Matthew 23

Jesus the King and Messiah assesses Israel’s hypocritical religious leaders (vv. 1-36) and the hypocritical nation itself (vv. 37-39). While Jesus recognized the scribes and Pharisees’ legitimate teaching position (vv. 2-3), he warned against following their example (vv. 4-7).

The scribes and Pharisees were only concerned with external, proud appearances (vv. 4-7, 27-28) and powerful positions for selfish ends (vv. 8-12). These hypocrites kept lost souls in spiritual darkness (vv. 13, 15), took advantage of the powerless (v. 14), devalued God’s institutions (vv. 16-22), ignored his laws (vv. 23-24), perverted salvation (vv. 25-26), and deceived themselves into thinking they were faithful men (vv. 29-32). Jesus the Messiah will judge them (vv. 33-36) and the nation that followed them (vv. 37-39).

Truths to Nail Down and Meditate On

1. Religious hypocrisy damns the hypocrite’s soul and those who follow him. Hypocrites use and twist the things of the Lord for the things of this world, thereby dishonoring him.
2. Jesus sought to save Israel from her sins, but her hypocrisy blinded and hardened her to her terrible sinfulness. The path of hypocrisy hardens one to Jesus Christ (v. 37) and leads to hell and destruction (v. 35).
3. Beware hypocrisy!

Matthew 22

Jesus’ parable of the wedding feast taught that the Jews (“those who are invited”) were rejected because they rejected Jesus (vv. 5-7). Others would be invited (vv. 8-10) but had to demonstrate fruits of righteousness resulting from true faith (vv. 11-14).

Three representatives demonstrating united Jewish rejection of Jesus are then given: the Herodians (controlled by politics, vv. 15-22), the Sadducees (controlled by rationalism, vv. 23-33), and the Pharisees (controlled by tradition, vv. 34-40). Their questions were not motivated by love and faith but hate and opposition.

Jesus’ point in verses 41-45 is that according to Scripture the Christ is both David’s descendant and greater than David. Jesus thus taught that the Christ would be both man and God, which the Pharisees refused to believe (v. 46).

Truths to Nail Down and Meditate On

1. Every level of the Jewish nation rejected and was opposed to Jesus. Though they were God’s people they needed to believe that Jesus was their promised King and Messiah. Because they did not, for the time being they have been set aside until Christ returns.
2. The invitation to trust Christ is broadly given, but only those who repent, believe, and prove the genuineness of their faith by righteous lives will show themselves to be God’s elect (vv. 9-14). What are you depending on for eternal life?
3. Is your thinking about the Bible controlled by politics? What makes sense to you (rationalism)? Tradition? If so, you will not believe what God says in it!
4. Jesus answered and reproved questions formed to discredit him on the authority of Scripture (vv. 29, 31). The Bible is God’s Word, and no matter how seemingly intelligent, powerful, or religious unbelievers may be in this world, they must submit to Scripture. Don’t depend on anything else!

Matthew 21

From this point on events leading to Israel rejecting and murdering Jesus their promised King and Messiah accelerate quickly.

The various aspects Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem (vv. 1-11) were exactly how Israel’s promised king of David should arrive and be welcomed (Zech 9:9, riding the donkey; Psalm 118, Hosannas; palm branches). Jesus’ authority as Israel’s king was then demonstrated in the temple (vv. 12-16).

In the OT the Lord referred to Israel as a fig tree (Hos 9:10; Joel 1:7) and a vine (Isa 5:1-6) that he planted expecting good fruit from. Jesus’ judgment of the fruitless fig tree (vv. 18-19) demonstrated his judgment on Israel; despite their appearance as God’s people, their lack of faith and righteous fruit proved otherwise.

Jesus judged Israel through parables (vv. 23-46). Jesus spoke to the religious leaders as the nation of Israel’s representatives, note v. 43; because they rejected Jesus the King they rejected the kingdom. “Nation” (v. 43) refers to a future generation of Israel that will be born again when Christ returns, Isa 26:2.

Truths to Nail Down and Meditate On

1. Jesus as the Son of David is Israel’s promised and expected King. Sinners should repent and trust in him, and saints should longingly anticipate his coming again.
2. The “power” of prayer isn’t in the one praying but in the One prayed to. (vv. 20-22). When a believer truly and wholly believes in the Lord and his promises, the Lord acts accordingly (cf. 1 John 5:14-15).
3. No fruit means no life, no matter how religious one may be. Jesus alone discerns true from false faith.

Matthew 20

This is part of a Daily Devotional Orwell Bible Church prepares each week. You can get a copy from our Downloads and Literature page.

In verses 1-16 Jesus illustrates and explains his statement in 19:29-30, that all who follow him will receive equal blessing in his coming kingdom, regardless of how long they followed him (“many who are first will be last, and the last first,” 19:30; 20:16).

