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.

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

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THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Chapter 18

Kingdom Rank, Stumbling Blocks, 99 Plus One, Discipline and Prayer, Forgiveness.

The topic of Jesus’ teaching, in this chapter, shifts to become very personal, but the seriousness of His tone is unchanged. Jesus emphasizes humility as being key to entering the kingdom of heaven. This is an element largely missing in many Christian’s lives today, and particularly in many if not most pastors and preachers who are occupying America’s pulpits to the detriment and weakening of the Body of Christ.

Rank in the Kingdom

Matthew 18:1, At that time the disciples came to Jesus and said, “Who then is greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” Verse 2. And He called a child to Himself and set him among them, verse 3, and said, “Truly I say to you, unless you change and become like children, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven. Verse 4. So whoever will humble himself like this child, he is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Verse 5. And whoever receives one such child in My name, receives Me; verse 6, but whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to sin, it is better for him that a heavy millstone be hung around his neck, and that he be drowned in the depths of the sea.

(Commentary Break): Oddly, one of Jesus disciples is concerning himself with the question of greatness, not unlike many Christians who occupy our churches today. But in His usual form, Jesus goes to the heart of the matter, which is ego and pride.

Understanding, that in the presence of God, willfully putting oneself under the authority of the Lord by putting oneself last, is the only proper and effective response. Jesus warns that deliberate humility is key to entering the kingdom.

Additionally, Jesus, as He always teaches, warns of the harsh penalty for obstructing people from direct access to God; in this case, obstructing the children. (This could also apply to a mature person who has become a child in his or her ‘new birth in Christ’).

These are the most profound attitudes:  “humble yourself”, “become like children”, “whoever will humble himself like this child, he is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven”, “whoever receives one such child in My name, receives Me”.

 There is absolutely nothing more appealing than humility. Imagine the effects it can have in a community of believers as they reach out to the people trapped in a lost, confused and chaotic world, which is being manipulated and crushed by elitists operating on the idea their ultimate power is in ego-driven status, position and wealth.

Take heed pastors. Humble yourselves and protect the children!

Take heed parents. Humble yourselves and protect your children!

Take heed teachers. Humble yourselves and protect the children!

Take heed all you who are in positions of leadership or authority. Humble yourselves and protect the children!

This is not a Sunday school lesson. It is not a suggestion just for ‘church people’.

Anything less than what Jesus is teaching, warrants that a heavy millstone be hung around the offender’s neck, and that he or she be drowned in the depths of the sea! (End Commentary Break).

Stumbling Blocks

Verse 7. “Woe to the world because of its stumbling blocks! For it is inevitable that stumbling blocks come; but woe to the person through whom the stumbling block comes!

Verse 8. “And if your hand or your foot is causing you to sin, cut it off and throw it away from you; it is better for you to enter life maimed or without a foot, than to have two hands or two feet and be thrown into the eternal fire. Verse 9. And if your eye is causing you to sin, tear it out and throw it away from you. It is better for you to enter life with one eye, than to have two eyes and be thrown into the fiery hell.

Verse 10. “See that you do not look down on one of these little ones; for I say to you that their angels in heaven continually see the face of My Father who is in heaven.

(Commentary Break): Once again, Jesus is teaching the Way. This time it is the inevitable stumbling blocks you will encounter in life. But keeping in context, Jesus is talking about the lack of humility, one of the most devious, onerous and difficult stumbling blocks we face.

The warning is dire: “If your hand or your foot is causing you to sin, cut it off and throw it away from you; it is better for you to enter life maimed or without a foot, than to have two hands or two feet and be thrown into the eternal fire. And if your eye is causing you to sin, tear it out and throw it away from you. It is better for you to enter life with one eye, than to have two eyes and be thrown into the fiery hell.” Whether you take this warning and remedy as literal (which I recommend against) or as a metaphor advising you to remove the stumbling blocks of sin from your life at any cost, the end results are the same. It is better to remove the stumbling blocks of sin, than to end up in an eternal fiery hell, and this part, you can take literally!

Jesus finishes these verses advising that you never look down on or take the children for granted, because these children are constantly and carefully watched by angels and God the Father in heaven and offenders will be held accountable.

