 21. And Jesus answered and said to them, “Truly I say to you, if you have faith and do not doubt, you will not only do what was done to the fig tree, but even if you say to this mountain, ‘Be taken up and cast into the sea,’ it will happen. Verse 22. And whatever you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive it all.”

(Commentary Break): This is an actual event. Jesus uses it as a ‘teaching moment’ and turns it into a metaphor, or sorts. The fig tree is every man and woman. And when you have ceased to be useful to your Lord, you wither and die. It is reminiscent of Matthew chapter 5, verse 13, “You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt has become tasteless, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by people.”

Then Jesus makes this astounding statement, WHICH IS NOT A METAPHOR: “Truly I say to you, if you have faith and do not doubt, you will not only do what was done to the fig tree, but even if you say to this mountain, ‘Be taken up and cast into the sea,’ it will happen. And whatever you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive it all.”

Faith, without doubting, releases Jesus to do His Works through you! And whatever you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive it all! Yes, faith as a child! (End Commentary Break).

Authority Challenged

Verse 23. When He entered the temple area, the chief priests and the elders of the people came to Him while He was teaching, and said, “By what authority are You doing these things, and who gave You this authority?” Verse 24. But Jesus responded and said to them, “I will also ask you one question, which, if you tell Me, I will also tell you by what authority I do these things. Verse 25. The baptism of John was from what source: from heaven or from men?” And they began considering the implications among themselves, saying, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ He will say to us, ‘Then why did you not believe him?’ Verse 26. But if we say, ‘From men,’ we fear the people; for they all regard John as a prophet.” Verse 27. And answering Jesus, they said, “We do not know.” He also said to them, “Neither am I telling you by what authority I do these things.

(Commentary Break): I ask you, the reader, by what authority did Jesus do these things, and who gave Him this authority?

This is a question which must be answered by anyone who would be a disciple of Jesus. Jesus tells His disciples that they will continue His Works, and will do even greater works than He (John 14:12), so it is imperative that we, His disciples, know the answer.

Another time, in the Temple, the Jews were persecuting Jesus for healing a man on the Sabbath, and this time Jesus gives a response:

“But He answered them, “My Father is working until now, and I Myself am working.”

“For this reason therefore the Jews were seeking all the more to kill Him, because He not only was breaking the Sabbath, but also was calling God His own Father, making Himself equal with God.

“Therefore Jesus answered and was saying to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, unless it is something He sees the Father doing; for whatever the Father does, these things the Son also does in like manner.” “I can do nothing on My own initiative. As I hear, I judge; and My judgment is just, because I do not seek My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me.” – Matthew 5:17-19, 30

ACTION POINT:

We must attain to the Mind and Attitude of Christ

We must practice His ways. We must bear in mind that it is not we who do these works, but it is He.

We must know that we can only do what we see the Father doing. We say only what we hear the Father saying, because we can do nothing of ourselves.

We must listen and watch for the Father, literally.

We must be still and know that He is God, get alone with Him

We must allow the Holy Spirit to quicken and train our spirit to be alert and sensitive to the voice of God.

John 14:12, “Truly, truly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do, he will do also; and greater works than these he will do; because I go to the Father. 13 “Whatever you ask in My name, that will I do, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14 “If you ask Me anything in My name, I will do it.”

Please remember, we must study and be diligent to present ourselves approved to God as a worker who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth. (End Commentary Break).

Parable of Two Sons

Verse 28. “But what do you think? A man had two sons, and he came to the first and said, ‘Son, go work today in the vineyard.’ Verse 29. But he replied, ‘I do not want to.’ Yet afterward he regretted it and went. Verse 30. And the man came to his second son and said the same thing; and he replied, ‘I will, sir’; and yet he did not go. Verse 31. Which of the two did the will of his father?” They *said, “The first.” Jesus said to them, “Truly I say to you that the tax collectors and prostitutes will get into the kingdom of God before you. Verse 32. For John came to you in the way of righteousness and you did not believe him; but the tax collectors and prostitutes did believe him; and you, seeing this, did not even have second thoughts afterward so as to believe him.

Parable of the Landowner

Verse 33. “Listen to another parable. There was a landowner who PLANTED A VINEYARD AND PUT A FENCE AROUND IT, AND DUG A WINE PRESS IN IT, AND BUILT A TOWER, and he leased it to vine-growers and went on a journey. Verse 34. And when the harvest time approached, he sent his slaves to the vine-growers to receive his fruit. Verse 35. And the vine-growers took his slaves and beat one, killed another, and stoned another. Verse 36. Again, he sent other slaves, more than the first; and they did the same things to them. Verse 37. But afterward he sent his son to them, saying, ‘They will respect my son.’ Verse 38. But when the vine-growers saw the son, they said among themselves, ‘This is the heir; come, let’s kill him and take possession of his inheritance!’ Verse 39. And they took him and threw him out of the vineyard, and killed him. Verse 40. Therefore, when the owner of the vineyard comes, what will he do to those vine-growers?” Verse 41. They said to Him, “He will bring those wretches to a wretched end and lease the vineyard to other vine-growers, who will pay him the fruit in the proper seasons.”

Verse 42. Jesus said to them, “Did you never read in the Scriptures,  

‘A STONE WHICH THE BUILDERS REJECTED,

THIS HAS BECOME THE CHIEF CORNERSTONE;

THIS CAME ABOUT FROM THE LORD,

AND IT IS MARVELOUS IN OUR EYES’? (see Psalm 118:22).

Verse 43. Therefore I say to you, the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people producing its fruit. Verse 44. And the one who falls on this stone will be broken to pieces; and on whomever it falls, it will crush him.”

