Unplanned interruption, unlimited power, unimaginable grace
A favorite post from our archives, this one from October 2021.
A challenge to any of us who think they have it all figured out
When we see how miserably the Pharisees understood the Scriptures they had studied, we pause to reconsider whenever we think we have it all figured out.
It’s always dangerous to believe we somehow know more than God
Two more examples of Jesus coming in conflict with the Pharisees who assumed their traditions and interpretations replaced the very will and Word of God.
How hatred came from those who worshipped practice over lifestyle
Jesus preached, and the crowds responded warmly. But those who claimed to know God best responded out of anger and fear.
Trying to trap Jesus and deciding his answers are always best
The Pharisees tried to trap Jesus, and sometimes we do too—for sadly similar reasons.
A picture of help and hope and salvation: Jesus the shepherd
The Pharisees saw themselves as the protectors of the flock offering access to the safety of the Father’s protection. But Jesus affirmed then—and now—that he is the only way.
A warning: They knew the Scripture, but they missed the truth
These were the religious leaders of their day, but they couldn’t see the truth standing before them. Could it be that I sometimes miss something crucial, too?
The questions Jesus answered—and asked—prompt our answers too
As I think today about these questions in Matthew, I wonder if sometimes we read past some questions Jesus asked for the same reason the Pharisees did. We don’t want to think or act differently.