A SPECIAL NOTE: An acquaintance and friend admitted to me that he is struggling with his faith because of all the injustices and harm inflicted, particularly children, the most vulnerable and innocent among us, due to neglect, abuse, wars, poverty and crime. He asks, “how could a sovereign and loving God permit such things? Is God unable or unwilling to stop these atrocities, or is He really God at all?”

As hard as it may be to accept, and even harder to imagine, God has given us free will. We are free to live as we choose, either good or evil. Of course there are natural consequences for evil behavior, and there are eternal consequences as well, but the Bible is clear that God has allowed both good and evil to be present among us. The Bible says that God makes the sun to rise on the evil and the good, and God sends rain on the just and the unjust.

It is up you and me, the individual to take these matters into account and in the proper sequence, using the proper procedures, to take them into our own hands.

I, like you, would prefer that good prevail at all times for all people. But that is not the case and it is not God’s design.

The Apostle Peter rightly reminds us that, “Blessed and gratefully praised and adored be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant and boundless mercy has caused us to be born again, that is, to be reborn from above—spiritually transformed, renewed, and set apart for His purpose, to an ever-living hope and confident assurance through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, born anew into an inheritance which is imperishable, beyond the reach of change and undefiled and unfading, reserved in heaven for you, who are being protected and shielded by the power of God through your faith for salvation that is ready to be revealed for you] in the last time. In this you rejoice greatly, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, so that the genuineness of your faith, which is much more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested and purified by fire, may be found to result in your praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ in your life.  Though you have not seen Him, you love Him; and though you do not even see Him now, you believe and trust in Him and you greatly rejoice and delight with inexpressible and glorious joy, receiving as the result, the outcome, the consummation of your faith, the salvation of your souls.” (see 1 Peter 3-9). (End Commentary Break).

Ninety-nine Plus One

Verse 12. “What do you think? If any man has a hundred sheep, and one of them goes astray, will he not leave the ninety-nine on the mountains, and go and search for the one that is lost? Verse 13. And if it turns out that he finds it, truly I say to you, he rejoices over it more than over the ninety-nine that have not gone astray. Verse 14. So it is not the will of your Father who is in heaven for one of these little ones to perish.

(Commentary Break): This metaphor puts God’s exclamation point on His teaching and passionate love for His children (no matter their chronological age). It is not the will of your Father who is in heaven for one of these little ones to perish. Everyone has the power of choice or free will. But no one has the right to choose for another nor to cause another person to fall into condemnation. (End Commentary Break).

Discipline and Prayer

Verse 15. “Now if your brother sins, go and show him his fault in private; if he listens to you, you have gained your brother. Verse 16. But if he does not listen to you, take one or two more with you, so that ON THE TESTIMONY OF TWO OR THREE WITNESSES EVERY MATTER MAY BE CONFIRMED. Verse 17. And if he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if he refuses to listen even to the church, he is to be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector. Verse 18. Truly I say to you, whatever you bind on earth shall have been bound in heaven; and whatever you loose on earth shall have been loosed in heaven.

Verse 19. “Again I say to you, that if two of you agree on earth about anything that they may ask, it shall be done for them by My Father who is in heaven. Verse 20. For where two or three have gathered together in My name, I am there in their midst.”  

(Commentary Break): Verses sixteen through seventeen are usually referenced when dealing in church discipline, and rightly so. The process and procedure which are spelled out is for the purpose of protecting the church, restoring the sinner to a right walk with God, and renewing fellowship among the church members. When used, it is to be applied justly, in love but firmly, always remembering, “There but for the grace of God, go I’.

Verse 18 reminds us of the permanency and the gravity of making these kinds of determinations and decisions. ‘Binding’ is the process of declaring something to be prohibited or unlawful and once it is bound on earth it is eternally bound in heaven; the process of ‘loosing’ on earth is permitting our unleashing in heaven, which is the place all things originate and manifest on the earth, and become permanent.

Verses 19 and 20 repeat and emphasize that these things will be done for you by God, your Father which is in heaven, and about their permanence.

The idea of ‘whenever two or more of three agree’ is that this is done in concert with other Christians and that their decision is guided when Jesus is in their midst. (End Commentary Break).

Forgiveness

Verse 21. Then Peter came up and said to Him, “Lord, how many times shall my brother sin against me and I still forgive him? Up to seven times?” Verse 22. Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy-seven times.