For a third time (16:21; 17:22-23) Matthew records Jesus’ declaration that upon arriving in Jerusalem he will be betrayed, condemned to death, crucified, and resurrected (vv. 17-19). Jewish readers thus heard from Israel’s Messiah and King himself that such was absolutely necessary.

Earlier Peter wondered what he and other disciples would have in the coming kingdom (19:27). The mother of James and John, sons of Zebedee then asked that they would hold significant positions (vv. 20-21). Jesus said that while they would experience what he was about to, positions in the kingdom would be allotted by the Father (vv. 22-23). Jesus informed all the disciples that they should not be like unbelievers who strive for position and authority; they should rather be like him and serve others (vv. 24-28).

Truths to Nail Down and Meditate On

1. The world prioritizes power, position, prestige, money, and the like, but the Lord prioritizes genuine faith, faithfulness, perseverance, and loving service. The world’s priorities are self-pleasing and limited to this life, whereas the Lord’s priorities please Christ and have eternal ramifications. What is important to you?
2. Jesus knew that great suffering was coming yet he faithfully, intentionally, and steadily marched toward it. Thank and praise the Lord Jesus for this! Because he did so sinners can be saved! Tell others about this!

Matthew 19

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 now relates Jesus’ departure from Galilee to Judea and ultimately Jerusalem. Opposition toward Jesus escalates, resulting in his trial and crucifixion. The Pharisees sought to trap Jesus to say something contrary to the Law by asking him questions about divorce and remarriage. (The Pharisees themselves were divided about what were legitimate grounds for divorce.) Jesus pointed them to the Scriptures: God created marriage to be lifelong (vv. 4-6), and God through Moses permitted divorce only for sexual immorality (vv. 8-9), which is unfaithfulness to the marriage bond (cf. “one flesh,” Gen 2:28; Mat 19:5-6).

What is required for eternal life? Jesus taught that humble love of him is required (vv. 13-15). Mere outward obedience is not enough (v. 16-19); there must be inward obedience that springs from a controlling love for him and not love for things (vv. 20-22).

Jesus followed up by teaching how difficult it is for the wealthy to be willing to leave everything to follow him (vv. 23-26). Jesus said that the disciples—who did leave everything to follow him—will rule with him over Israel when he establishes his kingdom (vv. 27-28). Jesus’ last statements in verses 29-30 are illustrated and explained in the next passage, 20:1-16.

Truths to Nail Down and Meditate On

1. Sexual relations are exclusively for marriage, expressing the covenant union between husband and wife. Jesus taught about this earlier (5:27-30). Resist the near-unanimous opinion of the world regarding this, and heed the will of God (1 Thess 4:1-8)!
2. It is easier to “follow rules” than to follow Christ (vv. 16-22). Truly following Christ involves obeying his commands (v. 17) and leaving everything for him (v. 21).
3. Christ’s kingdom will involve him sitting on and ruling from the glorious throne of Israel when he reigns in righteousness (v. 28). Everyone who truly follows him will enter that coming kingdom (vv. 29-30). It will be a kingdom characterized by his power, righteousness, peace, and love, not what this world is characterized by. What—who—are you living for now?

Matthew 18

This is part of a Daily Devotional Orwell Bible Church prepares each week. You can get a copy from our Downloads and Literature page.

There are only two “destinations” for eternity, (1) the kingdom of heaven/God and (2) hell, everlasting fire. Those who will be in hell—unbelievers—are of the world (v. 7). Jesus’ assumption is every believer (a citizen of the coming kingdom) is in the church (vvv. 15-17).

Jesus’ teaching here addresses the character of those who will enter the kingdom of heaven/God (v. 1): they are converted (v. 3), have genuine, humble faith (v. 4), love the brethren (v. 5), deal with personal sin (vv. 8-9), and reprove and forgive fellow believers so they will continue in the faith (vv. 15-35). Peter’s question in verse 21 immediately follows Jesus’ teaching about a brother sinning against another in verse 15.

Truths to Nail Down and Meditate On

1. The character and direction of your life is the “road” that leads to your eternal “destination.” This does not mean that salvation comes because of what you do, but no one who truly humbly submits to Jesus continues in proud, selfish rebellion against him. What “road” are you on?
2. Christians love those that God loves. Such love is welcoming (v. 5), affectionate (v. 10), helpful, not hindering (vv. 6-7), caring and restoring (vv. 15-20), and continually forgiving (vv. 21-35). Do you love other Christians like this?
3. Christians—future citizens of the kingdom—do whatever it takes to keep themselves from continuing in sin (vv. 8-9). They are willing to do whatever it takes to get rid of whatever tempts/causes them to sin. How serious are you about sin and eternity?
4. “Church discipline” (vv. 15-17) is the expression of genuine Christian love and concern for one another. It is the church’s ministry to the church.