Verse 45. When the chief priests and the Pharisees heard His parables, they understood that He was speaking about them. Verse 46. And although they sought to arrest Him, they feared the crowds, since they considered Him to be a prophet.

(Commentary Break): I will let you decided the significance of these last verses. But I will point out that although Jesus was speaking directly to and about the Pharisees and their current religious establishment when He says, “Therefore I say to you, the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people producing its fruit”, He is also speaking to you and to me, today. Anytime we deny or excuse the Words of Jesus as ‘out dated’ or that they ‘no longer apply to our sophisticated era’, we too have ceased producing its fruit. (End Commentary Break).

These chapters, verses and teachings are meant to show us the way into the kingdom of God and how to live and operate in the might of His strength. They are meant to prepare us for an eternity with Him under His loving care and under His authority. Please, dear friend, let’s not be reluctant or shy to follow Him in all His ways and words. Let’s do as He has instructed and leave the results to Him, for they are His works.

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young.

NEXT: THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Chapter 22, The Marriage Feast, The Poll-tax, Jesus and the Sadducees.

PREVIOUS:  THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Chapter 20, The Kingdom of Heaven, Death and Resurrection Foretold, Asking For Preferred Treatment, Sight for the Blind.

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THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Chapter 20,

The Kingdom of Heaven, Death and Resurrection Foretold, Asking For Preferred Treatment, Sight for the Blind.

This discourse goes from Jesus explaining and teaching the rich young ruler about eternal life and teaching His disciples about a disciple’s reward to teaching on the kingdom of heaven. But this is a continuation of those matters.

The Kingdom of Heaven

Matthew20:1, “For the kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out early in the morning to hire laborers for his vineyard. Verse 2. When he had agreed with the laborers for a denarius for the day, he sent them into his vineyard. Verse 3. And he went out about the third hour, (9 a.m.), and saw others standing idle in the marketplace; verse 4, and to those he said, ‘You go into the vineyard also, and whatever is right, I will give you.’ And so they went. Verse 5. Again he went out about the sixth and the ninth hour (at noon and again at 3 p.m.), and did the same thing. Verse 6. And about the eleventh hour (at 5 p.m.), he went out and found others standing around; and he said to them, ‘Why have you been standing here idle all day long?’ Verse 7. They said to him, ‘Because no one hired us.’ He said to them, ‘You go into the vineyard too.’

Verse 8“. Now when evening came, the owner of the vineyard said to his foreman, ‘Call the laborers and pay them their wages, starting with the last group to the first.’ Verse 9. When those hired about the eleventh hour came, each one received a denarius, (a day’s wages). Verse 10. And so when those hired first came, they thought that they would receive more; but each of them also received a denarius. Verse 11. When they received it, they grumbled at the landowner, verse 12, saying, ‘These who were hired last worked only one hour, and you have made them equal to us who have borne the burden of the day’s work and the scorching heat.’ Verse 13. But he answered and said to one of them, ‘Friend, I am doing you no wrong; did you not agree with me for a denarius? Verse 14. Take what is yours and go; but I want to give to this last person the same as to you. Verse 15. Is it not lawful for me to do what I want with what is my own? Or is your eye envious because I am generous?’ Verse 16. So the last shall be first, and the first, last.”

(Commentary Break): Although others may dispute a deathbed confession or that a person who is saved later in life, but hasn’t had the necessary time remaining in their life to purge himself or herself of all their ‘bad habits’, they are just as saved as the person who was saved early in their childhood, and entitled to all the same benefits of having become a child of God and a disciple of Jesus. In other words, it is never too early nor is it ever too late to submit yourself to God through faith in Jesus Christ, and be saved. The glorious gift reward of God’s grace, the forgiveness of your sins and His redemption is available to everyone. (End Commentary Break).

Death, Resurrection Foretold

Verse 17. As Jesus was about to go up to Jerusalem, He took the twelve disciples aside by themselves, and on the road He said to them, verse 18, “Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be handed over to the chief priests and scribes, and they will condemn Him to death, verse 19, and they will hand Him over to the Gentiles to mock and flog and crucify, and on the third day He will be raised up.”

(Commentary Break): This is just one of several times that Jesus warned of His coming crucifixion and death. Here is a more complete description of these times, taken from Got Questions Org: Jesus predicted His death at least three times in the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke), and the book of John offers even more predictions.

The first time Jesus predicted His death is detailed in Matthew 16:21–23, Mark 8:31–32, and Luke 9:21–22. Jesus had just fed the multitudes, and He said that the “Son of Man must suffer many things” (Mark 8:31); be rejected by the elders, chief priests, and scribes; be killed; and be raised again. Peter then rashly began to rebuke Jesus, and Christ responded, “Get behind me, Satan!” (Matthew 16:33; Mark 8:33). Jesus knew that His death must happen. It was necessary in God’s plan to save the world.

Jesus predicted His death a second time in Matthew 17:22–23, Mark 9:30–32, and Luke 9:43–45. This occurred shortly after the Transfiguration, when Peter, James, and John saw Christ in His heavenly glory. Perhaps this was the reason the disciples were so confused by Jesus telling them He was going to die. At this point, they believed His kingdom was just around the corner. Despite their lack of understanding, they were “afraid to ask” for clarification (Mark 9:32; Luke 9:45).

Matthew 20:17–19, Mark 10:32–34, and Luke 18:31–34 describe the third time Jesus predicted His death. He spoke to His disciples as they were heading up toward Jerusalem for Passover, and He told them how He would be mocked, scourged, crucified, and then rise again. On this occasion also, the disciples did not understand Jesus’ saying because the meaning was hidden from them. They would soon learn what Jesus meant in the events of Good Friday and following. (End Commentary Break).