Verse 23. “For this reason the kingdom of heaven is like a king who wanted to settle accounts with his slaves. Verse 24. And when he had begun to settle them, one who owed him ten thousand talents was brought to him. Verse 25. But since he did not have the means to repay, his master commanded that he be sold, along with his wife and children and all that he had, and repayment be made. Verse 26. So the slave fell to the ground and prostrated himself before him, saying, ‘Have patience with me and I will repay you everything.’ Verse 27. And the master of that slave felt compassion, and he released him and forgave him the debt.

Verse 28. But that slave went out and found one of his fellow slaves who owed him a hundred denarii; and he seized him and began to choke him, saying, ‘Pay back what you owe!’ Verse 29. So his fellow slave fell to the ground and began to plead with him, saying, ‘Have patience with me and I will repay you.’ Verse 30. But he was unwilling, and went and threw him in prison until he would pay back what was owed. Verse 31. So when his fellow slaves saw what had happened, they were deeply grieved and came and reported to their master all that had happened. Verse 32. Then summoning him, his master said to him, ‘You wicked slave, I forgave you all that debt because you pleaded with me. Verse 33. Should you not also have had mercy on your fellow slave, in the same way that I had mercy on you?’ Verse 34. And his master, moved with anger, handed him over to the torturers until he would repay all that was owed him. Verse 35. My heavenly Father will also do the same to you, if each of you does not forgive his brother from your heart.”

(Commentary Break): This teaching and metaphor should explain itself. Although the significance of the talent and a monetary standard is not the point, it does help illustrate the absurdity of the attitude of the first slave in contrast to what was owed him. He was forgiven his a debt of  10,000 talents of silver, which in today’s dollars, is about $345,427,600 . But he would not forgive another slave for a relatively insignificant sum by comparison. He is willing to receive forgiveness, but unwilling to give it in return. So, he choked his fellow slave and had him thrown into prison, over one hundred denarii which is worth about three hundred ninety-eight dollars in today’s dollars.

Although the values of the debt is significant in making this point, this teaching is actually about forgiving others of their transgressions toward us, which in comparison to the debt the God has forgiven us, is also insignificant.

The reaction of the Master toward this unforgiving servant, is reflective of the verses in Matthew 6:12-15 which says, “And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For if you forgive other people for their offenses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive other people, then your Father will not forgive your offenses.” (End Commentary Break).

Eliminating the stumbling blocks of sin in a believer’s life, correcting the way of the sinner’s walk and purging sin from the Body of the Church are serious matters to God, and should be taken seriously by all of us.

Please believe with me that these words are the pneuma or the Breath of God, and they are instructional, creative, causative and prophetic. They are the way which leads to life.

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young

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

PREVIOUS:  THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Chapter 17, The Transfiguration, The demon-possessed boy, The Temple Tax.

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THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Chapter 17

The Transfiguration, The demon-possessed boy, The Temple Tax.

This chapter seems to address three distinctly different subjects: The transfiguration of Jesus, the healing of a demon-possessed boy, and an example of paying the temple tax. However, it is a demonstration of the dependability of scriptures, their fulfillment, what that means to future generations of Christian disciples and how it enables us to continue and complete the works of Jesus, and about our responsibilities as Christians to not entangle ourselves with the worries, cares and arguments of this world which are only distractions from our calling and our mission as followers of Jesus.

The Transfiguration

Matthew 17:1, Six days later, Jesus took with Him Peter and James, and his brother John, and led them up on a high mountain by themselves. Verse 2. And He was transfigured before them; and His face shone like the sun, and His garments became as white as light. Verse 3. And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, talking with Him. Verse 4. Peter responded and said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good that we are here. If You want, I will make three tabernacles here: one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” Verse 5. While he was still speaking, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and behold, a voice from the cloud said, “This is My beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to Him!” Verse 6. When the disciples heard this, they fell face down to the ground and were terrified. Verse 7. And Jesus came to them and touched them and said, “Get up, and do not be afraid.” Verse 8. And raising their eyes, they saw no one except Jesus Himself alone.

(Commentary Break): In case you ever wondered what it meant that Jesus was transfigured, know this: The word, from the Greek language in which it was written is, metamorphóō, (from Strong’s concordance #3326, metá, “change after being with” and #3445, morphóō, means, “changing form in keeping with inner reality”, and is from a root word of the English terms “metamorphosis” and “metamorphize.” Something had taken place that was magnificent and irreversible. Read on to discover what had happened and what it means to you. (End Commentary Break).