Matthew 17

This is part of a Daily Devotional Orwell Bible Church prepares each week. You can get a copy from our Downloads and Literature page.

Jesus had just said in 16:28 that some disciples would not die until they saw “the Son of Man coming in his kingdom.” That is exactly what Matthew describes in 17:1-13. The “some” were Peter, James, and John who briefly saw Jesus’ kingdom glory when he was transfigured.

Evidently Jesus’ disciples took for granted the power to do miracles (vv. 14-16). Jesus reproved them for their weak faith, exhorting them to prayer-strengthened faith (vv. 17-21).

Only Matthew records vv. 24-27. As God incarnate Jesus was exempt from paying the annual upkeep tax for the temple where he as God was worshipped. However, he humbled himself and paid the tax to avoid unnecessary problems.

Truths to Nail Down and Meditate On

1. Jesus’ full glory will be seen by all when he comes again in his kingdom. Though he suffered and died he defeated death through his resurrection. Those who are wise will believe in and follow him now, not living for the world’s glory. Jesus will come in power and great glory!
2. Where there is little prayer there is little power (v. 20). How do you depend on your own strength and ability? Through prayer you express your humility and dependence on the Lord and he gives needed strength and wisdom. Pray!
3. Jesus humbled himself and paid a tax he was exempt from to avoid creating an unnecessary hindrance and problem (vv. 24-27). Christians must not offend others, even when they have “rights” (1 Cor 10:32-33).

Matthew 16

This is part of a Daily Devotional Orwell Bible Church prepares each week. You can get a copy from our Downloads and Literature page.

Jewish religious leaders again asked Jesus to do miraculous signs (v. 1), even though he had already done many publicly. This demonstrates that they were spiritually dead: despite their outward purity they were inwardly immoral (vv. 2-4). Jesus thus warned his disciples of their teaching and example (vv. 5-12).

Peter expressed his belief that Jesus was the Christ, God in the flesh, Israel’s promised Messiah and King (vv. 13-16). Peter and the disciples’ faith was a blessing from God (v. 17), and Jesus would build the church upon their ministry (vv. 18-19, cp. Eph 2:20). Despite Peter’s sound faith, he opposed Jesus’ teaching that he would suffer, die, and be raised from the dead (vv. 21-23).

Truths to Nail Down and Meditate On

1. How easy it is to think true religion involves outward appearances and actions! (vv. 1-12) This is soul-damning thinking taught from many platforms and lifestyles. It values gaining the world but results in losing one’s eternal soul (v. 26). Continually be on guard against this!
2. Jesus’ first mention of the church (v. 18) and open teaching of his death (v. 31, “from that time”) followed his being rejected as Israel’s Messiah (12:24). Note Jesus spoke of the church as different from the kingdom (vv. 18, 19, 28). Jesus also taught that he would come again in power and great glory (v. 27).
3. Truly believing in—following—Jesus involves a readiness to deny self even to death (vv. 24-26). True believers live for eternity, not this life. What—who—are you living for?

Matthew 15

This is part of a Daily Devotional Orwell Bible Church prepares each week. You can get a copy from our Downloads and Literature page.

Another conflict between Jesus and Jewish religious leaders is given (15:1–20). Matthew’s inclusion of this helped Jewish readers understand why Israel’s religious leaders rejected Jesus. They rejected Jesus because they were hypocrites who disobeyed and dishonored God.

Three more miracles are related. The first contrasts the faith of a Gentile with that of Jews (vv. 21–28); Jesus’ point in verse 26 is that or priority not exclusiveness: parents feed their children before pets. The other miracles (vv. 29–39) demonstrated Jesus’ compassion, and his miracles resulted in praise being given to “the God of Israel” (v. 31).

Truths to Nail Down and Meditate On

1. Human traditions are not bad but they are nowhere near the level of God’s commands. Yet how easy it is to elevate traditions above commands! This is a problem of human nature, something we all struggle with. Beware of falling into this trap, for such nullifies, not strengthens, God’s Word.
2. Listen to Jesus’ words in verses 17–20. The character of your heart is seen by the character of your life.
3. Jesus gave thanks for food, even a little amount (v. 36). Pausing before eating a meal to give thanks to the Lord and ask his blessing is something Jesus did—be like Jesus! Be thankful!

Matthew 13:53–14:36

This is part of a Daily Devotional Orwell Bible Church prepares each week. You can get a copy from our Downloads and Literature page.

Two events relate how Jesus was rejected, first those of Jesus’ hometown, Nazareth (14:53–58), and second, Herod’s beheading of Jesus’ forerunner, John the Baptist (15:1–12). Both the Nazarenes and Herod rejected the message that Jesus was the Messiah and that they must therefore repent of their sins.

