This is part of a Daily Devotional Orwell Bible Church prepares each week. You can get a copy from our Downloads and Literature page.
Matthew begins to describe various responses to Jesus, from the godly John the Baptist to unrepentant cities. John the Baptist’s doubt about Jesus was answered by Jesus’ doing the indisputable works of the Messiah (vv. 4-6). Jesus’ commended John the Baptist’s character and ministry (vv. 7-10) but pointed out that the lowest citizen in the coming kingdom had a greater position than John did under the law (v. 11).
Jesus then noted the negative responses Jews had toward him as their Christ and King: scribes and pharisees were violent toward him (v. 12), Jews rejected both John the Baptist and Jesus (vv. 16-19), and the general population which did not repent at his preaching and corroborating miracles would thus experience judgment proportionate to their sin (vv. 20-24). Jesus praised the Father for honoring humble believers (vv. 25-27) and urged such to trust in him (vv. 28-30).
Truths to Nail Down and Meditate On
- Sinners’ eternal judgment will be proportionate to their faith/unbelief (v. 22). Every sinner will be judged for his sin, and those who sin against greater light will have greater judgment. Today is the day of salvation! Trust in Christ, heed his invitation in verses 28-30!
- Jesus’ miracles were not an end in themselves but were evidences that his message was true. If there was not repentance and faith in response to Jesus’ message and miracles, there was only “Woe!” (v. 21). Sinners who have physical needs met but don’t trust in Christ face terrible judgment.
- Jesus praised the Father for his absolute sovereignty in salvation (vv. 25-27) and invited every sinner to rely on him with repentant faith (vv. 28-30). Follow Jesus’ example!