Verse 9. When they were coming down from the mountain, Jesus commanded them, saying, “Tell the vision to no one until the Son of Man has risen from the dead.” Verse 10. And His disciples asked Him, “Why then do the scribes say that Elijah must come first?” Verse 11. And He answered and said, “Elijah is coming and will restore all things; Verse 12, but I say to you that Elijah already came, and they did not recognize him, but did to him whatever they wanted. So also the Son of Man is going to suffer at their hands.” Verse 13. Then the disciples understood that He had spoken to them about John the Baptist.

(Commentary Break): First, Jesus called this transfiguration a ‘vision’. Was it a real occurrence or was it a vision? This is a complex word, but it can mean that it could be seen spiritually, mentally and, or, physically. The main point, however, taken from the Hebrew understanding, is that they could discern clearly perceive, see and  experience passively, and take heed.

Secondly, what is the purpose of this vision and what does it have to do with you or with me? The answer is found in verses 10 through 13. It is the fulfillment of prophetic scriptures that the scribes The scribes were the Jewish religious teachers, mostly Pharisees and Sadducees, who provided commentary on the Jewish Scriptures. They knew about these scriptures, but they could not see what was happening before their very own eyes.

GotQuestions.Org explains that Malachi 4:5-6 offers an intriguing prophecy: “See, I will send you the prophet Elijah before that great and dreadful day of the Lord comes. He will turn the hearts of the fathers to their children, and the hearts of the children to their fathers; or else I will come and strike the land with a curse.” To this day, Jewish Seders include an empty chair at the table in anticipation that Elijah will return to herald the Messiah in fulfillment of Malachi’s word.

According to Malachi 4:6, the reason for Elijah’s return will be to “turn the hearts” of fathers and their children to each other. In other words, the goal would be reconciliation. In the New Testament, Jesus reveals that John the Baptist was the fulfillment of Malachi’s prophecy: “All the prophets and the law prophesied until John. And if you are willing to receive it, he is Elijah who is to come” (Matthew 11:13-14). This fulfillment is also mentioned in Mark 1:2-4 and Luke 1:17; 7:27. This was the fulfillment of the prophetic scriptures, but only for those who had eyes to see. It would, later, be revealed to the watching world, but still only those who had the eyes to see would understand.

Finally, why would Jesus’s command the disciples to tell no one of this vision until the Son of Man had risen from the dead? This is somewhat open to speculation, but it appears that Jesus did not want a distraction from the events to come. Once Jesus had completed His earthly mission, all would be clear.

As for you and me, it means that scriptures a dependable and true. We can rest assured our hope in Him is not in vain. (End Commentary Break).

The Demon-possessed Boy

Verse 14.When they came to the crowd, a man came up to Jesus, falling on his knees before Him and saying, verse 15, “Lord, have mercy on my son, because he has seizures and suffers terribly; for he often falls into the fire and often into the water. Verse 16. And I brought him to Your disciples, and they could not cure him.” Verse 17. And Jesus answered and said, “You unbelieving and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you? How long shall I put up with you? Bring him here to Me.” Verse 18. And Jesus rebuked him, and the demon came out of him, and the boy was healed at once.

Verse 19. Then the disciples came to Jesus privately and said, “Why could we not cast it out?” Verse 20. And He said to them, “Because of your meager faith; for truly I say to you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you.”

(Commentary Break): The takeaway from verses 14 through 20 could be about the disciple’s lack of faith, but don’t miss Jesus’ rebuke. I can hear Jesus telling us, today, that we are weak because of meager faith. If we had faith the size of a mustard seed, nothing would be impossible. Of course, this kind of faith is meant for Kingdom purposes alone. And Jesus, in Mark 9:29, Jesus further explained that, “This kind can only come out by nothing but prayer and fasting”. Perhaps and our fleshy desires and lack of commitment are what weaken us. Also, James explains that “you ask and you do not receive, because you ask with the wrong motives, so you may spend what you request on your own pleasures”. Even when asking for the right things, the pride and ego of self, get in our way.