Three miracles are then related (14:13–36), showing Jesus’ compassion (14:14) and credentials as the promised Messiah and King of Israel. Jesus’ authority over creation is demonstrated by his feeding of well over 5,000 people (vv. 13–21) and walking on the water (vv. 22–33), followed by his authority over sickness (vv. 34–36) and readiness to associate with and touch those who viewed as unclean.

Truths to Nail Down and Meditate On

1. While some will repent of their sins and trust in Christ, the sad truth is that most will not, whether regular people or great rulers. Don’t evaluate ministry “success” by numbers; be faithful!
2. You may well be persecuted for righteousness’ sake, like John the Baptist was. Jesus was himself rejected by his own hometown, so don’t expect to experience anything different! (John 15:20) Jesus said those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake have a sure future ruling with him (Matt 5:10). Rejoice that you’re counted worthy to suffer for his name’s sake (Acts 5:41), knowing that suffering for Christ goes hand-in-hand with believing in him (Phil 1:29; 2 Tim 3:12).

Matthew 13:1-52

This is part of a Daily Devotional Orwell Bible Church prepares each week. You can get a copy from our Downloads and Literature page.

Immediately after the Jewish religious leaders’ rejection of Jesus as Israel’s Christ and King, Jesus began teaching the public in parables (v. 3), and the disciples asked why he did so (v. 10). Jesus said that from then on, the truth he taught about the kingdom (“mysteries of the kingdom,” v. 11) would be taught in such a way that its meaning would be obscured to those who rejected him (vv. 12–15) but explained to and understood by those who believed him (vv. 16–17). Jesus’ teaching in parables was judgment on unbelieving Jews for their rejection of him as the Messiah, hardening and confirming them in their unbelief (vv. 13–15). Each parable makes one point and the parable’s details must be understood in relation to that one point.

Jesus does not redefine or change the nature of the kingdom in his teaching here. Through these parables Jesus prepares his disciples for the time between his coming death and his Second Coming, detailing the kingdom program during that time until he returns and establishes it.

Truths to Nail Down and Meditate On

1. When you tell someone about Jesus there will be different responses to the message (vv. 19–23). Don’t conclude that immediate “belief” is true belief (vv. 20–22)! True faith is evidenced over time by good fruit (v. 23).
2. There will be a judgment of the just and the unjust (vv. 24–30, 37–43, 47–50). There are only two ends or destinations, eternal life in the glorious kingdom or unending suffering in the furnace of fire. Where will you be?
3. Though the message about Jesus is insignificant to this world (vv. 31–32) it is of greatest value (v. 33, 44–46). How precious is Jesus to you? How is your “value” of him seen in what you seek for in this life?

Matthew 12

This is part of a Daily Devotional Orwell Bible Church prepares each week. You can get a copy from our Downloads and Literature page.

Jesus and his disciples went throughout Israel proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom, that Jesus is Israel’s promised King and Messiah and all must repent and believe in him. Now Matthew details Israel’s religious leaders’ denial and rejection of Jesus to be the Christ. Twice they accused Jesus of breaking the Sabbath (vv. 1-2, 9-14) and asserted that his power to do miracles came not from God but from Satan (v. 24). Jesus responded that they judged contrary to the Scriptures, thus being against God himself (vv. 3, 5, “have you not read,” v. 12 “it is lawful,” vv. 31-32 “blasphemy of…speaks against the Holy Spirit”) because they themselves were evil (vv. 33-37).

Matthew details Israel’s spiritually wicked and unfaithful character in verses 38–45. They rejected the truth Jesus taught yet wanted to see signs and miracles (vv. 38-42; cf. 1 Cor 1:22-25). Despite the good done through the ministries of John the Baptist and Jesus, because of Israel’s unbelief and rejection of Jesus they would be worse off than they were (vv. 43-45). Only those who hear, believe, and obey Jesus will be blessed (vv. 46-50).

These passages are important for by them Matthew details and explains why Israel did not believe that Jesus was the Christ. This marks a turning point in Jesus’ ministry: he no longer preached the gospel of the kingdom to Israel but began preparing his followers for his death.

Truths to Nail Down and Meditate On

1. “Surely the kingdom of God has come upon you” (v. 28) refers to the person and power of the King, Jesus. This does not mean a “spiritual form of the kingdom” was present, as “you” refers to the Pharisees who just asserted that Jesus was empowered by Satan.
2. “The unpardonable sin” (vv. 31-32) was a one-time event occurring when Israel’s religious leaders attributed Jesus’ power to Satan—a wicked spirit—not the Holy Spirit. This was blasphemy against the Holy Spirit.
3. Jesus viewed, evaluated, and responded to attacks from the standpoint of the truth of Scripture. You must do the same!