Request for Preferred Treatment

Verse 20. Then the mother of the sons of Zebedee came to Jesus with her sons, bowing down and making a request of Him. Verse 21. And He said to her, “What do you desire?” She said to Him, “Say that in Your kingdom these two sons of mine shall sit, one at Your right, and one at Your left.” Verse 22. But Jesus replied, “You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I am about to drink?” They said to Him, “We are able.” Verse 23. He said to them, “My cup you shall drink; but to sit at My right and at My left is not Mine to give, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared by My Father.”

Verse 24. And after hearing this, the other ten disciples became indignant with the two brothers. Verse 25. But Jesus called them to Himself and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles domineer over them, and those in high position exercise authority over them. Verse 26. It is not this way among you, but whoever wants to become prominent among you shall be your servant, verse 27, and whoever desires to be first among you shall be your slave; verse 28, just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.”

(Commentary Break): There is so much that can be said about these verses and so little that needs to be said. Pride and arrogance are sin, and it existed even in the very earliest days. It remains a problem in the church today. However, Jesus does not miss the opportunity to make this a teaching moment. “Jesus called them to Himself and said, ‘You know that the rulers of the Gentiles domineer over them, and those in high position exercise authority over them. It is not this way among you, but whoever wants to become prominent among you shall be your servant, and whoever desires to be first among you shall be your slave; just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.”

This is something, along with the many others of Jesus’ teachings on attitude and behavior and character qualities, that should be held as teaching priorities in our churches today.

These attitudes of pride, ego, entitlement, selfishness, arrogance and the such, are one of the more egregious stumbling blocks to the church – so much so, that when Peter interjected, Jesus called him by the name of Satan, for his errant attitude.

If your church neglects to make these a regular teaching or as a high priority, then you and I should make it a personal priority to pray, meditate and to dwell on Jesus’ Words. (End Commentary Break).

Sight for Those Who Are Blind

Verse 29. As they were leaving Jericho, a large crowd followed Him. Verse 30. And two people who were blind, sitting by the road, hearing that Jesus was passing by, cried out, “Lord, have mercy on us, Son of David!” Verse 31. But the crowd sternly warned them to be quiet; yet they cried out all the more, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!” Verse 32. And Jesus stopped and called them, and said, “What do you want Me to do for you?” Verse 33. They said to Him, “Lord, we want our eyes to be opened.” Verse 34. Moved with compassion, Jesus touched their eyes; and immediately they regained their sight and followed Him.

(Commentary Break): Once again, there is much that could be said here, and much has been written about answered prayer. However, little needs to be said. Here is the short and succinct lesson for us: Jesus knew they were blind, still He asked them what they wanted from Him. They told Him directly, “Lord, we want our eyes to be opened.” And Jesus showed them mercy and compassion, and they regained their sight. (End Commentary Break).

Jesus knows what you need before you ask (see Matthew 6:7-8). Seek Him. Ask Him. Receive (see Matthew 7:7-11), and don’t complain like the laborers did, because others may have gotten more than you; don’t complain like Peter did, because you don’t understand how these things could be so. Just know that He gave you everything when He died for you, and is now walking with you, has secured your future and has erased your sinful past.

It is enough – be thankful and grateful.

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young

NEXT: THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Chapter 21, Jesus’ Triumphal Entry, Jesus Cleanses the Temple, The Barren Fig Tree, Authority Challenged, Parable of the Landowner.

PREVIOUS:  THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Chapter 19, Divorce, Children, The Rich Young Ruler, The Disciple’s Reward.

(Please bookmark this page or subscribe for future episodes).

THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Chapter 19

Divorce, Children, The Rich Young Ruler, The Disciple’s Reward.

There seems to be no end to the Pharisee’s futile attempts to find fault in Jesus and with His teachings. I say futile because He is making it clear that, (#1), He is the Christ, the long awaited Jewish Messiah, and that He and the Father are one, (#2), He has been sent by God, the Father, and He has come to do His Father’s business; He is doing what He hears from the Father and what He sees the Father doing, and (#3), He has come to testify to the Truth.

Nonetheless, the Pharisees persist in their blind, stubborn, arrogant folly, and Jesus continues to teach and demonstrate The Truth!

Concerning Divorce

Matthew 19:1, When Jesus had finished these words, He left Galilee and came into the region of Judea beyond the Jordan; Verse 2, and large crowds followed Him, and He healed them there.

Verse 3. Some Pharisees came to Jesus, testing Him and asking, “Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife for any reason at all?” Verse 4. And He answered and said, “Have you not read that He who created them from the beginning MADE THEM MALE AND FEMALE, Verse 5, and said, ‘FOR THIS REASON A MAN SHALL LEAVE HIS FATHER AND HIS MOTHER AND BE JOINED TO HIS WIFE, AND THE TWO SHALL BECOME ONE FLESH’? Verse 6. So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore, what God has joined together, no person is to separate.”

Verse 7. They said to Him, “Why, then, did Moses command to GIVE HER A CERTIFICATE OF DIVORCE AND SEND HER AWAY?”

Verse 8. He said to them, “Because of your hardness of heart Moses permitted you to divorce your wives; but from the beginning it has not been this way. Verse 9. And I say to you, whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another woman commits adultery.”

Verse 10. The disciples said to Him, “If the relationship of the man with his wife is like this, it is better not to marry.” Verse 11. But He said to them, “Not all men can accept this statement, but only those to whom it has been given. Verse 12. For there are eunuchs who were born that way from their mother’s womb; and there are eunuchs who were made eunuchs by people; and there are also eunuchs who made themselves eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. The one who is able to accept this, let him accept it.”