Jesus was clear that He had not such mixed motives or weaknesses. He said that did not come to earth and work His works on His own initiative, See John 5:19, ^“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 the same way.” And again in John 5:30, Jesus says, “I can do nothing on my own initiative. As I hear, I judge, and my judgment is just, because I seek not my own will but the will of him who sent me.” It must be the same for us. (End Commentary Break).

Verse 22. And while they were gathering together in Galilee, Jesus said to them, “The Son of Man is going to be handed over to men; verse 23, and they will kill Him, and He will be raised on the third day.” And they were deeply grieved.

The Temple Tax

Verse 24. Now when they came to Capernaum, those who collected the two-drachma tax came to Peter and said, “Does your teacher not pay the two-drachma tax?” Verse 25. He said, “Yes.” And when he came into the house, Jesus spoke to him first, saying, “What do you think, Simon? From whom do the kings of the earth collect customs or poll-tax, from their sons or from strangers?” Verse 26. When Peter said, “From strangers,” Jesus said to him, “Then the sons are exempt. Verse 27. However, so that we do not offend them, go to the sea and throw in a hook, and take the first fish that comes up; and when you open its mouth, you will find a stater, (a sliver four-drachma Greek coin). Take that and give it to them for you and Me.”

(Commentary Break): There is a lot that could be said here, but again, it would be mostly conjecture. What we do know and can learn is that Jesus speaks to Peter in Peter’s language, so to say. Peter was a fisherman and Jesus speaks to him in that vernacular. So it should be with us. Using fancy terms of language and complex spiritualization can confuse the listener or the student. Yes, Jesus speaks in parables and metaphors, but they are specifically designed to teach the familiar to His disciples, both then and now. (End Commentary Break).

I have a personal question for you, the reader, and a personal comment to make. What do you imagine it would be like, after reading and considering these first seventeen chapters of Matthew, to actually follow Jesus as demonstrated here? Or have the traditions and rituals of the postmodern church captivated or enslaved your thinking? Would you ever dare go and follow Him as He instructed?

My personal comment: The typical church, most of which are doing their level best to obey and follow our Lord, have organized the ‘laity’ into an army of greeters, kitchen workers, property care helpers, deacons and elders who tend to the administration duties of the corporate church, but who do very little of what Jesus said to be doing.

To wit:

Matthew 10:7-15, says, each of you – everyone calling themself a Christina, are to go, “and as you go, preach, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven has come near.’ Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those with leprosy, cast out demons. Freely you received, freely give. Do not acquire gold, or silver, or copper for your money belts, or a bag for your journey, or even two tunics, or sandals, or a staff; for the worker is deserving of his ^]support. And whatever city or village you enter, inquire who is worthy in it, and stay at his house until you leave that city. As you enter the house, give it your greeting. If the house is worthy, see that your blessing of peace comes upon it. But if it is not worthy, take back your blessing of peace. And whoever does not receive you nor listen to your words, as you leave that house or city, shake the dust off your feet. Truly I say to you, it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah on the day of judgment, than for that city.”

Please don’t take this as a criticism. I, too, struggle with these very matters. I would like to consider my personal comments, here, as a wake up call. We all know the condition of this world. We all suspect, one way or another, that Jesus return is very close, and we all hope to hear Him say, “Well done, good and faithful servant. Ener into the joy of your Master.” Will we?

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young

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

PREVIOUS:  THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Chapter 16, Pharisee and Sadducees Challenge Jesus, Peter’s Confession, Jesus Foretells His Death, Discipleship is Costly.

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THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Chapter 16

Pharisee and Sadducees Challenge Jesus, Peter’s Confession, Jesus Foretells His Death, Discipleship is Costly.

The Word of God, the Bible, is creative, causative, prophetic and instructional. It is the same for the Book of Matthew. It is the breathed Word of God.

The book of Matthew is inspired by God and beneficial for teaching, for rebuke, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that the man or woman of God may be fully capable, equipped for every good work.

Studying the book, we are seeing that Jesus was born for the Purpose of God, which is to redeem humankind from the curse of sin, for all who would receive Him; to transform us into His children of light and into the image of Christ Jesus; to perfect us and to prepare us for an eternity with Him and with one another, in a new and perfect heaven and earth.

Please notice the progression of the movement of Jesus as He comes to earth to accomplish His Mission, His Ministry and the Methods and will of the Father. God prepares the way (Matthew chapters 1 through 3). Jesus proclaims and announces that we are to “repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand”! He then teaches, demonstrates and shows the way until His ascension to the Father.

