MATTHEW at a glance (2)

B) The Message & Ministry of Jesus, the King _{(Matthew 4:12-25:46)}

 

            How should believers live in the Kingdom of God? Jesus addresses that in his Sermon on the Mount, giving specific directives on how to act and react throughout life. He used parables* to illustrate the difference between HIS Kingdom and the kingdoms of the earth. Paramount to this life is having a heart that forgives, exudes and promotes peace, and puts others first over themselves, as in being ‘selfless’ ... a derivative of humility. These characteristics make a person great in God’s Kingdom. We are called by Christ to live by his standards now, not whenever the spirit moves us. We are to be dedicated to a life that honors God. Jesus came not only to pay our sin debt, but to SHOW US how to live as faithful servants in his Kingdom.

 

C) The Death & Resurrection of Jesus, the King _{(Matthew 26:1-28:20)}

 

            The Jews expected a warrior king who would squash the oppressive Roman governing body. Instead, they got a baby who grew up to be a peace merchant who spread love and charity to his listeners. The Pharisees saw him as a threat to their order of things. Jesus was on to their cheap imitation of God’s laws, as they had added hundreds of additional, miniscule new laws to keep the people under their control. The Jews in power, the ruling elite, rejected Jesus and everything he stood for. It may seem strange that a King would be accused and arrested for promoting peace and sharing mercy, but that is how deep the ruling classes distain for Jesus was. It was at his resurrection that he demonstrated his divine power even over death itself. With all the evidence scripture reveals that Jesus is indeed God’s Son, all men should accept him as Lord and Savior of their life. No other choice is viable. No other choice makes sense. “For this reason also, God highly exalted Him, and bestowed on Him the name, which is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow, of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and that every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” _{[Philippians 2:9-11]}

 

            Up next are the Mega-Themes from Matthew. Until then, walk with the King and be a blessing.

 

In his name & for his glory,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resource: The Life Application Study Bible.

* A simple story illustrating a moral or religious lesson.