(Commentary Break): It is interesting that the Pharisees continue to question Jesus in order to find fault or to trap Him in a lie in order to persecute Him, or worse. The point here is for you and for me to examine ourselves and ask if we are doing the same as the Pharisees, which is finding all the ‘escape clauses’ to abrogate or negate the Law we say we follow, and in our case, it is NOT the Law but the teachings of Jesus. His teachings and commandments are not meant to tie us or to burden us down as the Law, but are a means to live to live free, to live an abundant life full of His love, joy, grace and hope. His words are a means to guide us, protect us, warn us of dangers and how to avoid them. He love us with a love so deep and complete that we can hardly comprehend it.

Jesus, in this case, is answering the Pharisees’ questions about what their Law says about divorce. Actually, this is an issue that begins as soon as a couple decides to get married. All marriages have their ups and downs, and someone, such as the pastor who marries a couple, should tell them in advance, of the seriousness nature of the wedding vows and the covenant of marriage. These are to be contracts that endure for a  lifetime. This is not only a contract between two people, but is a covenant between each of the two people with God!

The Bible says, “FOR THIS REASON A MAN SHALL LEAVE HIS FATHER AND HIS MOTHER AND BE JOINED TO HIS WIFE, AND THE TWO SHALL BECOME ONE FLESH’? So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore, what God has joined together, no person is to separate.”

The REASON Jesus teaches this is for your ongoing wellbeing and protection, and for the safety and wellbeing of your family and friends.

God made us as emotional beings capable of thought with the power of choice (making decisions). In fact, the Bible tells us that we are made in His image, but with the flaw of a sin nature.

It is helpful to remember that the Bible consistently speaks to the triune God and of our triune nature: (#1), our physical body (from the Greek word, soma), (#2), our soul (from the Greek word pseuche), which includes our mind, will and emotions, and (#3), our spirit (from the Greek word pneuma), which is sometimes referred to as our ‘subconscious mind’ or our core, where we set our life views or core values. It is within this pneuma, or spirit, we hold and store our guiding principles for living. This is how God made us. It is how we are constructed.

Even though most of us are taught how we should think and act by our parents or by others, unfortunately, we initially make many of our decisions based on our own initial experiences and feelings. These initial decisions come from within our soul – our mind, will and emotions.

We will then solidify and galvanize those decisions as they seep down into our core (our heart or spirit). They become what is known as our ‘core-values’ or guiding principles.

Our heart, or spirit dictates, then dictates these decisions back to our soul (our mind, will and emotions), and we act them in our everyday life.

Once these attitudes and behaviors are set, it is very difficult to change them, regardless of the outcome, without suffering great consequences.

Please know that I would not spend all this time on this matter, if it were not so important. But we usually make decisions based on incomplete information, not knowing what the outcome of our decisions will be, and all of this is driven by emotions and preconceived notions. It is the perfect storm for a looming disaster.

Divorce is one of those storms. It is one of the most damaging and damning experiences a person can experience. It has lasting effects on the human psyche, which will affect the body in devastating ways. These are things that will drag you down and haunt you for life unless you deal with them according to the teachings of Jesus. Believe me, His is the only way back to sanity, peace, prosperity and life!

Nonetheless, I know many Christians who seek a divorce because their marriage becomes difficult or inconvenient. So people divorce and the mind, will and emotions justify this course of action. But Scriptures tell us that our spirit knows that we will be committing adultery and will be causing our ex-spouse to commit adultery. But, we go on anyway, living with a hidden remorse, calling ourselves Christians, pretending to follow Jesus, even though we know we have not done what He has told us to do.

(Additionally, when there are children involved, there a numerous studies that show the damage is multiplied in their lives. See “Focus on the Family, “How could divorce affect my children” and “Did God really say that?”)

What the Bible says can sound harsh, but in reality it is a dire warning: “Now why do you call Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say? Everyone who comes to Me and hears My words and acts on them, I will show you whom he is like: they are like a person building a house, who dug deep and laid a foundation on the rock; and when there was a flood, the river burst against that house and yet it could not shake it, because it had been well built. But the one who has heard and has not acted accordingly is like the one who built a house on the ground without a foundation; and the river burst against it and it immediately collapsed, and the ruin of that house was great.” (Luke 6:46-49).

And, “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of My Father who is in heaven will enter. Many will say to Me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name cast out demons, and in Your name perform many miracles?’ And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; leave Me, you who practice lawlessness.’ (Matthew 7:21-23).

In reality, God is pleading with us to stop the insanity and self-destruction. He loves us. He wants the best for us, which is found in Jesus Christ!

So, what is the solution if you have already committed this sin? This may be hard to hear and even more difficult to do, but it is the way to peace:

Confess your sin, your wrongdoing. Confess to God that you have sinned against Him, against your ex-spouse and against your family. Repent. That is, turn away from ever being disobedient again. Jesus will hear your prayer and forgive you and cleanse you of your unrighteousness. He loves you, unconditionally. He will not condemn you. It is your unbelief that condemns you (see John 3:17).

NOW, if you initialed or even agreed to a divorce, go and tell your ex-spouse of your transgression, and even though you may not be able to rectify or restore what is in the past, you can apologize for your sin against them and seek their forgiveness. (Please be very careful not to compound this issue if your ex-spouse is remarried or if they are violent. Use discretion).

NOTE: If you cannot safely approach, talk to or write your ex-spouse, then take this to God alone, with all sincerity and be cleansed.