Chapters 1 through 3 establish the lineage of Jesus the Christ, the birth of Jesus, the announcement of Jesus, and the baptism of Jesus.

Having finished His preparations, chapters 4 through 28 give us the model, the mission, the purpose and the plan of God, through His Son. Jesus teaches and demonstrates what it means to

1. To be baptized in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. (Matthew 3:13-17 and Matthew 28:19).
2. To be led by the Spirit to be tested in preparation to follow Jesus. (Matthew 4:1-11, Matthew 5:1-14)).
3. To Repent, for the Kingdom of Heaven is at Hand. (Matthew 4:17).
4. To go and proclaim, “the kingdom of heaven is at hand”, doing the works of Jesus, and greater works. (Matthew 10:7-15).
5. To know what it means to “endure to the end”. (Matthew 24:13, Matthew 10:16-23)

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).

Jesus, as the Anointed One, brings the Good News of Hope and the Way of Salvation to the world. (These are the exciting teachings and demonstration of the power of God).

The PURPOSE of the Book of Matthew reflects the PURPOSE and plan of God for His creation, for all of humanity, and specifically for His Elect, that is those who choose to follow Him.

The purpose of this study and commentary, is to learn to walk in the steps of Jesus. We, as His disciples, 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 model and method to accomplish His 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 read the chapters and the commentaries carefully, study them diligently and pray and meditate on them deeply. This is The Way!

Pharisees and Sadducees Test Jesus

Matthew 16:1, The Pharisees and Sadducees came up, and putting Jesus to the test, they asked Him to show them a sign. (a confirming miracle), from heaven. Verse 2. But He replied to them, “When it is evening, you say, ‘It will be fair weather, for the sky is red.’ Verse 3. And in the morning, ‘There will be a storm today, for the sky is red and threatening.’ You know how to discern the appearance of the sky, but are you unable to discern the signs of the times? Verse 4. An evil and adulterous generation wants a sign; and so a sign will not be given to it, except the sign of Jonah.” And He left them and went away.

(Commentary Break): These verses may seem cryptic if you do not know the intentions of the Pharisees and the Sadducees. They detest Jesus and plan to discredit Him. Ironically, these two group also detest one another, but as the saying goes, “and enemy of my enemy is my friend”, at least for this one matter.

Jesus’ reply is brief but communicates the idea that they can read simple things of the natural world, but fail to see the weightier things of Bible prophecies, such as the arrival of their long awaited Messiah – Jesus.

Jesus reference to Jonah can be understood to compare them to Jonah’s refusal to hear and see the voice of God, for which these two groups claim to be supremely qualified, but prove to be completely ignorant. (End Commentary Break).

Verse 5. And the disciples came to the other side of the sea, but they had forgotten to bring any bread. Verse 6. And Jesus said to them, “Watch out and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” Verse 7. They began to discuss this among themselves, saying, “He said that because we did not bring any bread.” Verse 8. But Jesus, aware of this, said, “You men of little faith, why are you discussing among yourselves the fact that you have no bread? Verse 9. Do you not yet understand nor remember the five loaves of the five thousand, and how many baskets you picked up? Verse 10. Nor the seven loaves of the four thousand, and how many large baskets you picked up? Verse 11. How is it that you do not understand that I did not speak to you about bread? But beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” Verse 12. Then they understood that He did not say to beware of the leaven of bread, but of the teaching of the Pharisees and Sadducees.

(Commentary Break): These verses are self-explanatory, but demonstrate once again, the direct and plain talk of Jesus. He seems to rebuke His disciples for failing to connect life circumstances with the obvious signs and works of God. Or, it could be that His disciples’ thinking still resembles the Pharisees and Sadducees with whom Jesus had just encountered. Or, It could be like us, they are in the process of ‘repenting’ in their thinking, but not quite there, yet. (End Commentary Break).