Either way, you need to take this as your responsibility even if it was your ex-spouse’s behavior that drove you away (see Matthew 5:22-48). Whether they accept your apology or not, you need not entangle yourself any further. You have cleared the way to go forward with your life.

If you have not yet committed this sin, then stop, and do not do it. You made a covenant with God in your marriage vows. If you divorce you not only break a vow with your spouse, you break you covenant with God and the psychological and physical harm to you will follow.

But please don’t be like the Pharisee and try to find a way around this. Jesus called the Pharisees liars, white washed tombs (looking good but full of dead men’s bones), cheats, and murderers. Please, don’t be those things! Those things will just follow you and drag you down.

NOTE: I realize that this can be a very complicated matter. And sometimes it can be dangerous to approach your ex-spouse. If that is the case, then again I say, take this to God, confess it all to Him. He will cleanse your heart and your mind and set you free.

This is an urgent teaching that even the Church and pastors have ignored and excused for lack of understanding. They are running the risk of being just like the Pharisees!

I also know, this is a very hard teaching. But, which teachings of Jesus are not hard if we persist in living in our fleshly passions? (End Commentary Break).

Jesus Blesses Little Children

Verse 13. Then some children were brought to Him so that He would lay His hands on them and pray; and the disciples rebuked them. Verse 14. But Jesus said, “Leave the children alone, and do not forbid them to come to Me; for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” Verse 15. After laying His hands on them, He departed from there.

(Commentary Break): It seems curious that after His rebuttal to the Pharisees and His teaching on marriage and divorce, that He speaks of the children, is it not? (End Commentary Break).

The Rich Young Ruler

Verse 16. And someone came to Him and said, “Teacher, what good thing shall I do so that I may obtain eternal life?” Verse 17. And He said to him, “Why are you asking Me about what is good? There is only One who is good; but if you want to enter life, keep the commandments.” Verse 18. Then he said to Him, “Which ones?” And Jesus said, “YOU SHALL NOT COMMIT MURDER; YOU SHALL NOT COMMIT ADULTERY; YOU SHALL NOT STEAL; YOU SHALL NOT GIVE FALSE TESTIMONY; Verse 19. HONOR YOUR FATHER AND MOTHER; and YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.” Verse 20. The young man said to Him, “All these I have kept; what am I still lacking?” Verse 21. Jesus said to him, “If you want to be complete, go and sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.” Verse 22. But when the young man heard this statement, he went away grieving; for he was one who owned much property.

Verse 23. And Jesus said to His disciples, “Truly I say to you, it will be hard for a rich person to enter the kingdom of heaven. Verse 24. And again I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God.” Verse 25. When the disciples heard this, they were very astonished and said, “Then who can be saved?” Verse 26. And looking at them, Jesus said to them, “With people this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”

(Commentary Break): The young man, (also referred to as the ‘rich young ruler’), was not so much asking how he many obtain eternal life, as he is asking how he may earn his way to heaven without paying the cost. Our churches are full of people demanding an answer to this same question, regardless of their financial status. They want the benefits of salvation but resist the cost. Please, don’t be like that.

 Jesus, in his answer, uses both hyperbole and a metaphor of a camel trying to squeeze through the eye of a needle, which is something that is ridiculously impossible.

However, Jesus was actually referring to a camel and an actual needle, and that the camel is a simile for ‘every man and women, boy and girl’ and the ‘eye of the needle’ is a simile for the gate to the Kingdom of Heaven.

So, everyone who is laden with ‘the baggage and possessions of pride, high self-esteem, education, personal achievements, wealth, pedigree, education and the like cannot enter the Kingdom. All of these things must first be put aside, discarded, before entering through the ‘narrow gate’.

AN ASIDE and a NOTE: There has been a story circulating, albeit false, which purports that there is actually a gate somewhere in Jerusalem called the “eye of the needle”, through which a camel could not pass unless it stooped down and had all its baggage first removed. After dark, when the main gates were closed, travelers and merchants would have to use this smaller gate. Great sermon material, with illustrations about how we must humble ourselves and remove our baggage before entering the kingdom.

It would be quite convenient if this myth were true because it would legitimize people’s affinity for money and probably the prosperity gospel as well. If the passage is about baggage and humility and not actually about wealth, then the prosperity preachers can breathe a big sigh of relief. However, this myth has been propagated since the 11th century, and it is completely made up. There is zero evidence to show that this gate ever existed other than stories brought back from Jerusalem tours.

But what about this image, showing the eye of the needle? This wall passage did not exist when Jesus walked the earth, or anytime close to his generation. This wall was built hundreds of years after Jesus’ time. The gates of Jerusalem were destroyed in 70 A.D. and later rebuilt. Josephus, the 1st century Jewish historian, wrote about the wall in Jerusalem (excepting the western wall): “All the rest of the wall surrounding Jerusalem, was so thoroughly laid even with the ground by those that dug it up to the foundation, that there was left nothing to make those that came thither believe it Jerusalem had ever been inhabited.” So, the image would not exist in Jesus’ time.

Furthermore, the passage states that is it easier for a camel to go through the eye of “a” needle, not “the” needle. “A needle” refers to any needle. “The needle” would refer to a specific needle. This is not a mistake. Greek is an incredibly precise language, and definite articles (the) are hard to confuse with an indefinite article ‘a’.

Finally, I would point out that this type of hyperbole is common in Jewish literature and as well as other literature. Jesus, again, uses the term of a ‘narrow gate’ in Matthew 7:13-14)

Thus, it is not necessary to try to bend Jesus’ words to mean something other than what they actually meant. This is why the disciples replied with this phrase in astonishment: When the disciples heard this, they were greatly astonished and asked, “Who then can be saved?” (Matthew 19:25)

And looking at them, Jesus said to them, “With people this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” (End Commentary Break).

The Disciples’ Reward

Verse 27. Then Peter responded and said to Him, “Behold, we have left everything and followed You; what then will there be for us?” Verse 28. And Jesus said to them, “Truly I say to you, that you who have followed Me, in the regeneration when the Son of Man will sit on His glorious throne, you also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. Verse 29. And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or farms on account of My name, will receive many times as much, and will inherit eternal life. Verse 30. But many who are first will be last; and the last, first.

(Commentary Break): There are scarcely words that can better describe what Jesus has just said to Peter. This is both literal and symbolic. It is literal for Peter and the 12 apostles. It is symbolic in that we, too, will be with them, ruling with Jesus.

“And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or farms on account of My name, will receive many times as much, and will inherit eternal life.” But first, we must go through the eye of that needle! The benefit begins now and lasts for an eternity! (End Commentary Break).

This is all based on faith. You can believe it or not. It is that cut and dried, and it is that extreme.

Even though, after Jesus had risen from the dead and just before He ascended to the Father, on Jesus’ instructions, “the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, to the mountain which Jesus had appointed for them, and when they saw Him, they worshiped Him, although some doubted”, they still had enough faith to follow His instructions to come and meet Him at the mountain. All this from faith the size of a mustard seed!

Jesus accepted and used them in His cause, ministry and calling. He is still doing just that. He is still calling you and me to follow Him despite our doubts.

And we will remain with Him, and He will be with us, both now and eternally!

Just believe!

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young.

NEXT: (coming soon) THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Chapter 20, Laborers In The Vineyard, Death and Resurrection Foretold, Asking For Preferred Treatment, Sight for the Blind.

PREVIOUS:  THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Chapter 18, Kingdom Rank, Stumbling Blocks, 99 Plus One, Discipline and Prayer, Forgiveness.

(Please bookmark this page or subscribe for future episodes).

THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Chapter 19

Divorce, Children, The Rich Young Ruler, The Disciple’s Reward.

There seems to be no end to the Pharisee’s futile attempts to find fault in Jesus and with His teachings. I say futile because He is making it clear that, (#1), He is the Christ, the long awaited Jewish Messiah, and that He and the Father are one, (#2), He has been sent by God, the Father, and He has come to do His Father’s business; He is doing what He hears from the Father and what He sees the Father doing, and (#3), He has come to testify to the Truth.

Nonetheless, the Pharisees persist in their blind, stubborn, arrogant folly, and Jesus continues to teach and demonstrate The Truth!

Concerning Divorce

Matthew 19:1, When Jesus had finished these words, He left Galilee and came into the region of Judea beyond the Jordan; Verse 2, and large crowds followed Him, and He healed them there.

Verse 3. Some Pharisees came to Jesus, testing Him and asking, “Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife for any reason at all?” Verse 4. And He answered and said, “Have you not read that He who created them from the beginning MADE THEM MALE AND FEMALE, Verse 5, and said, ‘FOR THIS REASON A MAN SHALL LEAVE HIS FATHER AND HIS MOTHER AND BE JOINED TO HIS WIFE, AND THE TWO SHALL BECOME ONE FLESH’? Verse 6. So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore, what God has joined together, no person is to separate.” Verse 7. They said to Him, “Why, then, did Moses command to GIVE HER A CERTIFICATE OF DIVORCE AND SEND HER AWAY?” Verse 8. He said to them, “Because of your hardness of heart Moses permitted you to divorce your wives; but from the beginning it has not been this way. Verse 9. And I say to you, whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another woman commits adultery.”

Verse 10. The disciples said to Him, “If the relationship of the man with his wife is like this, it is better not to marry.” Verse 11. But He said to them, “Not all men can accept this statement, but only those to whom it has been given. Verse 12. For there are eunuchs who were born that way from their mother’s womb; and there are eunuchs who were made eunuchs by people; and there are also eunuchs who made themselves eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. The one who is able to accept this, let him accept it.”

(Commentary Break): It is interesting that the Pharisees continue to question Jesus in order to find fault or to trap Him in a lie in order to persecute Him, or worse. The point here is for you and for me to examine ourselves and ask if we are doing the same as the Pharisees, which is finding all the ‘escape clauses’ to abrogate or negate the Law we say we follow, and in our case, it is NOT the Law but the teachings of Jesus. His teachings and commandments are not meant to tie us or to burden us down as the Law, but are a means to live to live free, to live an abundant life full of His love, joy, grace and hope. His words are a means to guide us, protect us, warn us of dangers and how to avoid them. He love us with a love so deep and complete that we can hardly comprehend it.

Jesus, in this case, is answering the Pharisees’ questions about what their Law says about divorce. Actually, this is an issue that begins as soon as a couple decides to get married. All marriages have their ups and downs, and someone, such as the pastor who marries a couple, should tell them in advance, of the seriousness nature of the wedding vows and the covenant of marriage. These are to be contracts that endure for a  lifetime. This is not only a contract between two people, but is a covenant between each of the two people with God!

The Bible says, “FOR THIS REASON A MAN SHALL LEAVE HIS FATHER AND HIS MOTHER AND BE JOINED TO HIS WIFE, AND THE TWO SHALL BECOME ONE FLESH’? So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore, what God has joined together, no person is to separate.”

The REASON Jesus teaches this is for your ongoing wellbeing and protection, and for the safety and wellbeing of your family and friends.

God made us as emotional beings capable of thought with the power of choice (making decisions). In fact, the Bible tells us that we are made in His image, but with the flaw of a sin nature.