Peter’s Confession of Christ

Verse 13. Now when Jesus came into the region of Caesarea Philippi, He was asking His disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” Verse 14. And they said, “Some say John the Baptist; and others, Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah, or one of the other prophets.” Verse 15. He said to them, “But who do you yourselves say that I am?” Verse 16. Simon Peter answered, “You are the Christ, (the Messiah), the Son of the living God.” Verse 17. And Jesus said to him, “Blessed are you, Simon Barjona, because flesh and blood did not reveal this to you, but My Father who is in heaven. Verse 18. And I also say to you that you are Peter, (that is Petros, a small stone), and upon this rock, (that is petra, a massive rock), I will build My church; and the gates of Hades will not overpower it. Verse 19. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; and whatever you bind, (or forbid) on earth shall have been bound in heaven, and whatever you loose, (or permit), on earth shall have been loosed in heaven.” Verse 20. Then He gave the disciples strict orders that they were to tell no one that He was the Christ (the Messiah).

(Commentary Break): Verses 13 through 20 are both groundbreaking and earth shaking. First, we see the first demonstration and the new work of the Holy Spirit in Jesus’ disciples. It also demonstrates what confessing that Jesus is the Messiah accomplishes.

Additionally, Jesus make His first announcement of the Christian Church. Jesus uses a play on words of a sort, calling Peter, Petros, a small stone, and the rock upon which He will build His church, petros, which is a massive rock, constructed of innumerable small stones.

Finally, Jesus announces that He will soon give the keys of the kingdom of heaven to His disciples, then and now, and whatever you forbit on earth shall have been bound in heaven; and whatever you permit on earth shall be loosed in heaven. This is an amazing relationship of trust and responsibility coming upon Jesus’ disciples.

Please note, that there are many men and women who feign such authority today, only to promote themselves, having an appearance of godliness, but their behavior and character deny its power. God says we are to avoid these people! (see 2 Timothy 3:5).

Fortunately, God is not mocked, and only those who can be trusted will be given such authority. (End Commentary Break).

Jesus Foretells His Death

Verse 21. From that time Jesus began to point out to His disciples that it was necessary for Him to go to Jerusalem and to suffer many things from the elders, chief priests, and scribes, and to be killed, and to be raised up on the third day. Verse 22. And yet Peter took Him aside and began to rebuke Him, saying, “God be merciful to you, Lord! This shall never happen to You!” Verse 23. But Jesus turned and said to Peter, “Get behind Me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to Me; for you are not setting your mind on God’s purposes, but men’s.”

(Commentary Break): Jesus’ response to Peter, in these verses, reflects His no-nonsense approach to important kingdom matters. Jesus had just informed Peter of His mission and that He must suffer many things, including His death, but that He would be raised back to life. He had also told Peter that it was upon this rock, He would build His Church, and apparently Peter oversteps his authority by dictating to Jesus how things should be done. We should expect the same when and if we come up with our own methods and ideas of ministry in His Name! (End Commentary Break).

Discipleship Is Costly

Verse 24. Then Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone wants to come after Me, he must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow Me. Verse 25. For whoever wants to save his life (or soul) will lose it; but whoever loses his life (or soul) for My sake will find it. Verse 26. For what good will it do a person if he gains the whole world, but forfeits his soul? Or what will a person give in exchange for his soul? Verse 27. For the Son of Man is going to come in the glory of His Father with His angels, and WILL THEN REPAY EVERY PERSON ACCORDING TO HIS DEEDS.

(Commentary Break): If you are a Christian, you are a disciple of Jesus. If you are not His disciple, you are not a Christian. Plain and simple.

Jesus has warned and informed us, “If anyone wants to come after Me, he must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow Me”.

It is a sad commentary that churches claiming the Name of Jesus, calling themselves Christian, do not adequately warn and inform this way. A ‘soft gospel’ or ‘cheap grace’ is no Gospel at all.

If you want to save your soul, you must take up your cross and follow Him – i.e., do the things He has taught, demonstrated and commanded. What will you give in exchange for your soul? The Son of Man is coming in the glory of His Father, with His angels, and He WILL REPAY EVERY PERSON ACCORDING TO HIS DEEDS. Put on the righteousness of Christ. Let the sacrifice of Jesus and His Blood cover your sins and clothe you in His righteousness, today! (End Commentary Break).

Verse 28. “Truly I say to you, there are some of those who are standing here who will not taste death until they see the Son of Man coming in His kingdom.”

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young.

NEXT: THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Chapter 17, The Transfiguration, The demon-possessed boy, The Temple Tax.

PREVIOUS:  THE BOOK OF MATTHEW – Chapter 15, Inner Purity, Faith of a Gentile, Jesus Heals, Jesus Feeds 4,000

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