It is helpful to remember that the Bible consistently speaks to the triune God and of our triune nature: (#1), our physical body (from the Greek word, soma), (#2), our soul (from the Greek word pseuche), which includes our mind, will and emotions, and (#3), our spirit (from the Greek word pneuma), which is sometimes referred to as our ‘subconscious mind’ or our core, where we set our life views or core values. It is within this pneuma, or spirit, we hold and store our guiding principles for living. This is how God made us. It is how we are constructed.

Even though most of us are taught how we should think and act by our parents or by others, unfortunately, we initially make many of our decisions based on our own initial experiences and feelings. These initial decisions come from within our soul – our mind, will and emotions.

We will then solidify and galvanize those decisions as they seep down into our core (our heart or spirit). They become what is known as our ‘core-values’ or guiding principles.

Our heart, or spirit dictates, then dictates these decisions back to our soul (our mind, will and emotions), and we act them in our everyday life.

Once these attitudes and behaviors are set, it is very difficult to change them, regardless of the outcome, without suffering great consequences.

Please know that I would not spend all this time on this matter, if it were not so important. But we usually make decisions based on incomplete information, not knowing what the outcome of our decisions will be, and all of this is driven by emotions and preconceived notions. It is the perfect storm for a looming disaster.

Divorce is one of those storms. It is one of the most damaging and damning experiences a person can experience. It has lasting effects on the human psyche, which will affect the body in devastating ways. These are things that will drag you down and haunt you for life unless you deal with them according to the teachings of Jesus. Believe me, His is the only way back to sanity, peace, prosperity and life!

Nonetheless, I know many Christians who seek a divorce because their marriage becomes difficult or inconvenient. So people divorce and the mind, will and emotions justify this course of action. But Scriptures tell us that our spirit knows that we will be committing adultery and will be causing our ex-spouse to commit adultery. But, we go on anyway, living with a hidden remorse, calling ourselves Christians, pretending to follow Jesus, even though we know we have not done what He has told us to do.

(Additionally, when there are children involved, there a numerous studies that show the damage is multiplied in their lives. See “Focus on the Family, “How could divorce affect my children” and “Did God really say that?”)

What the Bible says can sound harsh, but in reality it is a dire warning: “Now why do you call Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say? Everyone who comes to Me and hears My words and acts on them, I will show you whom he is like: they are like a person building a house, who dug deep and laid a foundation on the rock; and when there was a flood, the river burst against that house and yet it could not shake it, because it had been well built. But the one who has heard and has not acted accordingly is like the one who built a house on the ground without a foundation; and the river burst against it and it immediately collapsed, and the ruin of that house was great.” (Luke 6:46-49).

And, “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of My Father who is in heaven will enter. Many will say to Me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name cast out demons, and in Your name perform many miracles?’ And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; leave Me, you who practice lawlessness.’ (Matthew 7:21-23).

In reality, God is pleading with us to stop the insanity and self-destruction. He loves us. He wants the best for us, which is found in Jesus Christ!

So, what is the solution if you have already committed this sin? This may be hard to hear and even more difficult to do, but it is the way to peace:

Confess your sin, your wrongdoing. Confess to God that you have sinned against Him, against your ex-spouse and against your family. Repent. That is, turn away from ever being disobedient again. Jesus will hear your prayer and forgive you and cleanse you of your unrighteousness. He loves you, unconditionally. He will not condemn you. It is your unbelief that condemns you (see John 3:17).

NOW, if you initialed or even agreed to a divorce, go and tell your ex-spouse of your transgression, and even though you may not be able to rectify or restore what is in the past, you can apologize for your sin against them and seek their forgiveness. (Please be very careful not to compound this issue if your ex-spouse is remarried or if they are violent. Use discretion).

NOTE: If you cannot safely approach, talk to or write your ex-spouse, then take this to God alone, with all sincerity and be cleansed.

Either way, you need to take this as your responsibility even if it was your ex-spouse’s behavior that drove you away (see Matthew 5:22-48). Whether they accept your apology or not, you need not entangle yourself any further. You have cleared the way to go forward with your life.

If you have not yet committed this sin, then stop, and do not do it. You made a covenant with God in your marriage vows. If you divorce you not only break a vow with your spouse, you break you covenant with God and the psychological and physical harm to you will follow.

But please don’t be like the Pharisee and try to find a way around this. Jesus called the Pharisees liars, white washed tombs (looking good but full of dead men’s bones), cheats, and murderers. Please, don’t be those things! Those things will just follow you and drag you down.

NOTE: I realize that this can be a very complicated matter. And sometimes it can be dangerous to approach your ex-spouse. If that is the case, then again I say, take this to God, confess it all to Him. He will cleanse your heart and your mind and set you free.

This is an urgent teaching that even the Church and pastors have ignored and excused for lack of understanding. They are running the risk of being just like the Pharisees!

I also know, this is a very hard teaching. But, which teachings of Jesus are not hard if we persist in living in our fleshly passions? (End Commentary Break).

Jesus Blesses Little Children

Verse 13. Then some children were brought to Him so that He would lay His hands on them and pray; and the disciples rebuked them. Verse 14. But Jesus said, “Leave the children alone, and do not forbid them to come to Me; for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” Verse 15. After laying His hands on them, He departed from there.

(Commentary Break): It seems curious that after His rebuttal to the Pharisees and His teaching on marriage and divorce, that He speaks of the children, is it not? (End Commentary Break).

The Rich Young Ruler

Verse 16. And someone came to Him and said, “Teacher, what good thing shall I do so that I may obtain eternal life?” Verse 17. And He said to him, “Why are you asking Me about what is good? There is only One who is good; but if you want to enter life, keep the commandments.” Verse 18. Then he said to Him, “Which ones?” And Jesus said, “YOU SHALL NOT COMMIT MURDER; YOU SHALL NOT COMMIT ADULTERY; YOU SHALL NOT STEAL; YOU SHALL NOT GIVE FALSE TESTIMONY; Verse 19. HONOR YOUR FATHER AND MOTHER; and YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.” Verse 20. The young man said to Him, “All these I have kept; what am I still lacking?” Verse 21. Jesus said to him, “If you want to be complete, go and sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.” Verse 22. But when the young man heard this statement, he went away grieving; for he was one who owned much property.

Verse 23. And Jesus said to His disciples, “Truly I say to you, it will be hard for a rich person to enter the kingdom of heaven. Verse 24. And again I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God.” Verse 25. When the disciples heard this, they were very astonished and said, “Then who can be saved?” Verse 26. And looking at them, Jesus said to them, “With people this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”

(Commentary Break): The young man, (also referred to as the ‘rich young ruler’), was not so much asking how he many obtain eternal life, as he is asking how he may earn his way to heaven without paying the cost. Our churches are full of people demanding an answer to this same question, regardless of their financial status. They want the benefits of salvation but resist the cost. Please, don’t be like that.

 Jesus, in his answer, uses both hyperbole and a metaphor of a camel trying to squeeze through the eye of a needle, which is something that is ridiculously impossible.

However, Jesus was actually referring to a camel and an actual needle, and that the camel is a simile for ‘every man and women, boy and girl’ and the ‘eye of the needle’ is a simile for the gate to the Kingdom of Heaven.

So, everyone who is laden with ‘the baggage and possessions of pride, high self-esteem, education, personal achievements, wealth, pedigree, education and the like cannot enter the Kingdom. All of these things must first be put aside, discarded, before entering through the ‘narrow gate’.

AN ASIDE and a NOTE: There has been a story circulating, albeit false, which purports that there is actually a gate somewhere in Jerusalem called the “eye of the needle”, through which a camel could not pass unless it stooped down and had all its baggage first removed. After dark, when the main gates were closed, travelers and merchants would have to use this smaller gate. Great sermon material, with illustrations about how we must humble ourselves and remove our baggage before entering the kingdom.

It would be quite convenient if this myth were true because it would legitimize people’s affinity for money and probably the prosperity gospel as well. If the passage is about baggage and humility and not actually about wealth, then the prosperity preachers can breathe a big sigh of relief. However, this myth has been propagated since the 11th century, and it is completely made up. There is zero evidence to show that this gate ever existed other than stories brought back from Jerusalem tours.

But what about this image, showing the eye of the needle? This wall passage did not exist when Jesus walked the earth, or anytime close to his generation. This wall was built hundreds of years after Jesus’ time. The gates of Jerusalem were destroyed in 70 A.D. and later rebuilt. Josephus, the 1st century Jewish historian, wrote about the wall in Jerusalem (excepting the western wall): “All the rest of the wall surrounding Jerusalem, was so thoroughly laid even with the ground by those that dug it up to the foundation, that there was left nothing to make those that came thither believe it Jerusalem had ever been inhabited.” So, the image would not exist in Jesus’ time.

Furthermore, the passage states that is it easier for a camel to go through the eye of “a” needle, not “the” needle. “A needle” refers to any needle. “The needle” would refer to a specific needle. This is not a mistake. Greek is an incredibly precise language, and definite articles (the) are hard to confuse with an indefinite article ‘a’.

Finally, I would point out that this type of hyperbole is common in Jewish literature and as well as other literature. Jesus, again, uses the term of a ‘narrow gate’ in Matthew 7:13-14)

Thus, it is not necessary to try to bend Jesus’ words to mean something other than what they actually meant. This is why the disciples replied with this phrase in astonishment: When the disciples heard this, they were greatly astonished and asked, “Who then can be saved?” (Matthew 19:25)

And looking at them, Jesus said to them, “With people this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” (End Commentary Break).

The Disciples’ Reward

Verse 27. Then Peter responded and said to Him, “Behold, we have left everything and followed You; what then will there be for us?” Verse 28. And Jesus said to them, “Truly I say to you, that you who have followed Me, in the regeneration when the Son of Man will sit on His glorious throne, you also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. Verse 29. And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or farms on account of My name, will receive many times as much, and will inherit eternal life. Verse 30. But many who are first will be last; and the last, first.

(Commentary Break): There are scarcely words that can better describe what Jesus has just said to Peter. This is both literal and symbolic. It is literal for Peter and the 12 apostles. It is symbolic in that we, too, will be with them, ruling with Jesus.

“And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or farms on account of My name, will receive many times as much, and will inherit eternal life.” But first, we must go through the eye of that needle! The benefit begins now and lasts for an eternity! (End Commentary Break).

This is all based on faith. You can believe it or not. It is that cut and dried, and it is that extreme.

Even though, after Jesus had risen from the dead and just before He ascended to the Father, on Jesus’ instructions, “the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, to the mountain which Jesus had appointed for them, and when they saw Him, they worshiped Him, although some doubted”, they still had enough faith to follow His instructions to come and meet Him at the mountain. All this from faith the size of a mustard seed!

Jesus accepted and used them in His cause, ministry and calling. He is still doing just that. He is still calling you and me to follow Him despite our doubts.

And we will remain with Him, and He will be with us, both now and eternally!

Just believe!

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young.

NEXT: THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Chapter 20, Laborers In The Vineyard, Death and Resurrection Foretold, Asking For Preferred Treatment, Sight for the Blind.

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